spyder ryder

Chapter 2: The place of Shadow There was a knock at the door. GaliGee stood up from her computer and went over to answer it. Before opening it, she hesitated. She still felt faintly paranoid of the egotistical villain who had abducted her so many times before. Makuta Teridax had tried time and time before to take her prisoner and convince her that he was madly in love with her. Of course GaliGee knew it wasn’t true. He was simply looking for free publicity on BZPower. During the course of her kidnappings, she had met many strange and frightening beings, although she did occasionally find an ally such as Krahka. Makuta hadn't bothered her in a while, but it never hurt to be safe. She looked through the peephole. Something was blocking the light, indicating that whatever was out there was huge. She sighed. It must have been Teridax. After a few years of leaving her alone, he was finally back. She swung open the door, preparing herself for whatever he was going to do. But she wasn't prepared for what stood outside. No one could ever be prepared for what she saw when she looked outside. She screamed. It wasn't Teridax. It was much, much, worse. The thing that stood on her porch was impossibly huge, larger than Teridax had ever been. It gave off an unbearable odor; a sickening stench of death. It was broad and muscular, covered in spiked, rusted green and gray armor. Its legs were digitigrade like that of an animal, and rather than feet the being had two massive cloven hooves. Two powerful arms came out of its hunched shoulders. Worst of all was its horned head. Its patchwork mask appeared to be made of several different Kanohi. Part of it was grey and skull-like, while the rest of it was green and covered in strange, ancient markings. The mouth was stuck in a demented smile in which countless, yellowed, crooked teeth sat. The being gazed down at GaliGee with hollow eyes. They glowered and flickered like coals."Good evening," he said in a voice that was rather quiet and reserved for a being of his appearance, "I have come to collect my due." GaliGee could only stare in horror as the being wrapped a clawed hand around her wrist. His greasy digits had a grasp like iron. As he drew her closer she felt an unbearable heat radiating from his massive body. GaliGee could actually feel his claws burning her arm. Before she could even comprehend what was going on, there was a flash of light. In an instant every thing around them changed.They were no longer on her porch, or even in her neighborhood. GaliGee was horrified at what she saw. As far as she could see, the land around her was nothing but a desolate, rocky wasteland that sat inside an enormous cavern. The sheer size of it amazed and intimidated the Toa. It seemed impossibly huge; the distance to the ceiling had to be at least a mile high. The putrid stench of decay hung in the air, and mixed with the harsh smell of sulfur. Smoke and ash blurred her vision. Occasional streaks of lightning soundlessly made their way through the air. Scattered throughout the landscape were what appeared to be crumbling statues of Matoran perched on large rocks or sitting on the dusty ground. There was no sun; the only source of light was the reddish haze created by gurgling lava and pits of crackling fire, casting the land in a permanent twilight."Welcome home," said the massive captor as he held out a clawed hand before them. GaliGee suddenly noticed the massive fortress that towered before them. It was constructed out of massive stone blocks the size of small houses. The material it was made from was some sort of jet-black marble. The structure resembled a gothic castle gone wrong. The architect must have been undoubtedly mad, for it seemed that it the castle was completely asymmetrical. Numerous towers pointed upwards like spears thrust at the heavens. Nearly ever inch of the fortress was covered in monstrous carvings of monstrous creatures, sculpted with such detail that one wondered if they were actually alive. They glared down at her with lifeless eyes that somehow conveyed a feeling of an unfathomable evil. GaliGee averted her own eyes from their stony gaze. Her captor opened the door with his free hand. The gargantuan door swung loudly on iron hinges. The noise was low and ominous, filling GaliGee with dread. Behind it lay a long corridor. It looked as though it was once magnificent, but seemed ancient and decayed, with dust covering everything. The inside of the castle was poorly lit by rows of weakly-burning torches. Nevertheless, GaliGee could see through the wavering shadows that the interior of the building was just as ornately decorated as the exterior was. The walls were covered in three-dimensional murals of hideous beasts, some of which GaliGee recognized. There were Visorak and Manas, and she thought she saw a carving of a Nivawk. But most were unidentified creatures that had their faces drawn in monstrous sneers. "You can thank Ahkmou for the magnificent artisanship," the being said with an almost affectionate tone, "He's the chief carver of Karzahni." The moment the word left his fanged mouth, everything made sense to GaliGee. She looked up at her captor. His strange, hideous appearance suddenly became familiar to her. She couldn’t believe she hadn’t noticed it before. The Toa stared at the creature’s legendary mask. There was no mistaking its patchwork appearance. The being before her was none other than Karzahni, ruler of his own horrific realm; the caretaker of the abandoned and the wretched."What do you want from me?" she whispered quietly. The being slowly looked over his hunched shoulders. He smiled, exposing dozens of mismatched teeth. Despite his hideous appearance, there was something about his mannerisms that seemed regal; in a way that was not unlike Teridax. But there was something else, something far darker than the Makuta’s façade of politeness. "I require nothing. You see, little one, I have been trying to think of a way to extract vengeance from Makuta Teridax. Once I found out of your existence and his infatuation with you, I decided that the best revenge would be to deprive him of a being whom he simply adores.” GaliGee shuddered as he finished the sentence. There was something about the way he said ‘adores’ that put a chill in her veins."Now what shall I do with a powerless Toa?" Karzahni said to himself as he led the distraught GaliGee down a maze of corridors and doorways. Vermin skittered about the dank hallways, carrying bits of unidentifiable filth in their jaws. At last they emerged in a gigantic dining hall lit by a roaring fireplace. Inside of the room was a long table that was surrounded by dirty, misshapen Matoran. They had twisted, broken, bodies and armor that was rust-covered and flaking. They sat at several benches and were kept to their seats by the means of rusted shackles. As Karzahni led his captive into the room, GaliGee noticed the odor of burnt meat and smoke that hung in the air. As she sat down on the bench, she gazed out at the table before her. It was set with primitive utensils made from the bones of what GaliGee hoped were Rahi. A burnt Rahi corpse was slowly being cooked over the fireplace on a rotisserie. GaliGee squinted at it and tried to determine what it had been, but was unable to.At the back of the room was an enormous stone throne decorated with bones and rusted metal. Two other beings were in the room as well. Not too far away stood a bizarre Skakdi. He wore silver and black armor that had become grimy and dirt-streaked. A ragged cape hung from his narrow shoulders. He appeared to be deformed, for he had no head-spine to speak of. A rusted chain was fastened around his ankles. Despite this, he was the only person in the room with a grin on his face. His teeth were large and pearly; the kind of teeth that belong to a vicious animal. The last being GaliGee saw made her gasp. A beautiful Vortixx was curled up in the corner. Her cold sapphire eyes peered out at the world with a mixture of loathing and fear. There was a weary, almost beaten look about her face. At first GaliGee thought the voluptuous creature was wearing a golden necklace. It was as beautiful as the Vortixx herself. Illustrious patterns had been hammered around the large gems that encrusted it. But then GaliGee noticed the golden chain that was affixed to the back of the collar. It ended at the throne, where it was attached by the means of an ancient lock. GaliGee knew who this unfortunate being was. There was no mistaking that contemptuous leer. She had encountered her several times before."Master, we were just awaiting your triumphant return," said the Skakdi. His voice surprised GaliGee. Unlike the Skakdi she had heard before, this one seemed to have a lyrical, sing-song voice as opposed to a course, gruff one. She looked into his crimson eyes. They twinkled with madness."It is joyous to be back," Karzahni said. He turned to GaliGee. "Allow me to introduce you to my servants.” He pointed a clawed finger at the Skakdi. “This is Vezon." The Skakdi slid over to the Toa and bowed politely."Madam, I am entirely delighted to meet you," he said enthusiastically as he shook GaliGee's hand, “It is not often we have Toa for dinner.” GaliGee was unable to tell if he was glad she was simply attending the meal, or if he actually thought they were going to eat her. Either way, she was greatly disturbed by the Skakdi. GaliGee looked at the Vortixx in the corner, who was for the first time noticing the Toa's presence. Her face was contorted in an expression of disbelief and hatred. Galigee could feel the cold hatred emanating from the iridescent eyes of the Vortixx, which just for a moment flashed red."This lovely flower over here is Roodaka. I know you two have met before," Karzahni said as he turned to the miserable Vortixx, "Roodaka, please greet our guest." Roodaka turned away from him. Karzahni's eyes narrowed. Galigee cringed slightly. There was something in those eyes that indicated that something horrible was about to happen. GaliGee felt the air around in the room become unbearably hot. Karzahni's spiked gauntlets suddenly shrieked and crackled with energy. His mask glowed menacingly.Roodaka's eyes went out of focus. They seemed to be looking at something that wasn't there, as if she was somewhere else entirely. Her expression turned to one of absolute horror as her body contorted as though to protect itself. A series of agonized screams escaped from her lips. GaliGee stepped back. She had never the Vortixx truly frightened before. It almost seemed unnatural. All the times she had meet Roodaka, the Vortixx was always a cold, collected villainess who never lost her cool. Galigee looked up at Karzahni. The tyrant watched Roodaka writhe on the floor with a satisfied grin on his face. He was a monster; worse than anything GaliGee had ever seen. Fortunately the horrible process stopped almost as soon as it started. The voluptuous Vortixx snapped back into reality. She looked up at Karzahni with terrified eyes that bordered on the edge of madness. The tyrant's face twisted into a look of disappointment."Are you going to greet our guest, or shall I show you what would have happened if the Zivon rebelled?" Roodaka glared at him and looked over at the Toa of water."Hello," she muttered. Karzahni patted her head and sat down in his throne. GaliGee reluctantly sat down on the bench closest to him. Although she was finally calming down after the terrifying episode, her heart was still racing."You'll have to forgive Roodaka," Karzahni said almost apologetically, "She's only been here for but a few month’s time. But I have a place for all of my subjects. For example, have you ever heard of a Matoran named Vultraz?" GaliGee nodded. She had read the online serial Brothers in Arms."Well, shortly after he arrived in Karzahni, I assigned him the task of designing new and inventive weapons. He finds his job very agreeable." Karzahni paused to take a drink out of his goblet, which was fashioned out of a Toa's skull. GaliGee tried not to look at it. "And what of you? Have you any special talents?" GaliGee thought about this. If she was going to be trapped in the worst place in recorded Matoran history, she may as well comply with her captor for the time being."I can write," she said earnestly. Karzahni's hideous face lit up."Ah yes, now I recall. You tried to write that biography for the tin-covered tyrant Teridax. I can't imagine how horrible it must have been to be around that ignoramus and his invertebrate spawn.""It wasn't all that bad. The Rahkshi are actually quite pleasant once you get to know them." GaliGee couldn't believe the words that were coming out of her mouth. But compared to Karzahni, Teridax and his forty-two children were like the Brady Bunch."I understand you live in the human world," Karzahni continued, "I have only been there a handful of times. What is it like to be surrounded by a mindless horde of fleshlings?" GaliGee frowned. She had lived all of her life around humans; so much to the point that she often forgot she was a Toa. To find out that Karzahni regarded them so lowly angered her a little."They're not mindless. They're just like us, only-""Different," finished Karzahni, "I've heard it all before. They measure their lifespan in decades. How can they accomplish anything with only an estimated eighty years to live?"“Supper’s ready,” Vezon called. Everyone looked to see him take the Rahi from the fireplace and remove the spit from the carcass. Karzahni watched as Vezon set the Rahi carcass on the table. Everyone tore into it hungrily. They hacked at it with crooked knives and stripped flesh from bone with tarnished forks. They even gnawed on the mechanical parts. Vezon dropped a charred hunk on GaliGee's plate. She stared at it and tried to hide her disgust. Unfortunately, Karzahni could sense her repulsion."I know you're not acquainted to such cuisine, but do try to eat. You won't be getting much else." GaliGee glanced nervously at the mess on her plate. The malformed Matoran next to her stared at it with a blank expression on his rusted mask, not moving a muscle. His weakly glowing red eyes gazed at the plate intently, offering no emotion whatsoever. It was a very disturbing and awkward moment. Slowly, GaliGee pushed the platter over to the demented creature. He immediately shoved his head onto the plate and tore into the blackened meat. GaliGee shrank backwards."Suit yourself," Karzahni muttered as he bit into his share of the beast. GaliGee sat back and observed the scene around her. It was like a twisted image of a medieval king's court; A mad tyrant surrounded by equally demented subjects. Vezon sat near Karzahni cracking jokes as he ate, while the Matoran muttered amongst themselves. Roodaka had curled up back in her corner and was chewing on a small portion of the Rahi. Despite all the Vortixx had put her through, Galigee couldn’t help but feel a little sorry for Roodaka. It was sad really. What was once a mighty ruler of the Visorak was now reduced to sitting on the floor and eating table scraps.“You’ll never see a more miserable creature than she,” Vezon whispered. GaliGee turned to look at he Skakdi, who was also glancing at Roodaka. “I’ve tried to make her happy, but she never wants to laugh.”“I don’t expect she would want to,” responded GaliGee, “Being chained to Karzahni’s throne.”“True,” said Vezon, “But I’ll make her laugh yet. Tell me, you’ve known her for a while. Does anything amuse her?” GaliGee could think of several things that amused Roodaka. Most of them were not pleasant.“She enjoys watching other suffer,” the Toa answered truthfully, “And being in charge.” Vezon looked confused.“There’s suffering all around her,” he said, “Everywhere you look around here people are suffering. She should be the merriest person here if that were true. But I’m the same way, you know. Anything awful makes me laugh. I misbehaved once at a funeral.” GaliGee was beginning to wonder why Vezon was talking to her.“Why do you want to make her laugh so badly?” she asked, not sure if she really wanted to know the answer. Vezon smiled broadly.“Because I intend to woo her and someday marry her,” said Vezon, as he looked at the Vortixx with wistful admiration, “She moves a goddess and she looks a queen.” GaliGee didn't know whether to find it humorous or incredibly disturbing that the Skakdi liked Roodaka. She wondered if she should be concerned; those who fell for the Vortixx usually met an untimely and painful end.“You do know she killed Sidorak, don’t you?” the Toa asked, apprehensively. Vezon merely shrugged, and said in a singsong voice,“If to her share some female errors fall,Look at her face, you’ll forget ‘em all.” GaliGee decided it was best to terminate the conversation before it became anymore awkward.“Well, it was nice talking to you,” she said.After supper was ended, Vezon led the Matoran out of the room. The only noise that could be heard was the loud crackling of the fireplace. Karzahni looked at his captive with mild interest. He noticed the nervous glances she made at Roodaka. His grin widened."Don't fret about her. She'll behave if she knows what's good for her." GaliGee wasn't worried about Roodaka hurting her, but more mystified as to how the Vortixx ended up in this place. As far as she knew, Roodaka was still alive in the storyline. The same thought applied to Vezon."May I ask you something?" the Toa said nervously. Karzahni nodded his hideous head. "How is it that Roodaka and Vezon can be here?" The tyrant chuckled."I was wondering when you'd inquire about that. After reading your stories, I discovered that you knew of her potions. You recall the ones that caused anyone she wanted to listen to her?" GaliGee remembered the small laboratory in the coliseum and shuddered as thought of the enslaving mixtures that had been created there. "During the recreation of the storyline, she struck up a bargain for the recipe of said potions. She'd heard about them in Matoran legends and spent years tracking them down. I made a deal that I would lend her the recipe. I was feeling particularly generous that day, so I told her that if she succeeded in her nefarious mission and change history, I'd let her off scott-free. But as you can see, she failed." The maniacal ruler laughed harshly as he truculently yanked on Roodaka's chain. A cry of pain escaped from the Vortixx’s throat. GaliGee pitied the miserable creature."As for Vezon, he came on his own accord." This comment surprised GaliGee."He wanted to work for you?" she asked incredulously. However, moments after she spoke she realized that the only one demented enough to actually want to work for Karzahni would be Vezon."He came because he was lonely. Did you know Lego sent most of their villains here as soon as they outlived their usefulness?""Indeed they did," interrupted the Skakdi, "Nearly everyone was here by the time I joined." Karzahni’s face suddenly darkened.“Almost everyone,” he rumbled, “Except for your admirer.” GaliGee felt the hatred flowing from the tyrant, and once more fear crept into her heart.“You know that I don’t really love him, don’t you?”“Of course,” grunted Karzahni as he took a long gulp from his horrific chalice, “Nobody in the right mind would even consider him a friend.” He glanced back over at GaliGee. “Which reminds me, be careful not to alert Gorast of your presence.” GaliGee’s eyes suddenly went wide.“Gorast is here?”“I’ve already told you,” said the tyrant as set his empty cup back on the table, “Everyone’s here. Even those imbecilic minions of Teridax’s. Most of the time I’m able to keep them in line, but that overzealous battleaxe Gorast poses a problem from time to time.” The giant stood up, and the room was filled with his twisted shadow. "Wyrm will show you to your room."At that moment, a small, twisted Matoran hobbled into the room. His limbs were like sticks and his torso was hunched over. His Huna and armor were completely rust-covered, making it impossible to determine what kind of Matoran he was. His eyes glowed a dull orange and held a defeated, weary look to them."Follow me," he said in a raspy voice. He took GaliGee by the hand. His grasp was weak and greasy. GaliGee felt rust flake off from his fingers. He took her out of the room and down the hallway. They went through several twists and turns, until at last they reached their destination. A small, dungeon-like room with a makeshift bed in the corner. The blankets were moth-eaten and threadbare, and the mattress was merely a hay-filled sack. GaliGee reluctantly stepped inside. The iron door creaked shut behind her. She sighed as she heard the click of the lock. Then, a new sound filled her ears. It surprised her at first, but she recognized it as a pipe organ. Someone was playing Bach's Toccata and Fugue in D minor. The song echoed through the halls of the fortress in a frightening manner. GaliGee somehow knew it was Karzahni playing the loud and powerful instrument. The darkly brilliant tune seemed to match the being who skillfully played it. He was exceptionally talented, she would have to admit. GaliGee thought about her predicament. She had been captured by a maniacal tyrant who was actually worse than Teridax. Not only was he completely insane, but he had an entire realm at his disposal. He already had what Teridax had always wanted. A world to call his own.As the song continued, GaliGee began to compare the two villains. Both were evil, there was no doubt about that. But there was something more sinister about Karzahni. Teridax seemed to be somewhat more of a dictator; cold with deadly efficiently. Karzahni had the same ambitious personality, but there was a difference. He was obviously learned, but he seemed to be a throwback to a medieval world where the one who wanted to be ruler had to fight for it. True, Teridax could be terrifying, but there was something almost archaically mortifying about Karzahni’s persona. GaliGee laid down in her bed, and tried to think of other things. The music remained with her until she drifted off into a deep sleep.http://www.bzpower.c...084#entry147059

Hello. This is the review for Realm of Darkness, something I've been working on for a while. Despite getting off to a rocky start, (Mainly posting it in the wrong forum) I hope that it entertains you.http://www.bzpower.com/board/index.php?showtopic=3082

Chapter 1: Dues to Collect Roodaka leaned on the railing and watched the sunset from her balcony. Rather than the satisfied smile she usually wore as she looked out over her city, her face was drawn into a troubled frown. She was worried, and it took a lot to worry the Vortixx. Roodaka stood up from the railing and went back into her mansion. Her hands trembled slightly as they locked the double doors.Roodaka looked over at the clock on the wall. It was only minutes away from six. Years ago she had made a deal exactly at 6:00, a deal she was now regretting. She had been so close to fulfilling her end of the bargain, but that nasty little writer had ruined it. The Vortixx’s face made a disgusted frown as she thought of the blue being that had robbed her of Teridax, thus stealing her only chance for ultimate power. She would have ruled Metru-Nui by now if it hadn't been for the meddling half-Toa. But now it was too late. There was nothing that could be done, nothing that she could do. Roodaka glanced nervously at the clock. It was only three minutes until the hour was up. She briskly trotted over to the doorway and locked her door, though she knew it wouldn’t stop what was coming. Roodaka turned and looked back at her room. It was a very elaborate set-up; white marble stone combined with Victorian furniture. A dying fire lay in the fire-place. She tried to avoid looking at it. It reminded her of the place she was supposed to be going. The Vortixx paced nervously, trying to think of a way to mend her broken bargain. She thought it through for a full minute, but every possibility ended with her being taken away. Her thoughts were cut short when the clock struck six. For the first time in years, Roodaka felt fear creep down her spine. Suddenly, a blazing red fire erupted in the chimney. Roodaka jumped at the noise, which sounded like something was ripping the fabric of space and time. The fire flickered as thick, black smoke drifted out of the fireplace. Along with it came wispy, shadow-like beings. They drifted along with the smoke, staring at the terrified Vortixx with glowing red eyes. They were shaped like mutilated, deformed Matoran. The creatures swirled around her, cackling with wicked glee. Roodaka struck out at one, but her dainty clawed hand merely passed through it. She felt four dusty hands grasp her arms. She looked to the left to see a skull-like head looking back at her."Evening Ma'am," the creature said as he tipped a sooty top-hat, “Just came to collect the master's due." Roodaka cried out and tried to free herself. Several more of the beings wrapped their black claws around the Vortixx. The creatures cackled evilly as they pushed her over onto the floor. They started dragging her to the fireplace, which was glowing hotter than ever. The Vortixx could see two eyes and a twisted grin in the flames. At that moment, a horrible, ugly voice rang throughout the room"Time's up, Roodaka." The Vortixx screamed as she was dragged into the fire, and pulled into some terrible place beyond imagination. A deafening laugh filled the air. Seconds later the inferno disappeared, leaving no trace of Roodaka. Melancholy music drifted throughout the halls of the frightening fortress. The song was gloomy and dark, and it enhanced the already depressing atmosphere. The tune was slow and simple, although it was obvious the musician held great talent. Deep in the bowels of the castle was the room from which the melody emanated. It was large, poorly lit, and smelled of fire and brimstone. It was there the master sat hunched over the keyboard of an enormous pipe organ. The instrument was old and covered in cobwebs, but the sound was clear and strong. The clawed fingers of the being wearily pounded at the keys. The master sighed; his breath swept centuries of dust from the keyboard. The song ended. The being rested his massive head on the organ. His pointed ears suddenly twitched as they heard a knock at the heavy metal door that blocked the world from the room. The being rose from his seat; his joints creaked and groaned as if they hadn't moved in ages. His heavy hooves clanked noisily against the cobblestone floor. The entire room seemed to shake as he walked toward the door. He grasped the handle and pulled. The rusted hinges shrieked as the door opened. There stood a tiny, decrepit Matoran. He was skeletal and frail looking, and his armor was corroded and pitted. He looked up at the creature before him with tired, weary eyes."M-master K-karzahni," he stammered, "I have news." Karzahni looked down at him with a dull, uninterested look on his patchwork mask. One would never have guessed the genius that lay behind his animalistic exterior."What is it?" asked the demonic being. His voice was deep and hoarse, like the whisper of a giant. At the same time it was crestfallen and defeated. The Matoran nervously cleared his throat."It concerns Makuta Teridax." The moment the words left the Matoran's mouth, Karzahni's mask contorted in rage. He emitted a palpable aura of hate and anger, the very air around him seemed to become superheated. The Matoran drew back in fear."Is it good news or bad news?" growled the infuriated being. His gigantic hands balled into fists. The Matoran raised his hands in reassurance."It's good," he said quickly, "I may have found his weakness." The giant relaxed. His demeanor became calmer, although he seemed more alert than before."What is this weakness?" Karzahni said. His tone was gentle yet demanding."A Toa, one called Galigee." A puzzled look appeared on Karzahni's mask."A Toa? What are you talking about, Wyrm?" The Matoran beckoned for him to follow."Let me show you." Karzahni followed the hobbling Matoran. His hooves echoed in the dark, dank hallway. They went down many twists and turns until at last they came to a small room. It was more of a closet in terms of size. The only things the room contained were a secondhand desk, a wobbly wooden chair, and a very old and beat-up computer. Even though the machine was from the mid-nineties, it looked extremely out of place for an archaic fortress. A website was open on its cracked screen. Karzahni squinted at it, reading the tiny words. He only had a basic understanding of the machines, and preferred to steer clear of them entirely. But he knew the outside world had started putting information on them, and so assigned one of his Matoran to monitor it at all times. "What is it?" The Matoran sat at his chair and moved the tape-covered mouse."It's called BZPower. I'm pretty sure it stands for Bionicle Zone Power.” Karzahni glared at the machine."Why is this relevant?" he asked in a slightly irritated tone. The Matoran quickly clicked on a link. The computer whirred loudly as it attempted to complete the task."Be patient master, this is a very slow process." As the computer slowly brought up the page, Karzahni thought of his hated enemy. During their skirmish on Marhi Nui, Teridax had beaten him. He hadn't actually bested him in battle. The cowardly Makuta had used his power to shred his mind. But that hadn't stopped Karzahni. After a brief time in the captivity of The Order Of Mata Nui, his mind reassembled itself. He escaped and faked his own death. But he had become depressed. This was not because he had been defeated, but because he now knew that he could be defeated. Out of spite he began a demented crusade; hunting down and capturing rouges and villains that were either loose or imprisoned. The only reason the Order of Mata Nui hadn't stopped him was because he was actually doing them a favor. He spirited the wretched beings away to his homeland and attempted to torture information out of them. But not even this had given him happiness. Until this very moment he had remained in his fortress; unaware of the world around him. But with this news that Wyrm had found, perhaps he could alter his unhappy existence. All of his life he had been told that your destiny couldn't be changed. But he would soon prove that wrong."Here it is," said Wyrm. Karzahni looked at the page. It was a list of stories written by someone called "Galigee". He opened the first document and began to read. As he scanned the pages, a strange sense of victory came over him. A devilish spark returned to his eyes; one could sense the malice and wickedness that was being generated in his twisted mind. A nefarious plan was taking shape in his head. He would extract the most painful kind of revenge upon his hated enemy. His malformed mouth spread out in a hideous grin. After spending several hours reading the documents, he stood up. He laughed. It was a blood-chilling sound that made Wyrm shudder. Karzahni looked down at the slightly disturbed Matoran."I'm off to collect my due," he said with a horrifying chuckle. He snapped his fingers. His gargantuan form evaporated in dark, heavy smoke.http://www.bzpower.c...084#entry147059

I was kind of wondering about this myself. But, I also wondered something.Because they are mostly mechanical, if they sustained a small but fatal injury, would it be possible to 'Fix' whatever killed them and revive them?

I personally think that BZP started to die when they decided to take the forums down for six months. That alone probably prompted a lot of members to leave permanently. I first noticed this when several people in the comedies forums failed to return.And yes, I agree that without sets or story the site is probably going to decline. But there will probably always be at least a few people on here.

First of all, I'd like to start getting back on here more often.As for long term goals, I would like to write at least one successful epic.

I just nostalgia'd all over the place. I realized that I remembered every single one of those flashbacks. (Especially Vezon.) Excellent as usual!

Shadowed One Vs. Elitha? How will this end? Will it end? And why does Antroz want smoothies? Anyway, great chapter as usual.

Huzzah! You're reviving this! And Teridax still has his Umbrella ringtone!

Sorry I haven't gotten to reading this sooner, I was away for awhile. Anyway:Firelord got his voice fixed? Does he still have his austrailian accent?Also...Yay! Cameo by Witch Doctor, my favorite Hero Factory Villian!

(On Karzahni.)(Roodaka is on a couch, and Vezon is sitting on a chair with a pencil and notebook.)Vezon: Okay then, Shall we get started-(At that moment, a battering ram breaks through the wall of the comedy.)Roodaka: What the?(Spyder appears wearing a knight’s helmet.)Spyder: VIVA REVOLUTION!Vezon: What are you doing?Spyder: Liberating the forums! They’ve gone down a third time!Vezon: Well they’re back now.Spyder: Are you sure?Vezon: Yes.Spyder: Oh…(Turns around to rest of army behind wall.) Sorry guys! I guess we don’t need to do this.Capital One Vikings: Aaaawwww…Spyder: Okay, continue with the comedy.(He removes the battering ram and magically fixes the comedy wall.)Vezon: Okay Roodaka, let's start out with a little association game. I'll say a world and you have to say the first thing that comes into your mind.Roodaka: Fine.Vezon: Let's begin. Grindleorp.Roodaka: What?Vezon: Pareistorian.Roodaka: What does that-Vezon: ThreteidoriapRoodaka: Shut up!Vezon: Hefinoricatisan.Roodaka: SAY REAL WORDS!Vezon: Huh?Roodaka: You're supposed to say real words, you imbecile!Vezon: I am? Oh, okay. Let's try... Fire.Roodaka: Insurance fraud.Vezon: Happiness.Roodaka: Money.Vezon: Rock.Roodaka: Diamond.Vezon: Pen.Roodaka: Checkbook.Vezon: Plastic.Roodaka: Credit Card.Vezon: Marriage.Roodaka: Temporary.Vezon: Okay then, let's move on. Let's talk about your life-defining moment.Roodaka: What?Vezon: It's that little moment that all us villains have. The turning point in which we become evil. Mine was having the mask stolen by Matoro, Spiriah's was his failure on Zakaz, and Nocturn's was destroying his island.Roodaka: Why?Vezon: We want to know why you're so mean.Roodaka: I’m not mean, you imbecilic ignoramus! What gave you that idea?!Vezon: I see. Now then, let’s begin. How was your childhood?Roodaka: I had a wonderful childhood. I got every single thing I ever wanted.Vezon: Really? How about friends?Roodaka: Of course I had friends. I had plenty of friends.Vezon: Like who?Roodaka:…….. I don’t know, but I had them!Vezon: Uh-huh…Okay then.Word count: 343

Waltz to the Death, by danny Elfman. (song from the 1989 Batman Movie.)

Roodaka looked behind her. The monster was no longer in eyesight. But she knew it was following her. The Vortixx looked ahead to see Vezon climbing up a rocky cliff."Where are you going?" she called."Home," the Skakdi answered without turning back to look at her, "Come on!" Roodaka reluctantly began scaling the side of the cliff. She was very cautious, for it was still very dark. Above her she could hear Vezon humming. It would have annoyed her under normal circumstances, but she found it made it easier to follow him. She looked up again and nearly fell off. The Skakdi had disappeared. Seconds later, Roodaka saw his head pop out of the side of the cliff."Come on," he repeated. As Roodaka squinted, she could see that the opening to a small cave was in the side of the cliff. She continued to climb until she reached the little cavern, and pulled herself inside. It was rather cramped, but was at least large enough to contain both her and Vezon. The Skakdi grinned at her."Now what?" Roodaka breathed, more to herself than anyone else."I suppose we could hide here," Vezon replied, "Until Irnakk finds us again." Roodaka's mind was trying to grasp the situation, to analyze any possible way of escape. But every time she thought about that horrible creature, she could only think about how humiliatingly frightened she felt. She had been as scared out of her wits as a mere Matoran would have been, and this fact caused her great embarrassment. She had never really thought that she would ever feel that way about anything. Roodaka had always assumed she would die with dignity if she was ever to die at all."How far is the nearest port from here?" she asked. The Skakdi shrugged."I don't see how that's going to do us any good," he said, "Irnakk has probably guessed that we've already gone there. And since we haven't gone there, he will become angry and most likely destroy the ships." Roodaka turned away from Vezon and looked out at the rocky landscape of Zakaz. She was a little envious that he had figured this out before her. It made her angrier that he was probably right.The Beast walked along the coastline of his kingdom, scanning the horizon for any leaving ships. He knew that the Vortixx would try to flee from the island. But if it was the last thing he ever did he would stop her. He came across a small harbor as he continued, and saw several ships that were leaving. He could see right away the Vortixx was not among them. He grunted in anger and snapped a tree in half. He looked around on the ground for something to throw. He spotted some large boulders and grinned. Utilizing his supernatural strength, he ripped one from the earth and threw it at one of the ships. He heard the wood splinter as it made contact, and smiled as he heard its occupants drowning. He did the same to the rest of the ships, until the water was littered with broken boards and floating bodies.Nektann awoke and was surprised to find he was still living. He groaned as he stood up. His body ached everywhere, and he could already tell he had lost a lot of blood. He groggily looked around and saw that he was still alone in the hallway. The warlord began limping back to his room. He could hear his people talking in the main hall. They sounded frightened, and they had good reason to be. As Nektann entered his room, he saw the Skakdi he had met earlier that night. She was in the corner, holding her weapon tightly. Nektann almost though she was going to kill him."They've gone crazy," she whispered, "Rakar's poisoned their minds.""I'm afraid he's done more than that," grunted Nektann as he sat down, "He's got them hyped up over that creature out there. They think its going to help them." There was a brief pause in the conversation."I'm sorry I didn't try to help you," said Karva, "I thought you were dead.""So did I," agreed Nektann. He looked himself over. He had been beaten pretty badly. It was strange to think that his own people had turned against him so quickly. But he didn't mull over it for too long. Instead he thought of Irnakk. The monster had stolen the kingdom from not only him, but his people as well. And it did not look like he was going to give it up any time soon. Nektann knew that if he continued to remain in power, thousands would die."So what are you going to do?" asked Karva. Nektann looked at her with weary eyes."I don't think there's anything we can do," he replied in a crestfallen tone. It was true. That thing out there was invincible, and everyone knew it. He turned to Karva."Is anyone else resisting this madness?" he asked. Karva shook her head."Some where at first. Rakar had them killed.""How is it you survived?" asked the warlord."I kept my mouth shut," replied Karva. She paused, then added, "He's going to drive us into extinction. He's talking about raiding Metru-Nui just to present that thing with sacrifices." Nektann didn't respond. He just stared into space, thinking of what a nightmare his home had become.http://www.bzpower.c...c=804#entry9324

Mutran walked over to the small, bizarre looking figure that sat in the corner. His face was wrapped in bandages. This was Spyder, a comedy writer who had smashed his face into his computer screen upon finding out that BZPower had once again taken the Forums offline. He had awoken only a short while ago after having his face and Kahnohi repaired from the damage caused by the broken screen and the electrocution.“Ah good,” said the Makuta, “You’re awake. Let’s see how we did.” Mutran began to unwrap the bandages. Spyder pulled himself away from him and began to impatiently tear them off. As his new face became visible, Mutran drew back in horror.“Mata Nui…” he breathed.“Mirror…” Spyder said as he held out a bandaged hand, “…MIRROR!” Mutran reluctantly handed him a small mirror. There was a moment of silence as Spyder looked at it.“Oh no…” he muttered emotionlessly. Mutran tried to speak reassuringly to him.“You understand that the nerves were completely severed, Mr. Ryder.” Suddenly Spyder erupted in a fit of crazed laughter.“Eh-hee-hee-hee-hee-hee-hee!” he snickered as he smashed the mirror on a nearby table. Mutran took a step back.“You see what I have to work with here,” the Makuta said as he gestured to the crude assortment of office supplies he had used to reconstruct Spyder’s face. Spyder didn’t seem to notice.“Eh-hee-hee-ha-hee-ha-hee-ha-hee-hee!” he laughed as he stood up from the chair and stumbled across the room, breaking the lights as he did so. Mutran was about to stop him, but decided against it.“Ha-hee-hee-hee-hee-hee-hee-hee-hee-hee!” cackled the crazed creature as he staggered up the stairs of Mutran’s office, “Ha-ha-ha-ha-HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!”Hapori Tohu, President of BZPower, was just walking back into his office after taking a shower in his newly renovated private bathroom, which was part of his penthouse suite that overlooked the city of BZP Nui. As he walked back to his desk he heard the door open.“That you, Helryx?” he asked. He had been expecting his date to arrive any minute. However, he looked to the doorway and saw a small, hunched-over figure in the darkness.“Who the Karzahni are you?” asked Tohu. The figure took a step closer and spoke in a somewhat disturbing voice.“It’s me…Helryx.” Tohu grimaced. He knew he shouldn’t have trusted those online dating sites. But after staring at the figure for a few moments, he recognized who it was. He gave a nervous smile and held out his arms.“Spyder…Thank Mata Nui you’re alive! I thought you were-”“Gone?” interrupted the figure as he came closer, “Is that what you heard?…You took the site away twice…TWICE!…You must be insane…” Tohu gulped nervously and finished his drink of BZP cola. He turned around to his desk and reached out to press the silent alarm.“Don’t bother,” said the figure. Tohu turned around to see that he now had some kind of weapon pointed at him.“Your life won’t be worth spit!” shouted the president, knowing that hundreds of angry BZP members would go after Spyder once they found out.“I’ve been dead once before…It’s very liberating,” said the figure as he came even closer, “You should think of it as, uh…therapy. Heh-heh-heh-heh.” Tohu looked around and gave another nervous smile.“Listen Spyder…maybe we could cut a deal!” The figure paused in his advance.“Spyder?…Spyder’s gone, my friend. You can call me…” The figure stepped into the light, revealing that his Kanohi Tryna was stuck in a demented grin, “Snider... And as you can see, I’m a lot happier.” He let out a snicker as he held out the weapon in his hand, which was actually a banana-cream pie. He hurled it at Tohu, making the president stumble back. He made several more appear, and threw them continuously at Tohu until the Toa fell out the window and into a dumpster several floors below. Snider continued to laugh as he sat himself down in Tohu’s desk and put up his feet.“What a day,” he sighed happily.Word Count: 670

I knew it! I knew it! I knew this was going to happen! I somehow just knew that the forums would crash! But even though I knew it still makes me mad!

Vezon: Roodaka! Roodaka! Are you Okay?Roodaka: ......... HI! I'm Roodaka, and I can't read!Vezon: This is not good!Nocturn: What happened?Vezon: Roodaka's become...STUPID!Roodaka: I love ponies!(Vezon grabs Spiriah by the collar.)Vezon: Whatever you did, FIX IT!Spiriah: I'm...not sure.Vezon: Not sure of what?Spiriah: I don't know what I did.Vezon: How can you not know, you're the one who did it!Spiriah: Well I actually didn't really mean to do anything.Vezon: You mean to tell me that the one time you actually did something is also the time that you didn't mean to do anything at all?!Spiriah: I...think so.Vezon: Well now what are we going to do with her?!Roodaka: I'm going to grow up to be a giraffe!Nocturn: Methinks I can help.(Nocturn knocks Roodaka on the head, and she passes out.)Vezon: What did that do?Nocturn: What did what do?Vezon: Never mind. Roodaka, Are you okay?Roodaka: Uhhh....What happened?Vezon: Quick, who was the 64th president of Voya Nui?Roodaka: There is no president of Voya Nui!Vezon: YOU'RE BACK!(Vezon attempts to hug her, but she responds by slamming his face in the dirt.)Spiriah: Does anyone else think that was a little too easy?Vezon: What are you talking about?Spiriah: I'm thinking that what just transpired seemed to be something from a desperate mind trying to wrap up a failed story arch.Vezon: I don't get it.Roodaka: Will somebody tell me what just happened?Nocturn: Spiriah melted your brain.Roodaka: WHAT?(She grabs Spiriah by the collar and begins to pummel him.)Vezon: Whoa, whoa, settle down! What's your problem, Roodaka?Roodaka: MY problem? What's your problem! You freaks just melted my brain! You're all psychotic!Vezon: To be fair, he didn't even know he did it.Nocturn: Me agrees, you have attitude problem.Roodaka: Attitude? What the *&^%(*&'s wrong with my attitude! I got a great attitude!Spiriah, rubbing jaw: You know, I was just thinking about this the other day.Roodaka: What?Spiriah: I think that you need therapy.Roodaka: I need therapy?!All: Yes.Roodaka: Well...I don't want therapy! So there!Vezon: Don't worry about the cost. I'm actually a qualified psycologist.All: YOU?Vezon: Yep.Word count: 380

"Why not Zoidberg?"I apologize, it just had to be said.Anyway, I personally think it could be Miserix. Why? Because he was not only the first Makuta, but he is also too obvious of a canidate. Therefore, because he is obvious we would ignore him and think instead that the GB being a Po-Matoran.

Definiately Roodaka. She is so smart that she can basically get what she wants without really putting herself in any danger.

For the first time in over two months, Vezon stepped outside. He smiled as he looked out at the landscape. It looked terrible. But anything was better than the cell he had been locked in. As he took his first steps, he heard a scream. He froze. Vezon recognized the voice as belonging to Roodaka. A feeling of concern came over the Skakdi. Roodaka had only been his companion for a few brief hours, but to him, a friend was a friend. He stumbled down the stairs, and looked around for the Vortixx. He turned around a corner of the fortress, and was horrified to see a being who had haunted his nightmares since the moment of his unnatural birth. A monstrous, blood-covered giant stood over Roodaka, reaching out for her with wicked claws. Vezon's head was flooded with panic. All of his instincts told him to run. But it was clear that the monster was going to make a meal out of Roodaka. Vezon would not allow that. In his deluded mind, she was the best friend he'd ever had. And he would save her, even if that meant dying himself.Roodaka screamed once more as the creature reached down for her. She writhed in revulsion as it wrapped its scaly claws around her. Using its other hand, it snapped the chain as though it were thread. Roodaka stared up into its hideous face. It wasted no time in opening its cavernous maw. Inside of it Roodaka saw nothing but teeth and darkness, and felt its hot, steaming breath pour out into her face. It smelled like death and decay, the odor of thousands of rotting corpses. The Vortixx was now only inches from the cavern of teeth when it slammed shut with the force of a machine. The beast turned his head to the right. Roodaka could see anger in its horrible eyes. She followed its gaze to see a gangly figure standing in the darkness. Roodaka's eyes widened as she realized that it was the insane Skakdi with whom she had shared a cell. He stood shouting profanity and throwing stones at the monster. The creature bellowed in rage and started lumbering toward him. Roodaka's bones rattled as it carried her. Her line of vision jolted with each step. But she could make out that Vezon had scurried around the monster and was pelting stones from behind him. The monster continued to make Rahi-like sounds as it turned its ugly head.The beast roared angrily as he started towards the Skakdi again. This time he charged at full speed, demolishing the dead trees that stood in his way. The Skakdi was taken back for a moment by his sudden rush, but jumped out of the way as the beast's foot came crashing down to the ground. The monster howled in fury and lashed out with his free hand. His claws missed and raked the earth instead. Enraged, the beast picked up a boulder and took careful aim at the Skakdi. Suddenly a rock struck him directly in the eye. He cried out in surprise and nearly toppled over. Instinctively he dropped both the boulder and the squirming Vortixx By the time he looked up again she was running towards the fortress.Roodaka hit the ground and was up again in a flash. Her adrenaline fueled body started for the nearest form of shelter. Behind her the monster roared in sheer rage. The Vortixx saw Vezon waving his arms in an effort to get her to follow him. She would have completely ignored him if she hadn't remembered that the doors were probably locked. She changed course and started following Vezon. Her swift and agile body had no problem catching up to his. Roodaka could not remember the last time she had ran this hard. Probably never. She had always had the upper hand in every battle she fought. But not this time.The beast watched as his sacrifice disappeared into the distance with the Skakdi. Words could not describe the animalistic hate and anger he felt. The logical thing for him to do was to start tracking them. But somebody needed to pay for his defeat. He turned his attention to the fortress. Uttering monstrous sounds, he attacked the structure with fury that has never been seen on this earth. His powerful claws tore the bricks from the foundation, smashing and cracking stone. His fists slammed the reinforced doors inwards, and they clattered to the floor. He stooped as he entered the building, hearing terrified screams from down the hallway. His eyes were greeted by an array of statues and tapestries representing the armored figure he had seen earlier. Blind with hatred, he attacked. Fabric was shredded, stone was ground to dust, walls were smashed in. He saw as Skakdi guard peek around the corner. The beast's muscular arm reached out and snatched him up, crushing his skull as he did so. He reduced the corpse into a mangled mess, and was about to leave when an idea struck him.When they were absolutely sure Irnakk was gone, the crowd of Skakdi snuck out into the hallway. What they saw left them stunned with fear. The hallway was all but destroyed. Massive holes had been made in the stone that had once been considered impenetrable. A lone torch cast an eerie shadow throughout the broken room. But on the single intact wall, was a horrible sight. An image had been drawn on the stone. It was crude; one would almost have associated it with cave art. But it was so large that it nearly took up the entire wall. It was horrifying image of a monstrous crested head with its gigantic teeth exposed. It was drawn in blood.http://www.bzpower.c...c=804#entry9324

I forgot a villain....Kurgan from Highlander. He was psychotic.

Here's the original: http://www.bzpower.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=306555(On Karzahni.)Vezon: Hey guys, did you hear?Spiriah: Hear what?Vezon: BZP is back up! And you know what that means!Nocturn: Nope.Vezon: It means we can make a triumphant return to the comedies forum!Roodaka: What are you talking about?Vezon: Spyder's finally gotten around to continuing it!Spyder: And there are going to be a few changes around here.All: Spyder: Hi guys. Nice to see you all again. Look, I'm sorry I haven't gotten around to bringing you to the new site. But now that I have, I've decided to make a few minor touch-ups here and there.Vezon: Like what?Spyder: Well, I've decided to put spaces in-between the lines...Spiriah: Why?Spyder:....It'll make it easier to read, I guess....Vezon: Anything else?Spyder: Not really... bye.(Spyder disappears.)Vezon: So then, what do we do from here?Spiriah: I don't know. What were we doing before the comedy went down?Roodaka: You were all about to give me a hundred dollars.Spiriah: Nice try Roodaka, but we're not that stupid.(Vezon and Nocturn put away their wallets.)Roodaka: That's a laugh. I'll always be smarter than the three of you.Spiriah: I wouldn't count on that.Roodaka: And why not?Spiriah: As a Makuta, I have access to a variety of powers that could liquefy your brain into soup.Vezon: Come on Spiriah, that's terrible!Roodaka: And unlikely. If you could do it, Why haven't you already?Spiriah: Because...Roodaka: Ha! You're incapable of doing anything! Just like on Zakaz!Vezon: Hey! We just got back here! Let's not ruin it, okay?Spiriah: You'd better back off!Roodaka: Or what?Spiriah: I’ll-Roodaka: You can’t do anything!(Spiriah suddenly fires a bolt of energy at Roodaka. She lets out a yelp and falls over.)Vezon: ROODAKA!(He runs over to her and helps her back up.)Vezon: Roodaka, are you okay?Roodaka: ….. Duuuhhhh…Vezon: Uh-oh…Word Count: 321

Roodaka looked out from the stage at the sea of faces that looked up at her. She recognized nearly all of them. Sidorak, Makuta Teridax, The Toa Hagah, Toa Helryx, The Shadowed One, and dozens of others that she had betrayed. The theater was dark, the only source of light was the spotlight that shone on her. The Vortixx was afraid, more afraid than she could ever recall being. But it would soon grow worse. Roodaka suddenly felt a strange sensation fill her body. It was unlike any she had ever felt before. It suddenly dawned on her that she couldn't move. She momentarily thought she was paralyzed. She involuntarily took a step forward. There was no resistance; she had no control over it whatsoever. A second spotlight suddenly appeared only a few yards away. There stood a being whom she had only seen months before; the mad Skakdi known as Vezon. His face was locked in a perpetual grin. But Roodaka could see his eyes. They were wide and fearful, much like she imagined her own would look right now. Then she noticed the strings. They were nearly invisible, but the Voritxx could see them in the spotlight. They were attatched to Vezon. The Skakdi spoke. "Hello Roodaka. What are you doing today?" The words came out as if he was genuinely speaking, but Roodaka could tell the Skakdi was being controlled. "Very well thank you," she replied. The words were out of her mouth before she knew that she had said them. The Skakdi walked toward her. His gait almost looked normal, but had an unnerving quality to it. His movements were slightly wooden. Roodaka could now see that the strings were moving him, like a.....puppet. She was able to look down at her arm. She saw the thin, gossamer string that had bonded with the top of her hand. "I should imagine so. Life's been so kind to you. I wonder if you've been kind back." Some of the audience chuckled, although Roodaka herself thought the joke was terrible. "What about you?" said the Vortixx. The Skakdi struck a thoughtful pose. "I don't recall. I think so. Life once gave me a wondrous mask, but I had to give it back. What about you? Have you ever worn a mask?" "Yes," replied Roodaka, "I wear one to cover my ugly face." The audience broke into a thunderous round of laugher. Roodaka's eyes widened. The hurtful words had come out of her own mouth. "Oh, you're not so ugly," said Vezon, "I once went on a journey with a Vortixx who was so ugly that she frightened Tren Krom. Oh wait, that was you." Roodaka could see into Vezon's eyes, and could tell right away that he was just as horrified as she was that he was saying them."Oh well. We can't have everything." "I guess so. I mean, what would the world be like if we always had what we wanted?" "Pretty good, actually." The audience laughed. Roodaka was terrified. She glanced out at the crowd, who sneered jeeringly at her. She wanted to know what was happening, to know what kind of horror was being brought upon her. But she was only able to move through the will of another, more powerful being. "Roodaka, would you like to dance?" suggested the Skakdi. "Why yes I would Vezon," replied the Vortixx. A bizarre melody began to play from an unseen band. It was a simple tune, and sounded like calliope music. Inside of her mind, Roodaka was screaming. But there was nothing she could do. She moved toward the Skakdi and grabbed his hand. The two of them began a strange, comical dance. The Vortixx could feel herself being put into various poses that no doubt made her look moronic and stupid. The same thing was happening to Vezon. The pair of beings continued their odd dance. It consisted of many twists and turns. At one point, Roodaka's head was pulled upwards. She was now able to see the thing that controlled them. It was a figure who had no definitive shape; it was little more than a wraith half hidden in the shadows. It held the manipulators in spindly claws, and maneuvered them in an expert fashion. Just like her. It suddenly struck Roodaka that this was what she had done to others throughout her life; manipulating them for her own devious ends. But now it was happening to her. She was the puppet now. The music suddenly quickened pace. Roodaka and Vezon danced even faster. With horror, she realized that their strings were becoming tangled up. The audience was laughing manically at the unfortunate beings. Soon, the pair was suspended in a tangled web of string; their bodies hanging at odd angles. Roodaka looked at Vezon through teary eyes. Still grinning, Vezon's eyes told a different story. They looked weary and accepting of his fate, even as the two were pulled upwards. Roodaka heard the audience applaud as the bright red curtain descended.

Toa Lidel walked through the garden of the asylum. She could already hear the voices of her patients. Near the middle of the grounds was a long table with many chairs, laid out for some sort of party. Seated at the table were a variety of figures. One was a tall, beautiful Vortixx. She was dressed in the jewelry that typically adorned royalty, as well as an ornate crown. The ornaments were tarnished and weathered, as though they had been neglected for years. Not too far away was a tall, green Makuta who had bits of straw tied to his head by the means of an old gauze cloth. Next him was a demented-looking Le-Matoran, who was fast asleep. The next guest was a bizarre Skakdi. He had no head-spine, and instead wore a large top-hat on his cranium. It had been handcrafted by the Skakdi himself during the arts-and-crafts hour at the asylum. A Ga-Matoran was seated next to him. Every now and then she’d throw something into the grass. The only thing she did not throw was a peppermill she held tightly in her fist. The last being was one of the strangest creatures Lidel had ever seen. He had once been an Onu-Matoran named Murkel who had been working deep in the Archives. But a freak accident had turned him into a creature that resembled a Dermis Turtle crossed with a Kane-Ra bull. Unlike his fellow party-goers, this being was much more muddled than he was insane. The transformation had apparently destroyed his previous identity, and he often spent hours conversing with a gryphon statue in the middle of the garden. He looked at Toa Lidel with tearful eyes. He was always crying.“Why aren’t you bowing?” snapped Roodaka. Lidel caught herself and got down on one knee. Once the Vortixx was appeased, she stood up again and looked at Roodaka. She had once ruled Xia, but had been rebelled against when the universe was rescued. The shock had pushed her over edge, and she was stuck in the delusion that she was still a Queen. Due to her deceptive reputation, many had believed that she had been faking it. But a thorough investigation by a Toa of Psionics had discovered that she was quite mad. Lidel took a seat next to Vican. The Le-Matoran’s eyes fluttered open and looked at her for a moment, and closed once more. The little Matoran had undergone such experimentation by his master that it had shattered his sanity and put him in an apparently permanent narcoleptic state. Lidel looked over at Mutran, who was gazing at a spoon with intrigue. The mad Makuta had been captured by the Order of Mata-Nui before he could depart to Karda-Nui. His madness had seemingly mellowed out to become more of an extreme eccentricity. Vhisola threw a fork into a flower bed. She had been suffering from some sort of neurotic disorder as well as delusion, but was referred by the staff as “utterly bonkers.” The last being who was seated was well known by the workers of the asylum. His name was Vezon, and he was the first person to be committed there. He too was detached from reality, although this did not impair his ability to function. He was fond of crafting hats, for his room was full of them.“How goes it in the land of the sane?” he asked as he tipped a teapot over his cup. Nothing came out of course, for there was nothing in it. Lidel smiled.“It’s very well,” she responded, “How are you doing?”“We’re carrying on,” replied Mutran, “How long has it been since the last time you joined us?”“I was here yesterday morning,” said Lidel. Vezon looked surprised.“Really? Oh well, I must be losing track of time,” he said.“You certainly did,” Roodaka said icily, “He hasn’t returned in weeks!”“I didn’t mean to offend him, you know,” answered Vezon. Lidel smiled. The small group shared the delusion that time was in fact a sentient being, and that he had frozen the time stream at exactly six o’clock, which they thought was teatime. Lidel had been trying for over a month to convince them to come inside. But they refused to listen.“Is Nokama coming?” asked Vhisola. Lidel shook her head.“I’m sorry,” she answered, “But no.” Vhisola looked disappointed.“Drat, and I went through all this trouble making this cake.” The Ga-Matoran held up an empty cake pan.“It’s such a waste,” Murkel said in a deep, hollow tone. Vhisola suddenly pitched the pan out into the flower garden.“Don’t be so glum Murky,” said Vezon, “Cheer up a little. It’ll do your hooves good.”“I have an idea,” Mutran proclaimed, “Let’s change the subject.”“I second the notion,” Roodaka agreed, “Let’s get back to business. What is to be done about the white flowers in the garden?” Lidel met the Vortixx’s gaze with an odd look.“What’s wrong with them?” she inquired. Roodaka’s face donned a look of anger.“What’s wrong with them?” echoed the indignant Vortixx, “They’re white! I clearly stated that all flowers in my kingdom are to be red! You’re a very stupid Toa, do you know that?” Lidel shrugged.“I’m sorry for my mistake.”“You should be,” continued Roodaka, “I’d have you beheaded for such language.”“Don’t be so mean to her, Queen Roodaka,” said Vezon, “She is sane after all.” Roodaka leered at Lidel.“I suppose that would account for it,” she muttered under her breath.“Murky, why don’t you teach us another one of your lessons?” said Mutran. Murkel looked reluctant.“I don’t know,” he said, “It has been a long time since I attended the school beneath the sea.” This was another one of Murkel’s delusions. He was convinced that he and his Gryphon friend had attended an imaginary school under the sea.“Please teach us,” agreed Vezon, “Perhaps it will make you feel better.”“Alright,” sighed Murkel, “We had the best education. We went to school every day-”“What’s so special about that?” interjected Roodaka, “I was taught on Destral!”“With extras?” Murkel asked anxiously.“Yes,” said Roodaka, “We learned physiology and biology!”“And washing?” asked Murkel.“Certainly not!” Roodaka cried indignantly.“Ah! Then your school wasn’t a very good school,” Murkel said in a tone of great relief, “Now at our school, they had, at the end of the bill, physiology, biology, and washing-extra.”“Bravo,” cried Vhisola as she clapped her hands, “Bravo!” Murkel bowed and continued.“Now, being at the bottom of the sea, we learned many things pertaining to all things aquatic, such as reeling, writhing, and fainting in coils.”“What was that like?” Lidel asked.“Very difficult to master. I doubt even a Turaga could successfully complete it.”“Could you teach it to us?” asked Vhisola. Murkel sighed and shook his head.“I’m afraid I’m much too stiff. I was a spry lad when I went to school.”“Forgive my intrusion,” said Mutran, “But I must say that these lessons sound quite boring.”“They are,” replied Murkel, “That’s why I shall ask you to speak in my place.”“Thank you,” Mutran said, “Now who wants to hear a tale of epic proportions?” Everyone raised their hands, including Mutran.“Who’s going to tell it?” asked the Makuta. Everyone looked at Lidel. The Toa blushed.“I’m afraid I don’t know any stories,” she said meekly.“Then Vican will,” Mutran said as he and Vezon shook the Matoran.“Wake up, Vican!” called Vezon. Vican, who had been asleep all this time, awoke with a start.“What is it?” he asked.“Tell us a story,” said Vhisola as she threw a spoon into the branches of a tree.“And do it quick before you fall asleep again,” added Vezon.“Alright,” sighed Vican, “Once upon a time there were three Matoran named Radiak, Gavla, and Kirop and they lived at the bottom of a well.”“What did they live on?” asked Vhisola.“Treacle,” replied Vican.“Wouldn’t that have made them ill?” asked Lidel.“It did. It made them very ill,” answered Vican, as his eyes began to close. Everyone watched as he drifted back to sleep. Vezon cleared his throat.“Well then,” he said, “Who wants to listen to a little song I composed just for the occasion?”“I would,” answered Lidel.“Same goes for me,” said Mutran. Everyone grew quiet as Vezon began.“Twinkle, twinkle little bat,How I wonder what you’re at,Up above the world you fly,Like a tea tray in the sky.” His audience clapped as he did a little bow.“Fascinating,” Roodaka said, “That was even worse that the last one.”“I’ve been practicing,” Vezon beamed. Vhisola threw a teacup at a patch of clover.“Does anyone want to hear about the time I lost my mind?” Mutran asked. Vezon raised his hand. Murkel raised his flipper.“Well then, I shall tell you. It was about ninety-eight thousand years ago-in the month of March, I believe-When I was sent to an island in the southern seas. I happened to visit the Island of Tren Krom. He pulled me into his cave to see into my mind. I have no idea why he was so impolite, I would have shown him had he asked. Anyway, I saw into his mind, which was just as horrifying as his appearance that it shattered my mind.”“What did he look like?” asked Vhisola. Mutran thought for a moment.“He resembled a giant spot of jelly,” replied the Makuta.“Who did?” asked Roodaka, who had until this point been admiring herself in her hand mirror.“Tren Krom,” answered Mutran, “Pay attention next time, your majesty.”“Why did he look like jelly?” asked Vhisola, “Wasn’t he worried that someone might come along and spread him on their toast?”“I’m not sure,” said Mutran, “Come to think of it, a great spot of jelly isn’t really all that terrifying.”“It can be, if it’s the very last little bit in the jar,” said Vezon. Everyone nodded in agreement. Vican suddenly stirred in his sleep.“Twinkle, twinkle, winkle, twinkle,” he murmured. He went on for some time before Vhisola reached over and pinched him. She then grabbed the Matoran’s cup and threw it into a nearby hedge. Toa Lidel spoke.“Well, I hate to eat and run, but I must be off now,” she said as she stood up.“Well that’s a shame,” said Mutran, “But if you must, you must.”“Please come back tomorrow if you can,” called out Vezon, “We’ll be counting the Chilton Hundreds.” Lidel smiled and nodded. As she turned away, she heard the lunatics continued their chatter, laughing and bantering.

The Ga-Matoran looked around nervously at the Spherus Magnian forest. She had been out for too long, and the sun had now set. She could hardly tell where she was anymore. As she moved through the woods, a voice suddenly broke through the air. It was reedy and quiet, yet seemed to echo throughout the forest.Twas Brillig and the slithy tovesDid gyre and gimble in the wabe;All mimsy, were the borogoves,and the mome raths outgrabe.The Ga-Matoran was now afraid. She scanned the darkness for some sort of figure, but was unsuccessful. She started walking faster, stumbling along the way. Suddenly she saw the source of the voice. Only a few feet away from the road was a tall, thin Skakdi. He had no head-spine, and was wearing a dark cloak. His massive smile seemed to illuminate his face."Good evening," he said. Although he spoke in a friendly manner, his presence terrified the Ga-Matoran. "Who might you be?" The Ga-Matoran found her voice and replied."M-macku," she stuttered. The Skakdi cocked his head to one side, and his broad smile grew even larger."Macku," he echoed, "That's a lovely name isn't it? Macku, Macku, Macku." He repeated it several times as though he were trying it out. The unfortunate Ga-Matoran wanted to run, but feared he might catch her. He spoke again."Do you know that your name backwards is Ukcam?" he asked."Yes," answered Macku. She could see into his eyes now. They twinkled with madness."Have you ever met a lobster, Macku?" asked the Skakdi, "I have. They're wonderful creatures.""No, I'm afraid I haven't," Macku said, "But I'll take your word for it." The Skakdi sat down in the middle of the path, barring Macku from leaving."Come, sit with me for a while. I'm sure we'll have a good time." Unable to do anything else, Macku accepted his offer. "Now, let me see. There was something I wanted to tell you, but I can't remember what it was. Do you have anything to tell me? That might refresh my memory." Macku shook her head."No, I don't have anything to tell you.""Oh well. Have some more fish." Macku was very confused now."I can't have anymore fish, because I haven't had any yet.""You mean you can't have any less," replied the Skakdi, "It's very easy to take easy to take more than nothing." Macku prepared herself to make a break for it. She did not want to be with this lunatic any longer. He suddenly grinned."I remembered what I wanted to tell you," he said, "Your mask needs polishing." Macku watched in stunned silence as the Skakdi began to disappear. The last thing to go was his massive grin, which hovered in the air for a moment before fading away. And with that, Macku was alone once more.

Vezon wandered aimlessly through the undergrowth of the jungle, hoping he’d soon find the rest of his team. The forest was loud with the croaking of the frogs and the chirping of the crickets, as well as everything else. But then a different noise reached his ears. It was a voice, the voice of Roodaka, Vezon’s one and only true love. She was crying miserably. Immediately Vezon rushed forward. The thought that she might be in distress was unthinkable. Vezon would never allow anything to harm the Vortixx. He blindly ran through the thick jungle, getting closer and closer to the source of the noise. Suddenly he crashed into something. It was smooth and slimy, and when he hit it he bounced back as though he had collided with a balloon filled with Jell-O. He staggered for a moment as he tried to look at what he had hit. He could only see a small portion of it from the thick undergrowth. It was black and silver, and whatever it was it was enormous. Vezon cringed with fear as it began to move. It trampled the bushes flat, allowing him to see what it really was. It was an enormously fat hippopotamus Rahi, covered in black and silver armor. It had a huge, hideous head with jutting teeth that curved from its mouth. Vezon then noticed its sapphire eyes, from which tears ran like a stream.“…Roodaka?” Vezon whispered. The beast let out a long, miserable howl.“Don’t look at me!” she cried. Vezon was shocked. But although he was horrified that Roodaka had somehow become a hippo, he had to admit that her loud, bossy voice didn’t seem entirely out of place coming from the creature’s mouth. Roodaka continued to bawl.“Roodaka,” said Vezon, “What happened to you?” The former Vortixx sniffled and sobbed.“That skeleton-freak turned me into…turned me into…THIS!” She broke off into a series of unbearable sobs. Vezon couldn’t stand to see the poor creature so unhappy. He knew that he had to comfort her, for Roodaka was extremely vain. Therefore, this horrendous experience would be all the more traumatizing for her.“It’s not so bad,” he said, “You make a very nice hippopotamus.” Roodaka’s sobs rose into howls. Vezon decided to try again. “No really, Roodaka. It’s not that bad. It could be worse.”“Worse?” screamed Roodaka, “How could it be worse?!”“He could have turned you into a rhinoceros,” said Vezon, “They have it much worse than a hippo.”“I suppose that’s true,” Roodaka sniffled, “But I can’t stay like this!” The bloated creature sat down, causing the earth to rumble.“Of course,” said Vezon, “That’s why I’m going to confront the Witch-Doctor.” Before Roodaka could say anything else, Vezon charged forth through the jungle.“I shall return!” he shouted as he disappeared. Roodaka sat in stunned silence, a little put off by the Skakdi’s strange antics. She rolled her eyes and sighed loudly.“The moron doesn’t even know where he is,” she muttered. She stood up an started to turn around when she felt something land on her back. She managed to swivel her head enough to see that it was a small little bird. It peered at Roodaka with brown eyes that seemed to stare into her soul. “Get off!” growled Roodaka. She shook herself. The bird flew off, then landed right back down again. She shook herself again, only to have the exact same thing happen. She did this three more times before she got severely winded.“Knock it off!” she wheezed in-between her panting. She tried on last time, but she was so tired that she simply tipped over into the grass. As she laid there she suddenly had an idea. With a great deal of effort she managed to flip herself over on her back.“HA!” she guffawed, “Now let’s see you try that again!” The brown bird returned and simply perched itself on Roodaka’s gargantuan gut. She screamed in rage.Word Count: 662