The Iron Toa

End of Yrenta Chapter Fifty-five ==Wilderness West of Yrenta, Northern Continent, Matoran Universe== ~1,000 AGC~ The Toa turned somewhat to the northeast, and they passed north of the Ga-Matoran village at the pond Imlen had visited nearly five hundred years ago. Soon they entered the northwestern hills of Yrenta from which Imlen hailed. The sky was beginning to dim when they ascended to the peak of a relatively tall hill. From there, they caught a glint of the river far to the east. Imlen realized the flames of the jungle no longer lit the darkening horizon. It was over, then – Makuta Teskor's forces had finished razing the jungle. As the Toa climbed down the other side of the hill, they thought they glimpsed a flash of light from somewhere in the hills to the east. They decided to head to the main village of the Matoran of Plasma. The sad fate of the De-Matoran had to be told to the people of Yrenta, and the Toa wished to learn from Imlen's folk what had happened during their absence. The village was not far, and they arrived a short while after full night came. Iretsa, the Matoran of Plasma that had led the village for the past few decades, welcomed the Toa into his hut, and they squeezed inside the little building. “It is good to see you, Toa Imlen, and Toa Mozmana,” he said as he switched on a fluorescent lantern and sat down. “Same to you, friend Iretsa,” said Imlen, and he and Mozmana squatted on the floor. “I regret being absent during Mata Nui's brief death. Our duty led us to distant lands, but I wish I could have remained here.” “I'm sure you did what you had to. And you had already prepared us sufficiently for us to evacuate, had it come to that,” said the village leader. “And we are Matoran of Yrenta – we can handle ourselves. Or have you been a Toa for so long that you've forgotten you've been a hero as a Matoran for just as long?” “Maybe so, but there are things Toa can do that Matoran can't,” Imlen pointed out. “And now that Turaga Morok is gone –” “Actually, Turaga Morok has survived,” interrupted Iretsa. “And the jungle is saved – barely.” “What?” exclaimed Imlen incredulously. “How?” “I could hardly believe the news myself. He and his wild allies held out until one day the Brotherhood forces just gave up their attack and traveled west,” said the Matoran with a shrug. “I don't know why.” “We do. They were summoned for the attack on Balkhder, a city far to the west,” said Mozmana. “Imlen and I were there.” “That is joyous news, but it is mixed with tragedy, and dire happenings in distant places,” said Imlen. “Turaga Vibrak and the De-Matoran are gone... dead, most likely.” “What?” it was Iretsa's turn to exclaim. “What happened?” “Do you remember that moment days ago when the world glowed and the ground shifted?” said Imlen. “Of course, how could I forget that?” said the Matoran. “The Turaga told us it was the work of a fabled artifact of Artakha that can repair anything.” “Well, in repairing the world, it sealed the chasm in which Vibrak's people had made their new home,” said the Toa of Plasma. “It all happened so fast, there's no way they could have escaped.” “Are you sure? Maybe they had forewarning,” Iretsa suggested. “There was no sign any of them escaped, but it is possible,” said Imlen. “Please, if you can find anyone to do it, have the site of the village investigated. We would, but we have more to be concerned with. Two issues, in fact – possibly three.” “What issues?” “Firstly – though it may be nothing – we saw a distant flash of light from the hills to the east,” said Mozmana. “Do you know what the source of it was?” “No,” said the Matoran leader with a concerned look. “Tell me more about it.” “It was a bright, somewhat greenish flash,” said Mozmana. “I thought it was more blue than green, but it was too fleeting to notice much of anything,” said Imlen, shrugging a little. “It wasn't an ubiquitous glow like when the universe was repaired, but rather a glimmer at a certain point. I expect we were only able to see it because we were up in the hills looking down on the land. I would like to investigate, but there is more to discuss. What is the status of Morok's realm?” “Most of the jungle was destroyed, as was the village. The Turaga says it will take years to fully recover,” said Iretsa. “But many Matoran have gone to help him plant. Already, sprouts grow among the ashes. He hopes the village will be inhabitable again in a matter of months.” “And that brings us to the second issue. Now that the Battle of Balkhder is over, the local Brotherhood forces will be returning,” said Imlen grimly. “They'll probably be sent to finish the job. Many Matoran are gathered, and the jungle's natural defenses are too badly damaged to protect them. They're in danger. I will do all I can to protect them, but I do not think we will be able to defend the remnants of the jungle against another full assault. And there is a third issue that Mozmana and I cannot ignore.” “What is it? And I know you Toa bear the heaviest burdens in these times, but if I may say so, you look even more troubled than usual, Toa Imlen,” said Iretsa. “Mata Nui is saved, the land is restored... isn't the worst of it over?” “We hope so, but we cannot be certain,” said Mozmana. “We encountered Makuta Teskor at Balkhder, and he spoke ominously. He warned us of a Makuta operation to 'imbue the heart of the world with shadow'.” “You remember more of the old legends than I do, Iretsa,” said Imlen. “Does that mean anything to you?” “'The heart of the world'...” echoed the Matoran thoughtfully. “Sounds like another way of saying 'the core of the universe' – that's a term I must have heard before.” “That's what I thought of, too,” said Mozmana. “But what is it? And how can we stop the Brotherhood from corrupting it?” “Where have I heard that term before?” Iretsa pondered aloud. “It must have been from one of our Turaga.” “We will go to Morok,” said Imlen. “He will need our help, and he will know how we should react to – ” Imlen was interrupted by a knock on the door of Iretsa's hut. Iretsa got up and squeezed past the pair of Toa to answer the door. Imlen recognized one of the visitors as Iretsa's aide Yoma, but the other being was a stranger. She was a member of the white-armored prime species, and she carried a shield and a spear on her back. “Hello Yoma, who is this?” asked Iretsa, leaning out through the doorway. “This, my chieftain, is Spyot of Leokhtlich,” said Yoma. “She bears news, and wishes to speak with our Toa.” “Very well. Welcome to Yrenta and my humble village, warrior Spyot,” said Iretsa, and he bowed. “Unfortunately, there is not enough room for all of us in my little Matoran hut, so allow us join you outside.” “Of course,” said the warrior, and she and Yoma stepped aside to allow Iretsa and the Toa to exit the building. “So, has your Thane sent you?” asked Mozmana once they had all gathered in front of Iretsa's home. “Indeed,” said Spyot with a nod. “I am told that you are Toa Imlen and Toa Mozmana, brave allies of my Thane. But I am not the only one of his subjects in Yrenta. He has sent me to inform you that he has sent a legion to attack the Brotherhood in Yrenta.” “Really?” said Imlen. “He has declared open war on the Brotherhood, then?” “Even now, my comrades assault the fortress known as Aki-Naja,” said Spyot, nodding again. “The garrison in Yrenta is relatively small. With a quick onslaught, we should be able to achieve victory with few casualties.” “Your people have my gratitude for this, for you have come just when we needed aid,” said Imlen. “Has your Thane come to lead the army?” “No. He wishes he could have, but he must attend to his realm,” said Spyot. “Attacking the Brotherhood is no small matter. I cannot say what has influenced the Thane to choose this course of action, but anyone can see that great events are being set in motion.” “So Balkhder was just the beginning,” mused Mozmana. “And I would guess that flash we saw was a weapon discharge from the attack on Aki-Naja. The fortress is in that general direction, isn't it, Imlen?” “It is, and I agree. I hope Thane Frithozib and his lieutenants are well informed of the situation in Yrenta. There are docks to the south that are host to only a small Brotherhood garrison, but reinforcements could easily come by sea,” said Imlen. “Also, the jungle was recently razed, and many Matoran have gathered to help our Turaga restore it. Turaga Morok is a personal enemy of Makuta Teskor, and I fear he and the Matoran are vulnerable to his wrath.” “We know of this,” said Spyot, to the surprise of the Toa. “I also wonder how. I suppose he had scouts sent in secret, but it does not seem... well, it's no concern of mine anyway.” “Hmm, well, in any case I trust Frithozib and am glad he took the initiative to help us,” said Imlen. “We would join you in capturing Aki-Naja, but we are weary from travel, and in the morning we must go to our Turaga.” “I understand. You deserve rest, and it would do no good to go to the battlefield when you are too tired to fight well,” said the warrior from Leokhtlich. “Exactly. Judging by your words, I trust your Thane has sent enough warriors to easily take the fort,” said Mozmana, and Spyot nodded. “Then, goodnight and thank you for bringing this message to us. Send our regards to your commander, and tell him to take care not to harm any Matoran slaves that may be in the enemy fortress.” “I am confident he has thought of that already, Toa Mozmana,” said Spyot with a smile, and she bowed. “Once we have victory at Aki-Naja, we will advance southward. Let us hope to meet again soon!” Spyot departed, and the Toa soon went to bed in Iretsa's hut, taking what comfort they could in the incommodious building. Shortly after dawn, they began to ride southeast on their way to the remnants of the jungle. Frithozib's forces had not yet come down from the hills, for they were likely still resting in the wake of the nocturnal battle. Small groups of Brotherhood warriors were moving north across the plains to meet them, and the Toa encountered and defeated several of these bands. In another time, this would have brought a great many of Teskor's minions down upon the Toa, but the enemy soldiers and Rahi were disconcerted by the unexpected attack from Leokhtlich, and they were unable to direct their efforts to stop the Toa. Even if most of Frithozib's warriors were still resting, the few Brotherhood warriors that made it north would not be a significant threat. The swift steeds of the Toa brought them to the river by that afternoon, and from there they could see that the jungle had indeed been badly burned. But even seen from across the river, it was clearly not all just ash and char. The Toa and their steeds forded the river well before dusk, and soon they came upon Matoran of all kinds planting and tending to seedlings, sprouts, and saplings, as well as clearing the blackened foliage and scattering it to fertilize the soil. Many of the charred trees remained, but there were also patches of old growth, some of which were larger than the Toa had expected. The Matoran did not lead the Toa into these surviving thickets, for Turaga Morok was tending to the most devastated parts of the jungle, where he was needed most. The Toa found him in a barren clearing tending to a lone tree, or so they thought at first. As they approached, they noticed that Morok was not tending to the tree but talking to it, and that it was actually not a tree but rather the floral-mechanical shapeshifter known as Tanaman. Imlen hailed the two of them, and they paused their conversation to greet the Toa. “Good to see you again, Toa Imlen and Toa Mozmana,” said Tanaman, raising a branch-like arm in greeting. “We have been waiting for you.” “Yes, welcome back to Yrenta... and what is left of my home,” said Turaga Morok. “Tanaman and I have indeed been expecting you, and we have taken the past few days to get acquainted with one another. He has been most helpful in the restoration effort.” “Really? Thank you, then,” Imlen said to Tanaman. “But you came here for another purpose, didn't you?” “I did,” confirmed Tanaman. “I have an important matter to discuss with you, and then I must leave.” “Does it have something to do with a Makuta attack on the universe core?” guessed Mozmana. “How did you know about that?” said Tanaman, and his emerald eyes flashed with surprise. “We encountered Makuta Teskor at Balkhder – surely you've heard of the battle that happened there,” said Imlen, and Tanaman nodded. “He mentioned it, to cow us and rally his soldiers. How did you find out about it?” “What do you mean? I can look like a tree,” Tanaman stated the obvious, and he looked at Imlen quizzically. “And I know how to be hiding in the right place at the right time to overhear secrets.” “Yes, but where and when was that this time?” said Imlen. “If you must know, I actually learned this from a... network of spies,” the tree-like being said with a sigh. “But no more questions! We stay secret for a reason.” “Alright, I understand,” said Imlen. “So what have you come to tell us?” “War is brewing, and if all goes well, the Brotherhood of Makuta's days are numbered,” said Tanaman. “People are standing up to the masters of Shadow and their minions, in greater numbers than any have dared for centuries.” “Is this because of Balkhder?” said Mozmana. “Was that a spark that ignited something?” “Do you mean 'were you the spark that ignited something? I know the role you played at Balkhder, Toa Mozmana, but don't delude yourself,” said Tanaman with a quick, throaty laugh. “No, it wasn't one spark that ignited something by itself. One spark would be extinguished before its fire spread. But across the universe, many small flames have been kindled – to continue the metaphor – and together they may form a raging blaze.” “And so a thousand years after the Great Cataclysm, many momentous events have occurred and continue to be set in motion,” said Imlen quietly. “But even if their hold on the universe has been shaken, the Brotherhood is still powerful. Even the Dark Hunters cannot dislodge them from power, only harass them,” Mozmana pointed out. “And even if many realms rebel, the Brotherhood military is far more unified. Many of those who have no love for the Makuta have no more love for their neighbors, and infighting will allow the Brotherhood to put the scattered rebellious states down.” “And what of this attack on the core of the universe?” said Imlen. “I cannot ignore that.” “To both those issues, I can say only this: trust me that it will be dealt with. You are not the only heroes I have discussed this with, and we will all have our own roles to play,” said Tanaman. “As for you, you should assist Thane Frithozib. Help him secure Yrenta and the neighboring regions, and spread the flame of rebellion throughout the continent.” “Of course. Oh, Turaga, we did not tell you of Thane Frithozib's – ” said Imlen, but Morok raised a hand to cut him off. “One of the Thane's messengers came to us this morning,” he said. “Tanaman seemed to be expecting him, too.” “Even for such a skilled spy, you know a lot,” Mozmana said to Tanaman suspiciously. “What is going on?” “Your questions will be answered soon,” said Tanaman. “For now, you must only know this: these uprisings must be allowed to confound the Brotherhood. If we can keep the enemy off balance and distracted, we can prepare to strike a blow that will actually hurt them. Now, I must go. It was good to meet you, Turaga Morok.” “Same to you,” said the Turaga, and he turned to the Toa as Tanaman departed. “The messenger said a division will arrive here by nightfall. Until then... well, I wish you could help with the planting, but you had better stand guard in case the enemy gets here first.” “If only Paqyar was here, or Toa Lidon. They would restore this jungle in no time,” said Imlen. “I will plant one seed in memory of them.” Imlen did so, and then they went to patrol the fringes of the burnt jungle. For a while all was calm, but as the sun began to dim the Toa heard the hum of incoming Rahkshi. A great many were approaching, and so the Toa took cover behind a large boulder that had probably been covered in moss before the fire rendered its surfaces lifeless. In this way they managed to avoid detection until the Rahkshi landed. Springing from their hiding spot, they immediately demolished three of the Makuta-spawn, but that was not even a quarter of the enemy's number. The Toa could only evade the many energy bolts for a few seconds out in the open, and they were quickly forced to retreat. Mozmana projected an aura of confusion, confounding the Rahkshi for the moment it took the Toa to dash out of the barrage. They ran away from the jungle, so as not to put the Matoran workers and young plants in danger, and as they led the Rahkshi in the direction of the desert they saw riders approaching from the river. While Imlen conjured a swirling mass of plasma to shield himself and his sister while Mozmana instilled illusions in the minds of the Kraata. Between the illusions and the dazzling radiance of the plasma, their accuracy was much reduced, but one of the Rahkshi managed to score a hit with its power. Mozmana was instantly frozen in a stasis field, and as Imlen quickly moved to protect her he released his control over the plasma. The Makuta-Sons charged through the dispersing cloud, and he threw his dagger just in time to incapacitate a Rahkshi of Electricity as it charged its attack. That, however, left him vulnerable to a Rahkshi of Heat Vision. It focused its gaze on him, but just before it launched its searing beams a javelin pierced its head. Two more Rahkshi attacked, but they faltered for the split second it took for Imlen to drop to the ground. As he rolled and used his staff to push himself to his feet, the charging riders came upon the Rahkshi. Several were pierced by the warriors' lances, and a few of the riders tossed small stones that exploded into cages of an adhesive substance that immobilized their targets. One member of this cavalry was slain in the charge, blasted off his Hypaka by a Rahkshi of Sonics, and his comrades circled around to finish off the remaining Rahkshi before they suffered any more casualties. A minute or two later, the battle was over. The leader of the riders came forth and dismounted before Imlen and the immobilized Mozmana. “Greetings, Toa Imlen,” he said, then he turned to one of his subordinates. “Matawinne, come and help Toa Mozmana.” “Right away, sir,” said the rider. Matawinne dismounted, came forward, and placed a hand on Mozmana. Energy flowed from his palm, shattering the stasis field and freeing her. She thanked him, and as Matawinne returned to his steed the captain of the company introduced himself. He was named Liegbrand, and he explained that the commander of the legion, Marshall Heleth, had sent him to speak with the Toa and their Turaga. A short while later, the four of them stood in conference in the midst of a grove of recently-planted saplings under the darkening sky. The Matoran continued to work around them, and Captain Liegbrand had sent his warriors to patrol the area. “Marshall Heleth wishes you to know that he has divided his forces. The main part of the legion has remained to fortify the northern border while a division has been sent south to seize the docks,” he said to Imlen, Mozmana, and Morok. “He knows of the situation here in the jungle, and would defend this place if he could spare the warriors, but you understand we must arrange our forces wisely. The jungle is not under attack right now, and were it to fall under attack it would be difficult to defend in this state.” “I do understand. This was once as mighty a stronghold as any fortress of stone and iron, but the jungle cannot protect us now,” said Turaga Morok. “I will advise the Matoran to seek shelter behind walls once again.” “Something does not seem right to me, Captain,” said Mozmana. “Imlen and I visited your homeland only weeks ago, and... well, the realm was beset by many troubles, it seemed. How can your Thane afford to not only send many warriors across the border, but wage war on the Brotherhood itself?” “Sadly, it is clear that the glory of Leokhtlich has faded, and its beauty has been tarnished. I knew you had seen this for yourself, and so I am surprised you did not mention this earlier,” said Liegbrand. “However, our Thane has consorted with allies new and old. Together, we will stand firm against the Brotherhood.” “And the brigands that plague the land?” said Imlen. “Actually, that threat has lessened in the past week or so. There are rumors that many brigand chiefs and other infamous figures have been slain. I suspect Thane Frithozib has received assistance in that matter,” said Liegbrand thoughtfully. “In any case, the morale of the brigands has suffered, and the Thane has taken the opportunity to offer many of them a pardon in exchange for military service. As a result, many of those bandits have become warriors of Leokhtlich. Not the most trustworthy of comrades, but I am sure the Thane is dealing with them cautiously.” “A clever plan, as long as he takes care to not rely too much on them – or worse, leave the realm vulnerable to a second betrayal,” said Imlen. “But I know all too well that sometimes one must ally with some villains to fight ones that are even worse.” “Indeed. And they are our kinsfolk, ruffians though they be,” said the Captain. “If you ask me, it is good that they have a chance to redeem themselves. Now, to continue my report: the southern division will capture the shipyard and docks, and destroy them if necessary. We expect the Brotherhood will send reinforcements by sea, but we have been promised the allegiance of a community of sea-dwellers. They will do all they can to sink any Brotherhood ships that approach the coast.” “Of course, them!” said Turaga Morok. “I had quite forgotten about the people of the sea. They are fierce and brave fighters, their assistance will be a great boon.” “I do not think the Makuta will seek to reclaim their strongholds in Yrenta soon – not when realms they see as more significant are also rebelling. They will focus their efforts elsewhere, in regions and cities of economic and political importance,” Liegbrand went on. “But thanks to the local geography, we can hinder them greatly with only a few warriors should they seek to pass through Yrenta. We can hold the river, the mountain passes, and set a watch upon the hills in the west and in the east. Yrenta will be only one small front out of many in this war, but it is something.” “It is, and every small part can be vital,” said Mozmana, and she addressed Turaga Morok. “We'll escort the Matoran here to safety.” “I will go with them,” said the Turaga with a nod. “I am reluctant to leave my home jungle when it needs my help, but my people also need me. Hopefully this war will keep Makuta Teskor too occupied to attempt to burn it again. So then, let us go north and occupy the fortresses in the hills once more. The Matoran of Yrenta have been warriors in the past, we can fight to defend our homeland again.” Review

I thought they stuck with the shape convention for mask powers in case the Matoran became a Toa. But that is a good point, why would they make mask types that take more than one disk? For the same reason, maybe, but you'd think they could just have new masks made for Toa.

During Teridax's reign and the migration to Spherus Magna, they probably couldn't enforce that much. Also, the Destiny War serial said this about Pridak upon his release from the Pit: "From the worst holes in the Universe, he had found ex-Dark Hunters, exiled Vortixx, even a Skakdi or two for his crews." So even before Teridax's reign, the Dark Hunters weren't hunting down all deserters from their organization. Speaking of which, should BS01 be updated with the information that the Dark Hunters are disbanded and the Shadowed One is starting a new organization?

I wouldn't be surprised if some former Dark Hunters remained allies of the Toa. But remember the Shadowed One is forming a new organization, and the Barraki are also out there. I'm not sure what Mimic will do, but not everyone from the MU is going to get along.

Wow, I never noticed those robed figures! Nothing says they're Great Beings, but why else would they be concealed in cloaks?

It was a thousand Matoran, which is small for a city like Metru Nui, but that was explained as many of the buildings were actually machines for Mata Nui's functioning. And on the island of Mata Nui, the Matoran had a nice rural environment to live in with plenty of space, they didn't need to build a new city. Plus, in the Matoran Universe, it seems lots of Matoran do live pretty much like how they did on Mata Nui.

Well, reverting everything so it was as it was in the past isn't exactly the same as traveling to the past, is it? There wouldn't be any already-experienced future to return to (unless absolutely nothing changed the next time around) because it would the present that changes.

Good point. The Ignika is alive, so it can use itself or assist its wearer. The other legendary masks might be as versatile, but no one is able to use them to their full potentials.

I hope it does have more uses than just slowing and speeding up time. The Kanohi Ignika could do pretty much anything to a living being, so the other Legendary Masks should have the potential to be as versatile with their respective powers.

I think he just looks different in the Stars form because he has Adaptive Armor instead of his original Mata armor. So he's not a Toa Nuva anymore, but he's still not quite the same as he was originally.

Would it break the no-time travel rule to have it be able to reverse time for a certain area or object? I mean, make the target revert to how it was in the past?

Maybe the implants give Agori some sort of nanobot or miracle medicine that repairs the damage aging causes. As for the length of years, we know that the days are 36 hours long. If the years are the same length as Earth years, that could mean hours are shorter, but I thought it's more likely less days per year.

Huh? Tren Krom wasn't a villain.

Well there are protodites, which are like their equivalent of bacteria I guess. Maybe certain Makuta viruses can spread like real life viruses, too. I was going to speculate if the MU inhabitants were actually designed to die out after about 100,000 years, once Mata Nui's mission was done. But we know that's not the case, because the Kingdom took place 10,000 years later (in its own universe due to time passing faster there) and Helyrx, Takanuva, and the Toa Mata haven't died of old age.

I was thinking more like his rocket engines or navigation systems (too weak or too 'drowsy' to avoid crashing).

Well, he did collect a Miru Nuva, but that wouldn't levitate the rock. Considering that, there's two ways he and Photok could already levitate out of the swamp, so the idea that he needed to use a rock is doubly redundant. I meant maybe the ability to levitate one's element while standing on it is unique to the Nuva. Anyway, the walls of Karda Nui prevented access to the Suva, so he wouldn't have been able to use his Miru Nuva. I hope a non-contradictory explanation for this can be found. It really seems to mess up the whole logical reason why they couldn't we came up with earlier.

I think the virus weakened Mata Nui so that when he came near Aqua Magna 300 years later, he was unable to overcome its gravity and crashed, knocking him unconscious.

Maybe it's a special ability he has as a Nuva.

End of Yrenta Chapter Fifty-four ==Outside the City of Balkhder, Northern Continent, Matoran Universe== ~1,000 AGC~ For nearly half a minute, the battlefield was still. Then the Exo-Toa, Rahkshi, and enslaved Rahi resumed their attack – the Exo-Toa because they had registered the phenomenon that had just occurred and deemed it irrelevant, the Rahkshi because they were creatures of destruction that would continue to wage war even as the world crumbled around them, and the Rahi because the Makuta that controlled them chose to force them to continue the assault. Most of the soldiers on both sides and the Visorak stood stupefied, though some of the warriors of Balkhder had the presence of mind to continue to retreat, while some of the Brotherhood warriors attempted to get their heedless comrades to stop their senseless attack. Imlen stood still for a long moment, during which the enemy soldiers could have killed him, but they didn't. Instead, one of them shoved him, snapping him out of his stupor just as a trio of Rahkshi attacked him. “Stop! Down, I command you!” demanded the Brotherhood soldier, but the Rahkshi did not obey. “Toa, I do not think any of us has the authority to stop these beasts.” “Just stay out of the way,” said Imlen, who had already dodged their initial attack and was preparing to retaliate. “I would help you, but I fear the Rahkshi would turn on us,” said the warrior. “What happened to your patriotism for the Brotherhood cause?” said Imlen scathingly as he melted one Rahkshi with a brute-force stream of plasma. “Died along with the universe your masters killed?” “We were bringing order and justice to the universe. Before today, I never doubted that. But now, anyone with the ability to think for oneself can see they've gone too far,” another soldier spoke up while Imlen plunged his dagger into the head of a second Rahkshi. “Their are rumors that there may be hope for us, Toa. Are they true, or are we all doomed to die with this world?” “There is a place we can go,” said Imlen a moment later, once he had destroyed the third Rahkshi. “But we will need to work together to have any hope of reaching it.” “I have been an enemy of the Toa for thousands of years,” said the first soldier. “But some among the Brotherhood army respect you, and your allies look up to you... you must have some wisdom and cunning. My masters have forsaken me, and I do not wish to die pointlessly, so I will follow you.” “As will I and all my warriors,” an officer spoke up, followed by several other affirmations. “Then stop the attack!” said Imlen as another, larger group of Rahkshi advanced on him. “Destroy the Rahkshi and Exo-Toa before any more death is dealt, and free the Rahi from your dark masters' dominion.” The Brotherhood warriors were reluctant – some were uncomfortable destroying the machines they had fought alongside for so long, while others were wary, having seen the destructive abilities of the Rahkshi and Exo-Toa firsthand many times – but they quickly realized they had little choice. They could either obey Imlen, and in doing so side with everyone who wanted to evacuate the universe peacefully, or let the oblivious machines spread senseless carnage. Several of the warriors refused to do the deed, but enough of them did what had to be done, and quickly enough that their former allies had no time to retaliate. Kraata were squashed, Exo-Toa were toppled, and wild Rahi were set free to save themselves in whatever way their instincts instructed. Even the Visorak complied with Imlen's directives, for though they were bred and trained to be loyal to the Makuta and cruel, they were intelligent beasts, and not creatures of pure darkness as Kraata were. When the battle was over, Imlen instructed most of the Brotherhood army to make for Metru Nui. Others he sent to spread the message of peace and instructions to evacuate across the continent. The rest he led into the city to aid the people of Balkhder. Mozmana was waiting for him near the east gate, standing over the remains of several Rahkshi and an Exo-Toa. The two Toa bumped fists affectionately, then each quickly explained to the other what had transpired while they were apart. Mozmana was saddened to hear of Morok's fate, and did what she could to console Imlen. The Toa were not idle while they conversed, for there were many who needed medical attention, and the citizens had to prepare for the long journey to Metru Nui as quickly as possible, before the dimmed lightstones in the sky went out forever. Understandably, they were reluctant to accept aid from the army that had just been trying to exterminate them. The Toa were in the midst of clarifying what had to be done and why when a breeze swept through the broken plaza in which they stood. Overhead, the sky returned to its usual brightness. “Can... can it be?” one of the citizens said after a moment of awed silence. “He died... but now he is alive again?” said another uncertainly. “Yes!” said one of the Brotherhood warriors with joy that surprised Imlen, considering his allegiance. “Mata Nui lives!” “Rejoice! We are saved!” said Imlen and Mozmana together, and there was much cheering throughout the city. “I am relieved, do not doubt that,” one of Guvreith's officers interjected among the cheering. “But we are mortal enemies that were just in the middle of a battle.” “Yes, and my side was winning, I believe,” said a devious-looking Brotherhood warrior. “Seems you'll need to give us a good reason not to finish razing this wretched town, Toa.” “The Makuta nearly doomed us all,” said Mozmana incredulously. “How could you ever follow them again?” “Maybe I won't, but this city is ripe for plunder, I say,” said another, and a few of his comrades murmured in agreement. “Have you learned nothing?” demanded Imlen, climbing up onto a piece of rubble for emphasis. “Even if it doesn't actually kill our world, you must realize that sort of behavior leads only to ruin. Only by living in harmony can... can...” Imlen stuttered and trailed off in shock, for a column of swirling black and red smoke materialized in the midst of the gathered warriors and citizens. Seconds later, Makuta Teskor stood before him, shapeshifted into a great, bestial, winged form. The Makuta looked around casually, but when his gaze fell upon Imlen, he seemed just as surprised to see him as Imlen was. “You!” he bellowed, and he immediately reached out with his gravity powers to make the Toa of Plasma lose his balance and fall face-first onto the pavement. “What a surprise. Hmm... judging from where you were standing, and the mingling of my warriors with the local vermin... let me guess: I just interrupted a sweet appeal to peace among all beings.” “Whatever he says, don't heed him,” said Mozmana as she moved to help Imlen up. “'Don't heed' me? I am a Makuta, and so a member of the Brotherhood of Makuta. These are warriors of the Brotherhood army,” he said, gesturing to the soldiers and Visorak around him. “Therefore, they are my subjects, and I am their master.” “You lost the right to have any subjects, and you will no longer be anyone's master,” said Imlen as he wiped dirt off his Kanohi and straightened it. “Today, everyone has learned just what your kind's reckless ambition leads to.” “Oh, you speak of the brief scare we just all had,” the Makuta said almost nonchalantly. “Yes, I was distressed as well. I assure you that was not our doing.” “Liar,” said one of the soldiers of Balkhder. “Who else – what else – could have caused it?” “Surely you noticed the world being healed not too long ago. There is no point in denying that that damage had been done in the first place by my brothers and I in taking our rightful place in the universe, but now, as you can see, we have undone those regrettable side effects,” said Teskor. “Mata Nui does not deserve to rule this universe, but we have no wish for him to die, if it would mean the world would die with him. Why would we? So who nearly killed him, then? I imagine it was frenzied insurgents that would rather see the universe destroyed than under the lawful rule of the Makuta.” “You're a bad liar, Makuta. Even without this mask, I could have seen through your weak deceptions,” said a voice it took Mozmana a moment to recognize – it was Gardrus the door-warden. “The Toa are right. Do not listen to him, citizens of Balkhder, and warriors of the Brotherhood. He and his brothers have brought nothing but destruction to the world, and it was this destruction that nearly killed Mata – ” The door-warden was interrupted by a bolt of lightning from the irate Makuta's claw that disintegrated him in a flash. Teskor followed up with a small cyclone that scattered his ashes. Several guards and warriors of Balkhder stepped forward menacingly at this affront, but Imlen and Mozmana motioned for them to stand down. “Pest,” muttered the Makuta. “You're outnumbered, Teskor,” said Imlen. “You are surrounded by beings that would rather die than live under your rule, and many of your own allies have – ” Imlen stopped mid-sentence to erect a barrier of plasma, just barely managing to block the bolt Teskor hurled at him a split second later. With his electric attack foiled, he assailed Imlen with tendrils of shadow that whipped him and squeezed him like living tentacles, except their touch stung with a burning cold. To save her friend, Mozmana let out a furious psychic attack that broke Makuta Teskor's concentration. Imlen fell to his knees, but Mozmana persisted, using all her willpower to keep Teskor incapacitated with pain until Imlen recovered. With a roar, Teskor broke free of the Toa of Psionics's agonizing assault and turned to smite her. But Imlen was right – the Makuta was surrounded. The warriors of Balkhder had their weapons readied and directed at him, so that even if all the Brotherhood servants remained loyal to him, he would still be in danger if combat began. Realizing this, he froze, then he took a step backwards. Imlen smiled a little at this. With a subtle gesture, he summoned the first of the Brotherhood warriors to ally with him to his side. Many other warriors and Visorak followed, though more than half of them still stood by Makuta Teskor. “Today you have lost, Makuta,” said Imlen. “Now leave.” “You... you may have won today. But do you think the Brotherhood's power is waning?” Teskor said, nervously at first, then with growing conviction. “Our true conquest has only just begun. Even now, my brothers imbue the heart of the world with shadow. Soon we will have complete dominance of the universe. Those who stand with us will be richly rewarded... and those who oppose us will regret it for the rest of their lives.” The Makuta's words chilled the Toa, for they hinted ominously at things beyond their understanding. His words also had an effect on the Brotherhood warriors – those who had already rejoined him looked more resolute, and some that had been undecided moved to his side. He said no more, but he gave Imlen a hateful look and held it for a long moment, then he turned and led those who would follow him out of the city. The remaining Visorak looked around awkwardly and chattered amongst themselves, then they too scurried off. Whether it was to rejoin the horde or to flee to the wild, the Toa could not say. After some quick diplomacy on the part of the Toa, the Brotherhood deserters and the Balkhder survivors put aside their weapons, and the town was peaceful. It was a sort of time Imlen and Mozmana had experienced before – the period after a costly victory during which the carnage and ruin remained, but all was quiet and calm. All was not still, however, for the people of the city and the deserters quickly began working together to clear rubble and help any injured beings that had not yet been accounted for. “They'll be back soon, you know,” said one of Guvreith's officers. “Maybe tomorrow.” “We will help you again, then,” said Imlen. “No. We cannot withstand another such assault, even with two Toa on our side,” said the officer. “I regret that it has come to this, for I have lived here all my life, but the city is lost. We must leave while we can.” “Where will you go?” asked Mozmana. “Is there another city that could take you in?” “With Drahais and now Guvreith both dead, we are leaderless,” said the officer. “I expect we will scatter. It would be better that way, for were we to all move into one community, the Makuta's wrath would follow us to our new home. Better for us to split up and fade away.” “That does sound wise,” said Imlen. “What of your aristocrats? I hear that the councilors still wield power despite being imprisoned.” “They aren't imprisoned any longer. There's no ruler to say they should still be locked up, so their allies have already released them,” said the officer. “As for myself, I was pledged to the service of Deyashlus, before he was killed in his cell by the bombardment. I care not for the others, it was their fault that he died. It was their scheming that got him arrested, and that led to this battle.” “Not all of them are guilty,” said Mozmana. “I've read their minds. If your people trust me enough, I can determine which of the councilors should be punished and which should be acquitted.” “I do not know you, but you have proven yourself in battle, and you have done nothing to earn my mistrust, unlike the councilors,” said the officer. “If you could let us know which of them are still worthy of staying in office, I would be grateful.” “I will on one condition: if my revelations cause any strife, do not fight each other,” said Mozmana. “If you disagree with who is fit to lead and who is not, go your separate ways peacefully.” The officer agreed and left to relay what she had said. The warriors of the city tried to gather the councilors, but most of them did not come so eagerly, and two in fact seemed to have fled. Eventually they were convinced to gather to address the citizens. Meanwhile Imlen and Mozmana had been making sure all the wounded had been treated. When all was ready, they stood before the twelve remaining members of the court and the guards that had been arrested with them. As they had been told they would have a chance to speak for themselves, Mozmana allowed this. When they were finished, she gave her verdict for each of them. The law dictated harsh penalties for those who betrayed the Earl, but the followers of those who were to be punished protested vehemently. The Toa decided not to press the issue, so as to avoid violence, so in the end all of them went free. The few guards that had collaborated with them did not have the political influence to get away with their crimes, but Mozmana thought it unfair that for them to be punished while the actual plotters escaped justice, and so she pardoned them as well. But though in the end no one was sentenced for the conspiracy, the disclosure of their crimes had its effects. Altogether, the traitorous councilors lost well over half of their followers. Once the tribunal was over, the citizens went to finish packing all they could bring with them. The deserters that had lingered until now departed, and many of them swore to forsake the Makuta forever. One by one the surviving members of the other armies that had come to the city's defence also left, with the exception of Yeraan and his riders, who remained to accompany the largest band of refugees to the nearest neighboring city. A few hours after the battle, all preparations had been completed and the former inhabitants of Balkhder went their separate ways. It was sad to see people forced to abandon their homes, and Imlen and Mozmana were grateful that the entire population of the universe had not been forced into such a situation. Still, though the universe had not died, they were worried by Teskor's cryptic threats. “What do you think he meant?” Imlen asked Mozmana as the Toa watched the last of the refugees go. “I'm not sure... I think I have heard tales of a 'core of the universe' hidden somewhere deep underground,” said Mozmana. “Imbuing it with shadow can only mean some dark ritual is being performed, but I have no idea what the nature of it all is.” “Whatever it is, it sounds bad. Like it would make the Makuta more powerful than ever, and somehow even worse than we think,” said Imlen grimly. “If only Turaga Morok were still around – he would have known something about it. I'm sure this will not be the first time his wisdom and experience is missed.” “He will be remembered,” said Mozmana, putting a hand on her comrade's shoulder. “And you made sure his people lived on.” “You're right,” said Imlen, but he remained morose. “But I wish I could have been with the people of Yrenta to comfort them in that short while during which we thought this world was lost. They told me to go find you, but I can only hope that was the right choice.” “From what you said earlier, it seems you did much to help them during your last visit,” said Mozmana. “I did, but I have spent too much time away from them. And now we cannot ignore what Makuta Teskor has said,” said Imlen, then he suddenly thought of something. “Turaga Vibrak – we should speak with him. He may know something about this 'heart of the world', and we should convince him to return to Yrenta and take Morok's place as Turaga of the region. Remember, his new village isn't far off the route back to Yrenta.” “I agree. And if he cannot explain Teskor's threat, perhaps Turaga Alled in Leokhtlich can. But let's spend the rest of the day here, to make sure Teskor's minions don't return to hunt down the refugees of Balkhder,” said Mozmana. “Tomorrow morning, we will travel.” While they waited, the Toa took the opportunity to search the city's library for information on the 'heart of the world' Teskor had mentioned. But the library had been hit by the bombardment, and if any of its tablets had told of such a place, they had been destroyed. One band of warriors looking for adventure arrived later that day, only to be informed they had missed the battle. That night the Toa slept in shifts, as usual. During his shift Imlen thought he noticed someone sneaking around in the night, likely a Brotherhood agent or a Dark Hunter, but there was no sign of the Brotherhood army. The next morning they rode west. The Hypaka the Thane had given to Mozmana had been kept in the stables during her imprisonment and had luckily survived the day. Imlen's steed had fallen in battle, but a rider from Leokhtlich named Yrthling had also been killed, and so Yeraan allowed Imlen to keep Yrthling's Hypaka when the riders departed. On a few occasions during their journey they observed Brotherhood forces scattering throughout that part of the continent. It seemed the forces gathered at Balkhder were returning to their usual territories. Several days later, they came to the forested land to which Vibrak had led his people in the wake of the Great Cataclysm. But while last time the Toa had visited the forest had been divided by many ravines and crevices, now the ground was seamless. As they searched for Vibrak's village, a terrible thought came to them. The crevices must have been formed by the Cataclysm, when the quake sundered the ground, and the De-Matoran had settled in one such chasm. When the damage done to the land was reversed, had they been buried? After searching for hours, the Toa found an area ringed by the hidden traps that had been made to defend the village. They were certain it was the right location, but as they had feared, there was no sign that a chasm had ever existed there. Other than the traps, the De-Matoran had left nothing behind. “Who would have thought such a wondrous happening could have had such horrible side effects?” said Imlen solemnly. “May their poor spirits rest.” Mozmana could not think of anything to say, so she simply extended her elemental power in a gentle empathetic touch. The Toa stayed for a brief time to pay their respects. Imlen gathered some earth and melted it into glass, with which he and Mozmana made a simple improvised memorial marker. The Toa dismantled the traps, then they resumed their trek. Review

I think it was kind of like a computer virus. No other Makuta did it before because it was Teridax's idea, and Miserix thought rebelling against Mata Nui would be foolish. Also, Tren Krom unintentionally told the Makuta how to do it, so without his knowledge, they probably wouldn't have been able to. The virus was actually released about 300 years before the Cataclysm, it took that long to take effect.

There's another topic like that this that hasn't died yet, here.

I don't think the Silver Toa is either. He could be some sort of unique mutant Toa. Masks contain a personality imprint, so maybe he can somehow use that to trigger a transformation into the mask's last wearer, kind of like how the Ignika turned Dekar into a Hydraxon copy.