FrozenPancake_

I, too, am seeing a lot of paranoia and I am scratching my head at what some people are saying as far as the future of Bionicle and the constructible action figure category on the whole. 

Maybe Bionicle isn't doing well? If this is the case, they'll still be able to give it some form of an ending in 2017. However, as many have said already, we don't have exact sales figures for the line in 2015.

If it's doing well in the market, that's great! Perhaps we will see more after the initial 2017 "end date".

 

I've seen a few posts on multiple different sites that suggest that if Bionicle ends, the only Constraction line will be Star Wars, and then eventually that may end leaving no more Constraction for the future. This, to me, does not make any sense, especially for the fact that fans of Constraction are the ones claiming such things.

 

Allow me to provide an example of which I can relate this situation to. A few years ago, the game developer BioWare released statistics for Mass Effect 3, specifically for the six classes that the player could choose from to play the game. One of the classes, the Engineer, had 5.1% of all players who played the game. This was revealed during a press conference with the developers where they stated some thing to the effect (no pun intended) of: "We know that very few people play as the Engineer, and fans always ask us why we keep that class. Our answer is that we keep the Engineer class because there are people out there who like playing as the Engineer. If no one played as the Engineer then maybe we would get rid of it, but seeing as people do, we still see it as an integral part of the game experience."

 

TLG knows that there are still fans of Constraction themes out there, so it wouldn't make sense to suddenly stop producing sets for that part of their consumer base. If this is the case, there will most likely be another line of Constraction-based sets after Bionicle ends. I'm sure that more than 10% of Lego buyers have a Constraction-based set, so I really don't see Constraction going away any time soon.

And by this logic, they very well could continue the line.

 

I'm glad it's not just me that's noticed this. There's been an aura of negativity around Bionicle G2 since it started, but lately it's gotten even more widespread and pessimistic. I would wager it's coming largely from the rumors that Bionicle will be ending next year, possibly even with a limited set release. I don't know if I'd give those rumors any credence, but regardless of their origins, they've been enough to validate the naysayers' opinions of the theme and bring the haters out of the woodwork. Regardless of the state of the theme, I worry that the fandom itself is on the negative trajectory that drove me away from BZPower and Bionicle discussion in general back in 2010. And I worry that unless we get some verifiably good news soon, that kind of attitude will be hard to shake.

Yes, I know as a kid one of the reasons I stopped buying Bionicle sets in 2007 was my first exposure to online nay-sayers including those that were here on BZp at the time. It seems fans get hostile really easily online, and it can unknowingly disuade other fans from participating in a forum. I definitely have been participating on BZp a bit less since the negativity has started, and over on Eurobricks I find myself commenting less on the Bionicle discussion there.

 

Eurobricks though has also been the place that I noticed this "panic" is a trait of Bionicle fans, by comparing the Bionicle fan reaction vs. the Lego train fans reaction on the Train Tech forum on Eurobricks. There are plenty of fans upset about the limited train releases; yet rather than panic they discuss how to get train ideas on Lego Ideas, they support 3rd party groups such as Big Ben Bricks and ME rails, and they keep on making MOC's. I wish the Bionicle fandom would take a similar approach, rather than mudslinging, trolling, and flaming other Bionicle fans.

 

Truth.

With the possibility of an end next year, I myself have been thinking about making fixes and continuations to G2 through writing and MOCs! 

I certainly agree that we should be more calm and optimistic with our discussions from here on out.

The knight reminds me of the Black Knight from Monty Python, so I'll probably get him, if only for that. (And the sweet new morningstar piece...)

Granted, but if you use Force lightning, it fries you.

I wish for a pet Rahi.

Granted, but that person turns out to be Nicholas Cage. 

I wish I was a Toa.

I'd love to hear Geoff Hughes say: 

I actually really like this idea.

I mean, it actually makes more sense, given the already somewhat modern setting of Ninjago. We hardly got to see much of their daily lives in the TV show, but now we get to see them in high school! (Even though it makes it all the more obvious that it's basically LEGO's Power Rangers...) XD

Chapter IX

Pohatu

The Toa of Stone, Pohatu, was exhausted. He was only on the outskirts of Po-Wahi, but he was already running low on water. Ekimu save me, he thought. Suddenly, he saw a small figure walking toward him. It’s gotta be another mirage. I hate mirages. He kept his pace, and-- “Oof!” --he bumped into an Agori. “Sorry,” Pohatu rasped, his throat dry from dehydration. “I thought-- *cough* --you were a mirage.” “That’s understandable,” the Agori replied. “Here. You probably need this.” He handed the Toa of Stone a canteen. Pohatu took it gratefully. “Thanks.” He drank deeply. “Ah. Much better. Say, what’re you doing out here? Surely there aren’t any villages--” “There’s one a couple kios back-- my village. The place was overrun by a bunch of Skull Spiders, so I ran for it. I’m probably the only one who got out of there without one of those nasty mongrels on my face. Geez, Maku’s probably worried sick.” “Oh. Sorry about your village. I could’ve been there to help.” Pohatu’s face fell. “What with your journey and all, you were probably busy. I understand.” “Yeah, good point. Even with my Mask of Speed, I can’t be everywhere at once.” Pohatu smiled. “Thanks. What’s your name?” he asked. “The name’s Huki. I’m the best Kolhii player in all of Po-Wahi. You must be Toa Pohatu.” “Yeah, that would be me. You can just call me Pohatu. So, what’s Kolhii?”

Huki was taken aback. “What, you don’t know? Have you been living under a rock?” “No, but Nilkuu has kept me busy as of late. You know, Toa stuff.” “Oh yeah, right. That makes sense. Kolhii is a favorite pastime of the Agori around here. It’s a sport where there are two teams, and each tries to kick a large stone into the opposing team’s goal.” Pohatu’s optics widened. “Cool….” “I know, right?” Huki replied. “But we haven’t had time to play lately, due to increased Skull Spider activity. Tarahkai Nilkuu says--” Huki cleared his throat-- “‘No time for games! We must remain vigilant.’” The Stone tribe Agori said this in a surprisingly accurate imitation of the Tarahkai’s voice. “Yup, sounds like him alright,” Pohatu remarked.

They had walked over to one of Huki’s favorite spots: an oasis. “I know you don’t have a lot of time,” Huki began, “but I think you should rest up a bit before you go. It always helps me before a Kolhii match.” “Time isn’t too much of a problem,” Pohatu replied. “Mask of Speed, remember?” “Yeah.” Huki noticed the Toa of Stone’s mechanical arm. “What happened to your arm?” he asked, a bit concerned. “It got horribly mangled when I first landed here. So, I needed it amputated. But a Toa can’t exactly fight with one arm.” Pohatu chuckled. “Besides, I kinda like it! It looks cool.” The pair laughed. “Well, I’m glad that you took it in stride,” Huki replied. “You remind me of Maku.” “Who is this Maku, anyway?” Pohatu asked. “She’s um… my….” “Girlfriend?” Pohatu guessed. Huki’s face flushed. “We’re just…. friends,” he finished. “I think the look on your face says otherwise,” Pohatu teased. Their conversation was cut short when Huki shouted, “Pohatu! Behind you!”

The Toa of Stone turned to see another Agori behind him. However, he had a blue Ragnok on his face. The Agori snarled, saliva oozing from his mouth. He leapt onto Pohatu, grabbing onto his head, wrestling him for his mask.  Almost instinctively, Pohatu grabbed his assailant’s legs, causing him to lose his grip, giving him the opportunity to toss him away. Huki ran over to the Agori and attempted to remove the Ragnok from his face, but to no avail. The Agori pushed Huki out of the way, causing him to fall mask-first into the desert sand. He rolled over in time to see his attacker bearing down on him, preparing for the kill. Huki unsheathed his dagger and shoved it into the other Agori’s heartlight. He sputtered, coughing up protodermis, and collapsed, thick silver liquid flowing from his chest. Pohatu stood in shock. “You...you killed him!” he cried, aghast. Huki pushed the body aside, breathing heavily. “These days, it’s kill or be killed. He was a shambler, anyway.” “A shambler?”

“Shamblers are those who’ve had a Skull Spider controlling them for so long, that the parasite has permanently bound itself to them,” Huki explained. “Well, I’m here to make sure that it doesn’t happen anymore.” Pohatu clenched his fist. “Then go do what you came to do.” “Yeah. You know what, Huki? While I don’t agree with what ya did back there, I like you. So, I’ve got something for you.” Huki’s optics widened. “Cool, what is it?” Pohatu handed him a yellow Toa Stone. “What do I do with this?” “Keep it,” Pohatu replied with a wink. “Oh, and this.” Concentrating on the sand beneath him, Pohatu reached out with his mind and pulled out a large stone that was about a foot wide. He willed the rock to shift so that it was in the shape of a perfect sphere, and embossed with elaborate Okotian runes. He dropped it at Huki’s feet, dusting his hands off. “New Kolhii ball for ya.” Huki’s jaw dropped. “Whoa…” he breathed, impressed. “Pretty neat, huh? Now, I’d love to stay and chat, but I gotta run. Nice meeting ya, Huki. Fist clank?” “Fist clank.” They gently bumped fists. “You too, Pohatu. Good luck.” “Thanks. See ya!” With that, the Toa of Stone activated his Kakama and sped away, sand flying in his wake. When the dust cleared, Huki sat there, gazing at the mysterious yellow crystal, wondering what it all meant...

Chapter X

Tuyet, Modruk, and Kalzar marched into the Arena Magna, the stadium where many Glatorian battles took place millennia ago. Even in its ruined state, it was magnificent; it was nearly half a kio wide. The floor was comprised entirely of what appeared to be hexagonal tiles, each approximately five feet in diameter. There were four entrances for fighters, one of which being the south entrance that the unlikely trio had come through. Above the north entrance, there was an elaborate balcony, atop which rested a massive throne. Seated on it was a dark-armored figure, whose bones glowed with an orange light, reminiscent of a blazing fire. He was flanked by two undead guards, each carrying a long spear. The figure spoke in a voice that chilled the bones of even the fiercest of warriors. “So,” he began, in a voice like metal scraping rock, “Not only was my… experiment with the Koto-Jaga successful, but you managed to bring one of the island’s greatest Glatorian back with you. Well done.” Tuyet knelt, and Modruk followed suit. “Thank you, Lord Kulta.” Kulta? Kalzar was shocked. No. It can’t be! “Rise,” Kulta commanded. Kalzar’s eyes narrowed. “YOU!” he spat. “Yes, me,” Kulta replied, unnaturally calm. “Do you have any idea what you’ve done?!? First, you forced me to fight for your entertainment, and now, you’ve given me a fate worse than death! I”LL TEAR YOU APART FOR THIS!” Kalzar screamed, brandishing his swords. Kulta raised a hand, and the enraged Glatorian was held fast by a ring of dark energy. “Save your anger. You’ll need it for my...test.” Kulta’s eyes narrowed. He clenched his fist, and the energy bindings around Kalzar tightened. “AAAGH!” Kalzar cried out in agony. “Make it stop! Please! I’ll do anything you ask!” Kulta released his grip. “Good.” The four-armed warrior crumpled to the floor. “Lash out like that again, and I’ll make it ten times more painful.” Kalzar trembled, bowing his head. “Y--yes...m--master…” “Excellent,” Kulta rasped. “Now, for my test.” He gestured toward Tuyet and Modruk. “Choose your opponent. And choose wisely.” Kalzar thought carefully about his decision. I could choose Modruk. A fighter relying on strength alone wouldn’t stand a chance against me. No, too easy. I want a challenge. Tuyet? Pfft! Oh please! I killed her myself. Far too simple. What if there’s a more difficult opponent-- a third option? Then, it dawned on him-- there was a third choice. “I choose YOU!” he shouted, pointing defiantly at his chosen opponent. Kulta laughed wickedly, his gravelly voice filled with contempt. “You, my unfortunate friend, have made the wrong choice!” The undead warlord leapt from his throne, enormous mace in hand. His feet met the floor with a thoom, the stone cracking from the impact. Kalzar twirled his swords. “Wrong choice, you say? Ha! You made the wrong choice choosing me!” He charged, his hookblades whirling about. Kulta parried the flurry of attacks easily, keeping his assailant’s swords from striking his body. Using the deadly hooks on Kalzar’s swords as leverage, he flung his opponent aside! The emerald Glatorian flew through the air, crashing to the ground with a sickening crack. Kulta chuckled. “Still defiant, are we?” he taunted. “Unngh,” Kalzar groaned in reply. Slowly, he struggled to his feet. His eyes narrowed into thin, blood-red slits. “Alright,” he growled. “It’s time for round two!” Snarling, Kalzar charged forward, arms spread. He attempted to stab inward with his four bony arms, but Kulta caught him with the head of his mace, tossing him back. Kalzar was sent flying once more, but he wasn’t about to have another crash landing. Instead, he flipped in mid-air, blades at the ready. He came down on Kulta, screaming his signature battle cry-- “Reeeeee-YAAAAAAH!” KRAKK! Kulta’s mace connected with Kalzar’s body, and the Glatorian met the floor once more with a brutal impact. He groaned in pain. Kulta laughed. “Is the mighty Skull Slicer ready to give up yet?” he taunted. Kalzar coughed, glowing green blood spewing from his mouth. He lay there, broken. Yet something still stirred in him-- the desire to fight. Using his blades to support himself, he got to his feet once more. “Give up? Me?” The warrior scoffed. “You know me, Kulta! I yield to NO ONE!” Kulta’s eyes narrowed. “We’ll see about that.” The two combatants charged at each other. Kulta swung his mace, but Kalzar leapt into the air to avoid a devastating blow. He did a somersault over his foe, bringing his wicked blades into his back. “AGGGH!” Kulta cried. He crumpled to the floor. Kalzar sheathed his blades. “I’d put you out of your misery, but this fate is worse than death. It is a broken, twisted half-life. Besides, I can’t very well kill my own… master.” He spoke the last word grudgingly. Kulta shot out a hand of energy. “Enough.” He released his grip just as quickly as he had taken it. “I see that you are just as much of a rebel as you were thousands of years ago. Nonetheless, I gave you new life because I have use for you. You are a vicious fighter, Kalzar. Your eyes are wild with bloodlust. So, I am allowing you to harness that.” “Aaand how can I do that?” Kalzar asked dryly. “My master tells me that there are six.” “Six? Six what? Who?” “There are six warriors known as Toa. They are coming for the Mask of Creation, and to awaken its former bearer, Ekimu. We must ensure that neither happen-- by any means necessary.” Kalzar sharpened his blades. “Then these Toa shall suffer with me. Yes.. They will be broken.”

My speculations:

-There will hopefully be an '06 style winter wave, with high-budget villains, titans to counter them, and some Okotoan villagers. (Voya Nui Resistance Team reimagined, anyone?) However, it's extremely likely that we'll get yet another team of Toa. (And part of me is okay with that, because I could buy every single incarnation of the Nuva to date and have a full Toa team of each. ) I'd like to see either Shadow Toa, Rahkshi, or Piraka. 

-

-We're definitely going to get a titan Makuta. Either that, or the fans will riot. (Eh, there will probably be some flaw to it that people will have heated debates about. )

-It will be the last year, unless it does better than usual. 

LE UPDATE:

Since I blew off posting chapters last week, I'll just post last week's alongside this week's.

While I agree that a global release would have been personally preferable to a regional release, I don't think we'll be able to "get LEGO to" do anything.

 

Besides, this isn't the first time a LEGO promotion has been region-specific.  Pretty sure North America gets a lot of things that other places don't.

Yeah, I guess you could call it karma.

This is wonderful. I love the shaping and proportioning, especially with the clever placement of the Brain Attack helmet and the Mahiki. The Stormerang bow is pretty solid too. I can't wait to see more of your MOCS! 

Both of the aforementioned polybags seem to be exclusive to Russia. 

I'm not happy about this, because I really want to acquire both of them, and I don't want to pay $40+ just for a polybag.

So, I think that we should get LEGO to at least release the Accessory Pack, because it isn't fair not to release it to all countries. As for the Villain Pack, they probably won't make any more, due to it being from last year's lineup.

Thoughts?

(Mods, feel free to merge this with the 2016 discussion topic if it belongs there rather than its own topic.)

 

 

The story didn't play a big roll for getting me into Bionicle.  I was not aloud to read any of it, for religious reasons, as a young kid; however I could have the toys.  By the time I was aloud to read the stories, the Toa were fighting glowing toothed villains, with light flashing weapons (not that interesting other than the Toas' weapons).  So I really wasn't in it for the story, but the cool artwork and amazingly detailed toys.

 

The story alone would never stand that long, but a more in depth story would certainly make the current reboot way more successful.

 

I also believe this is how the original Bionicle started, wasn't it?  Starting the theme small and expanding it later is usually a safe approach to a theme your not sure is going to take off.  It has a netflix show coming out soon, so it can't be doing that bad.  Plus I bought all of the reboot's sets so far (my wallet hates me ).

 

In spite of this Netflix series, it doesn't seem to be doing so well. :/ 

 

I have trouble finding the sets in stores. Seriously, they're very hard to find where I live. And I live in America.

 

I also live in America, WI to be exact.  The stores near me had all the sets but now there are just a few of each, if that.  However, this means they sold a lot of Bionicle sets, they just have not restocked them.  So Bionicle isn't doing great but I wouldn't say it isn't doing well either.

 

Eh, I guess our retailers are just unreliable. XD At least Barnes and Noble has 'em, or so I hear...

As for my Walmart, I saw a couple Tahus, three Umaraks, a Terak, and a guitar Ketar.

The story didn't play a big roll for getting me into Bionicle.  I was not aloud to read any of it, for religious reasons, as a young kid; however I could have the toys.  By the time I was aloud to read the stories, the Toa were fighting glowing toothed villains, with light flashing weapons (not that interesting other than the Toas' weapons).  So I really wasn't in it for the story, but the cool artwork and amazingly detailed toys.

 

The story alone would never stand that long, but a more in depth story would certainly make the current reboot way more successful.

 

I also believe this is how the original Bionicle started, wasn't it?  Starting the theme small and expanding it later is usually a safe approach to a theme your not sure is going to take off.  It has a netflix show coming out soon, so it can't be doing that bad.  Plus I bought all of the reboot's sets so far (my wallet hates me ).

In spite of this Netflix series, it doesn't seem to be doing so well. :/ 

I have trouble finding the sets in stores. Seriously, they're very hard to find where I live. And I live in America.

 

 

But Matoro didn't come back from the dead like Zane did, so technically Zane didn't pull a Matoro.

 

Yeah, in that respect, it's probably fairer to say that

Zane pulled a Jaller.

 

@Aanchir You know, I never thought of it like that.

 @fishers64

I'm not saying that killing off characters is the key, I'm just saying that it could contribute to a more serious story. For example,

 The other elements include world-building, character development (I'm aware that there was some in TJTO, and I'm happy for that.), and backstory, among other things. Perhaps the most important bit is keeping the cheesy one-liners to a minimum. 

However, the thing that I dislike the most about G2 plot-wise is that it doesn't respect the original Toa's roots personality-wise. The 'webimations' from last year actually did respect the roots. (Save for Pohatu... He's like Wolverine and Batman combined now. ) However, TJTO kicked that relatively new continuity to the corner by making Kopaka... *headdesks* ...some exuberant, happy-go-lucky dude. Not a trace of the cold, cynical, and analytic Toa of Ice to be found. I've probably ranted about it before, but that's probably because Kopaka's a favorite of mine, and I hate to see his personality so drastically altered.

Now, I actually would warm up to these changes if not for the fact that

Just my thoughts. Thanks for the sharing yours, you made some great points.

 

No masks? No head? We must keep searching! (also can't install the update until I update my Mac's OS.)

That was the case for me, but I was happy to update my OS—the only reason I hadn't yet was to avoid LOSING LDD functionality.

 

The lack of heads and masks is probably because the connection for those parts is so unusual. It might be easy if masks only had to connect to heads, but the fact that they can connect to so many other standard Technic connections as well as the non-standard connection points of the new heads probably complicates things.

 

It seems codable enough to me. :/ 

WOT?! Canceling the sets???

 

NOOOOOO

 

Holding a mask or a Toa feels like magic, and the functions and stuff make Bionicle awesome. I think that if it wants to be popular it has to be holdable. And combining a story with toys works perfectly, just lik G1. You can do what you want!

 

The thing LEGO needs is good writers that can write a very complex and fascinating story, like some of us, so here's the thing WE have to do: send some mails to LEGO and ask for a more complex Bionicle storyline. Then BUY ALL YOU CAN to support Bionicle and show you appreciate the story and the sets, and TELL EVERYONE how awesome Bionicle is.

 

That's how you make it popular.

Now THAT is a good idea. (Even though none of my friends who aren't already into it would understand; they'll have nothing to do with it. :/ )

We should definitely tell them (the folks in charge of Bonkle) that the sets are wonderful but... the story needs to be better, because kids these days actually enjoy mature and complex things. I've heard that Ninjago, which used to be very childish, now has a solid plot and (SPOILER ALERT)

That being said, I want a dark and mature storyline for G2. Now, I'm not asking for blood, gore, or Toa who kill. That's just edginess. (Even though I would like to have a 2006-esque tone for the story...) All I want is a fully developed story with lots of world-building, as well as complex, fleshed-out, and consistent characters.

Why are there only four episodes in all?

 

 

Also, Gali and Lapis Lazuli are totally gonna team up...

 

...after they've finished the most epic arm wrestling match in Gem and Toa history, that is.

Well, that's certainly interesting. As for team-ups, I'd say any elemental bionicle character with a skylander of the corresponding element.

Nice pic with Gali and Lapis arm-wrestling!

I agree with the idea that any elemental Bionicle character would team up with a Skylander who shares the same element. That would mean doubling the elemental power. I find that very cool.

 

 

'Howabout, Axonn, and Guts from berserk? Anyone?

 

I have never watched Berserk (because it looks to be a tad edgy for me ATM), but I personally think that they'd work well together, considering the fact that they have ridiculously oversized weapons. Heck, throw in Cloud from Final Fantasy while we're at it.

 

While we're on the topic of anime, how 'bout Tahu teams up with Kamina from Gurren Lagann? They're very similar in personality: Impatient and temperamental, yet personable and charismatic.

 

I imagine Kamina would mistake him for a Gunmen (the mecha in the series) and jump into Gurren, his own mecha... only for Tahu to comment, "Now that is overkill! I'm only eight feet tall, get out of that ridiculous thing!" Of course, Kamina would get out, then they'd take turns yelling at each other about how tough they are and fight (for some contrived reason), as is commonplace in anime.  Then, Kamina gets his hindquarters handed to him by Tahu (because... fire powers!). He's glad to have found a worthy opponent, but Tahu would rather help him than fight. They befriend one another, and each learns about the other's culture. Unfortunately, Tahu has a bit of trouble getting along with Kamina's team, as they're suspicious on where his loyalties truly lie. (Plus, their crazy mechanic, Leeron, keeps trying to figure out how his systems work, much to Tahu's dismay. )

Funny about Tahu interacting with Kamina and his team! Lol!

About Axonn, that could make a good team. I am also thinking about Axonn working with the Hulk. That's awesome, too, since both are huge and strong people who could act rational.

 

Thanks! 

Axxon working with the Hulk would be pretty sweet...

What about Brutaka and Starscream? 

'Howabout, Axonn, and Guts from berserk? Anyone?

I have never watched Berserk (because it looks to be a tad edgy for me ATM), but I personally think that they'd work well together, considering the fact that they have ridiculously oversized weapons. Heck, throw in Cloud from Final Fantasy while we're at it.

While we're on the topic of anime, how 'bout Tahu teams up with Kamina from Gurren Lagann? They're very similar in personality: Impatient and temperamental, yet personable and charismatic.

I imagine Kamina would mistake him for a Gunmen (the mecha in the series) and jump into Gurren, his own mecha... only for Tahu to comment, "Now that is overkill! I'm only eight feet tall, get out of that ridiculous thing!" Of course, Kamina would get out, then they'd take turns yelling at each other about how tough they are and fight (for some contrived reason), as is commonplace in anime.  Then, Kamina gets his hindquarters handed to him by Tahu (because... fire powers!). He's glad to have found a worthy opponent, but Tahu would rather help him than fight. They befriend one another, and each learns about the other's culture. Unfortunately, Tahu has a bit of trouble getting along with Kamina's team, as they're suspicious on where his loyalties truly lie. (Plus, their crazy mechanic, Leeron, keeps trying to figure out how his systems work, much to Tahu's dismay. )

 

I think there won't any titan sets in G2. Because in G2 we can't see any titan Bionicle. Bosses have same size with Toa.

As Lyichir said we are getting one this summer, so I don't understand why we couldn't see more.

 

Plus, I'm 99% sure that Makuta will be a titan, being the big bad and all. I don't see it happening any other way. 

You should be able to delete "" on the left without affecting anything.

 

Any other questions?

Nope! I managed to fix the problem by turning the text white, so at least the bits of code sticking out are invisible!

Thank you!

Chapter VII

Tahu

Tahu had finished preparing for his long trek to Koto-Nui, the ancient City of the Mask Makers. He wore a leather belt, which had three canteens hanging from it, each filled with freshwater from Ga-Wahi. Slung over his shoulder was a knapsack containing his rations, which consisted of firefruit (A sweet and spicy citrus) and Kane-Ra jerky. He was just about to leave when he heard a voice behind him. “Tahu.” The Toa of Fire turned to see Narmoto, who was holding a square object. “There’s one more thing that you should know.” Tahu grumbled. “What is it? I don’t exactly have all the time in the world.” “Precisely. We all run out of it eventually. So, I want you to give this to one of the Agori.” He held up the square object. “That’s just the crystal that unlocked my Golden Kanohi. What do you want me to do, give a little keepsake to an Agori that I hardly know, because you’re apparently sending me on a suicide mission?!?” he spat. “Yes, despite your abilities, you could very well die in Koto-Nui. I’ve seen the things that Makuta has made, and they are fear. As for the stone, it isn’t a Kanohi Stone any more. It is a Toa Stone. It contains a small amount of your power, but it’s just enough to transform an Agori into a Toa.” “Hm. That makes a lot more sense.” Tahu took the Toa Stone, examining the symbol on it. “Who should I give this thing to, anyway?” he asked. “That is your decision, and yours alone. A Toa is responsible for choosing their own heir.” “Thanks for the advice, that really helped narrow it down.” Narmoto sighed. “If I must give you my thoughts on the matter, I would seek out the Captain of the Guard. His name is Jala. Farewell, Tahu. May the spirit of Ekimu guide you.” Tahu put a large hand on the Tarahkai’s shoulder. “Same to you.” With that, Tahu left the hut one last time.

The Toa of Fire walked until he reached the outskirts of Ta-Koto. Suddenly, an Agori bumped into Tahu. “Hey, watch it!” he growled. The Agori looked up at him, a look of pure terror in his eyes. “T--Toa Tahu! I-- I’m so sorry, I didn’t see you. D-do forgive my c-c--clumsiness.” Tahu’s expression softened. “Eh, it’s alright. Sorry if I scared you. I’m looking for the Captain of the Guard. Do you know where he is, by any chance? I need to talk to him for a sec before I head out.” “Oh, Jala? Hey, I know that guy! We’re best buds! I’ll go get him,” the Agori replied enthusiastically. “Great. Oh, before you do that, I’ve got a question for you.” “Yeah, sure, anything! Ask away!” Tahu raised an eyebrow. “What’s with the blue armor?” The Agori reddened. “My mother was from the Water tribe. Now, if the rumors are true, you’re going on a craaazy adventure, and you don’t have much time to hang around, soooo…. I’ll go get him.” The oddball Agori dashed off.

Jala was at his post, doing what he did best: Keeping watch for intruders. Nothing gets past the Captain of the Guard, he thought with a wry grin. That is, unless he wishes it. He snapped out of his reverie when he saw his best friend dashing toward him. “Jala! There’ssomebodyreallyimportantwhowantstotalkwithyouandit’sreallyimportant!” “Whoa, Takua! What was in your breakfast today?” “I only had Gukko eggs and some firefruit.” “Huh. You had me thinking that you were on a bula berry rush for a sec.” “Your friend there is a crazy one. He probably was,” added another member of the Guard. “Yeeeah, about that….. I was. You got me, Kapura. But you’re one to talk.” Takua grinned sheepishly and began walking in circles. Kapura facepalmed, and Jala scowled. “TAKUUUAAA! Those are a delicacy! Besides, the attacks in Le-Wahi have cut off shipping nearly completely, so they’re extra hard  to get these days.” The Captain cleared his throat. “Now, someone important wants to talk to me?”

The blue-clad Agori ran up to Tahu, accompanied by another Agori. The other one wore golden armor, mask and all. There he is. “What took you so long?” Tahu grumbled. The golden Agori explained: “Let’s just say that it involved Takua and some bula berries and leave it at that. So, you wished to speak with me, Toa Tahu?” “Yeah. Now, I know this is crazy, but--” Jala cut him off. “I’ve seen some pretty crazy stuff, what with being the Captain of the Guard and all. I’m prepared to do whatever you want me to do.” “Good. Tarahkai Narmoto says that you’re a brave one. So, I want you to have this.” Tahu handed him the red stone that he was carrying. “The Karz? What am I supposed to do with this?” Takua cut in. “It’s a Toa Stone,” he explained. “It contains a small amount of Toa energy. It’ll automatically transform the bearer into a Toa, should the previous Toa die in battle or by other causes.” Tahu’s optics widened. “How do you know all of this?” Takua grinned. “I’m the island’s Chronicler. Basically, I record important events and information in Okoto’s history. I was even there when the Tarahkai summoned you. It’s a fun job. I get to travel and learn a ton of stuff. So, I wanna come with you and record more of your heroic deeds.” “Takua,” Jaller scolded, “Were you even listening to what he said a minute ago? He said that it’s dangerous.” Takua held up a stone tablet, which was now covered in Okotian runes. “Yep! Every word.” Tahu sighed. “I hate to say it, Takua, but I agree with the Captain. You should stay here. I don’t want to be responsible for the death of Okoto’s Chronicler.” Takua protested. “But it’s my duty! Jala can come with us, too! We’d be perfectly safe!” “Takua, I have a duty too-- to stay and protect this place.” “Then what about mine?” Takua looked pleadingly at the Captain and the Toa. “Okay, you can come with me,” Tahu conceded. Takua perked up.  “But only if the Captain says so.” The Chronicler’s shoulders slumped. Jaller took a deep breath. “You may go, but only for two reasons: One, it’s your duty, and two, you’re my best friend. Have fun, Takua. Don’t die out there.” The Captain of the Guard turned to Tahu. “And you. Thanks for the gift. It is truly an honor to be chosen as your heir, Toa of Fire.” “And it was an honor to meet you, Jala, Captain of the Guard.” Tahu dropped to one knee. “A Toa? Bowing in front of me? I never thought I’d see the day.” The Captain grinned. “Me neither.” A smile spread across Tahu’s face. He rose to leave, when Jala tapped him on the shoulder. “And one more thing?” The Toa turned. “Yeah?” “Take care of yourself-- and Takua. Or else you’ll end up in one of my Rahi traps.” Tahu shook his hand. “I don’t foresee that happening.” The unlikely pair turned to leave, and Takua waved. “Bye, Jala! I’ll make sure to bring back a souvenir!”

“So, now what?” Takua asked. “Try to get some sleep. Pack your things, but don’t bring anything unnecessary,” Tahu replied. “We leave at dawn.”

Chapter VIII

A brutish, skeletal figure with large horns paced the cemetery, searching for something. Find him? In here? Bah! It’ll take ages! But the boss says so. We gotta find him. But he’s a freak!  His thoughts were interrupted by another undead being. “This is the one,” she hissed, gesturing at a coffin with a tonfa. “Yay, found it!” the brutish one crowed. “Out of our way.” He shoved his companion aside. “That’s no way to treat a lady,” she scoffed. “We don’t care what you say! Only what boss says.” He brought his massive axes down on the lid of the coffin, shattering it! “Yay, smashing stuff! But we don’t like four-armed freak!” The female shook her head. “I never liked him either, but as you put it, it’s ‘what boss says’.”

She made a strange chittering noise, and several large, undead scorpions came forward. They cocked their heads to one side, their mandibles clicking together. The apparent insect whisperer made more clicking and chittering noises, gesturing wildly toward the now-desecrated sarcophagus. The scorpions inclined their heads and, using their large tails, which were equipped with a bizarre combination between a claw and a stinger, picked the stone fragments away. The figure within the sarcophagus had sickly green bones, a mask resembling a Ragnok spider, two extra arms, and four wicked-looking swords in his hands, marking him as a former warrior. One of the scorpions-- a Koto-Jaga-- struck the corpse with its stinger. Dark energy flowed through the body as it convulsed violently. With surprising agility for a long-dead being, it leapt from its coffin, letting loose a bloodcurdling battle cry! The newly resurrected warrior slashed wildly with his blades, cutting through the Koto-Jaga. He finished it off by cleaving the creature’s skull in half, causing protodermic grey matter to spill out.. The remaining Koto-Jaga gave a shriek, retreating to the area from whence they came.

The warrior took in his surroundings, crimson eyes wild. His body trembled with rage. “Don’t kill us!” the brutish one pleaded. “You’re already dead, you fool!” The four-armed warrior’s eyes narrowed.  And… so am I! Yet some strange force of nature has brought me back to life! WHO DID THIS?” He lashed out with his blades. The tonfa-wielder deftly blocked the attack, following up with a blow that knocked him to his feet. Suddenly, memories came flooding back. “Hello again, Tuyet.” The warrior’s fury subsided. “If it weren’t for the state we’re in, I’d say that it’s nice to see you again. “Nice to see you too, Kalzar,” Tuyet replied dryly. “If you call seeing the Glatorian who brutally killed you in battle ‘nice’, that is. Thanks to you, the back of my skull is missing.” Kalzar smirked. “They didn’t call me the Skull Slicer for nothing. I suppose those were the ‘good old days’.” “Hey freak, what about us?” the brutish one groaned. “Nice to see you too, Modruk,” Kalzar replied, his raspy voice filled with sarcasm. “But in all seriousness, what. The Karzahni. Is going on?!?” The (literally) bull-headed warrior, Modruk, spoke up. “Boss picked you, so we come here to make you not dead.” “I see,” Kalzar mused. “It doesn’t change the fact that it was a rude awakening. But please, do elaborate. Who exactly is ‘boss’?” Tuyet gave him a wicked smile. “Come, and you’ll see for yourself.”

“Where are you taking me?” Kalzar asked. “To the arena,” Tuyet replied curtly. “Our leader is waiting for us there.” Kalzar sharpened his jagged hookblades in anticipation. “So, he wants to test me?” he said, twirling a blade. “Exactly. Why else would he be there?” Tuyet said. Modruk grunted. “Big fight ring over there.” He pointed at the arena looming ahead. “Oh, yes.” Kalzar chuckled to himself. “Whoever this leader of ours is, he’ll rue the day he brought the Skull Slicer back from the grave.”

It looks like you're trying to use the code Windrider suggested inside of "post" tags, which aren't necessary.  The code as-is should be exactly what you need.

 

("Post" and "topic" tags function similarly to URL tags, but instead of using the full web address they just use the post ID.  For instance, your post right above me has the ID of 1053174, so by using this code:

[post='1053174']this is your post![/post]

I would get this link: this is your post!

 

{Looks like you pasted Wind's code in where the post ID would go, which is why it broke.}

 

Post and topic tags are mostly redundant, because URL tags work just as well and are a bit easier to insert.  But some of us still cling to using them on occasion.  And all of this is sort of unrelated to your overall question, but hey, knowledge!)

Thanks! I managed to turn the text invisible, so I fixed it.

Now that's just straight-up EPIC.

He gives even more of a fire vibe now. I love the little torch flames all over him, not to mention that the Skrall armor on his legs works surprisingly well IMO.

No, you can paste it into the rich text editor as well.  The board will register it as BBCode and should format it properly even if you're not in BBCode mode.

I got it to work in BBCode, but there are still bits of code sticking out the sides. What should I do?