Friar Tuck

IC [Hewkii's office, Po-Koro - late morning] "The day-sook-what?" I butchered the term he had just spoken as I fumbled my words, racking my brain for anything that might help me answer that question. Anything. Come noggin, come on... Nope. Nothing but a big, huge blank. Despite myself I started laughing at it all, eventually regaining my composure. "Forgive me Hewkii, that laugh was not aimed at you. After the events of Kini-nui I went straight to the Massif in Ko-Wahi, cutting myself off from people, news, civilization... pretty much the world at large as I went over and dealt with everything that happened there. I literally have no idea how much the island has changed in the last three months, including not knowing that you took measures to better hid this Koro. I didn't even know about the Dark Walk and how to use it to get here until Toa Merror was kind enough to show me and explain it's existence! An army of Rahkshi... amazing. Oh, sorry. So, anyway, I regret to inform you, but the term 'Dasaka' means nothing to me; as far as I am concerned it could be anything from a rare fruit to a new type of machine. There is a lot I need to catch up on, but I'm looking forward to it." I held the Charm of Creation up, taking a moment to study its features. Unless I was mistaken this was the last one I needed; already I could feel the butterflies starting to make their presence known. I looked back at Hewkii. "Thank you Akiri; this means a lot me. I wish I could give you the information you seek, but as I have not been part of civilization at large for the last three months I am fairly ignorant of current affairs. Unless there is something else you wished to speak of... ?" I stood, giving a respectful pause.

OOC: I'll be as quick as I can; I have enough things on my schedule as-is IC [Hewkii's office, Po-Koro - late morning] The Sentinel's promise didn't take long to come to fruition as Hewkii quickly returned, escorting me into his inner office. Dor had to stay in the lobby, but after what I had just pulled (literally) taking the time to sit and think would be a good idea. As Hewkii closed the door behind him he offered me a seat before taking one himself. "How can I help you?" "Well, first, thank you for seeing me on such short notice." I commented, pulling up a Toa-sized seat to his desk and making myself comfortable in it. "As for the help its more of a favor. I was told you have one of these." With that I pulled out the Charm of Strategy and placed it on his desk. I watched as Hewkii casually picked it up and inspect it with interest. "I've been collecting them across the island, and I'm down to the last few. I was wondering, if the rumor I heard was true, would you be willing to part with yours? Granted you still have it at all that is. If not, could you at least direct me to its location? It's something of a... personal burden of mine." The way I said the last part mirrored the way I had spoken to Hewkii yesterday when we first met, when he asked me why I was here. Clearly I didn't go into any details but in not so many words I had answered his question as to my presence in his Koro. I hoped he would be gracious enough to do either of my requests. Simply put I don't think he is as bad as Stannis gave him credit for.

IC [streets of Po-Koro - late morning] Wow. Just... wow. Where do people like him come from? Or more importantly, why do I seem to have a knack of meeting up with them? Let's see, where to start my issues with this. The fact that he's been dating Tuara of all people for three months (which of course begged the question: what the karz happened to Angelus!?)? The part where he's Agni's little experiment? That he's for what I can gather a hardened criminal? Hardened to the point he was part of the Turaga Hit-man Crew? Or maybe where he had relations with Heuani? The volcano might as well exploded in my face for all I cared as I tried to sort and reason out the thoughts flying through my head. Why me? Why in karzahni would Agni send him of all people my way? That is until I saw his face. The way the slight bit of emotion played on his mask as he tried to explain what happened between him and Vakama. How he stumbled for words when up until this point he had been the most lucrative and smooth talker I had ever met (spare one obvious individual). How he flinched when a certain memory was brought to the forefront of his mind and he had reacting accordingly, trying to subconsciously cover a scar that could only be made by one weapon and one weapon alone. A weapon I currently carried. Having been there (and to be honest STILL there in a few regards) I understood that his scars went significantly deeper than the one by his navel. And this is why he was sent my way. My die-hard commitment to second chances. If there ever was a turnaround story, it was me... not that a lot of people knew it yet, it was slowly coming out. Ever since then I had been something of a fanatic to that ideal, even to the point of bending over backwards to see it through, Utu being the most prominent example of it. Despite my deep resentment towards those that followed the shadows and darkness I also had a soft spot for redemptive qualities - something Agni knew very well. Agni knew me well, period; in many cases arguably more so than Cael. He had been there every step of the way, through every trial, every crowning achievement. He had seen it all and was the only one outside Cael who knew what happened to me in every detail; he knew me better than I probably knew myself. I trusted the Toa explicitly and if the old fart told me to jump off a cliff I would probably do so in a heartlight blink. So if he sent me this paroled Toa to be my... uh, partner for a spell, then I would trust his judgement. Still, I was going to grill the Ta-Toa later and rake him over to coals when I got the chance. Who does he think he is, ordering me around in a roundabout way? I'm not even Guard anymore, gave my badge to Tuara. Granted, she gave it back, but as far as I knew I haven't been re-commissioned yet. He's got nerve, that one. So does Dorian, I admitted to myself. He came out swinging, being bluntly honest... in an attempt to gain my trust. He stuck his neck out there big time just now. A part of me said I could do no less. Without warning I took a step forward, placing a hand on his shoulder and steering him to the closest alley. Once I was sure we were out of both sight and sound I reached out with my other hand, gently touching the scar. "Hey-!" "Chill." was my only remark as he started to scoot away at the odd advance, my fingers gently pressing and tracing the line of the blemish. "My betrothed is a doctor; not that it makes me one, but I've picked up a few things over the last few months observing her. Not to mention being a former athlete I know a thing or two of skin and muscle injuries... " Betrothed. Only now did I think about the choice of word. For all practical purposes we had gone long past that point, but there had been no official ceremony. At least not yet. So on paper that was the case while in practice it was very different. In the end a mere technicality, but he very much got the point from the way he looked at me. Content I finally pulled back and leaned against the stone wall, crossing my arms and staring very intently at the ground. "When I spoke if a Toa I knew intimately well, I was referring to myself. The individual you are referring to, however, could also be described in that fashion. He is in fact very much like me, and from what I can gather, very much like you... who is very much like me as well." I gave a slight, sad smile as he gazed quizzically at me, my veiled and circular logic hinting at something that could not possibly be- That's when I pulled out the crystal flamberge. Not all the way mind you; just halfway out of the scabbard. Far enough that he could see it as the very same weapon he had seen Heuani strut around with for years. The same weapon that gave him that slight disfiguration. A weapon that, even in the shadows of this alleyway, captured and refracted the light into dozens of little sunspots that danced along the walls. The only weapon like it on the entire island. Just as quickly as I brought it out I sheathed it once more, the blade once again completely hidden from view. "Now you know my little secret," I said, barely a whisper, a ghost of a smile playing on my lips, "one of only a handful of people who know the fate of the the most infamous Toa to ever roam the island and his even more infamously-known weapon. And yes, I DID take it off his body by right of combat, and yes that means I beat him in single melee. You're not the only one with fantastic secrets Dor... if I may call you that." By now I was smirking, letting THAT tidbit sink in. Notice how I said body, not corpse; if he was as smart as I was beginning to think he was, he might make the important connection. When I first beat Heuani it wasn't by combat, but by will; I managed to follow the Toa Code to the letter and that's how I defeated him. Physical victory came later. I didn't know if Dor would make THAT connection, but over time he might. If he understood these concepts. Doubtful. "Shall we?" I said, motioning my hands back into the street with a bemused smile while simultaneously winking. Baffling other people made my day, and this was no exception; gotta admit, it was pretty fun if not relieving to let someone in on the grand secret of Heuani's demise. Without looking back I strode back into the busy streets and made a beeline to Hewkii's office, pausing at the guards outside. "If possible, I - er, we - would like an audience with Akiri Hewkii?" OOC: Lloyd... knock knock?

IC [Outskirts of Po-Koro, Mahi range; morning] Before Dorian could answer however, I raised a hand, something coming to the forefront of my mind. "Hold that thought." Swiveling my head I looked back at Goylo, who was rocking contently in his chair, clearly pleased with a "good day's work" that WE accomplished for him. Figures. Still, I had the Charm of Strategy - which begged the question. The question I suddenly remembered. "So since you had this one... who where the others are?" All I got was a lazily-raised eyebrow. To which I sighed. "Please?" "Only because you're as perssssistent as you are annoying," he grumbled, shifting in his seat, "I'll tell ya. But something tells me yer not going to like it." "I'll be the judge of tha-" "Hewkii has it." I stuttered to a stop mid-sentence, my mouth slightly agape. "What?" "That's right, sssonny; Akiri Hewkii is in possession of it... or at least last I checked, which was a few years ago." He furrowed his brow, taking in a long, thoughtful puff. "Kept it in his hut. Didn't care much for it, misplaced it a few times, but was sssmart enough to hold on to it knowing that it was sssomehow important. Whether he still keeps in in his old residence, or still has it at all, you'll need to ask him yerself." With that he clammed up, staring off into space without a care in the world, signalling that this interview was over. Turning around I sulked back to Dorian, taking the time to put my armor back on as I thought. Honestly, I didn't know why I was so glum. I didn't have a thing against Hewkii; in fact, the only Akiri I might have issue with was Jaller, and only because of our past... inability to see eye to eye. Still, last time I checked were were at least on good terms, Toa transformation and all. I didn't have any connections with any of the Koro leaders, and had made a fact over my life to stay out of politics as much as possible. I hadn't made any enemies in that regard, and considering the way Hewkii treated me when I showed up apparently I had more clout than I gave myself credit for, defending the Kini-suva and all. What was holding me back was the personal opinion of Stannis, someone I considered (despite the morning's antics) a friend and someone of respectable wisdom and insight. Still, that was his personal opinion, and until proven otherwise I'd give Hewkii, as I gave everyone, the benefit of the doubt. As far as I was concerned I was on good standing with him and them as a whole, no reason to see them in a negative light until shown otherwise. Maybe if I asked nicely he'd give it to me? Worth a shot. Never hurts to ask. Content with the arrangement of my armor I gestured to Dorian. "Right, slight change of plans; we're gonna drop by Hewkii first and see if he still has that last charm. I would still like an answer to my question on the way if you don't mind though." I began to head back to the Koro, Hewkii and his office my next stop.

IC [Outskirts of Po-Koro, Mahi range; morning] I'm a...consultant for the Guard. Agni sent me; he and Tuara told me a lot about you. Angi. Tuara. Boy did THOSE names bring up a lot of memories. Unfortunately I didn't have the time to fully wrap my head around that statement and the full implications before Dorian continued to talk, even when there was the appropriate pause he continued to steamroll and didn't let me formulate and answer to his series of questions... only to barrage me with helpful insight and sage-like wisdom as he proceeded to give me what was for all practical purposes Kohlii-training 101. Think like a Matoran? Kohlii manuvers? Playbook? Work as a team? I admit I felt a little wounded. Not that I showed it though. This was all basics, something I knew in an intimate sense and didn't need a refresher in. What he didn't know was that the mere presence of a second person changed the game completely. Now everything he was saying could come into effect, whereas before with only one such advice - and more importantly execution - would have been difficult. Let's just say in the midst of his monologue I came up with a plan. The moment he stopped speaking I placed a hand on his shoulder, giving him a neutral if not positive stare. "How we gonna beat these things? Simple: do as you say. Play as a team. And as I have the most experience playing forward, you get the distinct honor of playing goalie. In other words... stay here and look intimidating. Capiche?" I gave him a dazzling smile, patted that defined shoulder of his three times, and then let him eat my dust in a literal sense as my Kakama activated, covering him in a small coating of sand. Really the proper term was devious smile, but I don't think he noticed, pep talk and all... * * * Ok, I admit, I'm not above using people. Hero as I am I'm not perfect, a little flawed to be honest, but he presented such a good opportunity that I just couldn't pass it up. What I couldn't do in an hour his mere presence allowed me to accomplish in ten minutes. See, a goalie in Kohlii had one job and one job only: to defend the small space, the goal, from the ball. In this case the goal was the space behind him, and the ball was each and every Mahi. Which meant he literally was ordered to stand there and guard that one spot. Which also meant in the end... he actually didn't do anything. To his credit, he did follow through, though it took him a few minutes to realize that he had been slightly hoodwinked as I did all the work as he for all intents and purposes sat and watched. During my previous hour I had observed the fact that the Mahi were simultaneously individual and heard creatures; as much as they moved together, they were not above spreading out and moving independently if pushed in a direction they felt was unnecessary. Which meant up until that point every time I managed to get one or two in a certain direction, a few others would happen to go the other way, leading the rest of the heard with them, negating all my previous work. Well, with Dorian standing there, that direction suddenly became undesirable to them, as to them he was another herder. But they couldn't go my way either, because well, they wanted to get as far away from me as possible. And with a fence on a third side there was in the end only one way to go: into the direction of the pen. I was a red streak, only fully materializing to move a particular Mahi, all part of a strategy to get them going in the one direction they needed to go. Pick one up and drop him off there, shove another there... nudges. Helpful hints. Hints that they got swimmingly and after some coaxing were rapidly running into the pen as the momentum I started gained speed. Ten minutes later I placed the last of the stragglers in the pen, latching the gate shut with a satisfying click. In the end it was astoundingly easy... just needed the right strategy, not to mention the right state of mind. With a bemused smile I sauntered over to Dorian, who was by now standing hear the decrepit shack and Goylo, the elder Matoran chuckling wryly. "Clever lad... " was all he said, flipping me the charm as one would toss a coin. I caught it deftly in midair, lifting it up over my head to inspect it, the bright sunlight reflecting off the polished white stone. Placing it in my pocket I crossed my arms, giving Dorian a satisfied smirk. "Thanks for the help Dorian. Now, back to my earlier question: how is it that you came to 'work' with Agni and Tuara as a consultant? And they're here? There is a karz a lot more to you than meets the eye and I would not mind a few explanations as we make our way back into town to meet up with the rest. As much as I appreciate convenient help I also understand it's rarely a coincidence as my past experiences have taught me. You have a unique and alluring charm, are a smooth talker, and from the way you carry yourself, your physique, and your mask you're probably able to perform top-notch in more ways than one... let's just say you remind me of another Toa I know intimately well." I could have carried on, but I left it at that. People - let alone Toa - don't suddenly drop into my life without good reason, this much of destiny I knew well. I may not be Stannis the Prophet, but I understood a significant event when I saw one. And he was a definite significant event. I was trying to piece together just how significant.

IC [Outskirts of Po-Koro, Mahi range; morning] "Having fun there, sport?" My internal, critical-thinking monologue was interrupted by a voice I had never heard before. My head immediately swiveled to the side to see a curious individual. Then again, his appearance wasn't so much as curious as a prompt slap to the face as I realized I could have been this guy; depending on the way the light hit his face, we had the same shade of blue in our eyes. Well, not quite; with my brush with the Element of Light my eyes constantly glowed with outrageous intensity unlike any other being on the island. Still, that aside, it was eerily familiar. Not only that, there was a passing resemblance around our respective jawlines... but his countenance was more roguish and corner-streetlight bad-boy than my features, which, I admit, were more similar of like what would happen if you sprinkled starlight on a slab of pure gold and then sculpted it into a face. Whereas I had opted for sleek and light armor that afforded mobility of movement for almost any situation without sacrificing protection, he was dressed in a dark grey scoop shirt with a v-neck and oxblood leather pants (a look that screamed gotta-make-sure-that-I-don't-dessicate-in-this-desert-wear) - something that allowed him to more readily hide small objects on his person if need be. But it wasn't the ever-so-slight suspicious bulge that got me. He was wearing clothes! I try make it a habit to keep my reactions as reasonable as I can all things considered, but I'll be blunt - I was kind of taken aback deep down. Toa wearing clothes? Unnatural. I mean, it's one thing if you wish to accent your look with say a sash, or a belt, or a scarf, but a full-on set of woven clothes? What were we, organics? Unnecessary and downright absurd if you ask me, but that's my opinion; it was a fad these days apparently, or so I heard in passing. Then again, despite this initial appearance, not only was he just the most oddly-dressed yet astoundingly-defined stud you ever did see, smiling and looking all-pleasant-like, but there was that eery air of familiarity about him as well. A withdrawn sadness. Like I could easily be what he was, and he could have been what I had become - the age difference between us couldn't of been more than two years at most, and honestly I wasn't quite sure who was older it was that hard to tell. Yet there was something instantly alluring about this Toa that I couldn't put my finger on. It was a feeling, one that I couldn't quite sum up with words off the top of my head. But if I tried, really tried, it would probably go something like... Ah, nope. Too many conflicting signals to get a clear reading. Oh well. Somewhere in the back of my head I could hear "destiny" chiming in, but I discounted it as quickly as I thought of it. I watched as he raised his eyebrows and then of all things winked at me, flicking the toothpick he had been chewing on between his teeth upwards, placing one hand on the fencepost. With a simple leap he jumped cleanly over it and took careful steps towards me, helping me stand up with a quick, strong pull and... dusting me off. Mata-Nui, it was like looking at another version of me, albeit perhaps a darker one? Or more perhaps... ... perhaps if I had become a Toa but in all other regards never changed? "You of all people should know, right? Every Kolhii team needs two players!" He reminded me rather cheerfully, grinning innocently as the two of us stared down the Mahi. "Hiya. I'm Dorian." All I could conjure up at the moment was a blank, confused look as I gazed out over the range of obnoxious Rahi. Had he been listening in? Following me? Did he know anything about the Charm? How much connection did he know about this task, Kohlii, and strate- My thoughts came to a sudden and crashing halt as I forced my mind to stop thinking. Really, I needed to take a chill pill and stop looking for shadows; Mata-Nui knows I've faced more than my fare share already in my life. I raised my own eyebrow at him. "Dorian, right. Well, if you're gonna help I'm going to need to know your strengths, skills, powers... if we're going to plan this out properly I'll need to know what I have at my disposal." Not to mention know who this wondertoa who just showed up is, I thought dryly to myself. Still, convenient toa is convenient, and until otherwise noted I'll give him the benefit of the doubt. I mean, it's not like he's some cold, ruthless, heartless mercenary who killed the turaga or something.

IC [Outskirts of Po-Koro, Mahi range; morning] "Like what?" Golyo leaned back in his chair and lit his pipe once again, a twinkle in his eye. "Oh, nothing much. A sssimple request actually. Sssomething that will help an old man and his limited mobility these days." he said, tapping his knee. I took a very quiet breath in patience. "Such as?" "Herd my Mahi for me." "Herd Mahi?" "Ya hard of hearing sssonny? Herd my Mahi, and I'll give you the Charm of Ssstrategy." "So you DO have one!" "Of course!" His retort was as sharp as it was quick. "Didn't I say that in the beginning?" He gave his pipe a crossed puff. "Nooo... " I clenched my fist, desperately trying to keep a straight face. His mannerism were as odd as they were maddening, and it took every ounce of my being to keep it together. "That aside... why Mahi? I mean, why not play a game or something that involved strategy? What in the name of of Rahkshi does herding Mahi have to do with strategy-" "Because it does!" he coughed, giving me the eye, "The Principle we live by in Po-Koro teaches us Strategy; it is why we are so good at Kohlii, and why our sculptures are made so well. It allows Kolhii players such as yourself to think ahead and plot strategies to use against opposing teams. I am of the belief that herding these beasts is an excellent way to practice it - not to mention some of yer best opponents did this for practice themselves! Ya ARE Toa Joske, the most proficient and prolific Kohlii player that ever lived, right?" I just kinda stared at him, my mind trying to wrap around what had just happened. As usual I seemed to be two steps behind the times no matter what I did or how fast I did things. Eventually I managed to snap myself back to the present. "So I herd your Mahi?" "Yup." "Using 'strategy'." "Yup." "Then I get the charm." "Yup." Rounding up dumb rahi? I even had a Kakama for Mata-Nui's sake! I snorted, complete with a handwave. "A cinch." Golyo didn't react, but I could see the smile on his face as he leaned back for another puff. "Whatever ya say, sssonny... whatever ya say." * * * I might as well been trying to grip sand. You know, the more you squeeze, the more it slips through your fingers? These Rahi were slipperier than a Skakdi arms dealer - not that I had the chance to meet one yet, just going off reputation here. But the fact still remains; even with my Kakama I was barely holding my own. For every one Mahi I managed to corral, as least one of not two would slip away, all the while those that were penned were trying every dirty trick in the book to get back with the rest of the her- BAM! I flew forward, yelping in pain for the two-hundredth time, eating sand. As I watched sand pour from my mask as I lifted up my head I could swear their odd bellowing calls sounded exactly like laughter, as if they were taunting me. I rubbed my sore bottom, trying not to flinch. There was also that. The butt-ramming. Every-time they got. I probably wouldn't be able to sit down for a week with what I had accumulated so far. I thought I could hear a chuckle from Goylo in the distance. I sighed, staying knelt in the sand. I'd been at this for nearly an hour already with not much headway. My head still hurt, my bottom now was hurting (and this is saying nothing of my pride), tired, sweaty, and caked from head to toe in dirt and sand and grime to the point where I had taken off my armor to prevent chaffing, every time I chewed my the inside of my mouth crunching from all the grains of sand. Clearly I was doing something wrong. If an slow, old, creaky matoran could do this obviously I could. I was just missing something. To be bluntly simple I was probably using the wrong strategy for this little game of Goylo's. The question was... what?

IC [Outskirts of Po-Koro, Mahi range - morning] The walk took less time than I had hoped. Before me was a large pen, a low stone wall the only indication of its existence it was so large and open, Po-Koro's walls a small distance behind me. Getting out had been extraordinarily easier than getting in - somewhere between my elevated "VIP" status and the scowl on my face as I marched out of town more or less kept everyone at arm's length. In fact, the walk had taken so little time I hadn't fully diffused myself from what had happened a few minutes earlier. It was here in the midst of my disjointed ponderings that I heard a higher-pitched, creaky voice. "What can I do for you, sssssonny?" I craned my head, and to my right there sat an old matoran in a just as old rocking chair, lounging beneath an expired shack that should have been taken down decades ago. I couldn't tell if that chair had been imported from Ga- or Le-Koro, and I couldn't decide which was older: the chair, him, or the shack that looked like what little shade it provided was about to collapse on top of him. Despite the apparent danger however he rocked away in that rickety wooden chair, smoking something out of a obnoxiously long pipe. Despite all this his eyes were exceptionally bright, composed, piercing even. I had a hunch he was a lot more perceptive than appearances let on. "Are you... Golyo?" I asked, giving him the once over. "Who's asking?" came the curt response as he leaned back, taking another puff from his pipe. I maskpalmed, grimacing as I did. Not here, not now, not him too. I wasn't in the mood and I didn't have time for this- It hit me just how similar things were back when I first started this quest and right now, feelings included. "Someone who is looking for these," I said, lifting up a charm I had in my pocket from last night, forcing a pleasant tone, "and I heard you might know where the rest are in this area." It was his turn to size me up, as if he was gauging me for something. His lips played with his pipe for the longest of times before finally speaking, his eyes critical. "First of all, I don't like yer attitude, sonny; even if ya were one of the Maru I wouldn't give ya the time of day if yer weren't polite about it. But seeing as ya already have some of the others... " His high-pitched whistling speech was grating, causing me to cringe ever-so-slightly as he spoke, but he did have point - my attitude wasn't the greatest at this point in time. I just kinda frowned at him as he continued to stare me down, though his eyes had brightened up again. Never a good sign. "Tell ya what... I'll give ya chance to prove yerself, but ya gotta do me a favor first." Suddenly it felt like Le-Koro all over again with that obnoxious disk-throwing Le-Matoran. Except about a hundred degrees hotter. "Like what?"

IC [stannis' residence, Po-Koro - morning] The last thing I remembered was Stannis giving me he maddening blank look, saying, "I stone you". Then everything going black. How long I was out I didn't know. Nor did I care. What was the most pressing thing on my mind was the pain and pressure at the back of my skull pounding at my brain. Needless to say I returned to consciousness with the full welcoming committee dancing in my head, complete with gritted teeth and a mild groan. And my attempt to sit up only met with my rolling off the couch and collapsing to the floor on all fours. That... that was uncalled for. I stared at the polished stone floor, or as much as my eyesight would allow me, feeling as though all my senses were re-booting. You know, the blow didn't even have to be that hard; as long as it was perfectly placed at the back of the skull, right at the soft spot, you could incapacitate someone instantly, not to mention leave them completely out of sorts once they managed to wake up. And it didn't take a genius to figure out he must of used one of those statues... somehow... I couldn't get any farther due to the headache. Ok, I understood escalation. I understand how things can be said or done and not be seen as funny, and I perfectly understood how things can get out of hand. But that was... to go from witty banter and toys to outright violence - I found myself surprisingly angry. As emotional as I got at times anger wasn't on the list anymore, and if it was, directed at me and me alone in a mild sense. I had learned early on that getting angry only made things worse, much worse, and as Ta-Toa that was particularly true. Except in this case I was utterly powerless in every sense of the word and could do literally nothing but lay down and take it. Which didn't help my anger which had found it's way into my cheeks. Even through the headache I was coherent enough to realize that right now the ball was in my court and whatever happened next was up to me, which meant there was only one thing I could do in a situation like this. Walk away. "Vakama was right... never take a Po-Toa for granite." I said that with as much even-leveled voice as I could muster, which was no easy feat. Slowly I got to my feet - well, more like stumbled as I was slowly regaining my equilibrium - I steadied myself against the wall, taking a breath as I felt my body quickly returning to normal, my pain now a dull throbbing. "I'm going to see a matoran named Golyo; got a lead he might know where the charms in this Koro are located. I'll be back... sometime." With that I walked right out the door without another word. I didn't even look at any of them as I left, particularly Stannis. I didn't even take my cloak or even bag, the only thing on me was my armor and the sheathed sword; I was too busy trying to leave and not do anything stupid or that I would later regret to remember some of the more useful items I had initially brought with me. I didn't even have breakfast. I just left and stalked down the street, making a bee-line for the main gate. Once I got there if I remembered the trip in correctly I would take a left and near the entrance would be a range where he herded the Mahi. Just look for the annoying Rahi. Speaking of annoying Rahi, I know one very well. Happens to be a Toa of Stone and thinks it's great to beat people over the head with mini likenesses of himself...

Because, Shark, people last arc ended up abusing the illusion power of the mask. This is one of the few instances where Nuju actually argued ME down ironically enough. There was too much stretching, clarifying, and otherwise headaches with people using it that I was forced to concede the point and due to misuse this mask was taken away from the players. Yes, there were many good players who used it properly, but there were enough that didn't, so now nobody can use it. Let that be a lesson to everyone.

Becauuuuuse... if it's NOT on the approved list, it's on the 'banned' list. I would think it that simple If you were to take this one step further, the list of useable vs banned masks (and powers/abilities for that matter) would be significantly LONGER than the current approved lists. When I originally made that profile post two years ago (and since then Nuju has made some minor edits), it we determined it would be EASIER not only for us but for the players to simply have the "approved" list, because it was shorter and therefore easier to remember. If you don't believe me, go to BS01 and take a stroll through the MASSIVE "Powers" page; granted, there's stuff in there that has no connection to the current game, but if we did it any other way then it would be plausible that a similar or the same power could worm its way into the game. And we don't want that. Trust me, the way the lists are set up its actually significantly easier to use and understand. If it's not on the list, you can't use it. Plain and simple Even a cavemen could do it. Ah yes, those were GREAT commercials back in the day EDIT: yes, IMO illegal masks do matter to matoran, because if they aren't in existence for toa, how could a non-powered version exist? Ok, so maybe they aren't powered, but in this game who knows? When a matoran undergoes a toa transformation their mask gets powered up as well, and suddenly OOPS! this new toa has the Mask of Intangibility. Or soul-eating. Or whathaveyou. So yes, even matoran should stick with the "approved" mask list.

OOC: oh boy... fangirl inbound? Better make myself scarce IC [Po-Koro Bazaar - dawn] A nervous cough brought me out of my meditation. I blinked a few times, feeling the warm sun on my body as the ambient temperature began to rise as the desert warmed up to yet another scorching day. Stretching my back I yawned before looking to my left. As promised, just over a half-hour later stood that matoran carver, a large bag in his hands. "Here ya are, Mr. Toa sir! Your special project... as requested!" With a smile and nod I stood up, pulling out a moneybag. "Here. For your effort. Keep the change." We exchanged sacks, and with delight he could feel the heaviness of the widgets. Now I wasn't particularly wealthy; playing sports wasn't the road to monetary superiority. Fame, yes, but sometimes the pot or purse for a tourney wasn't as large as normal or worth the effort to win. Still, it was enough to live comfortably - most of the time - and thanks to leveraging my fame I didn't have to buy that much, so I was able to set aside most of my winnings in the Koro's themselves, the largest sum here in Po-Koro. I mean, this was the Kohlii capital of the island, so I played here the most... and won here the most as well. In my mind, I was simply putting money back into the economy that I had been siphoning away from for a while now. Thus this little side project wasn't out of budget... "Hey, mind if I ask your name, just in case people ask about the lack of carvings, I can tell them who to blame." I chuckled dryly, slinging the sack over my shoulder. "Before I do that... does this look familiar? Know anyone who might have one?" I showed him one of the charms, and he gave me a thoughtful look. "Can't say that I have... but Golyo might, the old Mahi-herder who lives outside of town. If anyone would know, it's him. So, what's you're name?" I chuckled again, starting my trek back. "Toa Joske; thought I looked familiar, didn't I?" He stood there stunned as I winked then walked away, whistling a small tune as Merror followed closely behind. Had my companion taken a good look at the carver he would have noticed his hands had a golden hue instead of the regular tan... * * * "Goooooooood morning!" My chirpy cheerfulness hit the room like an avalanche, Cael and Stannis turning their heads in unison to observe the pair of Ta-Toa enter the house. They had just started to have breakfast, whatever conversation they had earlier now over with. I watched Cael open her mouth to say something, but suddenly freeze as she got a good look at my face. I had boyhood mischievousness written all over it. And I was staring right at Stannis. With a flourish I set the bag on the table, the sound of muted stone-on-stone reverberating within. "You know Stannis, I was thinking about what you said last night, your lamentations about how revered you are among the matoran, and how cliche the statuettes in your honor are made. So I decided to, this morning, brighten up your day AND your house with these!" In a single, fluid motion I dumped out the contents on the bag, a pile of golden mini-Stannis statues appearing before the Toa of Stone. One by one I began to pick them up, placing them perfectly next to the others on his shelf. "This award goes to Toa Stannis, the 'Most Makuta Killed' Award. Ah, and this one is 'Most Composed Maru' award! And this is the 'Best Troll Mask' award! And this the 'Least Humorous Toa' award! And this one is... " This went on for about five minutes, thinking of the most ridiculous yet descriptive adjectives of him I could come up with until I had done every last statue, which had more than doubled his original amount. After placing the final one on the shelf, now looking rather dangerously unstable, I turned to Stannis, my face beaming. "So... whatcha think?!?"

IC [Po-Koro Bazaar - dawn] I took Merror's silence as an agreement; not that he could of stopped me anyway. As I walked into the Bazaar it struck me how quiet it was; I was used to pressing crowds of people and unbearable shouting of vendors. Then again, I would show up late morning at the earliest, just when the party was getting into full swing; currently few of the population was outside, and only a handful of vendors were beginning to open up their stands. Clearly I was too early... Maybe. I got lucky and a traveling merchant happened to be up earlier than usual. A few minutes later I was walking away with a bag full of desert survival and trekking gear. Cost me a few widgets but hey, I didn't live out here; even with Stannis with us the desert was no picnic and a lot could happen out there. Merror and myself made some small talk as we started the walk back - that is, until something caught my eye. I stopped abruptly, looking quizzically at a carving stand. One of a hundred in the city, but this one had something familiar: mini Stannis statues. A whole shelf of them. It was as though they almost worshiped the guy. Merror poked me in the side as he meandered up, nodding slowly. "They look exactly like the ones he has in the house... " he commented dryly. I didn't hear it; my mind was too busy working. *ding* "I told you I'd get you in the morning... " "What was that?" "Nothing! Here, hold this!" Before he could object, let alone reply, I had shoved the bag into his arms and approached the matoran setting up his daily wares. He looked up at me rather startled, clearly not used to someone showing up this early and this determined. "May I hel-" "You made all of those?" "But of course! All hand-carved, perfect in every detail! I had hoped to capture Toa Maru Stannis in his most stoic pose-" "How much for them?" "Oh, well, each statue costs-" "No no, how much for all of them?" His jaw dropped slightly, mouth agape. "I-er-well-ah let's see-" "Wait, nevermind. I'll take them all. Also, could you do me a favor... " I leaned forward and whispered in his ear, his eyes growing wide. I pulled away, grinning madly. "If you can get that done in a half-hour, I'll pay you double." This time his jaw hit the floor. "Absolutely! Yes sir, right away sir! Uhhh.... be right back!" The Po-Matoran vanished into his stand, only to appear apologetically, grab every single statue off the shelf in one fell swoop, and disappear once again into the darkness, the sounds of an excited, stumbling carver moving within. Spinning around to Merror I grinned a devilish smile. "The prankster prince is about to strike again. All foes beware; my revenge is as cold as it is sweet. I will garner some sort of reaction from Stannis yet, for good or for ill, over my antics - his stoney visage cannot hold out forever. Now if you pardon me, I must complete my daily ritual of meditating as the sun rises... if not to prepare for the upcoming event." Without another word I plopped down on the stand floor, legs crossed as I took in a deep breath, closed my eyes, and let the world fall away from me. I didn't know what would be stranger sight to see: a Ta-Toa holding a bag standing next to an empty stand, or another Ta-To sitting inside of it, in apparent meditation. I didn't care. I did smile a bit though.

IC Even as Grokk went on his egotistical, unabashed, completely self-centered rampage, Tsura remained calm. As he insulted her abilities, she was cool. When he made fun of her name, giving her a new one, she didn't flinch. Even when he turned his acid charm on Nihi and proceed to attempt to goad her into action she was stoic, finally content with the inspection of her fingers. "Now, Sue, what can I do you for?" The Dastue straightened her robe. "Muaka got your tongue? Happens around me all the time." She flicked off a rouge piece of lint. Grokk's toothy smile never faded, but this time he didn't say anything. Tsura finally rewarded him with a level stare. :Nihi, at your leisure: :THANK you Dastue!: With a savage grin Nihi raised an open hand... and with a dramatic motion clenched it with a sneer. One moment Grokk was sitting on a beach chair; the next he was suspended in mid-air as he simultaneously heard a sickening crunching noise and the sensation of moving air beneath him. Heavily he landed in the sand, rear-first, as his gun and toy fell by his sides, only to see his former beach chair hovering above him... compressed into the size of a Kohlii ball. :Saru, you enjoyed sport, didn't you?: The younger Dasaka's eyes fluttered as she breathed in what could only be called "expectant anticipation", her right hand twitching. :Yes Dastue: There was the slight utterance of sound as Saru breathed out, much like a muffled scream, but quieter, followed by what only could be described as bottled lightning that had an energized echo. Around her hand a brilliant blade of pure energy spawned forth, a bright lime-green that cackled and flowed with raw power. As serene and upbeat as she had been, Saru suddenly looked extremely dangerous, if not a tad savage, emotion burning from her eyes - even as she kept that meek smile. With a mighty yell she pulled back her hand and swung, the flat part of the energy blade colliding with the hovering ball with perfect accuracy, sending it high and flying over the beach, the metal and cloth either melting or burning as it became a miniature meteorite than sizzled harmlessly into the ocean, a puff of steam the marker of it's landing. The only reason Grokk looked away from the spectacle was when he heard another set of melting noises, accompanied my a series of pops and groans. His Fusa Flipper had hot, angry energy blade right through it, his prized toy becoming nothing but a pile of metal and assorting liquids on the sand next to him. The blade, in fact, seemed to more replicate liquid energy than anything else, certain points of it melding, collecting, and then falling to the sand below, instantly turning those spots to glass. Despite this, and the fact that the base of the blade was completely wrapped around her hand, there seemed to be no damage whatsoever to her skin. As she pulled back the blade left behind a pool of molten metal surrounded by a pane of glass. To say the silence was deafening would be an understatement as the two warriors took positions on either side of him. Collected as always Tsura took a step towards him, now close to his feet and he lay in the sand. "For the record, this apricot does not take kindly to name-calling... " Pause. "... let alone allowing such foul language to be used on my wonderful children. I mean, who would like to be referred to as 'string-bean' and 'pea-pod'? Oh, wait... I wasn't supposed to say that now, was I?" Saru and Nihi instantly stiffened, their glares doubling in intensity as they stared at the Skakdi at their feet. :Now now Saru, don't growl; your blade is intimidating enough: :Sorry Dastue: Tsura took in a mild breath, inspecting her fingertips yet again. "I also do believe calling our vessel a 'sub-sandwich' was also derogatory, but as I am not familiar enough with your idioms I will let that one slide. That aside, I wish to make a point, make it once, and make it VERY clear. We are an honorable people; you clearly are not, and it is our honor to wipe out those that are not such. We wish to learn more about this culture, and you happen to be at the same place on this beach as we are. As much as we despise and otherwise loath your species, you are currently our only and most convenient source of information. I am asking one: please answer our questions, do so honestly, and we can go our separate ways. I understand getting an honest and straight answer from a Skakdi is like asking your kind to work together peacefully, which is all but impossible, but as I have said you are here, and no one-else, and I am requesting for once you bury this abrasive attitude for just a few minutes. I may know nothing of this island, but I CAN tell when you're not being forthcoming or honest." :So please - PLAY NICE: Those last words weren't spoken; Grokk heard them barrel into his head. It wasn't nice, it wasn't pretty, and for the most part it was forced, but it was clear that this small being was already inside his head and could at the very least communicate to him without speaking. She smiled at him good-naturedly. "So," she began , clasping her hands before her, "what can you tell us of this island? People, places, politics, plants, animals, customs... almost anything will do at this point."

Yup yup. When I was thinking up their little world I needed both names and inspiration, and a lot of Emzee's old work fit the bill quite nicely (his old arcs, just saying, were spectacular). Plus, he was more than willing to lend me the name rights and trademarks for this little project! Thanks man! Disclaimer: Any correlation to his old work, including concepts, is simply a matter of chance and not purposeful. I borrowed names and themes, none of the storyline and ideas

IC "I hate Skakdi." Nihi muttered as they walked away. "I'm not saying I disagree with you Sister, but he was at least polite... if not full of himself. As most of his race are. Not to mention we did learn of their strange, if not quaint, greeting ritual!" The stare the second female Dasaka got was one of completely incredulous. "Saru, you have to be the most ditzy and trusting Soulsword in the entire clan! No wonder the other Menti call you a freaking 'hoko' half the time, you twit. That wasn't a ceremonial greeting." "Oh... ?" "Problems?" The two found themselves standing before a third Dasaka, who was carefully staking a series of crates next to their emerald submersible, hands moving gracefully as the crystalline squares gently floated into position. Completed, she turned and clasped her hands behind her, the eyes that accompanied the body those of a superior looking critically at her underlings. Saru and Nihi stood promptly at attention, bowing afterwords slightly in respect. "No Ma'am,Toroshu Nurora ma'am!" came the immediate and unified reply as they resumed their rigid stance. Nurora narrowed her eyes and snorted. "That may be true Nihi, but your Sister has a gift for diplomacy and respect, as is a trait with many Soulsword Menti - and to that end she prevented you from turning that Skakdi into goo. Not to say his scumbag of a species deserves it, but considering that we are here on a expeditionary mission directly from the Roho herself I don't think killing locals is the best way to get the job done. I believe you should give your younger partner some slack." :As she should: The thought broke across the mental plane, interrupting the conversation. All three turned at once, and a few moments later Dastue Tsura came hobbling around the front of the submersible, her two Dashi shadows ever-present following behind. When she finally made it to the trio she gave a long breath, the trek across the uneven beach more than her small frame was used to. "Indeed, Nihi, as naive as she may be we are ALL strangers to this land and have little knowledge of their customs or nuances. As disrespectful as that skakdi may have been Saru was in the right in attempting diplomacy with him; as far as we know, he has lived his entire life here and not one of the fugitives. Perhaps that leaves us a little more vulnerable, but that is the Menti way: we are warriors, and we are honorable. You showed neither." One of those crates might as well cleaned her clock - at least, that's the look Nihi gave after Tsura's verbal reprimand. Not more than two heatlight blinks later was she on her knees in the sands, arms outstretched before the Dastue, trembling slightly as her voice shook in sorrow and apprehension. "Forgive me, Mother," she said, voice terribly low, "I... I have broken the Virtues. My actions lacked honor, made me abuse my power as a Menti, and therefore disrupted the order set by Zuto-Nui. I accept whatever punishment you deem fit for my hubris." :Oh, just relax a little, would you child?: Nihi's face shot upwards towards a smiling face as Tsura shook her head. "Oh Nihi, dear Nihi, you always were always by-the-book... for good or ill. As much as you are correct, my original point still stands: we are on foreign soil - and therefore there will be need to bend a few rules if only to make sense of this new land. Besides, if I don't say anything... who will?" The tiny woman shot a glance upwards to Nurora, who seemed to stand a little straighter. Satisfied she returned her old, kind gaze to the young warrior at her feet. "Do such a thing back home and I will happily see you carted off personally to Rayuke himself; here, however, I choose to be a little more lenient. As long as the lesson is learned, as is my greatest duty as a Dastue, then all is well. Are we clear?" Nihi slowly stood, and with great respect and relief bowed deeply to Tsura. Nihi jumped slightly as the touch of a hand on the shoulder, Saru's smiling face at the end of that arm. "Thank you for protecting me from him Sister; that was very honorable of you." They both shared a smile as Tsura clapped her hands. "See? Sisterly love remains, the lesson has been learned, and we are all the better off for it. All is right with the world. Now!" She turned dramatically to Nurora. "If you don't mind, Toroshu, I wish to speak with this Skakdi myself... I feel as though there is much we can learn from him, if we can break past his ego. Nurora opened her mouth to object, but was silenced with a hand wave. "I will have none of that! My Dashi shadows follow me where-ever I go, and I will take both Saru and Nihi with me; I will be perfectly safe. The only way I won't go is if you have a good argument as to how you will be short-handed if they leave. Nurora took in a deep breath, knowing quite well this was a hopeless cause. "No, Dastue, I can spare them. Should anything go ary, however, I will have my women there in an instant... and I will blame you." "Very good; I shall be off." With a flurry of a diva she began the trek across the beach, her entourage in tow. By the time they reached Grokk he was finally set back up again, preparing to lounge in the sun once more. Tsura cleared her throat, garnering his attention. "A word with you, Grokk." Even as she spoke his name she was inspecting her fingertips.

Well congrats guys, Nuju convinced me to do a preview for you. I was planning on doing the big reveal later... and I still am. However, this is too good of an opportunity to pass up, I'll be RPing the Dasaka with Grokk for a bit. Hope you guys enjoy this as I will writing it Enjoy the upcoming preview.

IC [Po-Koro Kohlii field - dawn] He's right. Apparently I'll continue to get hit over the head with this by other people until it sinks in. I turned away back to the field, my thoughts still filled with Cael and what she represented. Slowly I rubbed my mask with my hands, drawing in a long deep breath. As much as I may have lost I gained something so precious few on the island could claim to experience, let alone have themselves. "And you're right. By gosh you're right Merror. It's just that... " I straightened up slightly, a cynical laugh escaping my lips, "that I seem to be having some self-esteem issues right now. Yes, me, the unflappable Toa Joske, along with everything that goes with it, is feeling inadequate and less of a person due to a minor defect. When you're used to being so perfect all the time, or at least you think and feel you are... yeah." I shook my head. This was just like the time right after the Temple of Courage where I had to swallow my pride and watch as my carefully-constructed worldview came crashing down around me... also at the beginning of an adventure. The events surrounding that moment were completely different than now, let alone the people and devices involved, but at the same time the parallels were shocking. It would seem as though I was destined to repeat the lesson if I was to start adventuring again - apparently the universe at large could not handle an emo and despaired me running around the island. Ok, I was being facetious. Still, that brought a smile to my face. "It would appear I am destined to have some sort of wise, old mentor every time I find myself on an adventure, if only to beat simple and repeatable lessons into my thick skull when appropriate. You'll fill Angi's spot nicely; welcome to the club." The first specks of light were coming over the horizon, even as the sky was still dark and the stars clinging on to their position. I turned to face the Koro, the first signs of life reverberating across the sands. I gave him a sidelong look. "Not to say that I'm better; this is something I need to deal with myself. But I appreciate you letting me vent, if not offering some kind words in the process. It would appear this temple is of greater importance to me than even I first imagined." I furrowed my brow. I knew there was nothing in there, but that's not why I came in the first place. Perhaps though there WAS something locked away, hidden within, but not tangible; something a little more emotional. Or more precisely, freeing. We'll see. "Say, care to join me? Figure I might as well hit up the shops just as they open, beat the crowds. Not that we'll need much but I can think of a few supplies we'll require while out there." I started walking towards the famous Bazaar, leaving the Kohlii field - and in a way, a part of my past - behind me.

IC [Po-Koro Kohlii field - pre-dawn] Stalker. I didn't look at him as he approached, striding up silently next to me yet giving me my space. In return neither did he look at me as he assumed a similar position on the rail, simply content to stare out over the open field, seeing what the dark visage had to offer. We both did so for a while, not a word or look exchanged between us, I lost in my thoughts, and Merror giving me my space... or at least I thought he was. To be honest I didn't know the guy well enough to make a judgment call, let alone a facial read. My curiosity got the best of me and I turned slightly, if not just to size him up for the first time. He was a little taller than me, slightly over average height for a Toa. He was toned and athletic in physique, possessing both strength and agility, a build much like mine. His armor's base color is mid-to-dark red, with a little black; his shoulder-plates, greaves, upper breastplate and other highlights were in silver - frankly a composition that reminded me of Angi quite heavily. The armor was comprehensive but not overly bulky, built for a combination of durability and flexibility.
 His mask was oddly-shaped for a Calix; more organic and rounded than the traditional chiseled look, but it somehow came out handsome and noble at the same time, with a strong jaw to boot. Probably the most interesting feature though were his eyes; a distinct light lime-green, ranging somewhere between gentle, piercing, and blazing. I'd never seen a Ta-Toa with green eyes before. Then again I was the only Toa with these lightstone-bright blue ones as well, so who was I to talk? As I turned away he chose that moment to speak. "Did you watch many dawns in the Massif?" I heard him ask, his voice quiet but carrying well across the still morning air. Interesting way to start the conversation, but a tactical one to say the least. The one thing I noticed about the guy already was that he was extremely curious about me, but he was too polite to come out and press the issue. Whether that was out of respect, modesty, or something else entirely I wasn't sure; as much as he seemed to want to know he was also content in giving me my space. That one question was basic as it was cryptic, a simple way to start a conversation as it was a hint of something more. I found myself sighing, wondering just how long I was going to keep him out of the loop. From what I had heard in passing is that he is a very moral, honorable, and compassionate individual with many heroic qualities. Selfless, kind - and even in his formidable righteous anger, he is merciful to his enemies. From his speech at Turaga Matau's funeral it was also shown that he was an inspirational speaker and a natural leader, and is never afraid to confront those who go against his code of morality. One of those people who has been around for a long time, seen a lot of things, with wisdom and experience to round it all off. That said, this is what I had gathered before going into seclusion, so I had no idea how accurate these reports were, if at all. The one thing I could say was that so far he reminded me of Angi greatly, and in more ways than one. Was that a good or bad thing? Verdict... Undecided. "Yes and no." I finally responded, pressing my hands against the rail, still looking out over the Kohlii field. "Almost every day I was there I was up before dawn, and spent the sunrise outside in meditation. The very core of meditation however is the shutting out of most exterior stimuli in order to focus and calm oneself, so I actually visually witnessed very few. The way the rising sun would warm my skin in slow increments however was more than enough to paint a wonderful mental image." I paused, leaning back while still gripping the rail, giving a half-smile to no-one in particular. It was clear now that he was here to listen, to hear me talk if I felt so inclined. We were alone, fairly secluded, and for all practical purposes in a rather safe environment; I couldn't ask for more. My gut told me he was trustworthy, but why was I so clammed up? I opened every temple (save one), faced more than my fair share of Makuta's top servants, stared down the very face of darkness, saved the love of my life, and here I was still standing tall. I had faced my fears and conquered them all. Why was I so reluctant to talk? What was I afraid of? I beat the rail once with my fist in a fit of frustration. "It's so stupid! I don't regret it, not one decision, not one moment. If the exact same thing happened all over again, this time with the knowledge of what would happen to us, I would still make the same decision, consequences and all. Yet somewhere between trying to be strong for Cael, attempting finding out what my true destiny REALLY is, and coping with the fact that I'm a freaking powerless Toa I feel like I missed the caravan somewhere. That somewhere along the line I made a mistake and that I'm somehow less of a person for being incomplete. That I'm somehow... defective." I rubbed the bridge of my mask, my outburst surprising even myself. No matter how long you work at it or train the famed Ta- anger and raw emotion was a tough Rahi to tame. "Yes, Cael completes me. She's my other half, utterly better half to be honest, but even she can't completely fill the void left of not having Elemental or Toa powers. That was the price for bringing her back. I did it, paid in full, no regrets. Yet here I am unable to fully bring myself to being at peace with myself. How can I call myself a Toa when I lack the very physical qualities that define being a Toa?" I leaned back heavily on the rail, my chest hanging over it pretty far as stared blankly over the field I used to own, speaking in hushed tones. "Do you have any idea what it's like to have the power of a god, a Great Spirit... then have it and more stripped from you? Knowing that despite the fact you're still a young and growing individual you've already reached the summit and been kicked off, absolutely certain you'll never get there again no matter what you do? Angi and Angelus got wishes, the Maru got superpowers and legendary masks, even Cael got her life back. Me? I got cosmically shafted. Karzahni, I thought I worked through this... " Funny. Back when I could create flame when I got mad I was a danger to those around me, but at the same time provided a release valve on my anger. I could literally burn the emotion away if I had to, and I had gotten good at it. Now I didn't have that out, nothing to help me cope with these extremely-deep buried feelings. Spirit, I thought I past this! Why I spent the last three months of my life in self-seclusion - to get past this. I guess it rooted itself deeper than I had gave it credit for. Or maybe it was simply now I was lacking something, something that in my self-removal from society I could not fully gain, and thus make it impossible to fully deal with these feelings of inadequa- It was like getting hit over the head with a brick as the thought hit me. Was it that simple? That without purpose and powers I felt like less of a being? That I was somehow... defective? Inadequate? Coming from the guy who beat Heuani? Wow. Just... wow. I wondered just how pathetic I sounded in front of Merror.

IC [Po-Koro - pre-dawn] My eyes shot open, fully awake, a slight breath accompanying that slight motion. Something... was wrong. Why else would I suddenly wake up? Half-closing my eyes I gingerly reached an arm over to where Cael was sleepi- She's gone! Instantly I sat up in a mild panic - the last time she had disappeared on me the consequences had been deadly. Even as my senses when into overdrive, throwing out an invisible net to gather proximity information, I could faintly hear voices in the distance. After focusing on them for a few seconds it was a male and female voice, below and outside. I breathed out. Stannis and Cael. On the patio below this bedroom. Too faint to make out any words, but the pitches were distinct. I sighed. It must have been another one of her nightmares. My eyes rolled into the back of my sockets as I felt my body collapse back onto the bed, the aftermath of a sudden surge of adrenaline causing me to feel a little shakey, arms flopping to my sides. I could feel the space next to me was still warm; she must of left recently. I rolled over, my hand slowly rubbing the place where she had been sleeping next to me, her slight fragrance greeting me in the pre-morning air. It had been a while since she had one... some part of me foolishly thought they were finally gone. Still, I was surprised I didn't wake up; usually when she jolts awake she takes me with her. Not that I necessarily minded - coming out of a nightmare is possibly one of the more terrifying experiences and when she fell into my arms, sometimes sobbing, there was no way I could be angry with her waking me up for the third night in a row. It was something one gets used to, probably one of the many reasons I started going to bed earlier; the anticipation of being woken up. And there would be times she would be so shaken by her experience that the only thing I could do was hold her tight and rock her, cooing whatever I could think of at the time into her ear. Whatever it was that Heuani did to her was enough to cause some serious damage to her subconscious. Thankfully we haven't had one of those episodes in over a month now. She had nightmares; I easily fell into depression. Welcome to the new world order. I sat up for the second time, now far too awake to go back to sleep. Maybe a bit early, and even though I was no longer in the Massif there was no reason to stop my usual routine... or at least modify it to fit my current situation. It only took a moment for me to grab my sword and my cloak and slide down the ladder, silently tip-toeing past a slumbering Merror. If Stannins and Cael were on the patio, I would slip out the other entrance; no reason to disturb their conversation. Even as I stepped outside I was thankful I was coherent enough to grab the garment; the desert was a place of extremes. As hot as it was during the day, it could be almost as cold at night. Granted, not freezing, but I never did well in cold, and now without my powers that vulnerability was even more exposed. I pulled it tighter around my neck as I went on a pre-morning stroll, meeting no-one spare the occasional night patrol. Gruff but polite they were more than willing to let me go on my way after I declared any weapons, which I did, but thankfully I never needed to pull it out. As much as I loathed to carry it sometimes the crystal blade was my only defense I had, besides my speed. One day the island would know I carried it... I just hoped it would be on my terms. Same thing for my lack of powers. Adjusting, but still sucked. Sometimes I wondered. I found myself standing before the Po-Koro Kohlii field, staring over the flat ring that had housed so many games over the centuries. Old memories began trickling in, ones of me still a matoran, playing on this very field, schooling the Po-Matoran at their own game. I smiled fondly, remembering those good, simple times. I turned to the large slab of stone next to me, my fingers gently riding over the chiseled names, my eyes carefully reading every name. On this slab were engraved the winner of every major game played here, and while my name did not appear first until two-thirds of the way through, after that point it dominated the list, to the point where my name was the most-inscribed name on it. I shook my head, remembering how much time I had devoted to the sport. I closed my eyes, a part of me longing to play again. The thrill of anticipation, the roar of the crowd, the heat of the lights... I suddenly realized my heartlight was blinking faster as my breaths had become shallow. I forced myself to pull away. I wouldn't have any of that drug. I walked a few paces before leaning heavily on the rail, my cloak gently coming around and hugging my body. It was really easy for me to lose myself in those memories, wishing and willing myself back to a time where I felt comfortable, safe. But things would never be the same, decision I purposefully made that can never be undone. I knew what I was doing when I gave up my fire and Toa energy to save Cael. I still didn't regret it. But it didn't make the reality and consequences any less painful to bear. It was so tempting to go back to those days to help fight off the depression, but in the end I knew that would only make matters worse. Really the root of the problem was my lack of direction. I didn't know where I was going. I had "fulfilled" my destiny, only to find out there was another part to this, a whole 'nother section to this story that had been hidden - and frankly still was. If this was a fairytale I would have died to save her, or we would have died in each others arms, going to the afterlife together. Instead here were are, living our day-to-day drudgery like nothing ever happened. And it wasn't the fact that I disliked having another or greater destiny- It was the fact that I had no freaking clue to what it was. This is what was slowly eating me from the inside out. Not knowing. Directionless. Without a goal. There I go again, using yet ANOTHER sports idiom... I sighed and hung my head. At least this place was quiet before dawn. Rather serene actually. And the stars were spectacularly bright out here too. No Ga-Wahi humidity, no Ta-Wahi heat and sparks. Minus the apparent social problems out here, this place wasn't that bad. I guess. Though now I had the "unique" opportunity to see a Koro come to life, or at least those got an early start to their day. I gave a half smile to the fading stars.

When this happens, let me know. I DID ask at one point for information regarding Pala-Koro and other locales such as the Lavapool Inn to add to the list of places to visit, but so far there haven't been any takers. When that Koro is re-established shoot me a pm with the locale details so I can add it, so that people like me can actually understand how it looks should I ever go and RP there

Topic Closed

OOC: IC [House of Toa Noran/Toa Stannis, Po-Koro - evening] My eyes were wide in surprise even as a sadistic grin spread across my face, the back of my hand raised in a warning. I snorted a sneer as I gave Stannis the eyeball, feeling ever-so-slighted. "Ten on the presentation and deadpan, two on the tact you heartless slab of granite. Low blow, low blow. I'll call us even due to my earlier lack of tact - to which I WILL plead ignorance in regards to your predicament, mind you - but the next slander shall receive my full wrath. I hope you find rocks in your pillow and boulders in your dreams. Come love, we need not stand for this nonsense! To our quarters!" Even as I grinned madly I turned in a snobbish huff, giving Cael an over-emphasized hand motion up the ladder as I grabbed our small assortment of bags, though it all managing a wink to Merror. If there was one thing I could do was play the dramatic, over-ego'd sports star, with a dash of diva thrown in; after all, it had been second nature to me for the longest time. Besides, from what little I knew of Stannis he was the very stoic, reserved type, so for him to banter and engage with me here only meant good things. I stifled a yawn. I'll get him in the morning... I sighed slightly. "Thanks again for the hospitality, Brother. I'm sure we'll have plenty of time tomorrow and such to discuss serious matters, but for now... oh never mind. Night." With that Cael and myself clamored up the ladder, preparing to make it our temporary home for the next few days.

IC [House of Toa Noran/Toa Stannis, Po-Koro - afternoon] "And this is why, lady and gentlemen, I for the longest of time devoted my life to whacking a stone ball with a wooden stick." My re-emergence into the conversation was as sudden as it was forceful as I stood, raising my glass of cactus juice high in a mock toast as a gave a pseudo-respectful nod to each member of the table, my face exasperatingly blank. "I hate politics." With a deep breath I forced my head back and swallowed all the contents of the cup in one gulp, slamming it down on the table decidedly. I gave a forced smile before turning to Stannis. "Not to cut this delightful discussion short, but I can already see that this will be a continuing topic as long as we're here, and probably a bit heated as well if the right conversationalists turn up. As much as I would like to know and in fact need to know this, we did just spend a full and frustrating day traveling, not to mention the culture shock of this place after spending so long in seclusion. If history repeats itself it will be even a longer day tomorrow as we try to locate and obtain the charms... and I have no doubt acquiring them will be made even more difficult with the current atmosphere in the Koro, though the fame we together can levy might help in that regard. In any case I am rather tired, and if I'm not mistaken-" I turned and, lo and behold, the sun as indeed setting in the distance. "-it's almost my bedtime. Stannis, would your loaned quarters have enough rooms and bedding for the three of us? Granted, two of us share quarters now, but I'd hate to over-impose." Alright, yes, I was being far more polite and upper-class than I needed to be, but politics was a subject I ALWAYS steered clear from. I didn't mind it in small doses, and I'm sure I could handle more of this in the morning, but I was beat. I just hoped my dry sense of humor wasn't too grating on Stannis. Apparently I had already missed with him with one already today.