Janus

I made straight out Hunger Games references and my FRIEND who KNOWS that I love Hunger Games doesn't pick up on them? Disappoint. (I still love you, Mandrew)

Becca and I have come to the conclusion that Animal Crossing: City Folk takes place within the Capitol. Also that President Snow only became President because he wanted to be the mayor in Animal Crossing SO BADLY.

Chapter Seventeen: The PlanThe chamber looked completely different: While still almost identical as we had left it, something had changed. Not only the emotions and thoughts of those inhabiting it, but something else.Then I noticed that while the crystal pillar was silent, the walls all around the chamber were broadcasting various images of our enemy. images taken from my mind that demonstrated the cruelty of our foe. On one wall I saw the devastation that had been wrought on my home island, the towering grave I had erected for my city standing tall amidst its ruins. On another I saw the hovering black shape looming above the silent streets of Koto-Nui--and on yet another I saw the cloven tower of Gaho-Nui jutting forth from the darkened waves. The chamber was now a war room, preparing soldiers for combat.All around the room the various Toa of Kura-Nui gazed at a different display; surrounding them were Matoran from the Night Stalkers, and some that seemed to be from a different militia unit. The room was filled with a brisk energy and a frantic tension: Each image being viewed by small groups that seemed to be strategizing on the best ways to defeat this enemy.Toa Neith walked us over to where Toa Iruini stood briefing a group of Night Stalkers, his dark green Kualsi grim."As you can see, it uses heat as a weapon." He stated, pointing at the image of the ruined streets of Tapa-Nui. "This cannot be used here--if it is then not only will each of us perish, but the entirety of our stored knowledge will be destroyed. That is unacceptable." Upon seeing us, Iruini ceased his lecture and stood at ease."Toa Iruini, please take Bomonga and Pouks to the surface and brief them." Neith stated, her tone cold, formal, and military. Iruini nodded sharply, and, glancing from Pouks to Bomonga, set off at a brisk pace. Making sure that each of them followed him."Night Stalkers, you already know Toa Norik." Neith began, waving me toward the image with one arm. "He has had the most experience with the black ship, so I'd like you to work with him on identifying possible weaknesses. Go over every image if you have to." The Night stalkers nodded as a single unit, their Ruru's focused on Toa Neith. Then it was time to go to work--different images of the black ship began to appear on the wall, its surface luminescent. As each appeared the stalkers and I studied each carefully, looking for anything that could be used against it--the angles it held, the way it appeared and disapeared, even possible weak points along the hull. We found nothing until the final image from Ava-Nui."You said that it didn't use its primary weapon at Ava-Nui?" A matoran named Khalsa said, her intelligent eyes twinkling."Correct." I responded, still trying to figure out why it had happened."Is it possible that the ship is weak to elemental powers, and so when you defeated its army, those on board were frightened that you could attack them directly?" I paused, my mind focused on the events of Ava-Nui--while my memory was slightly hazy, I remembered the ship fleeing as quickly as possible--what Khalsa said made sense."That is a distinct possibility. Put that into our defensive plans." The stalkers nodded and began drawing up detailed defensive plans under my supervision. As they worked Toa Adena came over to where we stood, sidling up to my side and asking"How goes your process, brother?" quietly."Quite well, sister." I responded. "We will be positioning Toa atop the tallest towers in the city: Not only is it unlikely they'll be attacked by those creatures here, but it will also give them a far higher chance of striking the ship directly." I said, detailing the portion of our plan that we had just worked out. Toa Adena nodded, a small smile playing in her eyes."An excellent strategy, brother." she murmured."And what of you?" I inquired, one arm gesturing to where more matoran and Night stalkers stood by another image of the spined creatures."We have determined that the creatures have heavy outer armor and that only a direct elemental strike will do anything to them. As such the Matoran will be using special made Kanoka and firing from the towers--with luck this will puncture their armor and make them easier to defeat." I nodded in return, my mind already seeing those creatures with rents in their armor falling before the Toa's elemental blasts."Then we'll need two separate teams of Toa." I stated slowly. "One for the towers, and the other to hold off the creatures.""That's correct, Norik." came the voice of Toa Neith from behind me. Pivoting on my heel I found her standing next to the still image of the black ship over Ava-Nui, her body language indicating she'd just been studying it."You, I, Toa Iruini, Toa Adena, and Toa Pouks will be positioned on the towers. It's our job to scuttle that ship. Toa Gaaki, Toa Bomonga, Toa Entres, Toa Dameya, and Toa Seres will be dealing with those creatures." I glanced at her skeptically, noting that there were two Toa of earth and two Toa of water on the ground. As if reading my thoughts she responded."The powers of earth and water will be far more useful in dealing with a landborne enemy. They can flood them, or crush them in an earthquake--but there's very little good they can do for attacking a target such as the ship." I pondered what she said, then, realizing that she was correct, agreed to her plan."Adena, Norik." Toa Neith said, gesturing to the two of us. "Now that we have the beginnings of a plan, it's time to put something practical into place. Iruini has already taken Toa Pouks to begin looking at towers--now I suggest that we three go do the same." Toa Adena said nothing, smoothly falling into step behind her leader. I joined her, walking quickly in order to keep pace as we left the room.When we exited the grand foyer of the central tower, I saw that the sun was now about midway through its ascent, its warm glow filling the cities cool streets. Putting a hand atop my mask to block out its glare I glanced around at the glittering towers all around me. Each stretched to a different height, and as I had been told, each had its own unique purpose. I felt the fire burn deep within me as I saw the beauty of this city--I would not let this city be ruined as so many others had!Toa Neith took us from the center of town to somewhere just west of there, leading us to a thinner spire that wound its way high above the city. We entered the tower, mindful of all the busy scholars who were busting around, and took the lift to the very top--it was an uncomfortable ride: The lifts were made for Matoran, and squeezing three Toa in was, while possible, very cramped and awkward.At last the small lift hummed to a stop and we three walked out from the small antechamber and onto the slightly angled roof of the tower. Below us I could see the city stretched out, twinkling as though it were made of precious gemstones. Beside me, Toa Neith just nodded."This will do." She murmured, glancing around at the tower. "We'll position Two here. Two there." she pointed directly across from this tower at another one of similar height of build. "And I'll take position on the central tower. We'll create a triangle position to take this foe down." she explained, drawing the shape of a triangle, then indicating each tower in turn.As she spoke, I watched the two towers, running mental calculations in my head about exactly how this would work--not only did this have to be well planned, but it needed to be smoothly executed. The risk was simply too high to allow for anything else. Across the way I saw movement, and with a quick snap of my head I saw two figures walk on to the tower directly across from ours: Toa Pouks and Toa Iruini.Iruini raised his his spear high in the air in a wave and then vanished...and reappeared directly in front of us, one hand still on Toa Pouks shoulder. "Position checked." Iruini said swiftly, his hand and spear snapping to his side as he addressed Toa Neith. Neith smiled at him in return, her cool blue eyes glowing."Excellent work, Iruini." Iruini simply nodded, holstering his spear to his side. Toa Neith turned to me."Iruini will be a crucial part of this plan, Toa Norik." she said solemnly. "His Kualsi--the mask of quick travel allows him to transport himself and one other to any location visible." Suddenly I understood the plan, and everything clicked into place like a solid blow. We weren't just going to defend against the black ship, we were going to attack it directly! Neith saw the dawning of realization on my face and confirmed my suspicions."That's correct." She said with a grim smile. "Toa Iruini will use his Kualsi to transport both you and himself to the black ship--we don't know whether it will be inside, or on the hull...but once you're in there..." she smiled a grim smile "Make them regret everything they've done."==============================================================================Review Topic. For Reviews. And hatemail.

KOHAKU. WHAT ARE YOU NOT DOING IN THE CORPSES?

The Promise was awesome. That scene where Katara finally explains what she meant when she said she saw the people in the colony? Heartwarming. Also the resolution between Aang and Roku? HOLY WOW. Not to mention that awesome hook for The Journey. I want it now. The only thing I want more is Korra season 2. -Janus

Chapter Sixteen: The DreamI watched as Bomonga and Pouks both stood awkwardly, and I realized I was doing the same. We were used to being warriors, to fighting to protect the Matoran--and what we were now facing was beyond our imagining. It had stretched us to our limit, forced us to adjust to a life harder than we had ever envisioned, and it was due to this that we now stood still as statues. Knowing in our heart of hearts that the best possible thing for us was to sleep, and yet resisting it out of some misguided sense of duty.At last I decided that my brothers and I had come through far too much to allow ourselves to deny our respite. I lay down my shield and removed Toa Jurian's gauntlets, laying them both respectfully on the floor next to me. Then I allowed myself to lay on one of the many beds across the room from Toa Gaaki. From here I watched my brothers as they stood awkwardly. Finally, seeing my example they too allowed themselves a rest, each lowering their weapons with reverence and clambering onto a bed. I watched them carefully to make sure that they didn't attempt to get up, to make sure that they truly gave themselves the rest that they deserved. Then, when I was satisfied that they were truly sleeping and not about to try and deny their rest, I allowed myself to fall back and drift into a true sleep.My dreams were many, and chaotic--but less so than they had when I had traveled with Wanderer. No longer did I dream of the razing of my city, or of myself being the one who cruelly struck down my brothers. Instead I dreamed of the twilight world of Kura-Nui, and the strange dichotomy of the Matoran/Toa Neith. I knew that she was truly a Toa who simply masqueraded in the guise of a Matoran, but somehow that was not so in my dreams, she was both and she was neither.In my dreams I saw her standing atop the tallest knowledge tower in Kura-Nui, her cool blue eyes gentle and inviting. She had no weapon here, and simply stood as though waiting for something. I moved toward her, to ask for what she waited--and then the terrible shadow of the black ship fell atop both of us and the city was assaulted by the creatures I had encountered too many times before. Both my brothers and Neith's sisters appeared, valiantly attacking the invading forces, but none of us were able to stem the flow of the accursed things. Each of them fell one by one until it was just Neith and I alone and surrounded by the skull-faced creatures. they hissed cruelly and moved forward, then a blinding flash of light came towards me and I froze."Norik!" Neith screamed, and with a speed I couldn't believe leapt in front of me, taking the blow on herself. "Neith!" I gasped, grabbing her body as she fell. Then the world began to fade to grey, and I awoke to find myself holding tightly to Toa Neith's wrist."I gather you're awake then?" she said sardonically. I averted my eyes and said nothing, climbing from the bed and gathering my weapons. Unfortunately for my pride, Neith wasn't quite as passive as I'd hoped and instead decided to nudge me further."Why Toa Norik," she wheedled, drawing closer to me. "Where did this enthusiasm come from?" I looked anywhere but her eyes, snapping my shield to the holster across my back and moving to awaken both Toa Pouks and Toa Bomonga. Neith's persistence increased."Come now, Norik." She said, her voice smooth. "You must tell me why you had such a reaction. From one Toa to another?" I sighed and roused Bomonga from his slumber, doing my best to ignore Neith's words.Bomonga groggily rubbed his eyes and rolled off the small tablet, his eyes shining weakly. With that done I set to waking Toa Pouks, who seemingly resisted my every attempt, simply turning and writhing away every time I went to lay a hand on his shoulder. Amusingly enough it was Toa Neith who assisted me here. Raising her palm, she nodded to me. Then, with one swift movement she created a long path of ice that stretched from her open hand to rest above Toa Pouks still body. I used but a fraction of my power and watched as the ice began to melt, great rivulets of water running off it and on to the prone Pouk's face. He awoke with a splutter."Norik?" He mumbled blearily, his shoulders slumped with the weight of sleep.I paused by Toa Gaaki's bed, my mind still undecided as to whether to wake her. While she would need to be briefed, perhaps it would be best for her to stay resting for now--after all, she had worked far more thoroughly here than any of my companions. Toa Neith seemed to read my thoughts and came over to where I stood, placing one cool hand on my shoulder."Let her sleep for now, Norik. She's done enough." she said, her tone gentle and her touch soft. I turned my head to glance at her and nodded in agreement."Let's get going." I murmured, watching as Bomonga and Pouks grabbed their respective weapons and attached them. Then we once again set through the archway, our small group entering a room with a completely different atmosphere.============================================================================== I love Toa Neith. If you also love Toa Neith let me know by reviewing.

I TRUSTED YOU. YOU WERE THE CHOSEN ONE!

... is that he leaves himself logged in to his computer at all times, so I pretty much have free access to his account. ♥ you, Rob! - HH (honestly aside from this, all I really do with his account is fix his spelling and grammar, and edit his profile and then wait until 3 months later when he actually notices)

Bryan you have made me the happiest man in the world. Yes, oh yes! I will!

I AM NOT BZP APPROPRIATE.

Rob: I'ma boot up Mass Effect for the first time ever, but all I'ma do is make a character. *Boots up Mass Effect and starts creating Commander Joan Shepard* AN HOUR LATER. Rob: I am satisfied with this thing I do. *Clicks on accept* Rob: WHOA GAME STARTS RIGHT AWAY? Kind of a boring cutscene, though. *First dialogue option comes up* Rob: WHOA THAT WASN'T A CUTSCENE WOW. *Answers first two dialogue options, begins walking down the hall of the Normandy* Rob: OMG BEST GAME EVAR.

Tony Stark. Not the Avengers, just Tony Stark. -Janus

Chapter Fifteen: NeithNeith returned shortly, leading a group of five Toa: Fire, Water, Air, Earth, and Stone. Each of them sat down wordlessly on one of the many benches surrounding the spire. Neith moved to the center of the room and addressed all the assembled Toa."I have brought the Toa of Kura-Nui...however their leader, the Toa of ice is a difficult one to find should she wish it. My stalkers are tracking her as we speak, but it is unknown when...or if she'll be found." The Toa of air gave a snort of laughter at this. Neith continued as though nothing had happened."Toa Norik of flame, Toa Bomonga of earth, and Toa Pouks of Stone, please allow me to introduce the guardians of the great city of knowlege." Neith said slowly, glancing around the room once."Toa Dameya of stone." as she spoke a brown-armored Toa stood, her Hau, and eyes both showing the fierce spirit of a warrior. On each of her arms was a long deadly blade, attached along the forearm. She walked toward our small trio then bent to one knee."Toa Iruini of air." A Toa clad in deep green armor stood this time, his glowing orange eyes shining behind a Kualsi, the mask of quick travel. In one hand he clasped the haft of a strangely curved spear. He too walked forward and bent to one knee, his eyes staying on us until his sister Toa Dameya nudged him."Toa Seres of water." A lithe Toa bedecked in different shades of blue stood, a great Ruru, the mask of night vision adorning her face and framing her calm green eyes. I saw no weapon as she walked forward and took position next to her sister and brother."Toa Entres of earth." A stocky Toa with jet black armor stood, her deep blue eyes radiating from underneath a Kakama like Gaaki's. On each wrist she bore a small shield roughly the size of my own. Toa Entres stepped forward and joined her sisters"And Toa Adena of fire." A Toa painted in brilliant hues of gold and orange raised herself from the bench, her intelligent eyes twinkling from behind her great Matatu, the mask of Telekinesis. A brilliant red shroud covered both the top of her head and her shoulders, and walking slowly she joined her companions in kneeling. When all of the Toa of Kura-Nui were assembled before us, each of them placed their right fist on the ground, their other hand held behind their back. At last they rose, their eyes gleaming with pride and strength and their armor shining brilliantly in the multifaceted light of the crystal.My brothers and I stood as well, introducing ourselves and shaking hands with the guardians of Kura-Nui. For the briefest of moments we chatted as only Toa could, forgetting all else that had come before. Then the moment passed and I saw Neith standing awkwardly off to the side. I left the group to their discussion and walked to where she stood, kneeling down next to her."Thank you." I said warmly, placing a hand on her shoulder. "You have no idea how much this means to us." Neith smiled "Of course great Toa." she responded humbly.I heard the discussion pause and turn to me and knew that the time had come. Leaning close to Neith I whispered."It would be best if you leave for this. This is not something I would wish on anyone, let-alone a Matoran." Neith's tone instantly cooled."I thank you for your concern, great Toa." she responded sharply. "But I can handle myself." and with that she took a seat on one of the many benches that bordered the spire.I sighed and raised myself from the ground, slowly walking back to where the other Toa stood."Sisters, brothers." I said loudly, gathering their attention. "I thank you all for coming here. However now the time has come to show you exactly what it is that we are up against." I spoke deliberately slow, doing my best to keep my nerves calm--I had no desire to return to these memories, but what must be done must be done. I beckoned my fellow Toa to be seated and walked closer to the crystal, seeing my scared and weary mask displayed in its gleaming surface.Then I placed by hands on the cool surface, pressing my palms flat against it and closing my eyes. Almost instantly the images leaped into my mind, and I can only assume to the pillar as well. Images of the devastation of Tapa-Nui, of the fate of my brothers, of my meeting with Wanderer and my trek through the silent city of Koto-Nui--and then the first image of the black ship.More than seeing this image, I felt it. I felt the menace and darkness it radiated throughout the room, effecting not just me, but my fellow Toa as well. I felt the familiar sickness and dread welling up in my stomach as the ship hovered high in the air above the empty city of Koto-Nui. I relived the terror I had felt that day as I saw it above me, its black hull blotting out all the light in the sky.Still I pressed on through my memories, allowing those assembled to see our passage from Koto-Nui to Gaho-Nui...and to witness the ruination that took place there. I showed them the skull faced creatures with their jagged spines and cruel teeth. I showed them the way they moved, the way they used their powers--and the way we eventually defeated them. In my minds eye I saw the downed creature's back hatch open up and the wormlike thing attempt to make its escape. I even swore I could almost smell the putrid smell of the thing as I burned it.From there my memories took us through the catacombs of Gaho-Nui and to our eventual escape. Then through the cave to the bay of Ava-Nui. These I showed them rapidly, focusing only on the enemy that we faced. At last I reached that open courtyard in my mind, and saw the black shadow hanging over my head. All around I could hear the screams again, hear the shrieks of those horrid creatures, and see the devastation they were wreaking. I saw myself surrounded and felt my heart rate climb as my spear was shattered, I saw everything as it had been. Then I opened my eyes.The Toa were agog, even Bomonga and Pouks who had seen some of what I had were shocked by what they had seen--had it been the death of my team? Or the state of my city that unnerved them so? I didn't know.Toa Adena rose, her shroud slipping loosely around her shoulders, and her Matatu grave."Toa Norik...never before have we faced such a foe." She said, a hint of fear tainting her voice. "But the Toa of Kura-Nui stand with you, united against this enemy of all." Neith, who had previously stayed silent walked next to Adena and nodded. All of a sudden the Ruru'd Matoran was gone and in her place there stood a Toa clad in white armor dappled with blue. A pure white Great Mahiki, like my own shone brightly on her face, and in her clear blue eyes there was a great sorrow. Holstered along her back as an elegant glaive, its point seeming to be carved from the finest crystal."Toa Norik. I apologize for my deception." Her voice remained unchanged, but somehow there was a different tone to it now. "I am Toa Neith, leader of the Toa Kura. And as Adena has said, we will stand by your side in duty."I nodded dumbly, unable to take my eyes from Neith's own. I felt a mixture of emotions, betrayal, shock, and something else I couldn't quite understand. I let it be, I had far more pressing concerns to worry about."These visions were not just to frighten you all." I said, regaining control of myself. "But rather that we might form a strategy to vanquish this accursed thing." The Toa Kura nodded slowly, each glancing to other and then to Neith and Adena."The crystal spire is a memory crystal" Toa Neith explained. "That means that whatever is placed in it can be called upon at will. Your memories are now part of the very fibre of the crystal and can be viewed whenever you so desire. For now, I suggest you rest. You have had little time for this, judging by what you've shown us.""I will rest when that pox upon our land is no more!" I said firmly, fire alight in my eyes. Bomonga and Pouks stood and came to my side. Neith, however, sighed."Toa Norik, while the fire that burns within you is admirable, you are worn beyond belief. Would you rather collapse on your way to battle, like your companion, Toa Gaaki?"Her words stung me deeper than any blade could and If felt myself deflate, the fire in my heart flicking and becoming a dimly lit flame. I was exhausted, and I knew it. I could see the weariness of my face reflected back in the crystal--and could see my own weariness mirrored in the eyes of my companions. I ceded my fight."You are right, Toa Neith. There is no purpose in exhausting myself before battle. I will rest and leave you and the rest of your team to plan. Please awaken us should anything happen. Neith nodded, her eyes gentle."Of course, Norik." And with that I allowed myself to be led from the room by Toa Adena, who quickly took us to the same room as Toa Gaaki."Rest here, brothers. We will wake you should we discover anything." She said smoothly, and then in one simple motion she vanished behind the arch.==============================================================================There's no point in putting this. Review anyhow.

Chapter Fourteen: RespiteAfter what seemed like an eternity of uncomfortable silence, the hunter's leader slowly approached. Her hunters materializing upon her arrival. She nodded silently and a door in the spire opened, it was in here that we were directed."Glad you could make it, brothers." Came the airy voice of Toa Gaaki, who stood fully armored on one side of the small room. I made my way to greet her, but instead found myself bouncing off an invisible barrier. Toa Gaaki looked at us cooly."Apologies, brothers." She said slowly. "But with the abilities of these creatures completely unknown, I refuse to take any chances with the lives of those in Kura-Nui. Until you can prove to me that you are Toa Norik and Toa Bomonga, you'll remain here. As for you." her eyes narrowed as she pointed at Toa Pouks. "I don't know you, and I don't trust you."I sighed, Gaaki had done an incredible job of readying the Matoran of Kura-Nui to deal with the black ship--but it seemed that she hadn't slept since we had parted ways with her. Her eyes flickered tiredly, and her face showed nothing but weariness. She was running on the last vestiges of her own energy, and seemed moments away from collapse--yet her drive and determination to save Kura-Nui kept her awake--barely."Toa Gaaki." I began slowly. "I am Toa Norik of Tapa-Nui. I was with you in the caverns under Gaho-Nui where you scolded me for not swimming quickly enough." Gaaki simply stared at me, her eyes cold, then she nodded to Bomonga to begin."Toa Gaaki, I am Toa Bomonga of Koto-Nui. I was with yourself and Toa Norik in the caverns under Gaho-Nui where I studied the carvings in the wall." Bomonga said slowly and clearly. In response Gaaki hissed to silence Bomonga and allowed her cold eyes to settle on Pouks. He began nervously."Toa Gaaki, I am Toa Pouks of Ava-Nui. I do not know you and have never met you...my city fell before the scourge of the black ship, and these two rescued me. You have no reason yet to trust me, and I understand your hesitance to welcome me."Gaaki cocked her head to the side, glancing from Bomonga, to Pouks, and then to me. Then, with a sudden movement she strode forward to a small hollow in the wall, and placed a small crystal of quartz there. Instantly the barrier dissolved and we could cross the room."My apologies, brothers." Gaaki said slowly, her eyes lowered to the ground. "There was no need for such measures. You are Toa, as am I. I should not have treated you as I have." her voice was filled with shame as she spoke. Surprisingly it was Toa Pouks who responded almost instantly."Toa Gaaki, as I said before, I do not know you...but I respect you. You have done what you felt was necessary in order to ensure the safety of the Matoran here, and I cannot hold that against you." Gaaki stared at him, her eyes widening slightly. Then she collapsed, her tired frame finally unable to hold her up.Bomonga caught her in his arms, gently laying her down on the ground, and then turned to me."What do we do now?" He inquired, his eyes showing his discomfort. I glanced around the small room, it was round, with one obvious exit and one obvious entrance--the one we had come through. I was about to suggest that we gather Gaaki and carry her out the exit when suddenly it burst open and armed Matoran flooded into the room--and at their head was the female Matoran who had brought us here. For what seemed like forever the air was tense and the weapons of the Matoran were held high in the air, then their leader clucked, her eyes calm and gentle."She finally exhausted herself, did she?" she said with a small laugh, watching as Bomonga stood up quickly, his nerves evident. "Don't worry, Toa. I'm not here to attack you. Rather to bring all of you to our headquarters now that you've passed Toa Gaaki's examination."Pouks, Bomonga, and myself made no move, our feet seeming rooted to the spot. The Matoran simply laughed again."Please don't make me have to take you there by force, Toa. Not again." Then she turned and began to exit the room, her hunters following her. About halfway through the door she languidly turned her head to gaze at us out of the corner of her eye. "Well?" She demanded.We moved quickly, Bomonga and I gathering the fallen body of Gaaki carefully. Then we again set off into the snowbound city. The sun was slightly higher now, the first tendrils of warmth creeping across the chilly grounds and bringing pale light to the glittering city.This time we walked as a unit, Toa and Matoran alike walking side-by-side to the central spire that drove upwards from the center of the city. Discussions were kept to a minimum amongst the hunters, and Pouks remained silent the whole time--naturally Bomonga and I were too busy carrying Gaaki to speak.The distance was less this time, and in almost no time we were ushered through massive double doors and into a beautifully carved foyer. Bedecked with various shades of blues and golds. From here our group was taken down a flight of spiral staircase and into a large chamber that had been divided into multiple smaller rooms.In the first room we found beds, and gently lay Gaaki down on one, as we had been directed to by the Matoran leader. Then our entourage passed below a curved archway and into what looked to be a relaxation chamber. Carved in a roughly circular shape, there was a pillar of ice in the very center that connected to both the ceiling and the floor, all around the perimeter of the room were elegantly carved benches. With no order from their leader, the Ruru'd Matoran walked over to these and leaned against the wall. Pouks, Bomonga and I did the same, being slightly shocked when their leader came over nearest to ours and sat down."I'm Neith." She said, extending a hand. Pouks took it first, shaking and then returning to his relaxed state, then Bomonga shook it, leaning over to whisper something to her. Neith thanked him and then turned to me. I took her hand, but was obviously unable to keep a skeptical look out of my eyes."I suppose I deserve that look." Neith said good-naturedly. "After all, I don't imagine this was the greeting you were expecting when you showed up with two other Toa for the benefit of our city.""No." I responded dumbly, I hadn't expected her to react like this."My apologies then, great Toa." she sighed. "My Night stalkers and I were only doing what we had been told to by Turaga Elyai.""Night stalkers?" Bomonga asked inquisitively. Neith smiled and turned to face all three of us."My unit is called the Night stalkers, that's why we each wear a Noble Ruru for a mask--while we know that our masks don't grant us powers like yours do, they mark us as members of the elite squadron that keeps Kura-Nui safe from Rahi and other threats. We have trained extensively in the darkness, and know exactly how to move around silently. Only you" she said, pointing at Bomonga "have been able to see our movements in the dead of night."Bomonga nodded humbly. "I too am a tracker." he said simply. "I know how to track movement, were it not for that you would have been invisible to me as well." Neith seemed satisfied with this answer and kicked her feet up on the stone bench, leaning against the cool wall."What exactly is the point of this room?" Pouks asked, somewhat bluntly. Neith, and a few of her Night stalkers laughed in response."It's a room for relaxation and peace." Neith said. "However..." she slid from her seat, walking to the hewn pillar in the center of the room and placing both hands on it. "This is part of the knowledge towers, and so we can use this room not only for intelligence purposes, but also for entertainment." As she said this she squeezed her eyes shut and gripped the pillar tightly.For a second nothing happened, the only sounds in the room being the breathing of the Matoran and my fellow Toa. Then the crystalline spire began to glow brightly and an image of a fearsome Kane-ra appeared on the surface of it. The beast roared and screamed as the image of the Night stalkers carrying ropes and nets also appeared. Within moments the creature was subdued and the crystal returned to its normal sheen.Neith stepped away from the pillar with a small smile on her mask. "We use this to review previous journeys of ours--as well as whatever else is on our mind." she said."How does that work?" Pouks asked, his eyes alight with confusion. Neith laughed again."Basically it takes what you give to it. I thought of the mission we had against the Kane-ra and it just displayed what was in my mind. It really is a simple system."Without intending to, I found myself standing and walking to the crystal spire."You mean this thing can display anything that we have in our mind?" I asked, my voice unsure."That's correct." Neith responded, her eyes slightly wary. I stood there silently, my hands clasped by my side, and stared at the smooth surface of the crystal in front of me."Gather the Toa of this island here." was I all I said, my voice dropping to a hush. Neith nodded, her eyes full of confusion and showing a glimmer of fear--then she and the other Night stalkers rushed out of the room to find the Toa of Kura-Nui. When they had all left, I heard Pouks let out a low whistle."What exactly are you planning, Norik?" he asked, his bewilderment evident in his tone."Just what needs to be done." I responded vaguely, my mind more focused on what would happen when the Toa arrived."And what exactly would that be, Norik?" Pouks grunted, clearly not in the mood for my vagaries."To show them what we're up against." I said, my voice almost a whisper. "To show them the black ship."==============================================================================Insert Passive-Aggressive attempt to get someone to actually review here

I'm disappointed in a lot of what has happened today, but I have to express my love and support for Gato and a bunch of other people. There are gonna be some people who never understand, but there are people who will support you. -Janus

Chapter Thirteen: Kura-NuiAfter what felt like aeons, but was in truth only about ten minutes, I was awoken from my bizarre mishmash of sleep by the hand of Toa Bomonga on my shoulder."We're almost there." he whispered quietly, and then turned away, gazing into the night like some sort of watchful spectre. Stretching in my seat I glanced around my surroundings: Toa Pouks was fiddling absentmindedly with the controls on the panel, continuing the ship's gentle descent to the island that was now directly below us, in the sky the moon was sinking slowly, its descent almost mirroring our own.Toa Bomonga sat up with a jolt, turning around slowly to face me his mask wearing a look of intent focus."There are ten hunters below us." he whispered, his voice low and steady. "I'd imagine they intend to verify whether we're friend or foe--they seem to be ready to surround the ship, so I suggest you stay calm." he finished, looking deeply into my eyes with his own, their brilliant orange glow alight with concern. I nodded purposefully, deliberately lowering my shattered spear to the ground beside me. I had sworn an oath to never hurt a Matoran, and I would honor that oath.The towers of Kura-Nui rose up all around us, their crystalline forms glittering in the wan light of the moon, for a moment it almost seemed as if we stood still and the towers around us were growing to monolithic proportions, but then the moment had passed, and we continued our slow descent.Our ship met the ground with but the slightest of bumps, the balloon gently bouncing as we landed. Almost immediately there were shadowy figures moving around in the peripherals of my vision, their weapons practically invisible were it not for the reflections from the towers, and the pale light from our own control console."Identify yourself!" came a harsh voice to the right, turning my head, I could barely make out the silhouette of a tall Matoran, a large saber in her hand. Bomonga stood up, raising his hands into the air as he did."I am Toa Bomonga of Koto-Nui." He said slowly, his booming voice carrying across the open landing field. "These are my companions, Toa Norik of Tapa-Nui and Toa Pouks of Ava-Nui. We have come in search of our companion Toa Gaaki of Gaho-Nui." he continued, his voice cutting clearly through the chill air. "We are here to defend your island from the threat that threatens us all. The black ship that has scourged so many homes." he finished, stepping from the ship and onto the cold stone ground beneath.His only response was silence, falling across the expansive field where we had landed. I could hear the slight rustling of the wind, and the steady clinking of their armor and weapons, but was unable to see them, as I peered useless into the murky darkness. Only Bomonga, with his keen tracker's eyes was able to witness their silent march."They're coming closer." Was all he said, absentmindedly pushing me back with one hand. I hadn't even realized I'd begun to stand up.Bomonga continued to survey the darkened airfield, watching as I could only assume, the Matoran stealthily moved their way toward our location. He relaxed his body, peering through the veil of night that shrouded us, and seeing the Matoran though they attempted to be unseen. Then he turned and glanced at me, his eyes showing no sign of worry."They're here." he stated calmly. I saw their dimly lit figures surrounding our airship, their blades glowing in the pale light of our control panel."Toa Norik, Toa Pouks, and Toa Bomonga." Came that harsh voice, as the Matoran came to the front of the cue, allowing herself to be seen in the light. She had pale blue eyes that were cold and hard, like those of a warrior. Surrounding those eyes was an ashen noble Ruru--the mask of night vision, and across her body I could see dappled shades of blues and whites intermingling in some sort of camouflage pattern. The Matoran's eyes met my own. "You are to come with me." She said bluntly, her blade raised high.Bomonga was the first, stepping from the slight incline of our grounded ship he landed with a loud click on the stone airfield outside. I came next, slowly allowing myself to step carefully from the ship, diligently not making a sound. I had no desire to agitate the Matoran further. With a grumble, Pouks shifted himself from his seat, turning to glance first at Bomonga, then to me. I nodded my head slightly, and with another grumble escaping him, he heaved himself out of the ship.I don't know what I was expecting the Matoran to do as we stepped out of the ship--were they going to take us to a prison? Were they going to surround us with weapons and force us to give up our own? Perhaps my mind thought these things because our landing had been anything but the heroes welcome I had envisioned beforehand. Thankfully these turned out to be nothing more than the deluded ramblings of a mind full of unease.The female Matoran walked closer to the ship, grabbing the side and hoisting herself into its confines. Meanwhile, Bomonga, Pouks and I were held in an odd state of not-quite-captivity. While each of us remained surrounded by three Matoran, they did not draw their weapons, merely form a sort of barrier around us.There was a rustling from the ship's exposed innards, then a dark chuckle carried across the cool night air."Some Toa you are." came the sardonic voice. I could vaguely see the outline of the female Matoran standing in the airship and holding...our weapons! "I was led to believe..." the mocking voice continued. "that Toa never surrendered their weapons, no matter the circumstances. I guess I was wrong." With that the silhouetted figure moved, hurling our weapons towards us. Bomonga nimbly caught his, and with slight hesitation replaced it in the holster behind his back. Pouks leaped into the air, catching his swinging chains and twirling them high above his head before he attached them to the clips on hips. I simply grabbed Toa Kyr's...my shield as it came toward me and stood silently.The Matoran female clambered out of the ship, moving closer to my group. Then, raising her arm she barked."March!" and each of the groups began to move, their respective Toa having no choice but to keep up with them. The female Matoran did not join any of the groups, but remained closest to mine, staying just abreast of the three hunters that surrounded me. I saw her eyes carefully studying everything in the darkness, planning, strategizing--whoever this Matoran was, she was a talented hunter, and soldier.Soon the two groups containing my brothers moved closer into the shadows, beyond the scope of my vision, then all I could see was the Hunter's leader, her dappled armor seeming ineffective in the darkness. I allowed my mind to go blank, hearing only the loud click of my feet on stone and the steady tromp of the Matoran who led me. Then a new sound entered my ears, and, refining my focus and allowing myself to snap to awareness I found that we had exited the airfield and were now crunching across hard-packed snow on what seemed to be a well worn path.I turned my gaze to one of my holders and saw that each of them in turn bore the same mask as their leader, a noble Ruru in various different shades. Each of them too was cloaked in the same pattern of enmeshed white and blue. I saw now why: In the snow it would have been virtually impossible to see them if they had stopped moving. This wasn't just a team of hunters, this was an elite squadron."Where are you taking us?" I asked slowly, careful not to allow any note of resentment slip into my voice. My holders said nothing, their gazes firmly set forward, they didn't even hesitate in their steps. I felt a wave of frustration wash over me, but pushed it aside and tried again."Please tell me, my friends. Where are you taking us?" I whispered. Their response was the same: Absolutely nothing. Instead a different voice cut through the air with alarming speed and clarity."They won't tell you anything, Toa Norik." came the voice of their leader who now walked in short strides directly to my left. "They've been trained not to. Regardless of who asks." she said with a smile, her eyes glowing with pride. I sighed."Perhaps you can then illuminate me?" I asked, careful to keep my frustration out of my voice. In return she simply laughed."And ruin the surprise?" She laughed, an expression of mock horror on her face. "Never." and just like that the masquerade of joy was gone, and her face became a mask of stone, with only her cold eyes peering out.We marched for what felt like hours across that pathway, small posts that bore lightstones being our only source of light for most of the journey. Then at last I saw the towering city of Kura-Nui in the distance, its many spires twinkling brightly in the fading darkness. I felt my burdens grow lighter as we marched ever-closer. We had made it! We had reached the city before that accursed ship!We entered the gateway of the city as the sun began to crest on the horizon, its warmth not yet reaching our small groups. Then, walking down one of the many snowy streets we came to a rest in front of a small spire. Wordlessly my escort stepped away, their camouflaged armor making it almost impossible to see them in their native environment. Toa Pouks and Toa Bomonga were already waiting for me there, and we silently greeted each other, all too aware of the silent sentinels watching our every move.==============================================================================This is a review topic.

I'm so glad that someone who has absolutely no relation to my wife is the one who made her birthday topic. Thanks man!I LOVE YOU BABY HAPPY BIRTHDAY.(Also someone in the room just called someone else in this topic a poopyface)-Janus

Chapter Twelve: The StormPouks saw the light too, glancing back at me and flashing a small smile, then with a slight shift of the controls he began a very slow descent; the airship's small frame creaking loudly in the vastness that was the sky. The light we had seen was nothing more than a viewpost, a large tower errected from stone and steel and housing a single massive lightstone. It was kept stoked by hardworking Matoran at all times, the heat from the flames lending the lightstone its reddish hue. It was this hue that allowed hope to return to my heart.The Matoran of Kura-Nui, holding all the knowledge of the world, had created an early warning system for their isolated island. A viewpost existed on every possible path toward the island, and each viewpost was kept in contact with the central island through an unknown means. During the night the lightstone was kept stoked to ensure the red glow, which signaled that all was well on the home island--during the day the stones were instead kept in subzero temperatures to create a cool blue glow--if anything was to happen to the island the Matoran were under strict orders to stop doing anything to the lightstones, allowing them to revert to their natural tone. In this way the Matoran of Kura-Nui ensured that the outside world was kept informed of their safety.I remembered being told of this as a young Toa, and shrugging it off as something ridiculous. After all, the other great cities had no such system, and everyone was aware of their status, what made the island of Kura-Nui so special that it required such a system?It was Alia who took me aside and explained, having been to the island once before. "The knowledge towers of Kura-Nui are very different from those of Metru Nui." She began. "Those of Metru Nui are formed from protodermis and kept in a constant state of cooling by an elaborate system of hydroulics." she explained, allowing me to visualize the system in my mind. "However, the island of Kura-Nui is completely natural." she said with a smile, taking my shoulder in her hand. "The Great Spirit Mata-Nui described to us the best way to hold knowledge was to form crystals of it. And upon giving us this gift he declared that the frozen peak of Mt. Tohu on the island of Kura-Nui would be the best place to store it. From there the city of knowledge was created." I remember frowning, turning around and looking my gentle, yet strong, leader in the face. "But that doesn't explain the viewposts." I whined.Alia laughed her musical laugh. "Of course it does, Toa Norik." she smiled."The system is not for the people of Kura-Nui. It is for us outsiders. To know if the knowledge that is held within its walls has been compromised--for if it has then it would surely mean war. Kura-Nui holds within its vaults the sum of all knowledge in our world, and anyone who would dare profane that would be an enemy to our people."Her words rang in my head as we soared over the viewpost, its red light still burning brightly. I only hoped that we were in time to stop such an enemy, not only of our people, but of the entire world in which we lived.There was jolt throughout the craft, and Bomonga sat up with a startled expression in his eyes."What happened?" he asked inquisitively, having realized that we were in no danger."Just the normal descent." Pouks responded nonchalantly. "The skeleton of these things always shudders as we get closer to such a frozen place. They're just not built for the cold." he murmured.And indeed he was right, while there had been a natural chill in the air from the night wind, a near omnipresent cold could now be felt in the small craft. Though we still had quite some time left before we docked in Kura-Nui, the temperature had already dropped severely.Another shudder wracked the airship and the large balloon that held us aloft shook disconcertingly. This time it was both Bomonga and I who looked up in alarm, not entirely trusting this somewhat flimsy craft to see us safely to our journey. Pouks just grinned at our nervousness."I understand how nerve wracking it is, brothers." He said with a smile. "One of the many training exercises we had to run through was to load these things with a contingent of Matoran and try a rapid descent to Kura-Nui." he let his words sink in, turning to glance at Bomonga's and my expression."Let me tell you something, brothers. You haven't experienced true fear until you've been in a rickety airship filled with twelve Matoran that's bucking and jerking as you're floating overtop icy cold waters." he laughed, and turned his attention back to the controls, content to relive old memories.On the other hand, his words struck me...not so much his tale of the absolutely insane journey from Ava-Nui to here, but the admonishment of "you haven't felt true fear until." I felt my mind groaning into action, asking myself the question--had I felt true fear before the moment that Black ship had carved its horrible impression on my mind? Had I ever experienced anything so...real before? Somehow I knew I hadn't, and the realization of that came as a soulcrushing horror--how could I, a lone Toa who had allowed his team to perish stand up to something like that? How could I, who didn't even understand fear, even begin to comprehend the utter horror that was the Black ship? And if I couldn't comprehend it, how could I possibly beat it?It came as a shock then, when my mind began to rebel against these notions. Unbidden came to mind the images of those spined creatures with their frightening skull-faces and dead eyes. "This." said my mind "this is the face of fear, and this is its birth." and for the briefest of moments I saw the Black Ship highlighted in the sky, seeming to be mere inches from my position. If I had not been assured that it was a figment of my mind I would have reached out and grabbed hold, for how close it seemed. The image faded and my mind began its spiel once more. "You have succeeded in the face of fear time and time again, refusing to back down against overwhelming odds." Flashes of the battle at Gaho-Nui and the fierce confrontation at Ava-Nui ran through my mind, then even further back to flashbacks of fearsome Rahi that I had tracked and hunted. "You are a Toa, a warrior, and the last of your city. How can you do any less?" and in my mind I saw them, the faces of Toa Jurian, Toa Levos, Toa Kyr, Toa Pheos, and Toa Alea. In life they had been my family, and my allies--and in death they supported me still.It was with this heavy weight lifted that I looked down and saw the ice-coated plains of Kura-Nui but a short distance away. We had almost made it.The cold wind tore at us, making speech nearly impossible and making me wish I could activate my elemental powers, for even through my armor I shivered at the cold bite. I glanced at Bomonga, shielding my eyes against the driving wind and frozen flakes of snow that had begun to assault us mere moments before. He too was shivering, his body compressed into a small ball for heat.Toa Pouks cursed, a sound that was barely heard as the wind tore it from his mask. He turned to glance at Bomong and I and I saw that while there was no fear in his eyes, there was a knowledge that something could go very, very wrong. I brushed the snow from my mask and prayed to the great spirit that nothing did.Pouks grabbed the controls tightly in both hands, attempting to steer our listing airship toward the growing island in the distance, the harsh biting winds seeming desperate to drive us away from the city before us. While we made some headway into the storm, the chips of ice and the driving winds made it nearly a insurmountable goal. It seemed like we would never make it to the our destination--despite the fact that it was so close.It was this thought, and the reminder of my companions that drove me. Grasping the necklace of Toa Alea with one hand I bowed my head, saying a prayer of thanks to my companions. Then, reaching into my armor I withdrew the small lump of clay that Toa Pheos had always carried, this I fashioned into a small sphere, perfectly smooth and round; using all of the skills that Pheos had taught me for carving.Holding this sphere in both hands I channeled my element into it, feeling the stone harden in my fingers, and feeling the warmth emanate from the small object. I passed it to Bomonga, knowing that the heat inside would last for quite some time.I stood, shaking the detritus of snow from my shoulders and carefully maneuvered myself toward the year of the craft. With a shout I called to Pouks."Hold on!" I yelled, the wind taking my words nearly the second they were from my mouth. Still, Pouks turned and nodded, his eyes grave.With a heavy breath I turned to the rear of the shuddering craft, carefully inching my away along the open-aired ship's hull until I finally reached the rudder that jutted from its aft. Once there I carefully grabbed a central post in the ship and lowered myself carefully into a crouch, grounding myself against the blustering winds; then slowly, carefully, I removed one hand from the post, feeling the wind tear at it instantly.I ignored the pain in my hand, the wind chill and ice fragments ripping at it brutally, and instead focused my thoughts, drawing the element of heat not just from the deep inside myself, but converting the subzero temperatures in my domain to a slight warmth as well. I gathered the heat in my palm, feeling the warm glow suffuse my arm and fill my hand, I felt it grow as I channeled more and more energy into it, allowing the sphere of flame to burn hotter and with more intensity.I held onto this growing sphere of fire until my focus was at its limit, and my arm nearly numb from the combination of my own elemental energies and the harsh gusts of wind that assaulted it. Then, with one enormous effort, I released it into the air, channeling the force through not only my arm, but my body as well.The airship lurched forward violently, the blast of flame jetting it through the air with a quick jerky motion. For a moment the ice and wind was ten times more violent than it had been before, threatening to tear our small craft asunder--and then...Then we were through, and with a suddenness that rivaled its coming, the storm suddenly ceased. The skies were calm and clear, only the occasional cloud drifting by in the darkness. I heard Pouks and Bomonga gasp as we cleared the tempestuous storm and entered the tranquil skies just bordering the island of Kura-Nui. Only I, who could see behind our wobbly craft was able to see the receding traces of the freakish weather that had assaulted us. It hadn't been random, it had been a defensive measure!I returned to my previous seat, slowly inching my way back toward the main compartment of the ship. The howl of the wind still ringing clearly in my ears, despite the fact that it had settled to a gentle breeze."Well...that was interesting" Pouks muttered darkly, steering the ship gently towards the island that suddenly seemed so much closer than before."Yes." Was Bomonga's only reply, his hands still clasped tightly around the sphere of clay I had given him."It was a barrier." I interjected, flopping weakly into my seat and sighing."A barrier?" Bomonga and Pouks said simultaneously, both of them turning to look at me."Yes." I stated, breathing heavily. "I'd imagine it was our sister Gaaki instructing the people of Kura-Nui to create some sort of defenses against the black ship. That was no normal weather pattern, you both know that much, brothers."They both nodded in silence, then turned back to what they had been doing before. Bomonga seeming to stare off into space, and Pouks beginning to nudge the ship into a gentle decline. I slumped in my seat, allowing myself to relax and drift into a comfortable numbness, a state that wasn't quite sleep and yet wasn't consciousness either--rather a middle ground, a vague indistinct blurring of the lines between the two. In this I rested comfortably while my companions kept us on our journey.==============================================================================This journey ain't goin' nowhere, so why not review it a litltle?

[color-royalblue] Kshatriya is redonk huge. You're actually painting that monster, though? Good on you. You got a Majhost where you show off all your gunpla? I'm always eager to see more. -Janus[/color]

Chapter Eleven: EscapeWe made our way down from the central plateau of the island through a network of tunnels. Toa Pouks leading us through quickly. Every once in a while he spoke."Through here." He'd mutter, pointing at a doorway. "The other one is a trap." then he'd stay silent for another period of time as we walked. Bomonga and I didn't know exactly where we were going or why, but we knew that Pouks was helping us. It was shortly after we had declared ourselves brothers that Bomonga mentioned the ship, and our sister Gaaki at Kura-Nui. Pouks shook his head and muttered."No. Kura-Nui is too far from here by boat..and the defenses that surround here are still active. It would simply take far too long to even attempt." Then without another word he set off through the darkening courtyard to the entrance to the network of tunnels we now in. That had been over an hour ago.Finally Pouks stopped walking, stepping through an portal and exclaiming happily."Found it." As Bomonga and I followed, trying to discover exactly what "It" was we found Toa Pouks in a massive underground hanger lit dimly by lightstones--and in the center of the hanger was row of airships, fueled and ready for departure. Bomonga and I exchanged grins and together with Pouks we clambered aboard the nearest one.With Pouks at the controls we slowly began to rise into the air, the Kanoka engine driving us closer and closer to the peaked ceiling. Pouks cursed loudly, glaring at the controls of the machine. "They somehow manage to damage the hanger door." He grunted. "We're stuck." Bomonga and I looked at each other, then to Pouks. Finally after what seemed like an eternity, Bomonga spoke."Where is the hanger door?" He murmured. Pouks silently pointed toward one of the vast walls lit by lightstones.Bomonga stood up, eyes locked with the distant wall and warned us."Hold on." then he raised his arms high in the air and began to manipulative his elemental powers, clenching his fingers into tight fists as the wall began to rumble ominously. With a grunt of effort Bomonga drove his hands to sides, and Pouks and I watched as the earth surrounding the hanger door separated in a spray of dirt. Then Pouks glanced at the remaining stone and raised his arms pointing a palm toward them. A spiderweb of cracks began to split the stones, and then, with a mighty effort a gaping hole appeared, allowing the twilight to shine into the hanger. Bomonga and Pouks grinned at each other and bumped fists, replenishing some of their spent powers. Then Pouks banked the small craft towards the newly created hole, and we were off.The journey from Ava-Nui by air was far easier than by sea. While still heavily guarded from any aerial assault, the islands defenses had been crippled by the Black Ship. Where once many Kanoka towers and defenses stood, now there was only ruined bases and shattered foundations. Pouks saw this and said nothing, but I saw the green fire alight in his eyes.We glided effortlessly above the ocean, gazing downward at the distant waves below. While the airship would get us to Kura-Nui far quicker than our small boat, it would still be quite some time before we arrived.For a time we rode in silence, each of us wrapped up in our own respective thoughts. Finally it was Toa Pouks who broke the silence.“What do we know about this thing?” He whispered soberly. I lowered my head, thinking, and saw Bomonga close his eyes to do the same.“It can seemingly appear out of nowhere.” I murmured absentmindedly. “One second everything is normal, and then it’s there.”“Then there’s little chance of accidentally running across it mid-flight.” Pouks said, his voice dripping with black humor. I laughed darkly.“I suppose so.”“It has a weapon.” Bomonga said suddenly, his eyes staring into space as he spoke. “A weapon that can burn a city in mere moments.” He whispered. Pouks said nothing, but I saw a shiver run through his body.“Why didn’t it use it on Ava-Nui, then?” he asked. Almost more to himself than to us.“I…I think we were the cause of that.” I said, speaking up. “The other cities it seemed to crush all resistance and then blast them with its weapon—but this time the resistance wasn’t crushed. I think we frightened it away.”“But it still succeeded in its task.” Bomonga reminded.“Yes.” I responded slowly. “But in the other cities it would take the Matoran, kill the Toa, and then burn the city—here it only managed two of those tasks. One city remains intact….I think that it was concerned.” Pouks said nothing, simply nodding at our conversation. Below us the ocean continued to crash and the wave continued to flow. We passed over a few more defensive constructs of Ava-Nui, each seemingly in perfect condition—including those meant for aerial defense. This lent credence to my thought that the Black Ship could seemingly appear and disappear at will.Finally we passed out of Ava-Nui’s defensive space and there was nothing but ocean below us. Again we rode on in silence, only the radiance of the moon and the glow of the various dials and instruments giving us any light in the darkened night.“I wonder if Toa Gaaki is all right” Bomonga worried aloud, sighing as he watched the waves pass below us. I stayed silent, bowing my head and glancing at the darkened waves below. Toa Gaaki was a strong one, of that there was no doubt--but the dark force that we were facing had proven to be so far insurmountable. Every one of our defenses succumbing to its seemingly overwhelming strength. With a sigh I turned to look Bomonga in the face."I can only pray that our friend is doing well, Bomonga." I said quietly, laying a hand on my friend and brother's shoulder. "She has undertaken a great task, and a dangerous one as well."Bomonga said nothing, his eyes gazing past mine and into the starlit night. He shifted himself in his seat, hunching himself over into a compressed ball. As he did so he let out a heavy sigh, the sound seeming like a grim omen in the narrow confines of our airship."Do you think that Kura-Nui will be...intact by the time we arrive?" He let the words hang there. Toa Pouks and I exchanged glances nervously, each of us meeting each other's eyes and then quickly turning away. Bomonga's question had been the unspoken question that had hung in the air since we had set off on our aerial sojourn--had the island of knowledge, Kura-Nui, survived the devastation that had been wrought to so many others? An uneasy silence filled the air in our small craft, and each of us three Toa turned our attention elsewhere. Toa Pouks busying himself with the instruments on the panel, Bomonga taking in the sights of the ocean below, his head sagging and his shoulders slumped--and I, my own eyes fixed on the darkness that was in front of our tiny airship, for any small hint that we were near the island we so sought--and for any sign that the island had been attacked.We rode on in silence for some time, each of my two compatriots continuing to occupy their attention elsewhere. I remained fixated on the pressing darkness that surrounded us, squinting my eyes against the rushing off the wind and the thick inky black of the night sky. Then at last I saw it, a tiny pinprick of light on the horizon, barely visible amidst the field of stars that lay in the sky.It was of a different colour than the other skies, a muted red glow shining out from it like a beacon, and unlike the other celestial bodies in the sky it did not twinkle or shine, instead it seemed to emanate. A glowing beacon that signaled the entrance to the land of Kura-Nui. ==============================================================================This glowing link signals the entrance to the land of the REVIEW TOPIC. JEESE..

NAKNAKNAKNAKNAK.Shouldn't it be NUKNUKNUKNUKNUKNUK? I mean it is your birthday and all.IT WAS SO MUCH FUN HANGING OUT AND WE SHOULD DO IT AGAIN EVEN THOUGH WE ALL SUCK AT MINI GOLF.Hope your Birthday rawks!-Janus

Tyler, I love you! Happy Birthday and stuff! Please come talk to me again <3-Janus

I love me some Gunpla. In fact on my desk right now I have HG 1/144 Asshimar, Delta Gundam, Reborns Gundam (Trans Am), Adele, Adele (Diva), Powered GM, Marasai (UC Ver), GM Custom, Genoace, Anksha, and I'm currently sanding/pre-building a GM Quel. My wife loves it. (Saaaarcasm) What's your favourite scale thus far? -Janus

Chapter Ten: BrothersI bowed my head low and walked slowly through the dusty courtyard. With luck, Gaaki had managed to warn those of Kura-Nui--but even then, what chance did they have against such a foe? I sighed heavily and bent to retrieve Toa Kyr's shield...and then I heard something. A muffled yell that sounded as though it were close. I pivoted on my heel, glancing around warily, attempting to avoid any trap the creatures may have laid for us. Instead I found an unexpected sight: Just inside one of the training barracks there was a sheet of solid ice--and it was from that ice that the yelling came.I placed one hand on the ice, feeling its chilling cold, and allowed a very small amount of my flame to emerge, slowly burning through the enormous sheet. As I did so I walked forward into the cold tunnel created by my flame.The entire barracks it seemed had been filled with ice, from the entrance all the way to to the resting quarters--and somewhere in here was what I assumed was a Matoran who had tried to escape. I continued my journey through the dripping corridors of ice, ignoring the drops of water that landed on my armor and evaporated.I could hear it clearer now, almost distinctly enough to understand the words--but not quite. I knew I was headed in the right direction and so I shouted down the corridor."I'm coming!" allowing my heat to melt more of the frozen substance.At last I came upon the room he was in, it was solidly blocked with ice and what appeared to be stone inside--perhaps part of the building had collapsed upon the Matoran? He had been silent since I had shouted...perhaps he had been knocked unconcious! Frantically I applied heat to the ice, allowing it to melt and reveal a large stone boulder in front of the door. I heard the shout, and understood it."Finally!" came a rough voice, and the boulder crumbled to dust. There, standing in the fragmented stone and dust was a Toa.The Toa extended his hand, his light brown Pakari scrunched into an insructable look. I took his hand with my own and shook once."Toa Pouks." He said gruffly, releasing my hand and turning to sigh."I'm guessing the exercise is over?" He muttered, running one hand across the top of his mask agitatedly. confused, I grabbed his shoulder and asked."Exercise?" The Toa smirked over his shoulder and looked me in the eyes, his green eyes twinkling with humor."You don't actually expect me to believe that something assaulted the city of the warrior, do you?" He said, waving airily with his hand."I'm not that foolish. This," he pointed, indicating the still melting ice "was just Toa Ithena having fun with us, adding a bit of a challenge to the game." he said with a matter-of-fact tone.I goggled at him, my eyes feeling like they were going to burst out of my head. A...training exercise? That's what this Toa thought had happened? I sighed and turned him to face me, one arm on each of his shoulders."This was no exercise, Toa Pouks." I whispered grimly. "This city has fallen, just as Tapa-Nui, Koto-Nui, and Gaho-Nui have before it."Pouks glanced at me, suspicion reflected in his pale green eyes. Then, seeing the seriousness in my face he gaped."No. That's not possible. There's nothing in this world that would assault a Great City--let-alone four of them!" "Unfortunately there is. An army of hissing, spined creatures that control the elements as we do, and a jet black ship that looms overhead while they do their work. They have come to your island as they came to mine." I whispered, my voice close to cracking, but staying strong.Pouks went silent. Absentmindedly pushing me to the side as he began to walk through the now-damp corridors that led outside. I heard him go, his footsteps echoing noisely on the wet stone. Then they sped up as I he burst into a run, finally stopping completely as he stepped outside into the silent courtyard.I followed him slowly, watching as he desperately looked around the vacant courtyard in vain. Finally coming up behind him and turning him forcefully. "Look." I said, brandishing the necklace I had taken from Toa Alea "This is all that remains of the leader of my team, Toa Alea of water." I then silently pointed at the feather still in my mask and the gauntlets and ruined shield that I wore. "Each of these too came from my brothers." I sighed. "I have felt your loss, Toa Pouks of stone. And I understand more than anyone else why we should band together and fight this plague that sweeps across our land."Pouks glanced at me, his green eyes burning with sorrow and anger, and opened his mouth to speak. However as he did a cry broke through the silence."Norik!" came the booming voice of Bomonga.He was limping slowly, putting almost no pressure on one of his legs. One hand tightly clutched the opposite shoulder where I saw a brutal puncture wound through his armor. I felt his pain and greeted him warmly as he approached. I was shocked when his mask turned from one of exhaustion to one of anger."Norik, you fool. What are you doing?" he shouted, his eyes flashing brightly as he stood face to face with me. I silently pointed at Toa Pouks and attempted to explain, but Bomonga wouldn't let me speak."No, Norik. Not about him. About yourself." he said slowly, allowing his anger to fade--Bomonga never was one to stay angry long.I paused to think about what he was talking about, and suddenly felt the driving pain all across my body. Glancing down I saw the great puncture wound directly through my stomach armor, and saw the various blades from the metal creature sticking out from all across my body: Circular blades lodged in my legs, shoulders, and chest. I grunted as the pain washed across me, feeling everywhere I had been struck only now that the danger had passed. Toa Pouks turned and stared at both Bomonga and I."I...thought for sure this was just the usual training exercise the Turaga put on. An elaborate mock battle to ensure that both Matoran mind and steel are sharp--the Toa usually get to join in as well...I thought that's all it was..." he trailed off into silence. "But now...now I see you....actually see you. Those are no false wounds, you're not acting--something truly happened here. My city has fallen." With that Pouks turned and wept.Bomonga and I let him be, both looking at the other uncomfortably. Was it discomfort at the fact that we couldn't help him, or at the fact that we weren't sure if we could weep anymore? I honestly don't know.The last of Toa Pouks sobs trailed off into silence and he raised himself from the ground, a newfound strength in his eyes as he turned to look at us."My city has fallen." He repeated slowly, his eyes narrowing as he said it. "But I am a warrior of Ava-Nui and that will not stop me." he said proudly, walking towards us."Toa Pouks." I extended my hand as a fist. Bomonga did the same."Will you join us in our quest to rid the land of this plague that has swept across your city?" I asked. Pouks didn't hesitate for a second, lightly touching our extended fists with his own and channeling some of his elemental energy to us, as we channeled some to him.Then he softly spoke "Brothers." ==============================================================================I hate that last sentence. Do you hate that last sentence? Tell me how much you hate it in the review topic.

Portal 2 is the most fun game ever, and the co-op is ridiculously awesome. You will have so much fun. -Janus