Sparticus147

Also, the Refugees have been on Zakaz for two months, max.

IC: Apex (Kumu-Peninsula) Now, more than ever, did the island need Apex. Though she did not witness it, she most certainly felt it; the shift, the shudder, the feeling of the entire island lurching, writhing from the agony being inflicted upon it. Apex simply knew about the drastic change that has taken the island, and it in equal parts saddened her heart and enforced her desire to achieve her wish. Traveling south through the Fau Swamp, Apex took full advantage of her ever-growing power; for whenever Morangad and herself had come across a stray Rahi, Apex was quick to subdue the creature through the use of her Kraata power. Lulling the Rahi to sleep, Apex would allow one of her worms, who continued to coil around Apex’ frame and sleep within her maw, to infect the Rahi, granting it a portion of Apex’ own power. Apex would then awaken them and allow them to continue on their way, giving each the same command she gave Kuini-Rama; stay away from Le-Metru Nuva, and kill any Skakdi on sight. But for every other Rahi Apex encountered, there was one who had succumbed to the vile rot that gripped the Fau Swamp. The mutations that had taken these Rahi were so severe, that not even her own power could sway them from violence. These encounters ended unfortunately, as Morangad and herself were forced to put these once-Rahi, now monsters, down. It was one of the first of these monsters that Apex used the last of the Energized Protodermis on, creating yet another worm. … Breaching the southernmost point of the Fau Swamp, breaking through the thick foliage and trees, Apex was left to gaze towards what was before her. What should’ve opened up onto a golden beach, and an archipelago of shadow in the distance. Instead, Apex was presented with an expanse of basalt and obsidian, the very archipelago seemingly having clawed its sinful self onto the island, like a fierce parasite desiring the seep out the life of its prey. Apex simply gazed at what she saw, a foul wind flying past her, beckoning her, calling to her, welcoming her. It was...Horrifying. The sight caused the entirety of Apex’ body to bristle on ends as a faint call shuddered throughout her form, an ancient primordial call, one that she only felt once before, back within her prison, and sanctuary against the call that every Aspect feared. What was she supposed to do, simply turn around and run, flee? Flee and pray that she could escape? Or, should she keep on stepping forwards, to allow the winds and shadows to guide her, to whether the goal she sought...Or the end she feared. Apex stood there, for what was merely seconds, to her it was centuries; the centuries she lost, the centuries she lived, the centuries she was going to live. Then, as quickly as it all came to her, it left as Morangad placed his hand onto Apex’ side, drawing her back to reality. Looking towards her companion, a brief look of constrained uncertainty, Apex shook her head, as she realigned herself, and took the first step into the maw of the beast. OOC: @Unreliable Narrator @Burnmad Point Apex and Morangad into whatever direction you will. (Also open for interaction)

IC: Drukarus (Fort Nektann) Within the courtyard of the fort, Drukarus stood, his maul planted within the earth, his grip loose upon the handle, his face without a trace of worry. Across from him stood three Skakdi, a Ta-, Po-, and Ko-Skak. Within their hands they held their weapons in tight white-knuckle grips; a brass warhammer, its head ending in hexagonal points, an axe, crude and plain but no less deadly, and a flail, its chain hanging free as gravity pulled down upon the flanged head. Each one of these warriors were hungry, a seething lust for battle flaring in each of their eyes. To the other Skakdi within the fort, they might have been called warriors. Out beyond, into the wastes of Zakaz, they would be known and called monsters. But here, now before Drukarus? They were to be made into soldiers...If they could prove they were at least worthy of even being considered warriors first. Standing now, Drukarus allowed his gaze to pass over each of the Skakdi before him. He allowed his eyes to linger on each one, not just to size them up, but to also test their wills against his own. Though the Po- and Ko-Skak didn’t exhibit any distress, Drukarus took note of how the Ta-Skak shifted their grip on the hammer they held, their optics breaking quickly from Drukarus’ own. But even though the two on the right didn’t express it, Drukarus knew that unnerve and doubt were already being induced amongst them all. Over the past month, it has been like this on a nearly daily basis. Three Skakdi at a time, they came at Drukarus, and everytime, Drukarus still stood at the end. But these duels of Drukarus weren’t simply him indulging in some fierce desire to fight. No. These were tests. Tests of these Skakdi’s skill, discipline, and ability to fight as a unit. If Drukarus was soon to lead these warriors into battle, he needed to know what he could work with, what he could teach them. From his initial surveys, he was foretold a general lack of quality, and after the month? He had yet to find any evidence to the contrary. “You all know what the rules are?” Drukarus called out to the Skakdi before him, “You three against myself. Victory to whoe-” “Yeah, yeah, yeah, whoever can’t keep fighting. We get it old man.” Cried out the Ko-Skak on the right, arrogance and annoyance lining his words, “Now shut your trap so that we can get on with it! Gore is going to be done cooking soon and I’m famished.” A cruel grin upon their face as they met Drukarus’ optics, starting to spin-up their flail. Drukarus met this Skakdi’s gaze, though he did not reassert his will to break this Skakdi’s arrogance. No, though it was his will dominating the will of another, it wouldn’t have been the same as what Drukarus was soon to do to them. Soon, Drukarus will break their arrogance, to humble them. The Ta-Skakdi still stood uneasily on the left, the words of their companion certainly not easing them. They were right to be fearful, but fear inspires cowardice, and cowardice needs to be stamped out. Without impunity. The only one who didn’t show much emotion was the Po-Skakdi in the middle. Their eyes were cold, fierce. Barely a grin was on their face, as seemingly only they were taking Drukarus as a truly serious threat. Perhaps they had merit. But Drukarus will find out soon enough. “Fair enough...Now then...Come at me! With all you got!” Drukarus cried out, an eagerness and excitement anointing each word, belying the apparent calm in his stance. The first to come charging was the Ko-Skakdi, charging forth without even consulting the best course of action with his fellow kin. Swinging down viciously with their flail, Drukarus casually side-stepped and pedaled around, as his grasp on his maul shifted and struck the Ko-Skak across the back, knocking them away. Turning back towards the other two, Drukarus was able to just raise his gauntlet up to catch the crushing hammer that was being swung down upon him by the Ta-Skak. This Skakdi fought with a belligerent stubbornness that Drukarus has seen before, as they simply just kept swinging down, harder and fiercer each time, trying desperately to break through Drukarus’ guard. But as each blow came crashing down, the force of the impact passing through the gauntlet and into Drukarus’ arm, the angle at which he held his arm lessened as his own size began to increase. But as Drukarus allowed blow upon blow to continue from the frenzied brute, from his peripheral, he caught sight of the Po-Skakdi, as they came at him with a low stance, intent on taking a quick slash while Drukarus’ guard was down. Smart, but not good enough. Ramming his maul back onto the ground, the head of it warping and wrapping around itself as the gravity around Drukarus lessened, his own resilience to its effect and him bracing against the effect allowing him to maintain his footing. As the next hammer blow came, Drukarus dropped his guard just enough, so that instead of the hardened spike striking the gauntlet, it instead just struck over it, inches from meeting flesh and frame. With a hefty movement, and the lack of gravity aiding in his blow, the Ta-Skak was soon sent flying backwards by Drukarus. For the briefest of moments, they were completely weightless, before their mass took hold of them again, as they came crashing into their Po-Skak companion. As Drukarus looked on as the two Skakdi scrambled out from under each other, a chain was thrown around his neck as the Ko-Skak attempted to choke out Drukarus, his iron collar creaking against the pressure. “Got you now, old man.” The Skakdi hissed into Drukarus’ ear with a sinister grin. It was...Honestly a pathetic attempt, one that Drukarus couldn’t help but scowl at. Reaching up with the Tahtorak’s Maw, Drukarus grasped at the Skakdi’s shoulder, their grip weakening as they let out a yelp of pain. Though he did not grab at them with enough force to crush frame, the maw’s claws still dug hungrily into flesh. And with the ambient gravity still being lessened around Drukarus, he tossed the Ko-Skak over his head and onto the other two Skakdi who had just stood back up, knocking them down all over again. “I said come at me with all you got! Is this it? Is this all you have to bring me!” Fury was in full swing now, as each word held a sharpened edge of frustration at the inadequacy of the fight so far. These were Skakdi! They are meant to be more than just simple ruffians, yet they fought like such. … And so, the fight continued as such, with Drukarus standing still, addressing and squashing any assault the Skakdi attempted against him. Around the courtyard, cooled magma, shattered melting ice, and displaced stones ringed their arena. And within the center of it all, Drukarus stood amongst the destruction, his breathing heavy though controlled, not a single cut or bruise marking his form. The other three Skakdi though, were battered and beaten. Some had bleeding wounds from where he caught them with the Maw, others had bruises and limps from where Ruk’s fist had landed. For three minutes, the back and forth continued, with around a dozen or so other Skakdi from the fort now watching the brawl from a safe distance. Throughout the fight, though Drukarus kept up his defenses and his repostes, he had also kept an eye on each of his opponents, reading and analyzing their movements and actions. The Ta-Skakdi was simply and brutish, his only montra seemingly being ‘hit it harder’. The Ko-Skakdi was not only arrogant, but he was also temperamental, his attacks growing more and more reckless and blind as the fight carried on. The only one who seemed competent was the Po-Skak, as they had at least attempted some sort of strategy, attempting to coordinate with his kin, but the Ta’s idiocy and the Ko’s arrogance made such attempts poor. Drukarus could have kept the fight going for another three minutes, but the outcome was already decided and Drukarus had seen enough. The three Skakdi were currently circling Drukarus, a brief transfer of nods being passed between the three, or at least between the Ko- and Po-Skakdi. Then, all at once, they charged forth, attempting to overwhelm Drukarus. Grasping Ruk’s fist in both hands, Drukarus slammed the head of the maul into the ground, its sheer weight forcing it down several centimeters into the ground. And just as the three Skakdi were about to strike, they all collapsed harshly into the ground, pinned and incapable of rising once more, as the weight of their own bodies against such gravitonic pressures prevented them from continuing the fight. But Drukarus knew Skakdi, and he knew they would hardly give up without a word. One-by-one Drukarus addressed the three; the Ta-Skak was quick to surrender, begging for Drukarus to not hurt him anymore, the Po-Skak, though didn’t say a word, did give a solemn nod in yielding. The Ko-Skak was a lot more reluctant, and it took Drukarus ‘lightly’ planting his the fist of Ruk onto the small of their back before they howled out a surrender, alongside a few less savory words. Releasing his grip, the three Skakdi were quickly off, the Ko-Skak rubbing his backside as he muttered beneath his breath. As for the rest of the crowd, they soon dismissed themselves as well, as the clamber of Gore’s lunch bell rang out. Drukarus let out a sigh as he looked around for any other Skakdi nearby who could see him, before he allowed himself to bend over, a gout of silver blood spilling out of his mouth. Wiping away the blood from his mouth, Drukarus had to admit. Though they were rough around the edges and needed some genuine training and discipline, they were still Skakdi, and Skakdi weren’t easy foes. More than once throughout the fight, Drukarus had to fall back onto his gift, his curse, from the demon Caedast. He reached up, as he gently brushed through the furs around his neck, outlining the empty heartlight within his chest. But they still needed training. Drukarus left the ring, his own blood soaking into the sand where he once stood, as he entered the fort, searching for Barius. OOC: @Burnmad The Warlord has made his mark.

I understand that. I just wanted to make sure that I have Kuini-Rama and the benefit of why I desecrated her. It isn't easy to get an army.

- Character Profile - DECEASED Name: Zak-Yak Breed: Av-Mesi Faction: Aspect of Makuta (Providence) Brief Description: Zak-Yak, like most Mesi, is inordinately pale and sickly-looking in coloration, with his back being covered in a matted patch of moss and fungi, although he still retains some use of his eyes, though they are constantly squinted and are generally poor. In addition, when light is shone upon his skin, at certain angles, golden flecks can be spotted amongst his pale white complexion, especially when in sunlight. Zak-Yak is also smaller than the average skakdi or Mesi, being less than two-thirds the size; this added with his hunched and coiled posture and his weak jawline and small frills, has given him a small, unassuming, and timid presence amongst others of his kind. Confounding his meek form, Zak-Yak’s right arm is gimped, leaving his near-useless for any form of extraneous activity. But thankfully, Zak-Yak has since been able to compensate for this deformity by strapping on the mechanical appendage of an ACR, the size and weight of it though forcing him to shamble around on the knuckles of the claw. Along with the ACR arm, Zak-Yak also wears the shredded fragments of a cloak he once stole, now equally infested with moss and fungus as his own backside. Personality: Zak-Yak is delusional at best and erratic at worst. Zak-Yak’s mind is...Shattered, split into many voices, each one competing to be the dominant one. These three voices have been split into three distinct minds; one meek, cowardly, desperately clinging to any form of kindness, one cruel, spiteful, and filled with grudges, and one more, solemn, saddened, and simply trying to protect the other voices from each other and the world around them. Originally, when Zak-Yak first struck out on his own, he sought to claim the favor of an Aspect, for within his eyes, they were seen as god-like beings, capable of offering great power. But now having explored the wastes and having been desecrated by Providence, Zak-Yak’s sole allegiance is now to them alone. Background: Since his birth, Zak-Yak has been beaten, bullied, and abused by both his siblings and his fellow kin. This life of abuse continued on, when he was claimed as the personal slave of a Mesi-Xa chieftain. It was here in his formative years of abuse and service to the chieftain that Zak-Yak psyche initially fractured, as well as his original reverence for the Aspects and their Kraata children. For decades Zak-Yak lived like this, suffering abuse, just managing to avoid being sacrificed himself; until during a raid against another warskak of Mesi, that the head of Mata-Nui crashed landed upon the island of Zakaz. As the head crashed into the island, tremors and cave-ins began to occur all across the underground network of tunnels, leading to the death of Zak-Yak's master and most of his former tribe. Awakening amongst the rubble, Zak-Yak found his former master dead, and taking his revenge, claimed the arm of his master’s ACR for himself before scurrying off into the tunnels, free. Powers - Vision Power of Phantom Sight: Zak-Yak's has the vision power of phantom sight. This allows Zak-Yak to see objects or creatures that would be considered ethereal or invisible, their form being seen as a ghostly visage. In addition, Zak-Yak can fire two faint-white beams out of his squinted eyes, with whatever they strike, whether an object or a creature, being made ethereal. The duration and effectiveness of the effect being dependent upon the size of the object or creature and the amount of concentration Zak-Yak focuses into the beams when he fires them. Zak-Yak can also end the effect of his own eye beams by striking the same object or creature again with his beams. Phantom Step: Zak-Yak is capable of, on an instinctual level, to turn ethereal. Zak-Yak’s innate ability takes but only a few seconds to trigger fully, as well as only a few seconds to cease, with him also being capable of “phasing” between the two states, allowing him to potentially attack others while also being able to avoid attacks himself. Unfortunately, this aspect of his innate ability is inconsistent at best, being primarily tied to his emotions or personalities, as he has yet to fully master this trait. In addition, Zak-Yak can’t trigger his innate ability when in physical contact with another creature, though he can take objects with him, the object no longer being ethereal once he let’s go of it. Whenever Zak-Yak becomes ethereal, he gains the following traits. He is intangible, being unable to interact or be interacted with physically, though he still feels more subtle effects; such as gravity, temperature, and pressure, though such effects are significantly reduced in their effect. In addition, if Zak-Yak does attempt to interact with someone or someone attempts to interact with him, they will only feel a light pressure and a cold spot. He is visually undetectable by traditional means, as he is invisible to the normal sight of most beings. Though, other senses, such as infrared can detect him. In addition, he can be heard, though any sound he makes is muffled, with normal talking volume being heard as a whisper. Elemental Power of Light: Zak-Yak, like all Skakdi, has a latent elemental power, his being the elemental power of light. Zak-Yak is only able to access his elemental power when in physical content with another Skakdi. In addition, Zak-Yak’s element actually leaves him surprisingly acclimated to the light and heat of the sun. Kraata of Insect Control (Level One): Zak-Yak bears a level one Kraata of Insect Control, given to him by the Aspect Providence. Zak-Yak’s Kraata power makes it so that he is always covered in tiny, stinging insects of the native area that will protect Zak-Yak. Equipment - Zak-Yak's Talons: Zak-Yak's only real weapon is his salvaged ACR arm. This piece of machinery is a fierce weapon and tool, the appendage ending in a set of massive claws, similar in appearance to the talons of a Kahu. When initially salvaged, the arm was caked in dirt, mud, blood, and fungi, leaving it heavily impaired and in poor condition. But after being repaired by the Vo-Skakdi, Cravious, the arm is now more effective than ever, capable of surprising bouts of strength and tearing through most materials. Zak-Yak's Shiv: Zak-Yak's only other “weapon” is a shiv that he always keeps hidden onto his person. Zak-Yak only ever uses his shiv out of either desperation, or when his more grudge-filled side of him has an opportunity to settle scores. Flaws - Stunted Frame: Zak-Yak is far weaker than the average Mesi, this makes it so that he can easily be overpowered by other characters. If it wasn’t for his ACR arm, his Kraata power, and vision power, Zak-Yak would be virtually defenseless. Split Emotions: Zak-Yak's emotional state is incredibly fragile, as it is split between three distinct personalities, each one constantly fighting for control and holding their own opinion on any given situation. “Zak-Yak” is the embodiment of Zak-Yak’s fear and desperation. This personality is incredibly timid, easily being frightened into running. Yet, it is also desperately seeking attention and positive reinforcement, as it is starved for affection, quickly forgetting past abuse when presented with kindness. This personality has the weakest vocabulary and commonly refers to itself in the third person. “Us or We” is the embodiment of Zak-Yak’s anger and frustration. This personality is incredibly spiteful, easily being offended into aggression. Yet, it is also Zak-Yak’s courage and bravery, rarely running and often standing up for Zak-Yak. This personality has a moderate vocabulary and commonly refers to itself in the plural tense. “I” is believed to be the original and most true conscience of Zak-Yak. This personality is usually solemn and is surprisingly aware of its mental situation. “I” is rarely seen, as according to its own words it is what is keeping “Zak-Yak” and/or “Us” from taking over completely. This personality is the most intelligent in its speech and commonly either refers to itself as Us or We, in reference to the other personalities, or as simply I. Name: Chronicler Sala Breed: Su-Matoran Faction: Refugees/Aspect of Makuta (Sorilax) Brief Description: Sala body, like most other Matoran of plasma, is orange and white. Sala's mask, a noble Komau, is orange, alongside his hands, feet, arms and shoulders, the rest of his body being white. In addition, Sala wears a pair of spectacles integrated into his mask, he also carries within himself a satchel that is filled with a variety of notes and writing implements. Personality: Sala is a chronicler at heart, brave, curious, and oftentimes foolish. Sala tries to do the best he possibly can whenever others are in need of him. In addition, Sala has an unending desire to learn, seeking knowledge wherever it may be hidden. Background: Sala earliest memory has him working within the forges of Ta-Metru, till one wrong turn led him into the Archives where he found a long abandoned archival chamber, where he proceeded to read and learn everything he could till he was found by the Vahki. It was that pivotal moment that led Sala down the path of the chronicler. Before the League's attacks on Metru-Nui and even before the war itself, Sala’s life as a chronicler took him to all but the most dangerous corners of the Matoran universe. It was these journeys that gave Sala countless bits of knowledge and into nearly as countless amounts of trouble. But once the League’s forces began to threaten the Matoran, outside travel was limited till Sala had to all but stop his travels and remain in Metru-Nui. But when the League made their sudden assault of Metru-Nui, Sala attempted to help the forge workers of Ta-Metru, and witnessed the horror as the entire Metru was drowned in molten Protodermis. Now having escaped Metru-Nui after the crash, Sala made his way amongst other refugees into the Fau Swamp, there meeting the Aspect Sorilax. Impressed and enthralled by the vast amount of knowledge that the Aspect Sorilax knew, Sala sought to ingrain himself to the Aspect’s side, having since become a constant traveling companion. Powers - Elemental Power of Plasma: Sala, like all Matoran, has an association with an elemental power, his being the elemental power of plasma. Sala’s association with plasma gives him an incredible resistance to heat, far more so than a Ta-Matoran, as well as the ability to strain through bright sources of light. Kraata of Stasis Field (Level Five): Sala bears a level five Kraata of Stasis Field, given to him by the Aspect Sorilax. Sala’s Kraata power allows him to encase himself in a semi-opaque field of force that covers his entire body. While encased in this force, Sala cannot be harmed by any physical means, while also being incredibly difficult to move, this also means that Sala cannot move while encased. Sala can also encase any creature within the same field through physical contact or through eye contact that can last for several days. Equipment - Plasma Sword: Sala wields a plasma sword, an enhanced version of the common fire sword. The plasma sword puts off an incredible heat, capable of easily cutting through most materials, even Protosteel if subjected to the sword’s “blade” for long enough. Unfortunately, since the crash, Sala has lacked the necessary supplies to properly maintain and repair it, making it prone to failure. Kanohi Komau, Mask of Mind Control: Sala wears an unpowered noble version of the Komau, as such the mask lacks any Kanohi powers. Air Hatchet: Sala wields the Air Hatchet, a legendary weapon that was once stored within the Air Suva. The weapon is an emerald-green one-handed axe, made of solid Protosteel. In addition, the hatchet is capable of granting the wielder a limited control of the air, as it is capable of creating, manipulating, and dissipating wind. Vial of Hordika Venom: After going through his harrowing Far Shore adventure, Sala has returned with a single vial of Hordika venom. If ingested, this venom inflicts severe mutations and mental degradation to the subject, transforming them into a wild, feral, and fierce Rahi or Rahi-like creature. Flaws - First One In, First One Out: Sala is brave, very brave, foolishly so. Sala's bravery has oftentimes gotten him into trouble, as he usually jumps to the aid of another or accepts any challenge without considering the consequences. But in addition, though Sala is initially brave in most situations, he is quick to turn tail and run when in danger or collapse in on himself when overwhelmed. This secondary weakness of his can leave him in a rough situation between staying in danger or leaving those who are with him. Hold onto Strength, and Never Let Go: Sala, having witnessed the destruction of Ta-Metru, the bombing of Metru-Koro, and becoming desecrated, has since grown a desperate need to grow stronger than he is currently and seeks to prove that he deserves it. This has most poignantly manifested in Sala rarely leaving the ACR given to him by Sorilax, Avagah. This has also affected Sala’s own sense of bravery and cowardice, as Sala can become foolishly brave while within Avagah, and becoming needlessly timid when outside of the ACR. Devotion will be your Undoing: After going through his harrowing Far Shore adventure, Sala has returned with a new sense of purpose. He must help Sorilax achieve his grand wish. The world is doomed and there is only one thing that Sala believes can save it, and that is Sorilax, and so, Sala is now willing to do whatever his patron Aspect needs in order to help them achieve their goal. Willing to do, whatever. Hit or Miss: From a natural disability, as well as decades of working at the Ta-Metru forges and intense sessions of constant writing and reading, Sala’s eyesight has degraded significantly, leaving him near-sighted. This leaves Sala a mild difficulty with discerning far away objects in detail, and compounded by a shoulder injury from a game of Akilini, Sala is also incredibly poor at throwing objects with any amount of accuracy. Void Sickness: After going through his harrowing Far Shore adventure, Sala has returned and contracted Void Sickness. Having contracted the sickness, Sala is now able to learn, utilize, and research taboos and their rites. But, Sala's mental state is now sliding towards a downward spiral, with his kind and nervous self growing more cold and callous, his only goal being allowing Sorilax to achieve their wish. Name: Apex, Aspect of the Beast Breed: Aspect of Makuta Faction: Aspect of Makuta/The Island Brief Description: Apex's appearance is...Truly unique for most Aspects. The vessels that most Aspects’ bear are crafted to be either as alien-looking or as normal-looking as possible, with them usually appearing either purely mechanical or at least attempting to appear more organic than they really are. But Apex’s form could genuinely be mistaken for a natural-born Rahi...If it wasn’t for the unnatural fusion of her appearance, with seemingly organic muscle lining the Protodermis frame of her vessel. The appearance of Apex’s vessel is similar to, if not directly inspired by or the inspiration for the legendary Rahi-Nui of ancient Matoran myth. Apex’s vessel is large and menacing, larger than even a Muaka or Manas Crab in size. The vessel is also nearly completely-black, with traces of other colors running throughout it like stretching veins or mottled stripes, the colors including; red, green, orange, yellow, blue, and purple being located throughout it. Apex’s lower body is supported by a wide base made up of three treads, the two side treads being heavily armored and bearing a reminiscent of Manas Crab’s, while the central tread being able to extend out forwards, allowing Apex to rear up, freeing her forelimbs. As her lower body transitions up into her upper body, midway through, jutting out of her back, is a stinger tail similar to that of a Nui-Jaga’s tail. Apex usually keeps the stinger tucked in tightly against her body, keeping it out of immediate notice. Moving onto her upper body, its appearance is a blend between the sleek predatory grace of the Muaka with the broad shouldered mass of the Kane-Ra. In addition, extending down her back and up her neck is a series of frills and spines like those of the Tarakava, as well as an added pair of insectoid wings, their design obviously influenced by those of the Nui-Rama. Reaching down from her broad, armored shoulders extends two, almost gangly forelimbs. A blended fusion between the lithe and lengthy limbs of the Tarakava and the bulky strength of the Muaka, each of the limbs ending in two broad, almost shovel-like claws with a single larger curved claw, a mixture between the hooves of the Kane-Ra and the curled up punching fists of the Tarakava, with a single claw akin to that of the Muaka’s. In addition, Apex has a smaller pair of limbs protruding just below her forelimbs, them resembling those of a Nui-Rama, the thin claws being capable of rough manipulation. Supporting Apex’s mighty skull is an elongated neck that she keeps retracted back most of the time, its appearance similar to the necks of Kane-Ra’s and Muaka’s, a seemingly organic tubing wrapping its entire length. Her head itself is a fearsome affair, a blend between the visage of the Kane-Ra and of the Muaka, bearing the protruding horns and snout of the former and the ears and predatory eyes of the latter. And as for Apex’s maw, it opens up to a frightening arrangement of teeth, with the enlarged fangs of the deadly Muaka and the protruding tusks of the Kane-Ra. After claiming the Kraata Creation Taboo, the upside-down triangle symbol of the Taboo is now branded upon the forehead of Apex's head. In addition, a shallow gash marks her chest, one not deep enough to cause her to leak out but enough for her to notice, a reminder of her duel with the Skakdi hunter, Uraborask the Hunter. Personality: Apex, unlike the rest of her kin, cares little for the affairs of other beings as she lacks the same social finesse or the desire to manipulate as other Aspects do. Apex would rather prefer to spend her time amongst the foliage and wildlife of the island, calmly and peacefully observing all that occurs around her with a ponderous curiosity and appreciation. But times have changed since the Ark left, and as such, so has Apex. In the time before, Apex rarely was lured into action, as the only inhabitants at the time were the Matoran of old, who knew better than to illicit her wrath, except for the few arrogant Toa who sought to test their strength against her. But now the Matoran and Toa are gone and all that remain are the Skakdi, a fierce, cruel, and barbaric race whose actions, as well as those of their god, Irrnak, has led to the mass destruction of the island’s ecosystem. Apex now embodies the raw fury of nature itself, being easily irritable and quickly falling into a Rahi-like rage at the presence or mention of Skakdi, as well as any blatant destruction towards the natural beauty of the island. But when dealing with those who aren’t Skakdi and are capable of respect towards the natural world, Apex comes across as proud, matter-of-factly, and fiercely dangerous. But in reality, Apex personally has little experience interacting with people, quickly feeling out of place when normal Rahi social displays fall short with other people. This, with Apex desire to constantly put up a fierce visage and her bottling up her emotions, can quickly lead her into an awkward spiral, with usually her preferred method of dealing with it simply being running away. Thanks to forming a close bond with the Tiokaha, Morangad, Apex has since learned to be more open with her emotions, though only with Morangad in truth. Background: In the time before the Ark’s departure, Apex kept to herself, staying separate from the Builder’s affairs as best she could, preferring to immerse herself within the natural beauty of the island’s ecosystem. But with the arrival of Irrnak and his prized, the Skakdi, Apex was roused from her peace. With the great destruction inflicted upon the island by the Skakdi and the rite-born monsters of Irrnak, Apex rose to fight against the Skakdi with a ravenous rage and fury, continuing the fight even after the entombment of the Kaita Mechs and the departure of the Builders. Continuing her slaughter and massacre upon the Skakdi, Apex’s one Aspect war continued till, lured in by the promise of more Skakdi to kill, was trapped by the Skakdi warchief, Nektann Sr. For centuries, she was trapped, subjected to pure void and darkness, with her more than once feeling the pull of the void, the desire to return to the Antidermis pool. But eventually, as the head of Mata-Nui crashed down upon the island, Apex was once again freed, now one of the few ancient Aspects still remaining from the time before the Ark’s departure from the island, her vengeance and grand wish burning inside her. Powers - Elemental Power of Shadow: Apex, like all Aspects, has the elemental power of shadow. This allows her to create, control, and observe through shadows. But since her confinement within her prison in the Ash Barrens and being submerged in absolute darkness for such an extended period, she has since grown an intense fear of shadows. Apex refuses to use her own element except for, at most, observation. Although, it does instinctually manifest alongside her emotions, usually when she is filled with rage but also when she is filled with sorrow or fear. Kraata of Rahi Control (Level Three): Apex has the power of a level three Kraata of Rahi Control. Apex’s Kraata power makes it so that Rahi are warded against attacking her, in addition, she can pacify Rahi or enrage it into a violent frenzy or lull it into sleep. Desecration Taboo: Apex, like all Aspects, has knowledge of the Desecration Taboo and is able to bind a Kraata to a willing host from a still bearing Heartlight. Apex currently has desecrated the following individuals. Kuini-Rama, Queen of the Nui-Rama (Given Kraata power of Power Scream, used the Heartlight of a Ta-Skakdi) Marrow (Given Kraata of Weather Control, used the Heartlight of a Skakdi) Kraata Creation and Infection Taboo: Apex has gained knowledge of the Kraata Creation and Infection Taboo and is able to now create Kraata from the Heartlights of other beings by infusing them with her essence and plunging it into Energized Protodermis. Apex currently has three Kraata worms in her possession. Level three Kraata of Shattering (Made from the heartlight of Uraborask the Hunter) Level one Kraata of Chain Lightning (Made from the heartlight of a Matoran from Le-Metru Nuva) Level one Kraata of Stasis Field (Made from the heartlight of a Rahi) Apex has currently infected the following with her Kraata. Morangad (With the Kraata of Shattering) Various Rahi within the Fau Swamp (With the Kraata of Shattering, Chain Lightning, and Stasis Field) Equipment - Clumsy Flight: Through the use of the large pair of Nui-Rama wing’s on Apex’ back, she is capable of prolonged and sustained flight. But, due to her size and shape, this flight is clumsy and slow, which can leave her being outmaneuvered easily by other aerial Rahi or Protoderms. In addition, it takes Apex a few seconds to fully leave the ground, making it ineffectual for avoiding most attacks. Lunging Jaws: Although it is usually retracted, Apex is able to swiftly extend her neck, nearly doubling her total length, and grab whatever is in front of her within her vicious jaws, the bite force of which comparable, if not exceeding, that of the Muaka’s. She can also generally extend and turn her neck so that she can reach nearly anywhere around her, though the same speed is not present. Manipulator Arms: Protruding out of her chest, just below her upper forelimbs, are a pair of small arms similar in style to the limbs of a Nui-Rama. Although Apex can use these arms to strike out against foes, they have shorter reach and are less powerful than her forelimbs, so instead, she prefers to use these limbs when rough manipulation is needed. Punching Claws: Supporting her upper body, these gangly yet deceptively fast and powerful limbs are Apex’s main defense when in a fight. These forelimbs, bearing the length and swiftness of a Tarakava, and the strength of a Muaka, are capable of lashing out in vicious swings or hefty punches, with the limbs themselves terminating into three digits; two broad shovel-like claws, akin to the hooves of a Kane-Ra, and a single hooked claw like a Muaka. These limbs can be devastating when making contact with a threat, but Apex is not capable of rapid propulsion without the use of these forelimbs, limiting their use in certain situations. Sharpened Horns: Sprouting from atop her head, are a pair of horns indicative of the Kane-Ra. These horns, alongside Apex’s thick skull, can be made to use as effective goring and ramming tools. But in general, Apex prefers to use these horns for simply clearing away brush rather than actually combat. Venomous Stinger: The last weapon in Apex repertoire, is her deadly twin-pointed stinger. Located halfway down her backside, where her upper body transitions into her lower body, the stinger usually rests tucked up against her back. But, when she needs to, she can swiftly launch the stinger forwards, the upper length of it extending forwards, piercing through whatever Apex was intending to strike. The deadliest part of this attack isn’t the swiftness of it, but rather the deadly venom that lies within, as it can quickly kill a target over the course of a few days, crippling them all the while. The only real limitation being its incredibly narrow arc, as Apex is only capable of using the stinger against threats directly in front of herself. Flaws - To Slay Monsters: Although Apex’s vessel is by far one of the most physically powerful and intimidating amongst her kind, that does not mean that it doesn't holds its own weaknesses. Due to Apex’s size, any small or swift target, could theoretically avoid most of her attacks, as she is incapable of rapidly turning in place, leaving her effective arc for attacks being right in front of her or just off to the side. In addition, though most of her body is naturally armored, portions of it transition to softer, weaker, faux-organic components, this includes; her joints, particularly her underarm, her treads, the small of her back, above her tail and in between her wings, the bottom of her jaw, and her stomach, where her upper body transitions into her lower body. A Beast Among Demons: Apex, after witnessing the destruction the Skakdi have brought and becoming confined by them, has grown an intense and beastial hatred for them, one that can cause her to fly into a murderous rage upon the sight of them and/or bring her great anger at their mention. In addition, after living separate from other sapient Protoderms and then becoming trapped for centuries, Apex’s social skills are incredibly lacking, as she can quickly let her frustration get to her or simply grow too uncomfortable to continue any sort of conversation with others. To Stare into The Abyss, is to Know It: After spending centuries trapped within the absolute darkness of her prison and feeling the pull of the void once before, Apex now has an incredible fear of both the darkness and of death itself. Apex’s fear of darkness and its associated elements most poignant manifests in her fearful refusal to use her own element of shadow, with it only ever manifesting unknowingly by her, fueled by own emotions. This usually ends up startling Apex. In addition, Apex fear of shadows and darkness can easily demoralize her in a fight, whether the setting where the fight is taking place is within a near-black environment or the individual that Apex is facing is using the element shadow themselves. This could easily lead to Apex’s own fear taking hold of her and compelling her to flee. Grand Wish: Apex’s grand wish is to restore the island to its former, unspoiled beauty. Before the awakening of the Kaita Mechs, before the arrival of Irrnak and the Skakdi, before even the Builders. Apex seeks to restore the island to such a natural state and then implant herself as the very heart of it, so that she may have reach and influence all across it, ensuring it is never despoiled again. Step One: Desecrate a loyal follower and companion. (Accomplished by infecting Morangad) Step Two: Claim control of a loyal pack of followers, ones who will serve Apex’s every wish. (Accomplished by desecrating a princess of a Nui-Rama hive and implanting the princess as the new queen) Step Three: ??? In addition, Apex has unlocked a set of additional abilities pertaining to her desecrated following from accomplishing her milestones. Theses include; Telepathic audio communication between a single desecrated follower at a time. Being able to see through the eyes of a desecrated follower. Name: Warlord Drukarus Breed: Ba-Skakdi (MU) Faction: Barius’ Warskak Brief Description: Drukarus is truly an imposing example of how big the Skakdi species can get. Standing around 9'9" in height and weighing over half a ton, Drukarus is truly a phenomenal physical specimen, with his sturdy, wide-set self. His visage is hard and grim, while most Skakdi constantly bear a sinister grin upon their faces, Drukarus maintains a stoic, tight-lipped expression, his harsh purple gaze penetrating all that he sees. Covering his near pitch-black body, Drukarus is covered from nearly head-to-toe in purple ritualistic tattoos and markings etched into his frame and skin, each one written in the ancient, traditional Skakdi script and hand etched by many shamans and orators of his species, each one telling a great story of Drukarus’ past, marking his strength, influence, and experience. These tattoos coupled with the numerous scars, scratches, and notches within his frame translate to anyone the extensive life Drukarus has lived as a warrior and champion of his people. In addition, Drukarus also wears a sturdy set of armor; consisting of a large pauldron covering his right shoulder and the right-side of his chest that extends down into an armored sleeve, up to his wrist, a massive gauntlet on his left hand, it ending in a vicious set of claws, a set of greaves, an iron collar around his neck and collar bone, and tassets around his waist. He also has furs and hides of various Rahi wrapped around his neck and waist. Personality: Stoic and prideful, Drukarus stands as a champion of his people. Unlike most other Skakdi, Drukarus is surprisingly impassioned in his expressions and tone, with his voice keeping a neutral tone whenever he speaks. The only time Drukarus freely allows his emotions to show themselves is when he is caught within the heat of battle, his roars and shouts bellowing over the clamber of blades and the roar of rockets. Though prideful, Drukarus is also wise given his centuries of life, understanding the concept of restraint better than most Skakdi. In addition, Drukarus himself is a host of knowledge and sage words, many gleaned from either his own experiences or the experiences of others. But Drukarus will still staunchly uphold his own personal values, stubbornly standing by them. His stubborn pride can also make Drukarus seem domineering, with him desiring all but the utmost discipline amongst his fellows. Background: Once upon the MU-version of Zakaz, Drukarus stood as one of the most well-known warlords, striving constantly to unite his people under a single banner. For centuries, Drukarus fought upon his home, till at last the League arrived upon Zakaz’s shores. Drukarus, alongside the other more notable warlords of Zakaz, initially refused the League’s offer, the fierce independent spirits of the Skakdi compelling them to deny the League their strength. But through countless battles, assaults, and sieges, one-by-one the warlords fell and they’re armies fell under League control. Drukarus eventually stood as one of the last free Skakdi warlords of Zakaz, continuing to fight against the League; attacking supply routes, sieges fortresses, and ambushing entire armies. Drukarus continued to be a thorn in the League’s presence upon Zakaz, eventually compelling Barraki Ehlek, the Barraki overseeing Zakaz, to intervene personally. Laying a masterful plan, Ehlek lured out most of Drukarus’s forces from his main fortress while a secondary force sieged the stronghold and left with the women and children in tow. Left with no other choice, Drukarus committed himself and his remaining, willing soldiers to commit one last desperate, suicidal charge against Ehlek’s main force, where Ehlek himself was purportedly located. The battle...Was truly a final defiant cry for the entire Skakdi race, but it was a foolish one as the only one remaining was Drukarus himself, battered, beaten, and failing in his attempt to kill the Barraki who didn’t even deign to fight amongst his own soldiers. Captured and made into a trophy and war hound, Drukarus was unleashed by the Barraki as a tool for their war. Channeling his hatred, rage, and fury, Drukarus tore into the foes of the League, victory upon victory coming wherever he was sent. This continued till the fateful final attack on Metru-Nui, and the end of the world as they all knew it. Drukarus has since left the League and Metru-Nui and has found the Warskak’s to the northernmost portion of TBT Zakaz. Now, Drukarus seeks to build up the current warlord, Barius, and his forces as well as laying the foundations to begin his ultimate goal. Powers - Vision Power of Dominance: Drukarus' has the vision power of dominance. This allows Drukarus to impose his will upon those he plants his gaze upon, instilling within their mind a sense of inferiority compared to him; this can benefit Drukarus in asserting dominance or coercing others. In addition, if Drukarus is ever able to establish direct eye contact, then he can force them to his will, compelling them to prostrate before him. Those who succumb to Drukarus’ intense will remain under his sway as long as he maintains line of sight and then some time afterwards, pending on how long he maintained and focused his gaze upon them. Lastly, Drukarus is also himself resilient to effects that would manipulate his own will or emotions, such as a Kraata of Fear. Will of Force: Resiliency and power, hallmarks of a great warrior, and both that Drukarus wields in great and equal measure. Drukarus holds the innate power to absorb kinetic energy into his own body, lessening the impact he suffers and adding it to his overall strength and size, giving him both a way to grow in power and shrug off blows. But, this power is a double-edged sword, for as it increases Drukarus’ strength and size, it lessens his speed and reactions. Thankfully, Drukarus can release some of this built-up energy, channeling it into his blows, inflicting the same force back upon his foes as it ripples across his own form, essentially allowing the harm he would have suffered to occur. Lastly, Drukarus does have an upper limit to the size he can reach and the amount of energy he can store, as he can only grow in double his height, as any more force would trigger him to violently release all of the energy he has so far built up. This blast has a devastating effect and can leave Drukarus all but incapable of further reproach, at least not without suffering any further harm. Elemental Power of Gravity: Drukarus, like all Skakdi, has a latent elemental power, his being the elemental power of gravity. Drukarus is only able to access his elemental power when in physical content with another Skakdi. In addition, Drukarus’s element grants him resistance to the extremes of gravitational and atmospheric pressures. Kraata of Mind Reading (Level Five): Drukarus’ Heartlight has been replaced by a level five Kraata of Mind Reading, given to him by the Aspect Caedast. Drukarus’ Kraata power is constantly active at a low level, allowing him to detect the presence of other creatures near him and can avoid easy capture. In addition, Drukarus can focus his mind, reading the thoughts of those around him, learning of their immediate thoughts and predicting their actions. Equipment - The Fist of Ruk: A maul, first forged by the ancient Skakdi of old, the weapon’s continued existence speaks of the care and craftsmanship that went into its construction. Named after a presumably once-mighty Skakdi warlord, though only hallmarks of his legacy remain being his name, maul, and his fortress and tomb, with all but his name Drukarus had claimed for himself as his first steps in becoming a warlord. Supported by a threaded rod of solid Protosteel, wrapped in Tahtorak hide, the great ‘fist’ of the hammer constantly emanates elemental energy when held within the hands of a Skakdi, it constantly surging with the wielder’s innate element. The ‘fist’ itself is a massive solid slab of stone and steel, fused into one piece through elemental craft, with layers of segmented plates and hardened studs adorning it, adding to its weight and mighty profile. Along the head itself and the haft, weathered etching line it, each telling the tale of Ruk, supposedly the first warlord of Zakaz. The maul itself is a powerful weapon, one that only a few Skakdi could wield with its sheer size and weight, both Drukarus have since mastered to his own benefit. In addition, the maul allows any Skakdi who wields it to channel their element through its head, which Drukarus has experimented with extensively and has learned many applications for. Truly Drukarus has made this weapon his own, a symbol of his indomitable will. Tahtorak’s Maw: A massive clawed gauntlet constantly adorns the left hand of Drukarus, the faint visage of a MU Tahtorak carved into its design, memorializing one of Drukarus’ first battles. The top side of the gauntlets supports a large, roughly hexagonal buckler-style shield, notches and dents marking its extreme use and resilience. On the other side, where Drukarus’ hand would be instead extends three thick, large sharpened claws, forming the rough-equivalence of a hand. A superior defense and terrifying weapon all in one, Drukarus bears the maw as either a shield to block or deflect attacks, or as a crushing weapon, striking out with either his back end or grasping and tearing into his foes with the claws themselves. Flaws - A Warrior's Greatest Enemy is...Time: Time has not been kind to the warlord, and neither have his centuries of warfare. Drukarus is truly ancient by Skakdi standards, and such age is evident across and within the warlord’s body. Drukarus has grown notably slower in age, both from the numbing of his own senses and the weathering upon his joints. This has forced Drukarus to alter his fighting style, growing far more defensive and keeping his movements to a minimum.. In addition, a few old injuries still remain as a constant presence; Deep scar marks line his right shoulder, where he still suffers from the effects of the injury. A dull pain is a constant within his shoulder, increasing in intensity whenever Drukarus asserts his arm, this forces Drukarus to assert himself more when wielding his maul, slowing his swing speed. Also, occasional spikes of pain course through his shoulder, potentially causing his arm to lurch or for him to even lose grip upon his maul. His left hand is nearly all but lost, as the only whole fingers he still has includes his thumb and forefinger, only half of his middle and ring finger remains, and his pinkie is all but gone. In addition, the protodermic frame of his wrist has also been stripped. This has severely reduced his grip strength when not wielding the Tahtorak’s Maw. Drukarus’ knees and hips have simply just naturally worn away, this makes him slower when in pursuit, as well as limits his ability to avoid attacks. He also has occasional troubles standing up unaided. Prideful to the End: Although Drukarus has mastered the natural rage of the Skakdi species, his own pride still stands as a constant challenge to him. This pride of his, though usually kept in check as well, can lead to Drukarus becoming easily blinded, especially when he openly allows his emotions to be expressed. This pride can often come across as arrogance, manifesting itself in disagreeing with others over certain matters or Drukarus himself not realising when he outmatched. Drukarus' own pride can only be overcome by himself at a great cost to himself, such as a mass loss of life of his own warriors and/or people or when Drukarus himself suffers from severe injury or humiliation. The Cost for Knowledge...Is your Life: After offering his Heartlight to the Aspect Caedast, Drukarus has not only gained the power of a Kraata of Mind Reading, but also a curse bound to its power. Whenever using the Kraata and its powers, Drukarus can suffer from pain or even injury, such as nose bleeds, bloodshot eyes, or even worse. Due to the passive nature of the Kraata, Drukarus constantly suffers from a minor droning pain within the back of his head, as the Kraata constantly detects the presence of other minds nearby. This constant pain has put Drukarus on edge, making him far more prone to irritation and annoyance when with numerous other beings. - ACR Profile - ACR’s Name: Avagah (Dawnguard) ACR’s Faction: Sorilax/Refugees Pilot of ACR: Sala (Formerly Sorilax) Type of Heartlight Key: Rahi-Heartlight (Muaka) Physical Description: Avagah bears a resemblance to its former owner, Sorilax, meaning that it strikes a figure similar to that of a near-black Toa, to the point where it could look like a living being. The only difference being the tubular, almost tentacle-like arms that extend just before the ankle. The ACR itself is a few heads taller than a normal Toa, capable of fitting one within itself. It also has the option to become air tight and serve as a replacement vessel should an Aspect ever need one. Onboard Weapon Systems - Air Hatchet: Originally, Avagah wielded a large, plain sword, one that was easily avoidable when in intimate ranges. But after visiting the Air Suva ruins, Sala has since switched out the sword for the Air Hatchet that was located within the Suva. Shoulder Mounted Rhotuka Launcher: Built on as a retractable attachment on Avagah’s shoulder, Sala is capable of mentally using the Rhotuka Launcher, his Rhotuka power being Heat. Sala’s Rhotuka of Heat is capable of absorbing heat from its surroundings as it flies; warping flames, cooling magma, and leaving a trail of frost in the air, and then releasing all of the absorbed heat as either a concentrated beam, directed by Sala, or as a fiery explosion upon impact. Unfortunately, the power of the Rhotuka is heavily dependent upon the ambient temperature, as more temperate environments can only produce first-two second degree burns, or in colder environments, only a warm tingle. - Minion Profile - Name: Kuini-Rama (Queen Wasp) Breed: Nui-Rama Queen Faction: Aspect of Makuta (Apex) Role: Fighter (The Nui-Rama hive at the Grand Temple Ruins and the Fau Swamp) Brief Description: Kuini-Rama is similar in appearance to most Nui-Rama, except for a few differences. Instead of being the usual orange of a drone or the green of a hive guard, Kuini-Rama is yellow, denoting her royal status. In addition, before becoming queen, Kuini-Rama was generally larger than a standard Nui-Rama, around one and a half times the normal size, her abdomen being twice as large. But now having transitioned into a queen, Kuini-Rama is now nearly twice her original size, with her abdomen growing to be three times the size. Powers - Nui-Rama Royalty: Kuini-Rama, as a queen of a Nui-Rama hive, has complete control over the actions of her hive. In addition, her hive will die to defend her, with Kuini-Rama herself keeping a close retinue of green Nui-Rama hive guards with her at all times. Kraata of Power Scream (Level Two): Kuini-Rama bears a level two Kraata of Power Scream, given to her by the Aspect Apex. Kuini-Rama’s Kraata power makes it so that she is constantly producing a high-frequency drone from her wings, one that her own hive has grown to recognize and utilize for communication that also puts the nerves of other Protoderm’s on edge. In addition, she can emit bursts of high-pitch sound that induce crippling headaches in others. Equipment - Rapid-Beating Wings: Kuini-Rama has a pair of insectoid wings that she can rapidly beat to communicate with her hive or to utilize her Kraata power. In addition, she is capable of incredible speeds and maneuvers with her wings, though not as incredible as she once could with her greater size. Deadly Stinger: Kuini-Rama’s engorged abdomen carries with it a great stinger, that if she can stab into another creature, can quickly induce paralysis or inject them with Nui-Rama eggs that will hatch larvae who will begin to eat them from the inside-out. Claws and Proboscis: Kuini-Rama lastly has a pair of sharp claws and a vicious proboscis, both of which she is not above using in combat; the claws being able to grab onto prey and carry even large Rahi off the ground and her proboscis being able to pierce into the thick hides. Flaw: Even though Kuini-Rama is filled with a fierce spirit of a survivor and a seemingly unnatural sapience, she is still simply a Nui-Rama, bearing the instinctual intelligence of one. Although she will heed Apex’s commands, her top priority is her own personal survival, and as such, if she is ever directly attacked or is caught without her hive guards, she will quickly flee. In addition as a Nui-Rama, she may grow more tired and sluggish when subjected to cold temperatures, with the possibility of her no longer being able to beat her wings or utilize her Kraata power.

IC: Vulimai (Kini-Koro) As the two Toa walked out of the rear door of the airship, Knichou attempting to get some clarification from the elder, waiting for them at the base of ramp would be Vulimai. Her hands on her hips, staring at the two, she focused her gaze towards Stannis, her green eyes piercing through the trans-black luster of her Kanohi. "Well if it isn't the wanderer himself, Toa Stannis. I admit, I expected you to find us, whether by accident or by 'fate'. But I wasn't expecting you to do so in an airship. Honestly, I'm more surprised that you even know how to fly one." OOC: @BULiK @EmperorWhenua @Tarn

IC: Vulimai (Kini-Koro) Dashing through the grassy fields, Vulimai cheated a glance towards the hills where Kini-Koro was located, and in the distance, she could see as Matoran were making for their homes, a few standing outside, curious about the new airship above them. As Vulimai tore her optics away and looked skywards towards the Ambling Alps, Vulimai hoped that nothing was going to go wrong as the Taku soon got close to intercept. A few more moments passed and Vulimai's comns soon lit up, as Knichou's voice came through. This is Commander Knichou, I'm aboard the Ambling Alp, we're steady now. Where did you want us to set down Vulimai? "Sigh...I thought we already talked about this," Vulimai whispered to herself before replying, "Can you locate my position? I am near Kini-Nui itself, a quarter-kio southwest of Kini-Koro. Land where I am, it's a flat plain here..." Vulimai was silent for a few seconds, but she couldn't help herself as she said the next part, "And also, the only commander on this comns network is speaking at the moment. So either stick with captain, or build a couple more ships. I might consider giving you the rank of admiral for that, flyboy." A smirk was on Vulimai's face as she said the last part, "That'll get to him." OOC: @BULiK @EmperorWhenua

IC: Vulimai (Kini-Koro) Keeping guard from inside of a watchtower, overseeing the silver lake of Kini-Nui, Vulimai gazed out towards the growing village in the hills, Kini-Koro, and the Matoran who worked within it. Vulimai let out a sigh of relief, a brief flicker of hope still burning within her. A month ago, the Matoran were sorrow-stricken, mournful, and without hope; but now? Smiles were upon her people's faces, them taking satisfaction and joy from a long days work, each Matoran working together to at last, build a home that will stand. They truly did come a long way. A month prior, Vulimai's hope was for the Matoran to return to Metru-Nui, to establish a home. But that hope died when she learned of the city's sinking. Vulimai spoke with the Toa "King", Aurax, upon the idea of the Matoran's return to the city, and though Vulimai didn't know if he attempted to hide the truth, she found out regardless. It was a demoralizing blow, to learn that Metru-Nui was truly lost, that there was never to be a triumphant return to it. But hope was not completely lost yet, as Toa Orieus soon returned and brought news of the Matoran village, Tobduk-Koro, and of the ancient ruin it surrounded, one that held a portal to paradise. Vulimai dared to allow herself to hope, as memory of another ruin to the south peaked within her mind. She knew she was desperate now, but at that point, it was a desperation she had to follow. When Vulimai had brought the news, there was initially protests, outrage, and fear at the thought of abandoning yet another home for some distant hope. But the Matoran needed hope more than ever, and Vulimai wasn't going to give up on them. With the help of Knichou and the Taku, the Matoran began their migration south. Fear and trepidation continuing to fill the Matoran's minds, till the reuniting with the transformed Toa Leklo, and his news of the NUVA portals activation. At last, the Matoran had hope for a brighter future, and that hope had so far continued to rise, with the establishment of Kini-Koro. Yes there were a few initial surprises and tough decisions, such as Atamai and their Kaita Mech, the apparent return of Nuju, and what to do with the transformed Matoran, but Vulimai had taken it all in strides. For the first time, in a long time, Vulimai felt like she could finally relax. ... This is Stannis Maru on the Ambling Alp. I am—as the hotshots said in Le-Metru—coming in hot and am way out of my element. Karz, Vulimai lightly swore beneath her breath, her radio picking up Stannis' signal. Looking up towards the sky, Vulimai could make out to rapidly approaching shape of the Ambling Alp as it peaked over the valley. Immediately moving into action, Vulimai tuned into the Kini-Koro radio network, delivering a message to the operator on the other side to get the Matoran to return to their homes as quickly as possible. After that she began to tune her connection to get a hold of Knichou. But not simply being one to stand by, Vulimai leapt into action. Literally so, as she vaulted over the watchtower's railing and began to slide down the side of it, her armor adapting to the sudden acceleration and rapidly forming thrusters along her feet and hips to slow her descent, her legs bracing for impact. Taking a half-second to steady herself, Vulimai began to sprint, trying to find a large enough flat area where Stannis could at least crash land with no injury or damage to Kini-Koro itself. Reaching up to her comn bead, her armor bracing her body and propelling her forwards, Vulimai called out to Knichou. "Toa Knichou, an airship has broken into Kini-Koro airspace and is out of control. Can either you or Toa Nale fly up there to safely land the thing? I've already informed the citizens to return to their homes and am currently looking for a safe place for you to land it. Also, because I think you might want to know, it's Toa Stannis flying the ship." OOC: @BULiK

- Character Profile - Name: Commander Vulimai Breed: Vo-Matoran Faction: Refugees Brief Description: Vulimai’s body, like most other Matoran of lightning, is blue and white. Vulimai's mask, a great Kaukau, is trans-blue, though now the color is mostly trans-black with only traces of the original color still visible after it was infected by Whisper. Vulimai’s hands, feet, and body are azure blue, while her arms and legs are white. In addition, Vulimai wears a slim, form fitting suit of adaptive armor built by Toa Knichou using the Mask of Creation. The armor primarily manifests itself as a low-profile pair of pauldrons, tassets, and a breastplate, all of which having a silver sheen. Vulimai also wears a red and yellow sash, denoting her as both military commander of the Matoran guard and the leader of the Kini-Koro. Personality: Before the League’s war, Vulimai was a rebelling, free-spirited, troublemaker doing as she liked on the streets of Metru-Nui. Now, she is a Duty and disciplined instilled soldier who is doing everything she can to help her charges, the Matoran people. Vulimai is assertive and headstrong, rarely letting others to do all the work or to tell her what to do. She is dedicated to her Duty as the leader of her people after the loss of Turaga Dume and Sans, both of whom she holds strong opinions of. This dedication of hers can often make her seem like a stick in the mud or a workaholic, but Vulimai is capable of lighter moods and spirits, as she is known for bouts of sarcasm and the occasional joke. Background: In her earliest memories, Vulimai remembers being a rebel to the Duty-driven society of Metru-Nui, causing mischief wherever she went. But after being captured by the Vahki, she was taken to a far-off island and was placed within rehabilitation amongst various other Matoran, each one having their own problems. Trained together, Vulimai and her fellow Matoran eventually become an efficient force, which was very much needed as the war with the League began to kick off. Originally working on evacuation and fortification, Vulimai and her fellow Matoran were soon faced with the horrors of the war, with it eventually reaching Metru-Nui itself. Having fought to defend the city alongside her squad, Vulimai was forced to flee the city alongside the other Matoran, eventually resettling in Metru-Koro, with Vulimai being made captain of the guard. Now having failed in preventing the bombing of Metru-Koro, losing her closest companion, and being left as the sole-leader of the Matoran refugees, Vulimai has now dedicated all of her efforts into the protection of the Matoran, to the point of her own detriment. Powers - Elemental Power of Lightning: Vulimai, like all Matoran, has an association with an elemental power, her being the elemental power of lightning. Vulimai’s association with lightning gives her resistance to electrical shocks and makes her semi-nonconductive. Equipment - Protosteel Halberd: With the assistance of Toa Knichou, Vulimai has gotten an upgrade to most of her weapons and armor. Vulimai’s halberd has since been enhanced, being remained with Protosteel and infused with nanite technology. The halberd is now capable of telescopic movement, being able to become small enough to keep on a belt or to extend out twice its original length. This telescopic feature allows Vulimai to more practically use the halberd to pole-vault with, giving her a needed boost to mobility. Kanoka Shield: With the assistance of Toa Knichou, Vulimai has gotten an upgrade to most of her weapons and armor. Utilizing similar technology and techniques that he used when making Toa Nale’s buckler’s, Toa Knichou created Commander Vulimai a combination shield/Kanoka launcher. The Kanoka Shield is capable of working as an effective shield, but in addition to defense, a slot within it allows one to slot in a Kanoka disk. This feature comes with two benefits; one is that the disk can be launched out of the shield, and two, if an object strikes the shield, it will become subject to the effect of the slotted Kanoka disk. Vulimai usually carries around with herself a Ga-Kanoka of weakness and an Onu-Kanoka of freezing, both of them being level three. Mobility Gear: With the assistance of Toa Knichou, Vulimai has gotten an upgrade to most of her weapons and armor. In need of a way to be able to go toe-to-toe with other foes on the level of Toa, Toa Knichou has provided Commander Vulimai with a modified form of adaptive armor. Instead of being able to rapidly adapt to environmental situations, in order to benefit and protect the wearer, the armor instead reads the wearer’s movement, forming thrusters to increase the wearer’s overall mobility. This includes a base boost to speed and jumping distance. In addition, the armor grants Vulimai a basic heads-up display as well as radio communication. Infected Kanohi Kaukau, Mask of Water Breathing: Vulimai wears an unpowered great version of the Kaukau, as such the mask lacks any Kanohi powers. The mask has been infected by Whisper, giving Vulimai the use of the level three powers of a Kraata worm of sleep. This allows Vulimai to hibernate for extended periods and to reduce the reactions of others and induce grogginess through physical contact and put creatures as powerful as a Rahi to sleep with a touch. Flaws - Unstoppable Force: If one word could be used to describe Vulimai, stubborn would be near the top of the list. Vulimai, when push comes to shove, can quickly fall into a single plan of attack, so to speak, and stick to it against all reason. In addition to this, her persistent following of her Duty, can leave Vulimai blind to her own needs, easily overworking herself without outside intervention. Oh How…”Shocking”: For whatever reason, no matter what she does, Vulimai has the constant effect of shocking other people when she touches them. This could be useful for distracting others or drawing their attention, if she had any control of it and if it didn't shock her too. This has made many interactions with her go from initially jarring to downright annoying. - Minion Profiles - Name: Sergeant Bronk Breed: Onu-Matoran Faction: Refugees Role: Fighter (Head guards and quartermaster over Ko-Pou and the Ice Ruins) Brief Description: Bronk’s body, like most other Matoran of earth, is black. Bronk's mask, a great Matatu, is black, though traces of infection in its color is visible as it has been infected by Whisper. The rest of his body is a solid black color. Powers - Elemental Power of Earth: Bronk, like all Matoran, has an association with an elemental power, his being the elemental power of earth. Bronk’s association with earth gives him increased strength and night vision. Infected Kanohi Matatu, Mask of Telekinesis: Bronk wears an unpowered great version of the Matatu, as such the mask lacks any Kanohi powers, though a telescopic lens, meant for examining objects close up, is attached to the mask. The mask has been infected by Whisper, giving Bronk the use of the level two power of a Kraata worm of slow. This makes Bronk much slower than he originally was, but it also makes him exceptionally hardy and resilient. In addition, he can now anchor himself to another creature and sap them of their speed, adding it to his own. Equipment - Spear-Club: Bronk wields a sturdy spear-club, the large hefty stick having a solid spike at the end of it for thrusting. Miniature Cordak Blaster: From the collection of items salvaged from Metru-Nui during the crash and taken over from Metru-Koro, this little gem is Bronk’s prize. This weapon is similar to a Cordak Blaster except it is single shot and fires in a (relatively) short arc. Flaw: Bronk, from years spent in the archives and working in near darkness, really can’t stand being out in the sun as the light practically blinds him. Other bright sources of light can have a similar effect on him. Name: Twesh Breed: Le-Matoran Faction: Refugees Role: Fighter (Guard over Ko-Pou and the Ice Ruins) Brief Description: Twesh’s body, like most other Matoran of air, is green. Twesh's mask, a mask of sensory aptitude, is lime-green, though now the color is mostly black with only traces of the original color still visible after it was infected by Whisper. Twesh’s arms, legs, and body are lime-green, while his hands and feet are darker green. Powers - Elemental Power of Air: Twesh, like all Matoran, has an association with an elemental power, his being the elemental power of air. Twesh’s association with air gives him increased agility. Infected Mask of Sensory Aptitude: Twesh wears an unpowered mask of sensory aptitude, as such the mask lacks any Kanohi powers. The mask has been infected by Whisper, giving Twesh the use of the level three powers of a Kraata worm of laser vision. This allows Twesh to glow his eyes incredibly bright, as well as project blinding beams of light from them as well as beams of searing light. Equipment - Kanoka Disk Launcher: Twesh wields a Kanoka disk launcher, one that he is surprisingly adept at given his constant fidgeting and nervous ticks. Twesh most often prefers to use his disk launcher in most fights, and most prefers to use Le-Kanoka’s for the added range. Shortsword: Twesh also has a shortsword that he rarely uses, as he usually runs away before he needs to use it. But if forced to, he has some basic skill with it but no real experience using the weapon. Flaw: Twesh is incredibly anxious and flighty, easily being startled or left without words. In a fight, his anxiety hits him at worst whenever others get to close to him. - Settlement Profile - Name: Kini-Koro (Temple Village) Faction: Refugees Leadership: Commander Vulimai Location: Located within the Hidden Valley of Kini-Nui. Built within the hillocks of the valley around Kini-Nui itself. Population: Around a 1,000 Matoran. Less than a hundred or so Matoran volunteered to have their Kanohi be infected by Whisper, with the powers including level two ice resistance, stasis field, laser vision, sleep, and level one slow and shapeshifting. Brief Description: Kini-Koro is the village formed by the Matoran who willingly left Metru-Koro and followed Commander Vulimai south towards the Ice Ruins, where using the NUVA portal, they arrived at Kini-Nui. The Matoran have since formed a new village, taking whatever usable salvage they still had from Metru-Koro, and with the help of Toa, like Toa Knichou and Toa Atamai, building their homes atop of and within the nearby hills. Basic electrical power has been established through the use of solar and wood burning generators, these generators working on providing the village with lights and means to recharge technological items, as well as radio communication. In addition, the beginnings of farming, hunting, and herding are starting up, utilizing the bountiful resources within the valley. Kini-Koro has also established trade with Tobduk-Koro through the Stone Ruin’s NUVA portal, offering limited access to the technological salvage and the agricultural products produced by the village. Resources - Electricity (In limited demand) Agricultural Products Technological Salvage (In limited demand) Kanohi and Kanoka (No means of producing more) Lumber Name: Ko-Pou (Ice Post) Faction: Refugees Leader: Sergeant Bronk Location: Located within the Relic Fields. Built within and around the Ice Ruins. Population: Less than 100 Matoran. In addition, kept in a separate space outside of the ruins, are the few dozen Matoran who have fallen to the unknown plague and have been transformed into Rahi. Brief Description: Ko-Pou is less of a settlement and more of an outpost, one formed out of necessity and the benefit of Kini-Koro. Ko-Pou is manned by a handful of Matoran volunteers and guards, whose primary duty is to ensure that no threats use the Ice Ruins NUVA portal. Beyond that, the Matoran also work to collect the water that pools at the base of the ruins to bring back to Kini-Koro through the NUVA portal, as well as watch over and provide for the transformed Matoran. Resources - Clean Water Mahi

IC: Drukarus (Fort Nektann) Drukarus only sighed at the blatant proclamation of Barius. He knew he was going to attempt to dissuade the Warchief from his reckless assault upon a city that he knew little, if anything about. But after today, from feasting, to story telling, to betrayal, Drukarus was beginning to wane. Leaving the Barius to his own devices, Drukarus' once more entered the fortress, as he sought for a place to rest. Entering the stone edifice of the late-Nektann's dominance, Drukarus soon found an empty hovel. Drukarus didn't worry for the intrusion, in the case the hovel's occupants have simply not returned, all Drukarus sought was a chance to finally sleep in a bed after so long. Approaching the bed, leaning his maul against the near wall, Drukarus took a seat upon it. As he squatted down, the creaking in the joints of his hips and knees softly sounded out eliciting a wince and a groan as his ancient body settled. Momentarily appreciating the soft suspension of the mattress, Drukarus then began stripping the furs and metal plates that covered most of his body, allowing them to clatter onto the ground. Flexing his shoulders, Drukarus felt the regular hitch of his right arm, deep scars running along his shoulder where the hitch resided, another memory from his battles of old. Lastly, he unlatched the large menacing gauntlet of his left hand, and as he pulled it off, he gazed down to the mangled end of his arm. The protodermis frame around his wrist having been torn away long ago, revealing the muscle beneath. His hand was a sorry state, as completely lacked his pinkie, while he only had half of his middle and ring finger. It was a gruesome memory, one of his earliest youth. Drukarus was old, and he knew it, he had never heard of a Skakdi passing from old age, Karz he had never heard of anyone dying from old age. But maybe that was just because they all died before they could reach that point, before the point where their joints began to creak and whine, before their circuitry began to spark and crackle, before their muscles began to rot away. But Drukarus feared his end less than he feared failing his goal. On the old Zakaz, he had fought countless battles, waged numerous wars, and claimed a many strongholds. But it never seemed to be enough, never enough at uniting his people. But here, on this Zakaz, he had a chance, he knew it, felt it in his frame. This Zakaz was to be his last chance at peace for his kind, for a better future, for a world where Skakdi can be more than just barbarians, thieves, and scavengers. He just prayed that Barius would see his goal...And accept it. OOC: Last Drukarus Post for SKR. Rest well Warlord, your time is not yet here. IC: Vulimai (Metru-Koro, The Western Garrison) "OK, you’re all clearly busy, I’ll just… go check up on that Manas from earlier and come back." Vulimai only sighed, "Yet another problem for me to deal with." Vulimai ignored Waveahk's words, as more and more matters continued to pile upon her. She needed to get those airships made, she needed to ensure the Matoran had a place to live, she needed to hope that Zaliyah's revolution didn't destroy the peace, she needed...She needed...Vulimai didn't know what she needed, what she needed truly. Meandering away, Vulimai unknowingly followed after Knichou, exiting through the same broken portion of wall, her hand lightly caressing the charred edges of rock and sandstone. Looking out into the desolate expanse, the shattered skull of Mata-Nui staring towards the meek settlement of Metru-Koro in comparison, Vulimai wanted to scream, to call out to the deathly cold skull, to hope for some response, for some answer as to why he allowed this to occur. If he was a god, if he was the whole world, then why had he allowed his people to die. But Vulimai didn't receive an answer, as she assumed that none had ever received one before, in better times, or worse ones. Drawing her eyes downwards towards the silver lake that surrounded the skull, silhouetted, was the figure of Taja and Knichou. Approaching, Vulimai took a seat next to the two Toa's, joining them in their silent view of the stars. OOC: @BULiK @Eyru @Nato the Traveler Last Vulimai for SKR.

IC: Gore Fury (Fort Nektann, Mess Hall) Silence pervaded the once lively mess hall, where Skakdi of all sorts of elemental inclinations eat, shouted, and roughed house away afternoon's dinner. In general, it was a great affair all around with only a minimal amount of injuries being inflicted, which is quite an accomplishment. While Barius and his other guests and companions discussed beyond the walls of the hall, one figure made himself equal parts known and ingrained to the joyous jubilation, with each Skakdi present now having a story or two to tell about the hefty party animal Gore Fury. Gore for his part, eat up every moment, as it had been decades since he had been amongst his own kind, and though Gore had left Zakaz with his family to escape the constant violence, Gore couldn't help but miss the kind of partying that comes with Skakdi. But the dinner was over, with Skakdi having either gone back to their duties or slunk off to their rooms to sleep their meals away. The only one remaining being Gore, cleaning up plates and pots and utensils, and the occasional semi-intact scrap of food. Stepping over slumped over and unconscious Skakdi bodies, Gore finished the last of his clean up as he returned to the kitchen. Depositing the dishes within the sink, Gore contemplated whether or not he should wash them now or later. With a drawn out Naw, Gore left the mess to soak, that always works, as he entered the larder once more. The place was a sad affair, one that the Warskak most certainly was going to have to restock it soon. But, that was a problem for another day, and although Gore did recognized that there may be consequences of his more than excessive meal, he assured himself that it all would work out in the end. Lumping himself onto a pile of potato sacks, most of which still full thankfully, Gore pulled out one of the root sprouts, took a bite, and got himself comfortable as he readied himself to sleep the night away. One last thought lingered in his mind as he drifted too sleep, "Momma...I think I found my place in life." OOC: Here is the last Gore post for SKR. And perhaps, depending on how things turn out, the last Gore post.

IC: Vulimai (Metru-Koro, The Western Garrison "I'd be happy to gift you a Kraata, little one. I have some... prior commitments today, but perhaps tomorrow?" "Well, it looks like you already have a volunteer, Whisper," Vulimai was still uncertain concerning allowing Whisper to spread her influence amongst the Matoran. Though her promise of power could help provide to the Matoran, she was still bothered by their unnatural nature. But at least there seemed to be some Matoran who may accept such powers, that helped thing. "Now if you excuse me, I have some commitments of my own to attend to." Retaking control, the transition being the most seamless so far, with it nearly being imperceptible. "Like Whisper said, she has prior commitments. But I assure you, that if you are still willing, tomorrow you can be amongst the first of the volunteer," Vulimai said to Navu before quickly addressing Triage, "And I promise you that you may oversee the proceedings. Now if you two excuse me, I have a Duty to attend to, so please return to yours...Oh and keep this a secret, for now." Vulimai then stepped past Navu and Triage, leaving them to do as she will. Vulimai wasn't blind nor oblivious, as she already sensed the growing line of people who apparently wanted to speak with her. But Vulimai had an important task to do. Stepping near the center of the rubble, on a slightly raised and steady piece of broken rock, stood the Matoran Quartermaster Bronk, who was shouted out commands to the assembled guards as they worked to move out the various items located within the Armory below. "Quartermaster Bronk, how is the work going?" Vulimai called up, as the Quartermaster took notice of his Captain, bellowed out on more command to two struggling Matoran, before climbing down from the rocks. "It's goin' rather good all things considered. Glad that the garrison took the brunt of the blow, only three Matoran got injured; two from some light debris, nothin' serious, and one Kane-Ra headed fool who didn't listen when we were overfuelin' the Hagah Cannon that we had down t'ere. Lad wasn't hurt bad, just slightly singed." "That's good. Bronk, tell me, how many levitation and weight Kanoka's do we have? In addition, do you know if anyone amongst the guard was a former pilot?" Bronk stroked his chin, deep in thought as he tried to mentally looked through his mind catalogue. "If I had to say without double checkin'...Uhm...Just less than fifty. Perhaps an even split but I'm not sure. As for pilots, I'll have to ask about. Will that be all?" "Yes, that should be all, thank you Bronk." "Welcome." Stepping away from Bronk, Vulimai then approached the slowly growing gathered crowd of Waveahk, Gnabol, Knichou, and Nale. Standing before the lot with her commanding presence, Vulimai took their attention, even with her only being half all their size. "One at a time, what is it that all of you are needing of me, or are you simply desiring to loiter around here?" OOC: @Toru Nui @Tarn @Nato the Traveler @BULiK

IC: Vulimai (Metru-Koro, The Western Garrison) "That... that sounds like Tuakana. Quite possibly the oldest living Aspect on the island... and not one to be trifled with." That most certainly didn't sound good, and Vulimai most certainly wished that she could've gotten a far less threatening answer. No matter, that can be dealt later, now she wished that Whisper didn't draw much attention here. "Hi there. I'm Whisper, one of the... things... you encountered. Vulimai and I are sharing a body for the day." "Yes Whisper...That is exactly what I meant when I said don't draw attention...S I G H..." She wasn't going to last the next hour, she could feel it. OOC: @Nato the Traveler

IC: Apex (Grand Temple Ruins) Momentarily hesitating, Apex watched as Viltia propelled herself upwards through the use of her silver tendrils, each one instinctually taking hold without Viltia’s full input other than the desire to go up. Apex watched and shuddered, something not so much loomed around Viltia, as much as it was constantly being exuded by her. It reminded Apex of her own nature, but only vaguely, in a way that she herself could not comprehend. But that did not matter, for Viltia at least seemed to favor the preservation and restoration of the Fau Swamp, and that made Viltia of the Green a valuable ally. Looking over, Apex informed Morangad to wait close by, near the temple, and that she and Viltia would soon return. However, before they could depart, Morangad interjected: “If you don’t mind, I would feel more comfortable accompanying the two of you. Nui-Rama are a dangerous species, and I would hate to lose my newfound companions so quickly after meeting them.” Nodding in acquiescence, Apex spread her own insect-like pair of wings, and took to the air behind Viltia, clutching Morangad in her claws. Flying upwards, Apex’ presence as she approached instantly was noticed, as a pair of Nui-Rama that were carrying the remains of a rather large Takea that the pair somehow managed to catch, withheld their flight path into the hive, as if an unseen buffer was surrounding Apex. They seemed confused for a moment, hesitating, their wings stuttering and becoming visible for small moments as Apex passed. Landing on top of the hive near where Viltia hid, Apex strode in close to the Bo-Toa’s side as a renewed wave of Nui-Rama made their rounds in and out of the hive’s entrance. Morangad had already safely released from her claws. “Stay close to me, Viltia and Morangad, as long as you two stay close, the hive will not act aggressively towards us, lest we either get too close or threaten them. If a member of the hive does get aggressive, we must pacify it through non-lethal means. The second a member of the hive is injured, the rest will swarm upon us and surely tear you two limb from limb and feed your remains to the developing young.” Apex said with an acute matter-of-fact tone, one that Viltia would find surprisingly similar to Sorilax and one of his lectures, just less wordy and more to the point. Viltia looked over from the fold in the hive she was trying to hide in, tilting her head in recognition of how closely Apex sounded like Sorilax there. It only endeared her to the Aspect even more. She haltingly moved to the large beast that was Apex and nodded, “Uh, thank you for the advice.” Apex was huge, and standing next to the Rahi-Nui, Viltia certainly felt intimidated. In the back of her mind, Viltia thought about the aura Apex seemed to exude like spores from one of the Fau Swamp’s more defensive fungi. Perhaps that aura, or maybe scent, had been what had, and continued, to keep most predators away from Le-Metru Nuva? The way the Nui-Rama avoided the Aspect seemed almost magical, so Viltia talked low, as if any small thing might break this tenuous non-aggressive behavior from the giant insects. “Please, lead on. I have a mask of Rahi Control should anything go wrong. Hopefully that can buy us enough breathing room to escape.” Viltia inclined her head in the general direction where the Nui-Rama entered and exited their hive. “Hopefully indeed.” Apex lumbered forward, with Viltia scrambling to keep up with the Rahi-Nui’s large and loping strides. As the three of them made their way into the hive, Viltia was surprised at just how mild the temperature was. The air within the hive was nothing like the air outside in the Fau Swamp, as it was without the constant mucky, almost suffocating, moistness that perspired the warm air outside. A cool breeze seemed to be lightly flowing through the numerous alcoves. But as the trio delved deeper, a growing noise began as the sounds of the hive grew impossibly loud, almost a screaming fury of buzzing. The noise hit like a kick to the chest so loud it was. But at a certain point it grew no louder, despite the physical presence it seemed to hold. They soon came to a sizable hole that led down, where there was nothing but darkness and movement. And noise, even more noise. But it wasn’t the main entrance, it didn’t seem, and it wasn’t as steep as some others they had passed. Viltia felt weird in that moment not holding her axe/crossbow. It was on her back, but her hands itched to hold it, just in case. But Apex knew her stuff, especially when it came to nature, and any lethal action would surely be reacted to with like manner. So Viltia gripped her hands into fists, trying to stay as close to Apex as possible. With a feeling like standing on the edge of a very tall building before jumping off, the three carefully began their descent. For his part, Morangad followed after the pair with meditative calm. He had much experience with the creatures of the swamp, and knew well that the worst thing to do was to panic. After centuries of dealing with the beasts, he no longer reacted with the same fear and trepidation that he once had. Still, he had never stood within a hive like this, and he could not help the quickening of his pulse whenever the insectoid rahi drew close. The Nui-Rama gave them a fairly decent berth, even though there were so many that came and went. Viltia placed a hand on Apex instinctually, trying to cling to her new friend’s aura of fierceness. Every time before this, Nui-Rama had only attacked her, her friends, or other Rahi, so seeing them this up close, even not attacking, was extremely worrying. Still, they were fascinating, with their giant insect wings, hooking claws, and bright colors. She wished she could befriend one, maybe have it meet the village Kahu. Speaking of a Kahu, three Nui-Rama carried what had once been a Kahu down into the hive. It was easily twice the size of a normal Kahu and it had bright blue liquid draining from its mangled corpse. Apex didn’t mind the Toa’s touch, as they held on close for their life. Apex didn’t even notice. Though the protection that Apex’ presence offered seemed to be an effortless affair; but with Apex being this deep within the hive, having to protect all three of them from such a large mass of Rahi, it took Apex nearly her entire focus to completely hide them from the hive’s notice. Unbeknownst to Viltia and Morangad, all of them were a wing’s breadth from being torn asunder. But while Apex was on edge for the near immediate possibility of death, Apex’ Kraata worm simply just wiggled its way into Apex’ mouth and made itself comfortable, the sight of which most certainly did not comfort Viltia nor Morangad at the moment. Apex surveying the tunnel passages and soon spotted a less well-traveled side-passage. She led Viltia and Morangad there, where they soon found a slope that would allow them to half walk half climb down into the massive hive. Apex paused, the deep, near-infinite darkness of the hive tunnel momentarily stopping her in her tracks. She eyed Viltia and Morangad, before giving herself a self-assured nod before leading the way forward. Her massive claws easily gave her purchase on the thick papery substance of the hive, and Viltia’s tethers groped and found small crevices of their own to latch onto. Thankfully, Viltia’s silvery tendrils glowed, turning the pitch black into more of a dark grey. Nui-Rama rarely rushed past as they moved to more occupied passages, further down, or back up and out. The path down twisted and turned, and so far the few straggler Nui-Rama clinging to the walls moved out of the trio’s way. As they walked, Morangad considered his ally’s unique abilities with a great deal of respect. Had he entered alone, he’d have been able to do nothing as the creatures ripped him to shreds. When the fading light of day was lost behind too many twists and turns, a blue glow was slowly found. Giant Electric Bugs lazily moved about in the mostly abandoned tunnel, apparently living in harmony with the Nui-Rama and providing them light when their hives grew too large and too thick for the sun to shine through. Viltia hadn’t expected the development, but it explained why the slow moving electric bugs seemed to flourish in a swamp full of predators. They probably had homes in the hives dotted around the landscape. The twisting tunnel took a sharp turn left and down in a diagonal kind of way. The hive here was rough with few side passages, as if the giant insects had scarcely graced the interior of this tunnel buried deep in the bowels of their own hive. Oddly, the overbearing hum of the hive had calmed, or perhaps the group had gotten used to it. Apex though, was starting to bristle at the seams. The darkness, that which pervaded the tunnel, already filled Apex with immense hesitation, but whatever means to avoid the hive for as long as possible had to be taken. But here, there was something off, truly so, as even an abandoned tunnel would have some form of foot traffic to at least maintain the passage. But here, the tunnel was noticeably sagging in large portions, the walls had grown crusty and were flaking off in patches, and the air was stale and cold. The tunnel seemed to be truly abandoned. That did not bode well. Continuing forwards into the dimly-lit passage, Apex continuing to lead the way, much to her own chagrin and trepidation, Apex halted as she raised up her head, her ears perked for the sound she just faintly heard. Several seconds passed, as Viltia and Morangad mimicked Apex in trying to determine what the Aspect had sensed, till Apex made her move, swifter than before, following down deeper into the tunnel. Following quickly behind, Morangad and Viltia nearly lost sight of their third companion as she rounded a bend. But as they soon followed, they found Apex standing before a large section of wall within a secluded off side chamber, the portion of wall seemingly and very recently having been sewn shut. “There’s something behind this wall. Help me tear it down.” Apex barked out in command to Viltia and Morangad, an edge lining her words as she began to claw and dig. Morangad stood there for a moment, contemplating how best to achieve the goal. Ultimately, he supposed that if Apex wanted through it, there must have been something on the other side of it, and so he drew his spear from his back. Activating his Kanohi to aid his efforts, the processed wood pulp of the wall began to shrivel and wither, as all the moisture evaporated from it, while the organic matter began to rot and decompose before their eyes. Plunging his spearhead into the barrier, it at first stuck in the wall, only boring a small hole. However, as his Jutlin worked its magic, the material began to dry out and weaken, until he was knocking away large chunks with each thrust. With Viltia’s help as she attacked the wall with her axe, the wall was quickly torn down, and the sight that befell the gathered party shocked them. A wave of heat wafted out, followed by the heavy scent of fresh death, as within the chamber was a pile of dead Nui-Rama, some torn apart, others having been stung repeatedly, and others having simply collapsed from heat stroke. The number was over a dozen, but the remains weren’t the most shocking part of the find, as the more nature inclined Morangad and Apex recognized the breed, they were princesses. The Tiokaha stated what they were both thinking. “Something’s not right, here.” Stooping down, he examined the corpses. “And I suspect that the problem lies with this hive’s queen. There’s no other reason I can conceive of, that they would have killed all of the princesses.” Apex didn’t understand. Why were such vital members of the hive left here, seemingly killed by their fellow kin and left here to rot, not even left to be used to feed the developing young. Apex spoke up, a noticeable shudder in her words, “But...Why? The purpose of the princess is to spread the hive’s reach, to replace the queen in the case of ailment or old age. With them dead, then the hive won’t be able to survive for more than a generation.” Viltia kneeled before one of the dead princesses, hand caressing the protodermis body that had peeled away from the muscles beneath. Her heartlight churned within her. She should have come here sooner. She should have embraced them long ago. Viltia slowly stood, fully realizing the implication before her as Morangad and Apex explained the situation, “It has to be the Vuata Maca Crystal. It has to. The queen must’ve been affected by the crystal’s latent power because of some mutation she already had. It must have caused her to do, well… this.” Viltia said, as she gestured to the carnage before her. But as she gestured, a stirring occurred amongst the bodies. All three moved back, focus suddenly across the room. The dead bodies shifted and fell aside as shakily rising up, was a still breathing princess. Rising from the grave of her fallen sisters, the Nui-Rama princess was thirsty, hungry, and delirious, but she was still no less fierce. Alerted by the presence of the three strange beings before her and their breaking into her tomb’s seal, she attempted to lift herself with her wings, but couldn’t even manage a flutter. Cowering away, the princess was ready to strike, to defend herself against any dangers these unnatural entities posed to her. Apex was both amazed and glad to see that one of the princesses was alive, though they were obviously suffering from the heat that a dozen freshly rotting corpses produced. She needed fresh air and water, which no one within the party could immediately provide. So they entered a momentary standoff, with Viltia continually glancing at her two companions. She had no idea what was going on nor what the giant insect princess needed. All she knew was that the situation was tense, like when you step too close to a snake and are trying to anticipate its strike or whether you are safe to step away. Morangad was unsure what his companions were thinking, but took a guess from their behavior. “If we want to save this one, we must act swiftly. Viltia, do you have a canteen?” Viltia glanced at Morangad, optics quickly looking back at the princess, “Uh, no. I generally don’t leave the village long enough to need one. But, I could always make some fruit and squeeze it. Why? Am I missing something here?” Apex interjected, “The heat! She’s been trapped in there for who knows how long. Nui-Rama can only survive such heat for so long before growing delirious and dying from heat stroke, it is why so many line the walls, constantly buzzing their wings. They keep the hive cool.” Wow, Viltia was so glad Apex and Morangad had shown up. She was way in over her head here. Who knew a Nui-Rama hive could be so complex? Viltia nodded, not necessarily to anyone. She released her elemental energy, morphing it as it left her body and manifested as she willed it to. A very large watermelon formed, half the size of the princess. Now the hard part, the one she hadn’t really practiced. Viltia imagined the watermelon sliced in half, perfectly coming apart. She tried to apply this to her creation. The watermelon ripped in half, but not evenly. Not at all. She would have to work on that. Viltia exerted a little more elemental energy and lifted the two halves to the Nui-Rama, though not too close to elicit a negative reaction. For a moment she thought about mushing up the insides, but it was a watermelon, they were mostly water already. She just hoped the princess would know to eat it. The Nui-Rama was hesitant at first, but soon the temptatious sweetness and smell of the melon overtook the princess’s senses as she dug her sharpened proboscis into the melon, sucking up the red chunks and thirst-quenching juices. Apex for her part, proceeded to mimic the actions of the Nui-Rama that were located near the entrance and main chamber of the hive. Beating her insectoid wings, Apex began to form a steady and cooling breeze, quickly dispersing the foul stagnant air and lowering the overall temperature within the isolated side chamber. The princess paused in her eating, extremely alert and cautious of Apex’s movement. But as Apex continued providing somewhat fresh air and Viltia and Morangad didn’t attack, the princess went back to eating with abandon. She soon finished one half of the watermelon and didn’t even hesitate before moving on to the second half. As Apex looked down towards the Nui-Rama princess, as they fed so hungrily and desperately upon the sustenance offered by Viltia, her mind lingered upon their numerous murdered sisters and settled upon one thought, her wings stuttering as the thought struck her. “We need to kill the queen.” Viltia nodded, face grim, “Coming from you, I don’t doubt it. But we can’t leave this hive without a queen. Can we?” “That problem will solve itself,” Morangad interjected. “As long as this princess is kept safe, the hive will fall in step behind her once the existing queen has perished.” “Exactly. The queen has been corrupted, like the rest of this swamp. She must be removed and replaced, in order to restore balance. But...We have one more issue to address.” Viltia dropped her tense stance, turning her head to Apex, “There’s something else?” She just wanted to keep the crystal from causing any harm. This was quickly becoming something far more dangerous than she had first thought. Apex turned her gaze towards Viltia before settling upon the princess, “If we leave this chamber with the princess, then the hive will quickly turn against her. Even my presence won’t be able to stop them, as they will actively see her as a threat, by their queen’s orders. That leaves us only two choices, either to kill the queen ourselves or to find someone to disrupt their…Their…Sniff Sniff.” Apex’ attention was taken by an odd scent. Odd in its presence, not in its scent itself, as the scent was very much familiar to the Aspect, as it dragged out loathsome memories from her mind and her past. Turning back from the princess, Apex approached the far wall, following the scent of her nose, till reaching a sealed bulge in the wall. With one claw, Apex sliced a tall slit along the length of the bulge, as falling out was the paralyzed form of a Ta-Skakdi, one that most likely was taken by the hive and was meant to feed the princesses, but was forgotten as the hive queen called for regicide upon her own heirs. Even in the dim light of her tethers, Viltia saw the Skakdi for who he was. Her Heartlight filled with hatred, her mind with anger. Here was a Skakdi worth killing. The one that had gotten away from imprisonment and a death sentence. He had murdered not only her friends, but many unmet friends in Le-Metru Nuva, who she would now never get to meet. Viltia worked her jaw back and forth, the metal of her jaw groaning slightly under the pressure. She held herself back from killing the Skakdi just so she wouldn’t frighten the princess. Otherwise she would have shot him where he lay paralized. Viltia’s voice was filled with spite, “I know that Skakdi. He killed many of the villagers of Le-Metru Nuva. He escaped before we could bring him to justice. Please, kill him. He doesn’t deserve life after what he’s done.” Apex was mid-way from bringing down her deathly stinger into the Ta-Skak’s form when Viltia spoke, with Apex halting in her strike to respond to the Toa in a deeply sinister tone, “I was intending to-...He. He. Ahaha!” Apex couldn’t control herself, as a harsh laugh left the maw of her muzzle, a laugh that unsettled Viltia and even Morangad who had spent so long with the Aspect, not because of how unnatural it was, but rather because of how normal, yet sinister it sounded. “No, I have a far more appropriate punishment for this one. This Skakdi, was meant to feed the princess, and so they will.” Hooking a claw into their shoulder, a shuddering breath left the Skakdi’s mouth, though they remained dead still. Dragging the body closer to the gathered group and the princess, Apex flipped the body over and dragged it over towards the weary princess, the Ta-Skakdi’s heartlight still faintly beating. The princess buzzed a warning as Apex approached ever so carefully with Skakdi in tow. The Nui-Rama pulled the yet to be finished second half of the watermelon closer to herself. Even Viltia could tell the princess was already looking better, with faster movements and eyes that glimmered with purpose in the glow of her tethers. Viltia wasn’t sure what was about to happen, but she activated her mask, trying to will as much compliance in the princess to Apex as she could. Her mask of Rahi Control didn’t work as well on insects as she hoped, but hopefully she prayed that some good would come from. Apex spoke softly, her voice sounding reminiscent to the nascent whine of a Nui-Rama’s wings, as she directed her words to the princess, presenting the Skakdi’s corpse for the princess to feed upon, “Princess, your mother has fallen. She has betrayed both her children and her duty as queen. It is your duty, to replace her, to supplant and to rise above her. Princess, allow me to offer you a gift, one to usurp your traitorous mother.” Apex spoke to the princess, but that was but the surface of what Apex sought to do, as words alone would’ve fallen upon deaf ears. Rather, Apex’ presence, her mind, channeled through her innate connection to the Rahi of the world, reached out to the princess’ own mind. Apex sought to pacify the princess, praying that the actions they all have done so far would have sufficiently built the trust that Apex sought to gain, but the mind of the Nui-Rama was starkly different to the mind of something like a Mahi. But that alone did not halt Apex’ control, no, as a deep intelligence lied within the princess’ mind, an intelligence that Apex knew, was instilled with a desire, a desire, for vengeance. Between the peaceful and serene thoughts that Viltia sought to instill into the princess’ mind as well as the physical and mental offer that Apex offered to her, with a weary caution, the princess with her claw, and took the Skakdi’s corpse as she began to feed. “And like that, one’s wish is granted once more.” Apex said, just beneath her breath, as the heartlight of the Skakdi fluttered and fizzled as its host was torn into, a lurking shadow caressing upon the edges. Goodbye Hello Step forth into the darkness and prepare the gift As Apex continued to mutter the words of her ancient rites, the one shadow soon grew to be dozens, as the chamber all around the gathered party was swiftly consumed, where not even the faint glow of Viltia’s tethers could illuminate past the darkness. A star’s heart still bearing, still lit Two midnight horrors cry and shift Make them squirm inside the pit And from the dark, a murmur, a whisper came that swiftly rose into a roaring drone, like that of the hive but evermore deafening. The sound was so great and deafening, that Morangad and Viltia were both forced down upon their knees as they desperately clutched their audio receptors to halt the deafening nose, but carried within the drone were the words, lost, hidden, yet in plain view for those who could dare to listen. Bind worm and willing host Tear the yolk and spread its gold Devour knowledge and their ghost From the body of the Skakdi, whose last breath had already left them, a slither of life remained, enough for the new life that was to be born. From the heartlight of the corpse came a sliver of shadow, and as the princess sought to understand the magic that occurred all around it, that sliver struck, as it bound itself upon the princess, forevermore binding the two. Pray for prey forever sold Hello Goodbye As Viltia lifted up her head, the shadows receded back from the crevices from which they came from as the terrible drone died within a heartbeat. Viltia was fascinated by the ritual. She had only ever heard Sorilax describe it. And using the red Skakdi’s Heartlight was basically the morally right thing to do. As the Kraata worm formed, Viltia realized it looked just like the one that was crawling around on Apex earlier. Didn’t they have to be attached to someone to live? The princess shivered, unsure as to what had just occurred. Its gaze met Apex’, who simply said, “Go now, claim your throne.” With purpose, ignoring the remains of the watermelon and the Skakdi, the Princess tested her wings, hovering in mid air. As the Princess’ wings began to beat, a soft whine beginning to form, Viltia squinted her optics. Something wasn’t right. She had been kind of nervous before, but this was different, and at a constant level. It had started as soon as Apex had placed that slug on the princess’ back. Viltia was eager to get out of here and finish things. The sound of the princess’ wings grew in intensity as she moved, till in a flash she flew out through the hole they had created in her prison. Apex once more regained her footing, and though shivers ran through her form, the elation of what was to come steadied Apex’ shaken nerves. She still didn’t like how using her Taboos called upon the shadows, but she didn’t have time to compose herself fully. She bounded after the princess, calling back to Morangad and Viltia, “The princess goes to strike down the queen. Follow me, now!” Viltia sprung into action, nervousness fading even as the princess left. Her tethers extended far, as fast as her own limbs, pulling her after the princess and Apex. The journey was winding, back up the way they had come, yet quickly deviating through several side passages and down, down deep into the heart of the hive. The Nui-Rama they passed stopped what they were doing, seeming to grow confused and turning in circles as they passed. Viltia wasn’t sure why that was happening to them, but whatever it was that was causing it, it was working. Apex knew full well why the Nui-Rama reacted the way they did. She had given her princess a Kraata of the Power Scream variety. The princess was currently emitting a constant high-frequency screech that couldn’t be heard by non-insects, but was disrupting the normal communication method of the other Nui-Rama, leaving them dazed and confused as the Princess passed. Morangad and Viltia had been able to hear its newborn screams as it came into being. The twisting, papery walls of the hive tunnel opened up to reveal the heart of the hive. Electric Bugs clung to the ceiling, looking like blue tinted stars in the night sky. The walls here were tough and thick; they seemed to have a type of coating to them. Apex knew the walls were as hard as rock, forming a supporting pillar for the rest of the hive to rest upon. The queen sat lounging in the center of the room, two thickly armored guards on either side of her, attending to her. The queen’s optics shone a sickly yellow, too bright to be natural. Her body was massive, with her wings stretching over half the length of the large room. Her chitinous armor and mechanical body were almost entirely swallowed by her organic muscles. They burst forth from every crack and crevice of her natural armor, ballooning to insane proportions. But the muscles were tightly bound and ready to be used. Small green glowing lines ran through the muscle, all drawing lines to the queen’s back. And on her back was the Vuata Maca Crystal. It was held in place with even more unnatural muscle wrapped tightly around it, as her body fed on its power. The ground around her was crushed, as if she wasn’t used to her own strength as she moved about. The guard on the left had something bright pink dripping from its jaws. And the guard on the right was black and blood red, colors no Nui-Rama had ever been. It was sleeker than its fellow guard, but its hooks were longer, jagged and glinting in the light of the above Electric Bugs. The princess paused and landed. Then she shook with fury and screeched, challenging the old, mutated queen. The trio following her barely had time to enter the room before she flew forward, claws out to fight. Morangad hurriedly tried to explain things to Viltia as Apex rushed forward, “The princess must deliver the final blow or she might abandon the hive. We need to remove the guards and incapacitate the queen while keeping the princess safe.” Viltia grabbed her axe/crossbow, “Yeah, okay. Uh, okay.” Morangad had already rushed forward to join Apex in battle. Viltia took a deep breath. She wished Sidra was here. Sidra held the experience with combat that she sorely lacked. But the moment was now, the choice to help her own. She made up her mind and put aside her nerves. Then she too rushed forward to join the battle. The queen screeched, a horrible, grating noise that felt like it slid around the mind. Her bulging body grossly rippled as she moved and tore up the ground before her in a rage. No one would claim her throne. Not ever. She would live long and grow so large so as to be able to kill the tyrant Evolis Kerhs. She would rule this swamp, not some freak with legs. The princess flitted about, faster than the queen, but far less deadly. Her claws raked against the queen’s muscles, but every hunk that was tossed away was quickly replaced with new, glowing muscle that slowly darkened as it finished growing back. The guard on the left shuddered, as if sick with a ghastly cold, then it spewed forth pink liquid in great quantities. Where it landed, the ground slightly gave way, as if a great weight were upon it. The guard on the right shook with such a vigor that it was a marvel that it remained in one place. The noise of an engine roaring louder and louder sprung from it, then it was gone, just a crimson and black blur as it moved at speeds faster than optics could properly follow. Three seconds later, it became motionless again, steam rising off of it. As the steam tapered off, the noise of the engine rose again. Viltia pulled her tethers as close to her as she could, fearful of their dismemberment. Apex moved for the queen while Morangad moved for the left guard, so she looked to the right guard as it once more built up speed. She couldn’t use her crossbow. She couldn’t allow herself to accidentally damage the hive or unmutated Nui-Rama with any stray shots. That left her her Rahkshi staff and her axe. Her axe was too close quarters of a weapon and the giant insect was too fast. And her Rahkshi staff, she had no idea what it did. Viltia considered using her element, but once again concerns about both the integrity of the hive and her own ability filled her mind. No, she would have to make do with her mask and use her close quarters tools. Morangad eyed the left guard, scooping up some of the pink slime on the edge of his spear. He could barely raise it from the ground, so great was the weight of the stuff. But there was no sizzling that came with acid. So that was ruled out. It could still be poisonous, but it didn’t quite look like any other poisonous substance in the swamp, and he had seen most of them over his years. The many minds of the Nui-Rama brushed against his own, but their cognitions were base and bestial. Even if he could perceive their contents, he would be unable to understand them. The thoughts of these three, though, they had gained a higher level of intelligence. Perhaps through mutations, perhaps through age. However the intelligence was gained, it allowed him to sense the thoughts of the guard, which in turn allowed him to respond to any hostile action with an increased reaction time. Morangad tested his Jutlin on the pink slime. It decomposed under his power, turning into a dark pinkish puddle. Good. He turned to his foe. Apex rushed forward, heavy body bounding with any energy born of not needing to ever rest. She didn’t even attempt to use her power of Rahi Control, as trying to bend the queen to heel was pointless. But Apex didn’t need such unnatural power to exert her will. She unfolded her stinger and loosened her jaw even as her claws dug up the crushed floor of the hive around the queen. The princess swooped in to attack once more, this time a little too slowly, and was sideswiped by the queen, getting thrown with considerable force against the far wall. She slid to the ground, dazed. Apex’s stinger struck with a flash, releasing its deadly venom as it embedded itself into the queen’s bulging muscles. The queen retaliated quickly with a claw which Apex caught with her own. But the force behind the queen’s claw was unnatural, brutal, and sent Apex tumbling away. Apex caught herself and watched in frustration as the dying muscle sloughed off from the body, quickly being replaced. Viltia focused as hard as she could as she stumbled around, trying to dodge the right guard. Her mask power gave her just enough wiggle room to avoid it, but a couple of her tethers had already been cut off as she tried to flee. They ached as if she had lost a limb. The pain would have been unbearable had she not felt its equivalent before and had her focus been any less absolute. She couldn’t lose any more tendrils, that was for sure. The right guard came to a standstill, steaming, and she rushed forward, tether holding the Rahkshi staff rapidly extending. She stopped focusing on her mask and instead focused on the staff, calling upon its power as it touched the slim, blood red and black Nui-Rama. While nothing physically seemed to happen, Viltia could tell the power was working, whatever it might be. The right guard finished building up speed and she retracted her tether, focusing once more on her mask. The Nui-Rama still was too fast. It hooked her arm and spun her to the ground, but the blow hadn’t been as fast or as hard as before. Her arm was still intact, after all, just sparking a little bit. Viltia glanced at it. Ooo. Maybe more than a little bit. The crimson and black guard came to a stop once more. Viltia extended the Rahkshi staff again, hoping it was working. Wait… was it just her, or were its wings moving slower? Viltia took a step forward and suddenly she couldn’t move her foot. Something heavy had it trapped. She looked down. It was something pink and gooey. She looked around. It was all over the place. Morangad brandished his spear, waiting for the left guard to become frustrated and move in close. It seemed to like to spit its slime from afar, incapacitate its victim, then move in for the killing blow. But he was able to decay and shatter the pink substance almost as fast as the Nui-Rama guard produced it. He was counting on it coming down to a close quarters battle, where he would have the advantage by being able to read its simple attack plans. The princess shook away her pain, buzzing in anger. She got herself airborne and rejoined the fight. Apex, rising from where she was thrown, charged in once more, using her great speed to avoid the slower, yet seemingly unkillable queen. With every swipe of her claws or lashing of her jaws, flesh tore and organic protodermis bent, but as each wound was inflicted, the last was already healed. Even if the entirety of the hive turned on their queen, no way would the queen fall. But as Apex circled her foe, the princess dashing over the queen’s head drawing her attention, Apex’ eyes narrowed upon the warped, crackling glow of the Vuata Maca Crystal plunged within the queen’s form. But as soon as Apex lunged forth, taking hold within the bulbous mass of meat, the queen’s yellow glowing gaze turned as searing beams of heat radiated forth. Viltia couldn’t move, the pink goo had her trapped and everyone else was busy with their own battles. She looked at her foe. It was moving sluggishly, as if its energy had been drained from it. Viltia withdrew her Rahkshi staff and gripped her axe as it finished charging up. The right guard dashed forward, this time only slightly faster than a normal Nui-Rama. Viltia’s remaining tethers reached out and pulled her to the side, straining to beat the weight on her foot. She swung her axe with all her force. Morangad batted away the left guard’s claws, slashing its chitinous armor with his spear as it finally came in close. He reached out a dexterous hand, intending to slip his fingers into the wound he’d created and tear the Nui-Rama’s chitin open with brute strength, but his optics opened wide in shock as, not but a moment later, the Nui-Rama vibrated and spewed its pink slime up close on the Tiokaha, the instinctual response too quick for him to anticipate. He fell backwards, overwhelmed by the torrent of bright pink ooze that weighed far more than it should. With feline grace, Apex leapt, nearly suffering from the queen’s wrath as her focus singled out the Aspect. One massive claw after another, the queen swiped and swung down upon Apex like she herself was attempting to wipe away an insignificant insect. She could barely hold on, her claws sinking deep, as even the near miss of each claw threatened Apex to lose her grip and to come tumbling down once more. But as the fury of her highness was about to at last release her from the annoyance of the Aspect, the princess struck, digging her deathly stinger within the soft exposed flesh, the agonizing pain of it granting Apex enough time to reach the crystal itself. Viltia’s axe cleaved the right guard’s head in twain as it ran into the blade with such speed as to almost cut its entire body in two. It was all Viltia could do to hang on. She tried her best, but after a moment, the axe/crossbow was wrenched away by the weight and momentum on the dead guard. It struck the ground with force but didn’t slide, instead sticking fast in its brother’s weighty pink goop. The left guard landed on Morangad, ready to deliver the final blow. But at Morangad’s willing, the pink slime on himself rapidly decayed and he clamped both his hands on either side of the Nui-Rama’s neck, blistering and disintegrating the chitin armor there. The Nui-Rama tried to push back and get free, but Morangad was able to see its movement through its thoughts, holding onto the creature for dear life as it lifted him from the ground. Gripping his spear near the head and wielding it like a knife, he punctured its neck. Pink ooze popped and sputtered, dripping from the wound, while the volatile oxidation of the substance caused air to rush into the Nui-Rama’s compromised interior with a sucking woosh. The ooze quickly increased in weight as oxygen bound to it, causing the Nui-Rama’s neck to sag near the wound, mechanical parts straining. Morangad took advantage of the incapacitation to sever the insectoid Rahi’s head. Reaching the shard, its energy coursing directly into the queen’s form, Apex attempted to dislodge the foreign object using all of her strength and wrath, as teeth gnawed, claws dug, and venom corroded. Till, at last, the crystal came free, the queen letting out an agonizing cry, as the immense strain of her body and the pain it caused her struck all at once. The princess, catching the opportunity, charged forth the chest of her former mother, tearing away at the queen with abandon, ripping away cords of muscle to reveal the chitinous hide beneath. Then she tore that away, reaching inside and ripping the very life out of the old queen. The old queen’s sickly glowing, yellow eyes slowly dimmined, her body curling up upon itself. The princess, now the new queen, raised her head from the pile of mutated refuse, screeching her dominance and new title. Cogs and gears fell from her mouth as strands of glinting protodermis muscle hung from her jaws. Victory at last claimed, the new queen allowed the heartlight she tore out to drop to the chamber floor as the unnerving drone of her Kraata power silenced. The scrambling gone, worker Nui-Rama slowly appeared, bringing the food and supplies they were originally bringing to offer to their former queen, but they paused upon seeing the once princess, now queen. Several silent, tense moments passed, before their obeisance to their new and rightful queen was confirmed. Even in pain, Viltia beamed, graciously taking the Vuata Maca Crystal in hand from Apex after retrieving her axe. They had stopped the crystal from corrupting the hive and causing even more death and destruction. Her injuries seemed like they hurt just a lot less. Apex turned her focus onto the new queen, stinger raised as she bellowed out a deep and challenging growl. Though the deal had been struck, complete subservience was never guaranteed, even with those desecrated. The true alpha must be asserted. The queen bristled at the challenge, as if finally noticing the strangers in her newly acquired hive. The spark of intelligence that some Fau Swamp creatures held in her optics. She gazed upon the slain queen and the old guards, then back upon the one who had granted her power. She chittered in anger. She was the alpha now. There was no one above her! Apex took a step forward and the queen instinctually moved back. She was afraid, afraid for her life. Her protestations ceased as she realized this. Within the mind of the newly anointed queen, Apex asked. “My queen, do I have your loyalty?” “...Yes.” “My queen, do I have your armies?” “...Yes.” And with those words, the queen lowered her head as the workers in the room soon followed suit, obeying their queen as they acknowledged the true, all encompassing alpha that oversaw the alpha of their species. “All hail, Kuini-Rama, queen of the hive.” Apex stamped the ground with a triumphant step and roared in triumph as she felt the new queen and the rest of the hive respond to her dominance, their drones adding to the cacophony of Apex’ roar. And suddenly, she felt her powers surge and grow. She had her following, and a new goal to achieve. The Kraata in her maw shifted and morphed, growing even stronger as well, advancing to its third stage. Morangad would find the powers of his Infected mask enhanced. Then their work was finished. Worker Nui-Rama were already disposing of the mutated corpses, so there was nothing left for Viltia to do here, and Apex had other things on her mind now. They all turned to leave, with Viltia quickly petting the new queen when Apex and Morangad weren’t looking. The journey out was easy and free from worry. In no time at all, the trio was standing atop the hive, wind warm, but far more refreshing than being down below. Viltia inspected the crystal, lit with its own inner light. It vibrated almost imperceptibly in her hand, full of power and the promise of restoration, not at all what the former queen had been using it for. Apex shook her head and chuffed a few times, glad to be free of the dark of the hive. Even with night so near, at least there were stars to guide her out here. She turned to Viltia, “Tell me, Viltia of the Green, where is this tree you seek to mend?” Viltia swayed a little bit. If Apex and Morangad looked closely, they would realize she was swaying just like the canopy that spread out like a blanket of green below them. She responded, optics closed as she let herself meld with the plant life for a moment of peace after the stress of the journey and battle, “It’s actually a Vuata Maca tree. Turns out they aren’t just legends. I already found one crystal, but it wasn’t enough to heal the tree completely. I’m hoping this one finishes the job.” Viltia pulled the crystal close and cradled it, “As for location, it turns out the tree is just a two minute walk from Le-Metru Nuva. It was hidden by a ring of mutated trees that formed a wall around it. I don’t think the mutations of the swamp like the tree too much, but I may just be reading into things.” Apex couldn’t help but express her surprise at Viltia’s mention of a living Vuata Maca. Her dark eyes widened as her maw hung open ever so slightly. The Vuata Maca species was the heart of the Fau Swamp, for where it grew, peace and serenity pervaded the landscape. Plague and diseases were purged where it grew, and even Rahi like the fierce jungle cats and the meek Mahi would stand side-by-side without fear or aggression. The restoration of such a plant of legend would surely and truly be the key to restoring beauty to the island once more. Viltia handed the crystal to one of her tethers, putting back on her mask of Teleportation. She called upon the Air Suva and exchanged it for her mask of Flight. “But I have something else to do before I go back to the village. I’ll see you two later.” Viltia waved goodbye with her good arm, then activated her mask and flew up into the dim of evening. Apex watched the Toa fly off, tendrils glowing like a small star. “Morangad, we must bear witness to the first step of many for the island’s restoration. Truly, such a plant of mystic power is what this land of blight shall need to finally begin healing.” Morangad nodded. He wholeheartedly agreed. OOC: @Kal the Guardian @Burnmad @Unreliable Narrator @Eyru @Vezok's Friend Goodness, where do I begin. Vilita has gotten the Vuata Maca Crystal. Apex has completed her second quest step and is now on her third. Her Kraata Worm of Shattering is now level three. And the queen of the hive, Kuini-Rama, now has a level two Kraata of Power Scream.

IC: Vulimai (Metru-Koro, The Western Garrison) "...I was wondering if you could, perhaps, explain in greater detail how this hearts-into-slugs thing works?" Vulimai had listened closely to Navu's words, cataloguing her description of Falh and the unnamed Aspect within her mind, but as Navu asked Vulimai what she knew about the rituals that these Aspects commit, she found herself speechless. With a minor bout of mental struggle on what to do, Vulimai relented as she thought to Whisper. "Whisper, sorry to drag you away from whatever conversation you're having, but I think this is more of a question for you to answer." Vulimai didn't like the idea of giving Whisper control in such a crowded place amongst her peers, but it was easier and better if Vulimai helped to ease any worries that Navu had. OOC: @Nato the Traveler @Toru Nui

Oh hey, I made top page again, does that give me another question?

Huzzah, I have said I was going to do it and I have done it. Page 143 is mine. Now then @Unreliable Narrator onto business. What is Irrnak's relations to the Aspects of Makuta, as in whether or not he is one himself or was one. And if not, then is he a god-like being, like Tren Krom or Mata-Nui?

IC: Vulimai (Metru-Koro, The Western Garrison) "I wasn't even aware there was another Aspect still in the village. Ask him what this Aspect looks like, I might recognize them." Vulimai let out an internal sigh of relief, even though she genuinely didn't think it was Whisper, otherwise Navu would've had a much more visceral reaction back at the Taku cargo bay. "So, tell me, what did this thing look like as well as this Toa Falh. Any information you can give will be valuable if either are ever seen near or within the village." OOC: @Nato the Traveler @Toru Nui

IC: Vulimai (Metru-Koro, The Western Garrison) "Well, to make a looooong story short, a Toa named Falh killed a Toa called Datrox, and gave his heart to this thing in exchange for one of those Kraata slugs. It happened in my hut, and I could only watch through the window because Falh kicked me out." Even with Whisper having her conversation with Taja, the Aspect could not help but catch Vulimai's impossibly deep mental sigh as she spoke to Whisper. "Whisper...You wouldn't happen to know anything about this, would you?" As Vulimai thought to Whisper, she replied to Navu in the same instance. "Assuming this murder occurred yesterday, than I am sorry to hear that your report was lost during the drills. As Captain of the Guard, I take full responsibility and will have eyes out for this Toa of ice, but if they have gone beyond the borders of Metru-Koro, than I apologize that there is nothing else that can be done." OOC: @Toru Nui @Nato the Traveler

IC: Drukarus (Fort Nektann, The Garage) Drukarus was...Truly and utterly shocked in awe. His hard visage having broken into a slack-jawed look of surprise. Grime and Miserix were gone. Alongside Korruhn, who looked more than unwilling to follow. Drukarus felt like he should follow too, questions for both Grime, who he had taken as his ward, and this enigmatic and now alarmingly powerful figure that was Miserix. But, Drukarus felt that he shouldn't, that if he dared to follow or intervene, that a fate worst than existence within Irrnak's realm could possibly provide would befall him. And so, Drukarus held both his tongue and his hand, as he simply blankly gazed as Grime, now Miserix, and Korruhn entered the shadow of night, a howling storm forming far in the distance. "Ah! There you all are. Quite the mess of petrol in here..." Drukarus could only numbly mumble a yes, as he slowly strode towards the center of the garage, within the middle of the petrol puddle that had formed, and planting his maul and asserting his will, drawing in the petrol into a warbling liquid ball around the head of the maul, held together through the force of gravity. Drukarus then asked Stannis to create a basin for him to deposit the fluid. OOC: @Burnmad @Conway @Nato the Traveler @EmperorWhenua

IC: Apex (The Grand Temple Ruins) Apex listened to Viltia's words as she explained her goal and her plan, Apex letting out a toothy smile at the mention of Viltia doing this for the sake of restoring a portion of the swamp. Though, the smile on Apex' face was less comforting and more disconcerting, with the beastial nature of her muzzle. Nodding along, Apex momentarily glowered at the mention of using her element. "I see...I agree, horrors already dwell within this swamp and there is no room for anymore. If we can prevent any further mutations, while also restoring the jungle, then I will gladly assist you Toa Viltia. As for me, I was intent on using my own Aspect-given power of control over Rahi, while also my own natural dominance and connection to nature to make my way in. If you could assist in such a manner, that would ease the challenge upon myself, for Rahi like the Nui-Rama are far more difficult to persuade." OOC: @Kal the Guardian @Burnmad

IC: Apex (The Grand Temple Ruins) Apex let out an assured nod at Viltia's refusal as she followed after the Toa of the Green, but not before giving the Administrator a vicious growlling hiss similar to that of a Swamp Stalker. Exiting and following along with Viltia, Apex turned towards the Toa once more and asked they both exited the temple. "So, what is within the hive that you believe to be such a threat to them, and how do you intend on retrieving it?" OOC: @Burnmad @Unreliable Narrator @Kal the Guardian

IC: Drukarus (Fort Nektann, the Garage) "I need a conversation with the bard here, without the rabid hounds breathing over his neck. I'm sure we can reach some sort of agreement." Drukarus truly didn't care for this Korruhn, whoever they were, be they an Aspect as they claim or some bizarre Toa. Whoever they were, they were doubtlessly either confident, arrogant, and/or desperate. And perhaps even a little mad with the threat that they held in their hands and covering the floor. But most of all, it is the thought of leaving this Korruhn alone with Grime, not out of fear for what Grime may share, for even Drukarus could only guess the depths of the Matoran's knowledge. Instead, Drukarus was concerned what other plans Korruhn may have, whether they wanted to use the Matoran for some dark rite or to simply whisk them away, neither Drukarus could afford to allow. But now was not the time for battle, not that he yet felt inclined to do so, now was the time to talk...And to plan. Pulling his hand up closer to the head of his maul, Drukarus held it to his side as he turned away from Korruhn and stepped behind Barius...But as he stepped away, Drukarus whispered over towards Barius so that only he could hear his words. "Lay your hand upon my shoulder and give me your strength. You are still too injured to engage in battle and this one has us at disadvantage. Indulge this one in his request, but I do have a plan. I assure you." Planting his feet and turning back around, Drukarus stood at Barius' side, just a half-step behind the warlord of Fort Nektann. His gaze first hardened upon Korruhn's, as Drukarus dared a quick glance to Grime, though what the intent and emotion behind that quick glance was unknown to all except for the enigmatic figure of Miserix. OOC: @Burnmad @Unreliable Narrator @Crimson Jester @Conway @Nato the Traveler

@Unreliable Narrator Now that we are less than a week till the end of SKR, there are a few questions concerning SKA. Is there going to be a timeskip between SKR and SKA, and if so, how long? Is there going to be an imposed character limit?

IC: Whisper/Vulimai (Metru-Koro, Western Garrison) Retaking control, Vulimai was about to approach Bronk about the important matter concerning the production of airships, when a De-Matoran approached her. Vulimai vaguely recoginized them, as she saw them aboard the Taku before Whisper possessed her. "Uh… hi. You’re the, uh, Captain of the Guard, as it were, right? It might not be the best time for this, but I was wondering if Toa Knichou and Nale told you about this murder that happened in my hut." A murder?! Alarm went through Vulimai's mind, as she hadn't heard word concerning this murder and didn't know whether it had occurred the night prior or far more recently. Speaking in a soft quiet tone, though to most others would be too quiet for a normal conversation, Navu would most likely be able to pick up Vulimai's words with her enhanced hearing, "A murder? No, they have not and neither was I informed by the guards. When and with whom did this murder take place?" OOC: @Nato the Traveler @Toru Nui