Pahrak Model ZX

nice After a recent leak of the release date (October 2nd), Capcom has gone ahead and provided a huge new update on the upcoming game, with a new trailer, cover art, several gaming news outlets getting a hands-on demo, and man I am PUMPED. The shows off some new footage and explains the Double Gear system we previously caught glimpses of: you can either activate a Power Gear to enhance the strength of the Mega Buster, or a Speed Gear to slow down time around you. Using these abilities too much results in the system overheating for a short time, and apparently when your health is low you can activate them both to achieve incredible power for a short time before suffering an even stronger backlash. Sounds like a lot of fun! We also get the official name for the Robot Master previously teased, Block Man, and get to see footage of Mega Man battling him and new reveal Fuse Man! Both of their weapons are also seen in action, and seem quite useful in different ways. There was also information released on collector's editions for both Japan and the states, including a brand new Mega Man amiibo featuring his MM11 design! Hopefully that won't be required for anything too cool... This was nice, I needed something to lift my spirits and this definitely did the trick. Now if only they'd tell us what's going on with that Star Force costume seem in an early screenshot...

Mata Nui: "You must see reason!" Raanu: "These lenses aren't prescription."

I actually managed to do it! Right of Law Section VI is up now! Krika visits Ga-Koro and finds his people in good health, but that might not be the case for long. Things are getting a bit tense at Bitil's outpost as well, though things aren't all serious, with the introduction of some new Rahkshi I think everyone will appreciate. I also updated SSS3 today, so I met my goal of getting both updated by the end of this week. Going forward...who knows. But since both stories are heading into major battles, I'll do my best to keep the wait from going too long.

Ah, thanks for that--it's fixed now! I always make that mistake, I'm going to have to keep a closer eye on it going forward. Section VI is up, showing Krika reach Ga-Koro and get into some unexpected trouble there. Also, for reasons explained here, upcoming chapters may be a bit slow: I'm going to have less time to write starting very soon, and while I will try my best to stay on top of things, there's a chance that might not happen so I wanted to give a heads-up just in case.

SECTION VI “Ga-Koro is right this way,” Toa Macku said. “So, are you another refugee from Nynrah?” The Toa of Gravity behind her shook his head. “No, I came from the south, actually. Did something happen in Nynrah?” “We aren’t sure what exactly, but apparently the Makuta there drove out all his citizens. One of the Agori who showed up here was in bad shape…makes you wonder.” “My word. And that’s so close…” Macku waved her hand dismissively. “Not to worry…um…” The Toa of Gravity smiled. “Call me Arik.” “Not to worry, Arik: Makuta Kojol has never failed to defend Ga-Koro in the past, and she’s certainly up to the challenge of one rogue Makuta if that is what we’re dealing with. You’ll be safe here.” Arik sighed. “I certainly hope so.” Ga-Koro itself was a small distance from the shoreline, built upon a massive metal platform just above the ocean’s surface. A long bridge was the only path in or out of the city, and scattered about the surrounding water upon giant lily pads were a few dozen Rahkshi, most of them being of the six Principle varieties, all of them constantly surveying the area with deadly focus. Several Lerahk were spaced evenly around Ga-Koro in a rather tight ring—each sat in a meditative pose with their staffs in the water, using their powers of Purity to turn the area of ocean within their perimeter from salt water to fresh, never budging an inch as they concentrated solely on their vital duty. Arik casually glanced over the lot of them as Macku led him across the bridge. “Makuta Kojol should be right this way,” Macku said, gesturing to a steepled building that rose well above the domed huts that surrounded it. “Hopefully she’s free to speak with you now.” Arik turned towards her. “Hm? What do you mean?” “She had an unexpected visitor earlier, and it seemed like…” Macku trailed off, and her steps slowed a bit. Arik looked up to see two figures coming down the street in their general direction. One was a tall Makuta clad in intricately-carved gold and green armor, a golden cape hanging from her shoulders; she wore a Kanohi Rode on her face, and in one hand she carried a long golden scepter topped with the symbol of the Three Virtues, a set of three concentric circles. The other was curiously similar to the drones recently unleashed upon Spherus Magna, but its body looked fuller and sturdier, and its limbs looked much more powerful, ending in hands rather than weaponry. The two were in the middle of a conversation, and Arik listened carefully as they came closer. “…therefore I must demand extradition,” the drone said. “Trust me when I say this matter is of the utmost importance, Kojol.” The Makuta just stared straight ahead. “Preserving the sanctity of Ga-Koro is my only priority—it is the reason I was created, after all. I cannot simply send off those who come looking for my protection. Without knowing anything about this mysterious threat you speak of, it is hard for me to justify sending Nynrah’s citizens for questioning.” The drone clenched its fists. “But they could be hiding information vital to our search!” “I assure you they are not. As I already said, I have spoken with each of them, and not one has lied to me. Unless of course you believe I am lying to you, Lord Velika?” Arik froze in his tracks. “Are you?” the drone asked. Kojol turned, eyes wide and mouth agape. “Am I…Lord Velika, with all due respect, I am insulted! I cannot believe you would even entertain the idea that I would lie to you!” “I think it’s understandable given your lack of cooperation.” “I am cooperating, but I must also operate within the limits of the position which you imposed on me! Is it not enough that I let this weaponized avatar of yours walk my streets? Should I question your deservingness of my trust? Honestly, the nerve…” As Velika grumbled to himself, Kojol caught sight of Macku and Arik. She stared hard at the Toa of Gravity for a moment, and then closed her eyes, sighed, and faced Velika again. “Apologies, my lord, but it would appear I have someone new to welcome. Please excuse me.” She came forward, Velika saying, “This conversation is not over, Kojol. I will be waiting.” Velika headed back towards the steepled building, and Kojol stopped in front of the two Toa. Macku bowed and said, “Makuta Kojol, I present to you Toa Arik. He came here from the south, hoping to take refuge here.” Kojol looked down her nose at the Toa of Gravity. “Toa Arik? Hm. Where exactly is it that you come from?” “I come from a small village just outside of Artidax, Makuta,” Arik said. “I was out scouting when something attacked me. I was able to get away, but I did not think it safe to return home—I came here because I thought it would be better to send word to Artidax from here, so that their Toa can handle the problem before someone else gets hurt.” “I see,” Kojol mumbled. “Well, thank you for bringing him in, Captain Macku. I shall take over now.” Macku bowed again before departing, and then Kojol led Arik down a side street. “Honestly, was ‘Arik’ the most creative name you could think of?” Arik smirked. “What’s more curious, dear Kojol, is that you didn’t tell Velika who I really am. For a moment I thought perhaps your mask had stopped working.” “Hmph! If I did tell Lord Velika, he surely would have threatened you, and that would have been unacceptable. Once you tell me more of what’s going on, I have every intention of turning you away and letting him take care of you elsewhere.” “Ah yes, that does sound like you. Nevermind then.” Kojol took another glance around. “What have you done now, Krika? You overstuff my city with your citizens, then drones begin scouring the desert, and now Lord Velika appears at my door. I am due a proper explanation.” “Believe it or not, I agree, and I will give you one…as soon as I am satisfied with the care you are giving my citizens.” “Bah! Of course I have treated them as well as any others! I take my job very seriously, unlike you. See for yourself!” She stopped and pointed with her scepter. On the other side of the street, a bandaged Kirbold sat conversing with a number of Matoran whom Krika recognized. Krika smiled, but then turned and resumed walking, Kojol quickly catching up to him. “I had a prisoner,” Krika said. “I was ordered to hold her until Antroz arrived, and then turn her over to be taken to the Maze.” Kojol’s grip on her scepter tightened. “And you did not?” “It’s a bit more complicated than that.” “Is this fugitive here?” “No, she is not.” “Then where is she?” “I’m going to hold onto that for now.” “Hmph. Will you at least tell me her crime?” “I most certainly will, Kojol. But is there some place less public where we can speak?” With a frustrated sigh, Kojol ushered Krika into a small, empty hut, shutting the door behind them. Krika then explained to her what Zaekura was and why the Great Beings wished her gone, and of the attack they had launched on Nynrah in an attempt to retrieve her. He also mentioned Antroz’s last bid to negotiate and how poorly it had gone, but by that point, Kojol already looked sufficiently horrified. “…Perhaps my mask really has stopped working,” she said at the end. “These things cannot possibly be true! How could the Great Beings do such terrible things?!” She paced across the hut, Krika watching in silence. “The girl, Zaekura: she is safe?” “For the moment. I’d like to keep it that way.” “Indeed. Though I am loathe to take part in any deception, speaking of this to Lord Velika would bring about only needless death, and that is not something I shall enable. Tell her and whoever else aides you that you may consider yourselves under the protection of Ga-Koro.” Krika rolled his eyes. “What a privilege.” Kojol turned towards the door. “With that settled, I think it best you leave. I shall return to Lord Velika and dissuade him of his intent to question your citizens.” “One moment. Just for clarification, do we have your support in our stand against the Great Beings?” “You should listen. I just said you would be safe in Ga-Koro.” “Yes, but if we were to end up doing battle, could we—“ Kojol whirled and interrupted, “Battle? Do you really intend to wage war against the Great Beings?! My, what a fool you are!” “Nothing’s decided. I simply want to know that if it should come to that, would you offer us aid?” “Of course not.” Krika blinked. “…Excuse me?” “Ga-Koro is a place of peace. We shall not take part in any war.” “You have a legion of Rahkshi, and quite the militia of sentient beings—they would be of great use.” “My army exists to defend Ga-Koro. Were I to send my troops into battle, that would leave my city unprotected, and I cannot abide by that! My only priority is the sanctity of—“ “But that task was given to you by the Great Beings, who you now know—“ Kojol jabbed her scepter in Krika’s face. “Do not interrupt me! Regardless of this task’s origins, it is still a noble one, and I refuse to give it anything less than my all! Should war break out, I will not fight for either side, and instead provide a neutral ground where the wounded can gather for protection. If it is soldiers you desire, Krika, you will have to look elsewhere.” Krika gently pushed the scepter away. “…Well, that’s a bit disappointing. But so long as you aren’t our enemy, I suppose I don’t have excess reason to complain.” Planting her scepter and standing tall, Kojol said, “Quite. Now I suggest you leave this place, before Lord Velika has a chance to uncover your identity.” The two Makuta stepped out and quickly returned to the main street of Ga-Koro. When they arrived, however, they spotted Velika talking to a Glatorian, one that had come from Nynrah. “I grow tired of asking you,” Velika said. “Where is Makuta Krika?” “I told you, I don’t know,” the Glatorian said. “He barely said anything at all, just insisted we leave. The last I saw of him, he was fighting those robots.” Velika grunted. “Those robots are my property. Krika must face accountability for his deeds, and it is you people who know him best. Surely you must know where he would run to?” “I’m sorry, Lord Velika, but there really isn’t—“ Velika clamped a hand onto the Glatorian’s shoulder, leaning in to look them dead in the eye. “I detest it when people hide things from me, you know. And I am not one to let such things go unpunished.” “Lord Velika!” Kojol shouted, striding over to where they stood. “Unhand him at once! This is a violation of our peace, which you agreed to uphold!” Velika half-turned in her direction. “Remember who you are speaking to, Kojol! We may tolerate your disobedience for the most part, but this situation is far too dire for such games!” “Disobedience? I am only performing the duties—“ “Duties that we assigned you, yes! And as the one who assigned them to you, I now order you to make an exception and allow me to extradite these citizens of Nynrah.” Kojol slammed her scepter against the ground. “I will not! Even if you are a Great Being, my lord, that does not give you the right to violate this sanctuary! Now I say again: unhand him!” Velika stared at Kojol for a few seconds. He kept one hand on the Glatorian, but raised the other, made a fist, and pointed it at Kojol. As it began to glow with energy, he said, “For far too long, you have considered yourself exempt from our rule. I believe it is time to put an end to that.” Kojol narrowed her eyes. “Do you forget why it is you tolerate my perceived ‘disobedience’? The sanctuary of Ga-Koro is a symbol to the people of Spherus Magna, and it is I who am responsible for maintaining that symbol. Should you harm me, Lord Velika, I assure you that you will lose the support of a great many of your people.” Velika took a step forward, dragging the Glatorian with them. “Somehow, I believe we will manage.” Kojol tightened her grip on her scepter. Before anything else could be said, Krika approached them, saying, “Stop this, Lord Velika. There is no need to threaten anyone to get what you want.” Glancing at him, Velika said, “And who are you?” “Stay out of this!” Kojol demanded. “I am more than capable of handling this situation!” Krika deactivated his mask, returning to his usual appearance. He took another step and said, “Apologies, Kojol, but I believe it’s time that I had my chance in the spotlight.” Velika gave a short laugh as he lowered his arm. “Well, what a surprise this is! It appears the time I’ve spent arguing was not a waste after all: now the one I’m looking for has come straight to me.” “Yes, but may we do this outside? I don’t want both you and Kojol displeased with me. Oh and, I will insist that you unhand my citizen, of course. You understand.” Velika shook his head. “You are in no position to be making demands, traitor. Amends must be made for the crime of destroying my work. I will take great pleasure in obliterating you before this entire city, but before that, there is something I am required to ask of you.” Krika tried to discreetly move towards the bridge. Velika cut him off. Breathing deep, Krika said, “Seems I don’t have much choice. Alright then, what can I help you with, my lord?” “Don’t feign ignorance. Where is Zaekura?” “Oh, is that all? You don’t want to know why I’m doing what I’m doing, or what my grand scheme might be?” “Why should I care why you’re doing this? The fact that you’ve done it makes you a traitor, and all that matters is rectifying this unfortunate turn of events.” “Even if it means threatening the weak to get what you want?” Kojol asked. “Is it wise to let your people know you care not for them?” “Not that this concerns you further, Kojol, but you are incorrect,” Velika said. “I care a great deal for the weak—they are, after all, our most precious resource.” Kojol’s brow furrowed. “Resource?!” Velika gestured casually to the confused Glatorian. “Without the weak, how would the strong know that they are strong? It is their feebleness that proves our superiority, so of course they must be cherished. I have no intention of destroying this resource. I do, however, intend to make full use of it.” The Great Being raised his mechanical body’s fist and pointed it at the Glatorian. The two Makuta started, but then grew deathly still. “Back to the topic at hand,” Velika said. “Krika. Where is Zaekura?” Krika locked his eyes on Velika, slowly saying, “I will take you to her. Please, just let my citizen go.” “He will come with us. So long as you uphold our agreement, no harm will come to him.” “…Very well.” Krika walked forward, and Velika pushed the Glatorian next to him, while he followed a step behind them both. The Makuta glanced at the Glatorian briefly. “I must say, Lord Velika, I find it curious you haven’t simply disarmed me.” “You think I would equip this body with such a function?” Velika said. “That technology is old—it holds no interest for me. I much prefer displaying the genius of my newest creations, and how they outdo ancient models such as yourself.” “Ah, I see. It is a rather ingenious design, my lord. I had quite a bit of difficulty when you sent them against me.” Velika chuckled. “Thank you, Krika. I have put a great deal of work into them.” “Another curiosity, if you will indulge me…do these automata have any means of flight?” “Flight? Not yet. I plan to add it soon, but for the time being it seemed unnecess—“ Krika moved faster than he ever had in his life. While Velika was talking, the Makuta extended four spikes from his back, puncturing and pushing back the drone’s arms, and then he activated his teleportation powers to remove them both from Ga-Koro. When they rematerialized, it was a hundred yards in the air above what appeared to be a shimmering lake. “Wh—“ Krika unleashed his powers of magnetism, repelling Velika’s drone towards the water at top speed. The water moved, but in a very unnatural way, almost as if it were aware of the thing headed straight towards it. In a second, the drone made contact with the surface, and in a fraction of that time, its metal body was transformed into a bright silhouette made only of energy, which slowly faded into nothing. Hovering there, Krika let out a long sigh. “I’m certain I’ve only dug my grave deeper…but then, I suppose I could use the elbow room.” He transported himself back to Ga-Koro, surprising Kojol and the Glatorian. The other Makuta asked, “What happened? Where is Lord Velika?” “Still at the Maze, of course,” Krika answered. “If you’re referring to the drone, I fed that to the crystal slime you have guarding your southern border.” He paused to turn to the Glatorian. “Are you alright?” “Um…y-yes, Makuta,” the Glatorian replied, shaking slightly. “Good. Why don’t you go get some rest?” Nodding, the Glatorian headed off. Kojol said, “I suppose that’s one way to solve this problem.” “A bit of gratitude for preserving your precious sanctuary would be appreciated, you know.” After a long moment, Kojol nodded. “Thank you, Krika.” Krika looked at her in surprise. Choosing to let the moment pass, he said, “Well, my questions have been answered, so I really should take my leave. Don’t be surprised if we pass by again, though.” “Are you sure you do not require rest?” Kojol asked. “You’ve earned one, foiling a Great Being the way you did.” Krika shrugged. “It really wasn’t that impressive. Truly, I’m convinced that’s the single easiest victory we’re going to get.” *** “So in summation,” Krika said, “Kojol is not our ally, but she is not our enemy either. Drones are patrolling the southwestern area of the Great Desert, but none are especially close to this outpost yet. And, unfortunately, we’ve now managed to personally agitate two Great Beings.” Zaekura put her head in her hands. “Krika, none of that sounds good. At all.” “Better to know of our displeasure than to be taken by surprise.” “Oh, shut up.” Bitil hummed. “If Kojol is expecting another visit…then it might be possible to catch her off-guard and seize control of Ga-Koro.” Krika, Zaekura, and Antroz all turned towards him in incredulous silence. “…I was merely voicing our options.” “That’s messed up,” Zaekura said. “Indeed,” Krika said. “Admittedly I might’ve entertained the thought if my citizens weren’t there to be swept up in it…” Zaekura squinted at him. “But, more importantly, Kojol was right: both she and Ga-Koro are important symbols to the people, meaning such an attack would cast us in quite the unfavorable light.” “Sorry, I thought that was the only light we had,” Bitil mumbled. “Once word gets out about our disobedience, people are going to take the Great Being’s side without even thinking about it. We are traitors.” “But again, Velika threatened Ga-Koro,” Krika said. “That word will get out as well. In addition, if we can get the truth about Zaekura into the conversation, I’m certain some will believe us. At the very least, it is bound to give many pause. I suspect we still stand a chance in the war of public opinion.” “Yeah, this is all fascinating stuff,” Zaekura said, rubbing her temple. “What’s more concerning is that flock of drones—they’re going to be here sooner or later.” Krika nodded. “An excellent point. Defending this outpost demands our immediate attention, and then we can work out what we’re doing next.” “The matter is already taken care of,” Bitil said. “My Rahkshi and I are ready for battle.” Krika cocked his head. “…Is that all?” “What do you mean?” “Well I just assumed you were going to give specifics, not just say you’ve got fighting gloves on and expect that alone to reassure us.” “What would you have me say? When we see the drones, my forces will march.” “Oh Bitil, we really do need to introduce you to the concept of ‘tactics’ sometime soon…” Bitil growled, but before he could say anything, Zaekura held a hand out. “Can’t we avoid a fight? If Antroz, Krika, and I just stay hidden when the drones come here, then they’ll have no reason to attack.” “And should they search and discover us,” Krika said, “we would have them surrounded.” “What, let them inside?” Bitil said. “That would put my Rahkshi at far greater risk! I have a hard time thinking that’s the better idea.” Zaekura looked up and thought for a moment. “Bitil, do you have some kind of list? Of all your Rahkshi, what each of their specialties are?” “Not written down, but I know every one by heart.” “Okay, I’m going to need to write it down, but start talking.” “Lady Zaekura, I remain thrilled by your interest in my work, but now is not the time to—“ “I need to know what they can do so I can help you with a plan of attack! Some of them might have abilities that will make this a lot easier, I want to know what they are.” Krika stepped forward, saying, “Zaekura, you don’t have to concern yourself with this. We’re the ones responsible for your safety.” Zaekura scowled and pointed to her head. “Well what’s the point of this dangerous fancy brain if I don’t put it to use? Besides…I don’t want anyone else dying for me. If there’s something I can do to prevent that, I’m going to do it.” Krika stared at her for a moment, but then nodded. Bitil led Zaekura out of the room, already listing off Rahkshi, and Krika then turned to the corner of the room where Antroz sat. “…What does she know, exactly?” Krika asked. “I told her there were two casualties at Nynrah,” Antroz said. “I did not say who.” Krika nodded. “Do you suppose we should tell her?” “I don’t know.” “My word, you’ve really become useless.” He received no response. “…Have you made your decision yet?” Antroz shook her head. “Everything has changed, Krika. I’m in a place I have no knowledge of, one I’ve never given any thought to. Even when I lost my sight, I still knew that I wanted to carry on without it. But what I want now, I have no idea…because I’m beyond the horizon of what I never, ever wanted to happen.” Krika crossed his arms and took a seat. “Do you expect sympathy from me? What I see, Antroz, is someone who thrives on attention moping about for having her personal spotlight shut off.” Antroz turned sharply, but said nothing at first. After a moment, she said, “Perhaps I deserve that. Perhaps I enjoyed the praise of the people too much. But that was never my only motivation: I have always done my best to do what I thought was right.” “And if keeping Zaekura alive is right, then you are willing to fight for it?” She hesitated. “Hm.” “It is not…” Antroz paused to reorganize her thoughts. “Have you ever spoken with the visitor from the other world?” “No, I haven’t. I am vaguely aware of what he’s said, however. You’re still upset to know there are evil Makuta in existence?” “In that reality, the Makuta were consumed with vanity, and so sought to seize control of an entire universe. If we rebel against the Great Beings…are we not doing the exact same thing? Now that we know Makuta are not innately good, who is to say that we are not innately evil?” “Oh for goodness sake,” Krika groaned. “Your pride is astounding, Antroz. I wonder if this ever occurred to you: if the existence of an evil Antroz proves that whatever makes ‘an Antroz’ is not innately good, then does not your existence also prove it is not innately evil?” Antroz inclined her head. “All that aside, the idea of people being inherently good or evil is such an archaic concept that it’s frankly embarrassing that this affects you so deeply. Everyone has the capacity for good and evil within them. It should be enough to know that you prefer to indulge the good.” “But this was brought about by circumstance. Were circumstances different, I could have turned out just the same as my doppelganger.” Krika looked at her sideways. “Are you truly about to let that stop you from making a decision?” Antroz paused for a long moment. Finally giving a sigh, she said, “I wasn’t going to. Truth be told…it was this distraction that led to me turning Krekka over to Gorast. When I realized my mistake, I was ashamed, and I vowed I would never let such a thing happen again. Yet here I am, still so distracted I am willing to give up another important decision.” Krika leaned back. “…In all fairness, a massive change in perspective is quite difficult to enact, even if you know it must be done. I’d recommend trying again.” Antroz thought about this for a time. Eventually, she stood and took a few steps, but then stopped and turned to Krika. “Thank you, Krika.” “What, for saying what I think of your nonsense? It was my pleasure, Antroz—I’ll happily repeat the service any time.” Antroz opened her mind as she left the room, trying to find which direction Zaekura and Bitil had gone in. She caught up with them in an empty warehouse near the perimeter of the outpost, and as she slowly approached it, she realized there was music coming from within. Bitil and Zaekura stood at the open door; inside were five black and yellow Rahkshi of standard design but varying sizes, each playing a different instrument as Bitil nodded along gleefully. When the song was over, Zaekura said, “Nice. Didn’t realize how much I missed music since coming out here.” “We take requests,” said a Rahkshi holding a guitar. “Not like there’s anything else to do around here!” As the other Rahkshi snickered, Bitil said, “Natan, I know we don’t get guests often, but you should know better than to give that sort of impression of our outpost!” “Don’t worry about it,” Zaekura chuckled. “So what inspired you to make them this way? Picked up a good album off a caravan from Nynrah?” “No, I was just considering what weapons and tools might work best with specific powers. By giving my Sonic Rahkshi instruments, it provides them an alternate method of creating sound for them to utilize, making the process much more efficient by reducing the need to use up energy reserves to create the sound. In addition, through developing their musical skills they’ve gained a much finer control over their Sonic powers—hence how they can now manipulate sound to produce speech.” Zaekura rubbed her chin. “Cool, cool. Well we’ve got a lot more to cover, but I’m definitely going to be back soon.” “We’ll be ready for you!” Natan said. “Closest thing we’ve ever had to a concert, eh gang? Better brush up before she gets back.” They resumed playing, and Bitil and Zaekura started walking. Antroz came up behind them, saying, “Zaekura. Can I speak with you?” The Glatorian looked over her shoulder. “What is it? I’m gonna lose track of what everyone can do if I don’t stay on it.” A second later, she grumbled, “Actually, I think I already have.” Bitil glanced at Antroz, and then said, “Why don’t I just go make that list, and give you two a moment to talk? If you still want to meet the others face-to-face, there will be time later, I’m sure.” As he walked away, Zaekura turned to face Antroz. She waited to see if the blind Makuta was going to speak first, but eventually, she gave up and asked, “So is it time now?” “I think it is,” Antroz said. “But…I do not think it is a decision that I should make alone. This is about your future, Zaekura, and I think it only fair you deserve a say in it.” Zaekura nodded. “Okay, strong opening. What’ve you got for me?” “I’m afraid my assessment hasn’t changed much. Whether we run or fight, there exists so much risk, and our chances are not especially appealing. But, what I wanted to tell you is this.” She inclined her head and stood tall. “Whatever you decide to do, I am with you. And I will give my all to protect you. I understand if you may not entirely trust me yet, but I am determined to prove myself. Difficult as it may be…I am certain that this is the right thing to do.” Zaekura stared at her. “…You’re pretty much just dropping the decision on me, then?” Antroz drooped slightly. “…I’m sorry?” “I mean I’m touched, but it sounds like all you’re really doing is avoiding making the decision yourself, saying you’ll just follow my lead, so now I have to make it for you.” “That’s not…I didn’t intend for…” Antroz stopped and shook her head, starting to feel terribly frustrated. Zaekura shrugged. “If you want to help, I’ll take you up on that. But I’m still not entirely sure what to do either.” She turned and began to walk away. Taking an angry step forward, Antroz said, “What more do you want of me?!” Zaekura whirled. “Make your own decision! Would you rather fight, or would you rather run?” “I…” Antroz ground her teeth. “It isn’t…wise…to fight.” “So you want to fight?” “I can’t let my emotions get the better of—“ “Your emotions are gonna tell you what you want! Try listening to them!” “I must temper my emotions with reason! Charging in without thinking is what leads fools to their death.” “Yeah, like you were just about to reasonably charge to yours?” “I know I’ve made mistakes!” “Then try a different approach! Stop being so darn hesitant and just pick one, Antroz: run or fight?” Antroz’s frustration boiled over. She snatched up her sword and beat it, still sheathed, against the ground, at the same time baring her fangs and unfurling her wings. “I want to fight!” Zaekura stumbled backwards. Settling down, Antroz said, “And that’s exactly why I’m hesitant. Maybe I have put our lives in danger already, but it would only be more dangerous to let myself be carried away by some violent urge. So perhaps I’m hoping you can give me something noble to fight for instead.” It took a few seconds for her to react, but in the end, Zaekura laughed. “Yikes, you sure got me!” Antroz sighed, putting away her sword as she waited for Zaekura’s laughing to stop. “Haha…ah,” the Glatorian chuckled. “Look, Fangs: despite what Bitil likes to say, I’m not noble. You’re probably fishing in the wrong pond. Still…I guess I kind of get what you mean.” “You do?” Antroz asked. “I want to fight, too. Maybe I’m just getting stir-crazy, or maybe it’s just me wanting revenge, I don’t really know—I’ve just kind of got an itch to strike back. But despite that…I still don’t really want anyone getting hurt. Well, not permanently hurt, you know what I mean.” Antroz nodded. “…Yes, I think I do.” “Maybe it’s not time after all. Let’s just focus on defending this outpost for now, I’m sure it won’t be much longer before those things show up for round 2. If we survive that, then we’ll talk.” “I’ve never been a fan of doing things last-minute.” “It works out more often than you’d think. Anyway, that’s what I’m doing, if you’ve got a problem I don’t know what to tell you.” Zaekura sat down to wait for Bitil. Antroz stood there a moment, but then, to Zaekura’s surprise, she chuckled. “Not what I was expecting.” “Pardon me,” Antroz said. “I was just thinking…in spite of this indecision, you still seem more sure of yourself in a way. I suppose it’s comforting.” Zaekura scoffed. “Another first: me, comforting.” Antroz turned, saying, “I suppose some more time to consider might be advantageous. If you require my assistance in your defense planning, I imagine I’ll remain somewhere near the watchtower.” Zaekura didn’t say anything as she left, simply leaning back and looking up at the sky. ADDENDUM: -As mentioned before, Ga-Koro is considered a sanctuary, as well as a very spiritual place, which is why Kojol mainly employs the Principle Rahkshi to keep it safe as they embody ideals Ga-Koro’s citizens strive for. I also decided to change the Three Virtues symbol: since it was originally intended to be a map of the shattered Spherus Magna, but Spherus Magna never shattered in this universe, it would have felt a little inconsistent to use the original symbol. -Kojol does have some similarities to Antroz, but while Antroz is definitely pretentious, Kojol has an overbearing “holier than thou” air, not to mention she is far more stubborn in her disagreements with the Great Beings in contrast to Antroz’s history of subservience. Despite how abrasive she is, however, she does truly care about her job and the people of Spherus Magna. I was going to go with white and gold for her armor, but then I thought using green might go well with the Lerahk surrounding the city, as well as serve as a subtle nod to Artakha’s armor color since that’s the island Prime Kojol watched over. She holds a scepter to make her seem more regal, and the Kanohi Rode seemed like the best fit for a heavily spiritual Guardian of a sacred city. I was thinking of showing her in battle at some point, and probably being a specialist in long-range Light attacks, but with how things played out her fighting style is relegated to trivia for the time being. -Velika being Velika, it only makes sense he’d be using decoy bodies. I envisioned the special drone used here as something like a cross between a Vahki and a Matoran (Melding Matoran, so the tall ones); it can fire the same types of blasts as regular drones from its fists, but we were able to avoid seeing those this time. -While technically under the Great Beings’ rule, Ga-Koro’s status as a sanctuary means that not even they can just stroll in and drag off whoever they want: they need to explain the situation to Kojol, and if she feels the suspect in question needs to face judgment, she will cast them out of Ga-Koro and let the Great Beings take them. This isn’t exactly what the Great Beings had in mind when they originally conceived of Ga-Koro, but they decided to just go along with it rather than deal with the hassle of convincing Kojol otherwise. In order to keep the city defended, Kojol has a large army of Rahkshi, and quite a few citizens of Ga-Koro serve in a militia ready to be called upon when needed. Aside from a small handful of incidents, she has not had much need for these forces as of yet. -Rereading the last few chapters of Brothers in Arms, I felt I should do something with the strange creature seen briefly outside Ga-Koro, and it ended up proving quite handy for Krika. Of course, it had no name in the serial, so I had to come up with one. I worry that “crystal slime” doesn’t quite sound…Bionicle enough, maybe a bit too JRPG, but it’s functional. -I also worry that this is retreading The Gargoyle Knight a bit too much, but as Krika says, major changes happen slowly—just because you know something shouldn’t bother you doesn’t always mean that it stops doing so. In a similar vein, the ending feels a bit similar to the end of the last chapter; originally I did plan to end with Antroz’s statement of allegiance to Zaekura, but then I felt Zaekura wouldn’t be so easily moved, so they ended up arguing. Gradual, gradual shifts. -In recent years I’ve really become enamored with the idea of music-based fighting abilities, and of course I simply can’t have an army of specialized Rahkshi and not include a Rahkshi Rock reference. It’s iconic. “Natan” is a Hebrew verb from which t

Thanks! Chapter 14 is out, getting us into the next conflict and bringing in a couple more familiar faces. Also, for reasons explained here, there's a chance chapters might remain at a slow pace--I'm going to have a bit less free time starting soon, and while I'll do my best to get them out in a timely manner, I wanted to say something just in case I can't.

Chapter 14 “Here, Acid?” “We are close. Please proceed slowly.” Sonia took a few steps, looking around anxiously. As soon as they had arrived in Alohaha, Acid had begun scanning the area for any trace of Luna’s data, and the team was currently searching the Wave Road above the plaza outside Alohaha Castle. Sonia knew she just needed to be patient, but that was beyond her ability right now. “Stop.” Sonia froze. “Here?” “I believe so. Focusing scan now.” From where he hovered just above Sonia, Acid put both hands forward and emitted a low whine. A flash nearby caught Sonia’s attention. Gradually, a small, blue orb of light flickered into view, and Sonia immediately started forward. “Is this…?” “Luna fragment located,” Acid said. “Confirmed safe for retrieval.” Sonia reached out, gently cupping her hands around the ball of data. She pulled it in close, eyes fixed on it, and tried to make sense out of what she was holding. This is Luna? Acid came forward and glanced at the orb. “According to my estimations, this fragment contains approximately 20% of Luna Platz’s data.” Sonia tensed. “T…twenty percent?” Acid gave a nod. Appearing to realize Sonia’s mood, he then continued, “This is promising. If all the data fragments we find are this large, it will greatly increase the chance of successful reconstruction. It is more common that fragments of Joker’s victims contain roughly 11-15% of data each, and if any fragments dip below the threshold of 10% it virtually guarantees that reconstruction will fail.” “Her chances are looking very good, dear,” Lyra said. “Luna’s holding on. It’ll be alright.” Sonia nodded slowly, continuing to stare at the data. She felt a little more optimistic, but at the same time, actually holding a piece of Luna in her hands made the situation feel much more real suddenly, and her worries were starting to swell again. No. I don’t have time to break down right now—Luna needs my help. She closed her eyes and lowered her head, cradling the data even closer, and whispered, “Don’t worry, Luna. You’ll be okay soon.” It might’ve just been her imagination, but when she opened her eyes, she was sure the light was shining more brightly than before. As Acid helped her download the data into a specially-made folder, Lyra said, “We’re getting a call from Geo. Shall I pick up?” Sonia nodded. A screen popped up before her, showing not just Geo, but Claud and Kidd as well. Claud leaned forward and said, “Sonia, there you are! We didn’t know you were back already.” “Uh, sorry,” she said. “We were really in a rush, so I didn’t get the chance to let you know.” “No, it’s okay, I understand.” “We wanted to apologize, Miss Sonia,” Kidd said. “Earlier, when we saw that Lord Strong had been corrupted, we were too alarmed to be of any use to you. Perhaps if we had been stronger…” Sonia shook her head. “Don’t worry about it. I know it must’ve been hard for you.” “How are things going on your end?” Geo asked. “We have reclaimed roughly 20% of Luna Platz’s data,” Acid answered. “May I utilize this connection to extend the range of my radar?” “Oh, of course!” As Acid went silent, Claud said, “Geo gave us the basics of what you’re doing, though I’m still a little fuzzy on the details. But you’re looking for a way to save Luna, right? Is there anything we can do to help?” “Sure, we’ll take all the help we can get,” Sonia said. “We need Acid’s radar to verify the data, but if you could ask around, maybe see if anybody has seen any unusual data over the past few hours, that would narrow it down.” Claud and Kidd saluted, the former saying, “We’re on it! Don’t you worry about a thing, Sonia: we’ll get Luna back to you in a flash!” Sonia gave them a smile, albeit one that was weaker than she intended. The two boys rushed off, and then Acid said, “Geo, hold location. I am detecting a potential match in your immediate vicinity—will rendezvous at once.” “Oh, great!” Geo said. “We’ll stay right here!” Lyra ended the call, and Sonia began to move. She turned to Acid and whispered, “Forgive me for asking, but the assessment you just gave her was truthful, yes?” “Correct,” Acid said. “Were there a problem with the data, I would inform her.” “Oh, good. And if this one fragment is of decent size, can we expect the others to match it?” “Uncertain. There have been instances where fragments of the same victim have wildly varied in size, with no clear variable to associate.” “I see…” Acid didn’t continue the conversation. Lyra stared at Sonia for a moment, and then quickly moved to her side. *** Hyde stepped into the room and stopped, surprised to see he was not alone. Zack, Pat, and Magnes were crowded around a small table in the corner, and they looked up as he entered. “Ah, pardon the intrusion,” he said. “I was sent to retrieve some files Lady Vega requires for her work. I hope you won’t mind.” “No, of course not,” Zack said. As he walked over to one of several consoles lining the walls, Hyde glanced at Magnes. “I don’t believe we’ve been introduced. My name is Hyde—I work as Dr. Vega’s assistant.” The Wizard gave a forced smile as he replied, “I’m Magnes. I used to help the Science Club at Echo Ridge.” Hyde nodded awkwardly. He reached for his Hunter, faced the console, and began searching for what he needed. “It’ll be okay, Magnes,” Zack said. “We’ll find something for you to do here in no time! With your specifications, you’re practically made for this place!” Magnes shook his head. “I was made to help out at the school. I’m programmed to teach, and to work with kids, and to oversee simple experiments. This just isn’t the same.” “Even if it’s different, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it,” Pat said. “Just give it some time.” “I appreciate that you’re trying to help, but it isn’t that simple. I’m a Wizard built for a specific purpose—I need to fulfill that directive. If I can’t do that, then…it feels like I’m just wasting drive space.” Zack leaned in. “You aren’t a waste! There’s still a lot more you can do, Magnes!” Magnes sighed. “Zack…I’ve lost the opportunity to do the one thing I was created to do. Anything else I can try would just be empty. Maybe it would be better if I was dele—“ “Don’t say that!” Zack interrupted. “You’re more than a simple program, Magnes: Wizards are so complex that they have to be able to grow and change. You just have to work at it.” Magnes looked down at the table. “…Well,” Pat muttered, “you also have to want to work at it.” Hyde quietly put his Hunter away and slipped out of the room before the conversation could continue. When they were a few steps away, Phantom said, “All this technology and the humans can still only produce such primitive EM beings. It only grows clearer that PM-ians are the only lifeforms worthy of their sentience.” “Yes,” Hyde mused, “the wise, flawless PM-ians, brought into being by a warmongering god-machine that couldn’t think of anything other than consuming power and breaking what it didn’t like. You come from such a noble adoptive lineage.” “Hmph! Don’t tell me you were impressed by that sniveling wretch?” “I must admit, there’s a certain advantage to admitting that one has failed at their life’s goal, rather than simply denying the obvious.” “And what exactly are you implying?!” “I’m afraid you’ll need to wait for the revision to know. Much work remains to be done on-set.” Hyde ignored Phantom’s retort and glanced out the window. In the courtyard outside of HQ, he could barely make out Bud, standing off by himself and staring up at the walls of the crater the structure was built into. Thinking little of it, he continued on his way. Down below, Bud kept staring until he heard the Wave Liner pull in. Amy disembarked, fished out her Hunter to show some identification to the posted guards, and then rushed straight over to him. She practically tackled him as she moved to hug him, but he was a bit sluggish in returning the embrace. “How are you doing?” she asked. Bud shook his head. They stood there for a moment, still entwined, before he finally said, “I couldn’t do anything.” Amy hugged him tighter. “It seemed like he barely moved, and I was out. And then, Prez…” He bit his lip. “But they have a way to save her, right?” Amy said. “She’s going to be okay, Bud.” “They don’t know if it’s gonna work. And if it doesn’t, then that means it’s my fault that—“ “It isn’t your fault.” She reached up and put a hand on his face, gently turning him to look at her. “Bud, you can’t blame yourself for what happened. You had no warning.” “I know, but…once I did realize what was happening…I couldn’t stop him. I wasn’t strong enough to even slow him down.” He sniffed as tears finally started to fall. “I’ve worked s-so hard, and I…I still can’t…protect my friends…!” Bud began to cry loudly; Amy could feel herself tearing up as well, but she did her best to fight it, and just held onto Bud until he could talk again. “I-I just…all this time, I’ve been giving it my all! I thought, if I was really dedicated, it was supposed to payoff, y’know? That I’d be strong enough to keep everyone safe! But, I did my best, and I…I’m still not good enough for this new threat! There was nothing I could do to help Prez! Even if she pulls through this time…what’s going to happen next time?” Amy looked up, wishing there was something she could say. Nothing she could think of seemed like it would be enough. Bud sighed in an attempt to calm down. “…I’m sorry. Thanks for being here.” “Don’t apologize—of course I’ll come when you need me!” She paused to smile at him. “Let’s head inside. We’ll see how their work is going.” Bud nodded. Taking Amy’s hand, he prepared to head back when he spotted something on the far side of the crater. “Huh? What’s that?” Amy turned to look: it appeared to be an EM body of some kind, a pure white, mechanical-looking creature that floated a few feet off the ground. “Isn’t that Acid? I mean, he looks a little different, but…” “He left with Sonia, though,” Bud said. “Are they back already? I thought they would’ve told us once they were done searching.” Suddenly, another EM body appeared, also identical to Acid but being a yellowish-green color. A few seconds later, a pinkish-red Acid appeared not far away. Bud’s eyes widened. “Th-this isn’t good,” he said, tugging on Amy’s arm. “Come on, we’ve gotta warn someone!” The two of them dashed inside, nearly bumping into Ace in the lobby. He looked at them and said, “What’s the rush?” Bud pointed. “It’s—I mean, they—well, I don’t really know, but…” Ace approached the door, looking out to see a steadily growing swarm of Acids slowly approaching WAZA HQ. He grimaced and drew out his Hunter. “Sound emergency alert! Deploy Real Wave barrier at main entrance and evacuate all civilian personnel! We are under attack—this is not a drill! I repeat, HQ is under attack!” Alarms blared overhead, and just outside, a tall, glowing barrier flashed into existence. Ace turned and headed for the stairs. “Chief Boreal, do you copy?” “I copy,” replied a voice from Ace’s Hunter. “What details do we have on the enemy forces?” “Well Chief, they all look like Acid.” “What?!” “Misprints, granted, but some people actually pay more for those. I’ve deployed the barrier, but hard to say how long that’s going to hold.” “Rats…we’ll just have to…” Ace stopped mid-step. “Chief? You there?” “I’m getting an urgent report from our Netopia Branch HQ,” Boreal replied. “Wait, and also one from NetFrica…Sharo too? They just keep coming!” Ace tightened his grip on his Hunter. “A coordinated attack on all branches, huh? So much for backup.” “This is a nightmare! Ace, we’re just going to have to do the best we can with what we’ve got. Deploy all Battle Wizards and notify all Satella Officers on-site, I’ll see who I can call in!” Turning slightly, Ace shouted, “What are you waiting for? Let’s move!” A crowd of people in combat gear began to rush past him. A new voice came from Ace’s Hunter, this one belonging to Goodall. “Arthur? What’s going on?” “I’m afraid we’ve come under attack by a swarm of Acid clones, doc. Still working on an explanation.” “Dear me…an army like that is going to be tough to repel. You know, I think I could recalibrate that EM weapon we’re working on, but—“ “But you’d need Acid’s help to do it properly.” “Bah, you should at least let me finish!” Ace chuckled. “Sorry, but once Acid gets here I’m going to need him with me. Besides, you and Dr. Vega still have important work to do.” “…Arthur,” Goodall said. “You will be careful, won’t you?” “I will, doc. I’ve gotta contact Acid now, but I’ll be up in a second.” He hung up, and then turned to Bud and Amy. “Bud, we could use your help out there! Amy, if you don’t want to evacuate, then you should get to the main computer room!” He ran off before either could say a word. Taurus appeared and set a hand on Bud’s shoulder, saying, “Come on, Bud! We’ve got some heads to knock!” Bud glanced at the door. “I…I don’t know how much help I’ll really be. There’s a lot of those things, and if they’re all on the same level as Acid…he’s supposed to be really strong, isn’t he? He is based on Mega.” Taurus leaned in. “Mrrgh? We can’t just sit by, Bud! We’ve gotta do what we can to protect this place!” Squeezing his hand, Amy said, “I believe in you, Bud. You’ll be able to stop those things, I’m sure of it!” Bud looked between them for a moment. Hesitantly, he nodded, and he reached for his Hunter as he slowly approached the door. Amy paused a moment, and then looked at her Hunter. A few moments later, she turned and climbed the stairs. *** “…but that’s all we know for now.” Sonia stared hard at the screen, trying to process what Ace was telling her. “…Ace…if they get inside, then…” “We’re doing our best to prevent that,” Ace said. “But to tell you the truth, we really need you all back here ASAP.” Acid nodded. “Fortunately, we have just completed our search—100% of Luna Platz’s data has been recovered. We will return to HQ immediately.” “Great news! That’ll be a nice morale booster for everyone. See you soon!” The call ended. Sonia looked to her guitar: it was true that they had managed to find all of Luna’s data, and from Acid’s assessment, her chances still sounded high. But now she couldn’t help but feel even more worried than before. If they destroy those machines, we may never be able to save Luna. She turned to Geo. “We need to hurry!” “Should we come too?” Claud asked. “We can help take out these copy things!” “I don’t know if that’s a good idea,” Geo said. “It sounds like Dealer’s attacking several places at once—you guys might be needed here.” “Is there really much threat of them returning here?” Kidd asked. “I’m not sure Alohaha would be a very strategic target.” “Strictly speaking, perhaps not,” Ophiuca said. “But it would provide a way to kick us while we are down, and I hardly put that beyond Dealer. You boys stay here. We will be in contact once this matter is settled.” It wasn’t much of a goodbye, but Ophiuca and Acid headed for the Wave Road while Geo and Sonia Wave Changed in order to join them. As they headed for the link to the Astro Wave, Geo asked, “Acid, do you have any idea what these copies are?” “There is a high probability they are being utilized by Dealer,” he said. “Aside from that, there are many possibilities as to what their origin might be. I do not think it fruitful to speculate with the limited information I currently possess.” “Whatever they are, we’ll need to take them out as quickly as we can,” Sonia said. “I’ll draw their attention when we get there—Geo, you should try to get between them and the HQ. Ophiuca…” She paused. “I think you should take Luna’s data, and get it to Dr. Goodall.” Ophiuca nodded. “I’ll protect her with my life.” “And then, Acid…” She then realized that Acid had stopped moving. Before she could ask why, he stated, “Unidentified Wave Change detected. Intentions unknown. Incoming.” “Shoot,” Geo said, “they must’ve sent someone to intercept us! Sonia, Mega and I will hold them off!” She turned towards the direction Acid was facing and scanned Wave Road. At first she didn’t see anything, but then, someone did emerge from a path leading behind Alohaha Castle. Her jaw dropped when she recognized who it was. He stopped for only a moment when they locked eyes, and then continued his approach, moving a good deal slower than she expected him to. Geo glanced at her, keeping his buster ready. “Do you think…?” he mumbled. “I don’t know,” Sonia said. He was still a short distance away when he stopped. He stared at them for a moment, but then, finally, said, “It’s been some time, Harp Note.” Shakily, she nodded. “Yeah. I have to admit, I wasn’t expecting to see you here, Solo.” Acid cocked his head. “This is Solo? Curious. I have heard mention of him, but was not given any information on what he looked like.” Solo eyed Acid warily. Turning back to Sonia, he said, “I mean you no harm. I simply have something I wish to discuss with you.” Sonia tapped her fingers against her guitar. “…I’m sorry, Solo, but we’re really in a hurry right now. Someone’s life is at stake. I don’t have time to spare.” Slowly, Solo nodded. “I see. Then…” He paused for another few seconds. “May I come with you?” “Huh?” “I’m not going to impede your efforts, if that’s what you’re worried about.” “No, I just…wasn’t expecting that. Er, I’m sorry.” She turned to Acid. “Do we need to get him clearance to get to WAZA, or can we skip that since this is an emergency?” “Uncertain,” Acid said. “I have been told that this individual is rather dangerous…although, he does not seem to be a grave threat at the moment.” Taking another look, Sonia realized what he meant: though he was Wave Changed, there appeared to be several scars on Solo’s body, and every now and then he swayed a bit before catching himself. His eyebrows soon lowered. “Fine, I’ll cut to the chase,” he huffed. “Tell me: are you in conflict with Dealer?” Sonia said, “D…well, yeah, we are. How do you know them?” “They’re my enemy as well. So…” He swallowed hard. “After considering it…I’ve come to feel that it might be worthwhile for us to compare what we know.” “Please clarify,” Acid said. “Are you requesting to ally with us in the fight against Dealer?” Solo ground his teeth. “…Potentially.” “I require definitive confirmation.” Solo hesitated, and Sonia grunted. “Acid, we don’t have time for this! Let’s just take him with us—if anything happens, I’ll accept the blame!” “Are you certain you trust him?” Acid asked. “He could also pose a threat to Luna’s reconstruction, you must be aware.” Sonia looked at Solo, feeling just a twinge of doubt. If she was being honest, she wanted to take a more cautious approach, but she knew they didn’t have time and she had to make a fast decision. It didn’t help matters that she still couldn’t entirely think straight. Still, she took stock of her feelings as best she could, and made the decision she thought was best. “…He wouldn’t have any reason to do that. I’m trusting him.” Solo’s face went oddly blank. With a nod, Acid said, “Very well. Then let us be off.” “Come on!” Sonia called to Solo, turning back towards the Astro Wave. “Just so you know, we’re heading for a fight.” Regaining his composure, Solo came closer and said, “Hmph. So long as it’s with Dealer, you’ll hear no complaints from me.” (Review)

Gresh: "And relaaaax..." Malum: "I guess I should've asked to see your chiropractic license first."

And as if that weren't bad enough, Kanto.

Real talk though a couple of those designs did actually look pretty cool

I see Kapura's slow in more departments than one

Takanuva: "By the blessing of incredible popularity, I have descended from on high to royally wreck your day."

I don’t do this often, this is weird, anyway. I got a new job! A bit nervous about some of the specifics, but I’m excited, and really hoping that it’ll work out. I’ve had my…current? Former? Job for just about 5 years, which is a good number in my book and I have had more than enough of it, though I will miss several of my coworkers. I’m going for an orientation on Tuesday, and I should officially start the last week of May. The thing is, I’m moving from part time to full time, and I’m not 100% sure what my new schedule is going to look like so I can’t say for sure how this will affect any projects I’m working on or thinking about. By “projects” I mainly mean stories of course, I haven’t done a game since, what…September? Yikes. Anyway my point in all this is, if anyone’s keeping up with my stories and it looks like I’m slowing way down, this is probably the reason why. I’m hoping to update Right of Law and SSS3 both at some point in the next two weeks, beyond that I just don’t know. But I’m not going to go on hiatus or cancel anything, and everyone knows I’ve always had trouble getting things out in a timely manner, so it’s entirely possible that nothing will really change. On the off-chance something does, I wanted to give you all a heads-up. Later.

Thank you! I've come to really enjoy writing characters who speak very eloquently, especially when the specifics of what they're saying can make the whole thing seem humorously passive-aggressive. The Makuta are perfect for that. Section V is out now, and it starts out with a good dose of such dialogue, before moving on to Antroz's meeting with Angonce. This one is going to heavily shift the direction the story goes in from here on!

A month ago I said I wanted to use this blog more, but I've been almost exclusively doing Right of Law adverts since then. Huh. At least it means I'm making good progress on Right of Law! Section V is out now! Despite her companions' warnings, Antroz heads back to Xia and meets with Angonce, and the negotiations don't exactly go the way either hoped they would. Things won't be able to return to normal after this...

SECTION V Krika kept his senses sharp as he approached the outpost. With the last of the drones gone and his people’s safety secured, he had been able to take a moment to repair the damage done to his armor, but it was very much a rush job and he knew he needed to be careful. Knowing where he was going only made him all the more paranoid. What was I thinking, telling her to decide? he silently bemoaned. She took her to Bitil? Of all Makuta, Bitil? Storming this den of freaks is going to be far trickier than smashing a few puppets, that much is certain… He stopped as he saw movement. From a few dozen yards away, Charla waved to him, calling, “Makuta Krika! I am most glad to see you unharmed!” Krika raised an eyebrow. “…Beg pardon?” Charla came closer at a slow, steady pace. “Makuta Antroz and Lady Zaekura have already arrived—the situation has been explained to Lord Bitil, and he has agreed to grant them asylum. We were waiting anxiously to see how you fared against your opponents.” “Lady Zaekura?” he chuckled. “My word, she’s ingratiated herself with Bitil somehow, hasn’t she? Oh, if she wasn’t already troublesome, now she’s got that encouragement…” “Please, this way.” Krika hesitated. Eventually, he let Charla lead him inside the outpost, though he didn’t relax even when he saw Antroz and Zaekura standing next to Bitil unharmed. “There you are, Krika,” Antroz said. “I am relieved to know you survived.” “I’m glad one of us is happy,” Krika grumbled. “Yes, yes, I know you can’t be pleased to be here, old friend,” Bitil said. “But look, I’ve been nothing but helpful to your little band of fugitives—you can stop boiling your antidermis any time now.” “Yeah,” Zaekura said, “we’ve got a new problem. Fangs here thinks it’s a good idea to turn herself in.” “Of course she does, I expected nothing less,” Krika said. “Though to be honest, ‘Fangs’, I’m feeling rather inclined to let you do it. Why don’t you help me decide?” “I am going,” Antroz said. “Lord Angonce is in Xia, and if I speak with him I can—“ “Make the exact same mistake you made in Nynrah!” Zaekura interrupted. “Please, listen to me,” Antroz said. She waited a moment to be sure she had their attention. “I recognize the mistakes that I’ve made in handling this situation thus far. I offer my sincerest apologies for them. Rest assured I have every intention of helping, and my goal is simply to negotiate.” “But that still brings up the question of why you expect that to work, Antroz,” Bitil said. “The rest of us all seem to have about the same idea of what’ll happen if you go.” Using his Mahiki, Krika took on Angonce’s appearance, and reached out his arms while donning an incredibly fake smile. “Oh, Antroz, there you are my beloved pet! Wonderful to see you again, really—now I get to kill you with my own hands for betraying me. Well, I say my own hands, but I still mean someone else’s of course, I just had my gauntlets polished and you know how long that lasts if you don’t keep an eye on it. Anyway, enjoy oblivion, I’ll be sure to make the others’ deaths extra painful just for you!” He returned to normal, snapped his fingers, and shouted, “BANG!” “Spot on,” Bitil said as he clapped his hands. “Really, it’s like I was there.” Zaekura snickered. “Is that what this guy’s like? Yikes, and I already thought the Great Beings were full of it…” Antroz shook her head. “I predict things going very differently. Lord Angonce has always been the most approachable of the Great Beings—I am sure that he will be willing to have a civil conversation about this, now that we’ve both had time to cool down.” “Just for clarity, this is the same guy who ordered the attack on Nynrah, right?” Zaekura asked. “Right you are, Lady Zaekura,” Krika said. “Ah, you heard. I’m nobility suddenly.” “Yes, we really must catch up once we get the chance.” “Once again,” Antroz said, “I am going. And I will go alone. If I am wrong, then only I will suffer the consequences for it. Surely, none of you have any objections to that?” Krika rubbed his chin. “Well, you have become quite a nuisance quite quickly. I certainly wouldn’t shed any tears over your ashes.” “You’ll do what you want, as always,” Bitil said. “I won’t strain myself holding you here.” “Excellent,” Antroz said. “Now if you will excuse me, I—“ “Hang on!” Zaekura said. “I’m still not convinced here.” Antroz turned towards her. “…I apologize. You were the last one I expected to show concern for my safety.” “Don’t go getting a swelled head about it. I’m just thinking that if a couple of Makuta are the only things standing between me and the Great Beings, I can’t afford to lose even one. Seriously though, how do you see this as anything other than a bad idea?” “Zaekura, if I do not go, the fighting will only continue. And it will escalate. Given the chance, this will become a war fought over custody of you, and that is something that we must do our best to avoid.” Antroz shivered. “War with the Great Beings…it is impossible to know what horror and bloodshed that would entail. Are you prepared to follow such a path?” Zaekura bit her lip, staring hard at Antroz. It wasn’t long before her eyes fell. *** The air of Xia was not as welcoming as Antroz remembered it. Most of its citizens were indoors, and those that did see her ran the moment they did. She had an idea of why, but it still pained her: these were people she had nurtured and protected for as long as she had existed, and now, after mere days, they regarded her as a thing of fear. However, she knew she could not allow herself to remain distracted. “Welcome back, Makuta.” Antroz stopped in her tracks. “Hello, Emsar. I appreciate the greeting.” The Vortixx casually crossed the street behind her, barely concealing her protosteel dagger. “I must admit, Makuta, I’m quite confused as to what’s going on. The things I’ve been hearing don’t sound like you at all. But, loyalty to the Great Beings must come first. You used to say something to that effect, didn’t you?” “I did.” Emsar twirled the blade around her fingers. “I don’t know if you’ve heard, but Lord Angonce is back yet again.” “I have, actually.” “Good. He wishes to see you.” “That is why I’m here.” “Well then, don’t let me keep you.” Antroz resumed walking, now with Emsar only a short distance behind her. Eventually she reached the tower she called home, finding the doors unlocked and ajar—and beyond that, Angonce stood in the center of the chamber, with none other than Gorast positioned between him and the entrance. The other Makuta sneered at Antroz as she entered, one of her four arms reaching for the cache of weapons on her back. “Lord Angonce,” Antroz said. Angonce sighed heavily. “Great, I guess I have to do this now…” He spun around, arms outstretched. “What are you doing, Antroz? Really, what—this is such a simple thing, and you…my gosh, where do I even begin?” Antroz knelt and bowed her head. “It is most regrettable that we should meet again like this, my lord. I have come to discuss our dispute in greater detail. It is my dearest hope that we can resolve this in a way that is acceptable to all parties, and avoid anyone else coming to harm.” Gorast unlimbered a sickle. Angonce waved her off, saying, “No, no Gorast, just give me a moment. Antroz, I’ve already told you our stance on this. Why didn’t you just bring the girl with you? It would’ve been so much simpler that way, I can’t tell you how utterly simple that would’ve made it.” “Lord Angonce…I do wish to apologize for my previous rudeness, but nevertheless, my feelings on the matter remain the same. I do not feel that killing Zaekura is right.” “And I told you, right and wrong are what we say they are! This shouldn’t be news to you!” “Forgive me, Lord Angonce, but I believe the issue to be more complex than that.” Angonce ran a hand over his face, taking a few wandering steps to the side. He pulled his hand down over his mouth and stared at the ceiling for a moment. Then, he turned back, pointed at Antroz, and said, “This is about our visitor, isn’t it?” Antroz inclined her head. “…I’m sorry?” “You know, ‘the visitor’, that person from the other world where Makuta are evil, Vulture or whatever his name is. I know how shaken up you are about that—so now you’re clinging harder than ever to this whole bit about righteousness and justice, to prove to yourself that you’re different from Otherworldly Evil Antroz. That’s what this is about, isn’t it?” She thought back to her meeting with the visitor, and suppressed a shudder. “I…I admit to be disturbed by the revelations the visitor brought. But my lord, this matter is not about another world: it is about our own. You are asking me to knowingly take part in the execution of an innocent—“ “She is not innocent!” Angonce shouted, stalking a few steps forward. “Get with the program, Antroz: I am a Great Being! I am right! I declare her guilty, so that’s what she is! Now do! Your! Job!” A stunned silence was all that came from Antroz. Even Gorast turned a nervous glance in Angonce’s direction. He spun in place, muttering mostly to himself. “Honestly, you’re the last one I thought I would ever have to explain this to! Maybe we should’ve just had Krika do it, I don’t know, I’m sure it wouldn’t have gone well but this is just so unbelievably taxing…” Taking a deep breath, he faced Antroz again. “Now please, Antroz. I won’t give you another chance. Tell me where Zaekura is, and just maybe, we’ll be able to put this whole nasty incident behind us some way or another. Doesn’t that sound great?” The silence dragged on. Eventually, Antroz hung her head again, but she now rose to her feet. “Lord Angonce…I cannot do that. Please, let us have a reasonable conversation. There is no need for more of this—“ Angonce slashed his hand through the air. A second later, Antroz crumpled in a heap. “…Lord…Angonce…?” “You really were my favorite,” Angonce said. “I guess all that’s left now is to hope you take to recalibration. Ugh, how did it come to this?” “No…” Antroz groaned. “No…this can’t be…they were…right…?” Gorast’s eyes widened. “Recalibration? She should face death!” Angonce rubbed his neck. “Yeah, but…she’s still got some key information in that mind of hers, and we can’t let an opportunity to get it slip us by. We’ll try a partial overwrite, hopefully she’ll come back more dedicated and tell us where the girl is hiding. If that doesn’t work…” Gorast reluctantly put away her weapon. “We could always break her down and extract the memory data.” “Yeah, but this is a really good model we have here, I’d hate to scrap it like that unless we absolutely have to. Guess we’ll just have to wait and see.” Angonce walked out of the tower, not giving another look to Antroz. He stopped next to Emsar, who still waited in the doorway, and said, “Emsar, was it? You’re being named Temporary Guardian of Xia. With luck Antroz will be back to her usual self…someday…or we might just make a new Makuta to take over, I don’t really know right now, just continue holding down the fort if you would.” “Of course, Lord Angonce,” Emsar said with a bow. Taking another step, Angonce called, “Gorast, collect her and let’s go. Sooner we start on this thing the sooner I’ll know how many centuries of my life are going down the drain here.” Emsar watched as Gorast knelt to scoop up the disabled Antroz. However, she found that her hands passed right through her. “Huh?” “You were right,” Antroz murmured. “You were all right…” Driving her fist through Antroz’s arm, Gorast said, “No, he disarmed you—you can’t be phasing…what is this?!” Angonce turned, giving the Makuta a curious look. To his surprise, Antroz began to move, and was soon back on her feet and facing him. Gorast and Emsar leapt away with their weapons drawn. “Lord Angonce…really will not listen to me,” Antroz said. “And if not him…then there is no way to resolve this peacefully…” Angonce walked forward. He waved one hand through the immaterial Antroz, saying, “What is this, some kind of illusion? But that can’t be right. Antroz, explain.” “I had hoped this was an unnecessary precaution,” Antroz said. “I had hoped we could avoid any more violence…but, if that is what it will take to end this…then I suppose I don’t have any choice, do I?” Angonce narrowed his eyes. “Oh, I don’t think I like the sound of that.” “…Good bye, Lord Angonce.” With that, she vanished. A small, roughly-spherical device floated about a foot off the ground where she had been, bobbing slowly for a few more seconds before falling to the ground and emitting one loud clicking sound. Angonce gently picked it up and furrowed his brow. “Huh. I swear I’ve seen this somewhere before, but…” “Lord Angonce,” Gorast said. He looked up. “Hm? Oh, right, right I, uh…hoo, how am I going to explain this one to Heremus…” *** At the same time, in Bitil’s outpost, Antroz lifted a helmet-like device off of her head, setting it down in her lap and sitting in silence for a moment. Around her stood Bitil, Krika, Zaekura, and one of Bitil’s Rahkshi, one with blue and yellow armor that looked no different from a normal Rahkshi. When Zaekura had insisted on finding a way to carry out the meeting without Antroz physically being there, Krika had mentioned the possibility of recreating the lure that Mavrah used and finding a way for Antroz to link herself to it. Antroz had been concerned about how long it would take, but that was when Bitil called in Kameter, a Rahkshi of Slow who he had created with a total absence of Slow power, a process which actually inverted his ability into the power to speed up time in a limited area. With help from him, Zaekura and Krika had completed the device in minutes, and Antroz had been forced to relent. “Sounds like you made the right call, Lady Zaekura,” Bitil said. “We narrowly dodged a deathblow.” Zaekura massaged her temples, sitting down at a nearby table. “Yeah, go me. I feel great about how this turned out.” Bitil turned to Krika. “And you are sure there’s no way for them to trace the psychic link back here?” Krika nodded. “I must’ve disassembled and reassembled Mavrah’s lure a thousand times over the years—I perfectly replicated the dampening module, and Zaekura did a flawless job wiring it into the mechanism.” With a grin and a nod, Bitil turned to Kameter and set a hand on his shoulder. “Well done, Kameter! It was your help that made all this possible.” Kameter gave a few excited hisses in reply. That was when Antroz finally stood, and everyone went silent. She stepped forward and deposited the transmitter helmet on the chair she had just been sitting in. Then, she made her way towards the room’s exit. “Where are you going?” Krika asked. “I think it’s only appropriate we begin formulating our strategy.” Antroz stopped with one hand on the door. “I am sorry…I require a moment to myself right now.” She left the room, and Krika rolled his eyes. “Well, here’s hoping we have a moment. Once Angonce gets back to the Maze, I’m sure the Great Beings will waste no time scouring the area for any trace of us.” Bitil crossed his arms. “…I shall ready my Rahkshi for battle. If more of those drones arrive, we will need to be prepared. They shall not breach my walls!” “Good,” Krika said. He tapped his fingers for a moment. “Well then…if you’ve got that under control, then I suppose that frees me up to take care of a personal matter.” “Personal matter?” “If Antroz gets a moment to herself, so should I, don’t you think? I need to pay a visit to Ga-Koro, make sure Kojol is taking good care of my citizens. And, of course, if I should happen to convince her to join our cause while I’m there, that’s just fine with me.” Bitil thought for a moment. “Having Ga-Koro’s army as reinforcements does sound appealing. But, the Great Beings will likely start their search in Nynrah and the surrounding areas—you could very easily be captured.” Krika’s mask shone as he shook his head. He seemed to disappear in the next second, but then Bitil saw movement: an extraordinarily tiny insect was buzzing about in the air before his face. “Alright, that could work. Just don’t dawdle, Krika. We won’t know for sure when Angonce will make it back to the Maze, or if they could already be searching.” Krika returned to his normal self. “Really? Here I was planning to go sightseeing. But alas, if you insist, I suppose I mustn’t drag my feet.” Bitil grumbled to himself as Krika left the room next. Zaekura looked up and asked, “So, uh…what should I do?” The Makuta shrugged. “You look like you could use some more rest. Other than that, I can’t say I have a task in mind for you. We’ll need more information, not to mention our allies, before we can cook up a war plan.” Zaekura set her face down on the table’s surface. “…Is it really…going to be a war?” Bitil closed his eyes. “I’m afraid it looks that way.” After a moment, Zaekura quietly said, “Bitil, I…I barely know how to throw a punch. I never wanted to actually get into a fight. And, if this does become a full-on war, then it really is all because of me. People are going to get hurt, and even die…because of me. I don’t…” She trailed off. Bitil turned and looked at her for a moment. Then, he sat down across from her and said, “You are not the aggressor, Lady Zaekura. It is the Great Beings who are spurring on this conflict.” “Not sure that makes me feel better about it,” came Zaekura’s muffled reply as she pressed her face harder against the table. Bitil sighed. “Then I don’t know what to say. But there’s no way we can stop it now. The best we can hope to do is to reduce the intensity of the fighting, or search for a quick route to victory—something to lessen the inevitable damage. Rest assured that the three of us have that goal in mind as we proceed.” As he got up, he added, “Four, if we can sway Kojol.” He left next, followed by Kameter, and Zaekura was left to sit in solitude. She remained that way for she knew not how long before finally deciding to get on her feet. She stepped outside and looked around, wandering aimlessly through the moonlit outpost until she spotted Charla. The Rahkshi pointed to one of the walls—following, Zaekura saw a figure standing atop the barrier, and then she turned and nodded her thanks to Charla. It was a bit of a climb to reach the top of the wall, but she didn’t stop until she was standing right next to Antroz. “I suppose I should apologize again,” Antroz said. “I am in your debt, Zaekura. If you had not insisted I take precaution, then right now I would be…” Zaekura crossed her arms, turning to look at the stars. “It’s still so hard to believe that all this is happening. For the first time, I…I’m not sure what I should do. My path always seemed so clear to me. I could always act decisively, single out my goals and bring them to fruition, and know exactly who I was making myself out to be.” She raised and clenched her fist, but then slowly relaxed her fingers. “But now, all that is gone. And I can’t help but wonder who I am without it.” “At least you had something,” Zaekura mumbled. “My whole life, I’ve never had a clue who I was or what I was doing. Gotta tell ya, it’s…a bit hard to feel like I’m really worth all the trouble I’m causing.” Antroz turned her head. “I mean really, I’m nobody. And people are going to die just so my worthless life can continue? Doesn’t seem entirely fair, when you think about it.” She sighed. “Maybe you should’ve just taken me in after all.” “Don’t say that, Zaekura. Just because you don’t yet know the meaning of your life does not mean that it has none.” “Sure, whatever.” The conversation lulled briefly. “If I want to stay alive, then I guess I’m stuck with you Makuta, whether I like it or not,” Zaekura said. “So tell me. Are we gonna fight back, or are we just going to run?” Antroz shook her head. “I think our chances are slim either way.” “Okay, well…suppose we run. If we can get away, what do you think the Great Beings would do?” “Their search efforts would persist. It’s also possible that they could put several cities on lockdown, or even send for the Odinans.” After a pause, she finished, “And when another generation goes by, and someone else like you is born…they would call them in to die. And then again, with the next generation. And on, and on, and on.” Zaekura threw her head back. “…Yeah, guess there wouldn’t be anything we could do to stop that. And if we fight?” “Even if we did our best to restrain ourselves, it is still possible some combatants would die. We cannot risk thinking the Great Beings would not send Toa and Glatorian to fight us, and to defend ourselves, we may be left with little choice.” “Isn’t that also possible if we run, though?” “…I suppose so.” “Either way people are probably going to get hurt. And, not much of a chance, but if we were to fight and come out on top, then we could put an end to it—no more fighting, no more hunting, and no more offing innocent freaks like me.” Antroz said nothing. “I don’t know, I’m still not convinced. I’m just trying to work this out somehow.” Antroz sighed. “I don’t know either, Zaekura. When the time comes, I will make a choice…but, I don’t think that I can right now.” Zaekura stared at her for a few moments. Eventually, she turned back towards the stairs, saying, “I’m going to bed.” Antroz didn’t reply. ADDENDUM: -Between skimping on the description of Gorast and calling back to Vultraz, this Section is fairly reliant on The Gargoyle Knight, but hopefully it’s clear enough that things still make sense. -Also seen in The Gargoyle Knight, I thought it would make sense for the Great Beings to have some device that “disarms” Makuta, as a failsafe in case of…well, something like this. Now that I’m trying to think ahead, though, I am feeling I might’ve made this a bit more difficult than it needs to be…our heroes have their work cut out for them. -The original plan was to have Zaekura quickly whip up a countermeasure for the disarmament, but upon further reflection I thought that would be a bit too sudden. Bringing some more relevance to Mavrah seemed to make more sense given Zaekura’s current resources and experience. -Not every Rahkshi has an inverted power, but Slow to Speed seemed reasonable enough so I wanted to try it out. I was going to give Kameter some gear designs and maybe a pendulum-like weapon, but then I thought that Bitil couldn’t have been sure this process would even work, so it would make sense that he just created a normal-looking Rahkshi and directed all his focus on messing with the power. Also, “Kameter” comes from “Kakama” and “kilometer”. -A bit of an early reveal, but the dialogue would have awkwardly danced around the point otherwise: Ga-Koro is watched over by Kojol, who in this universe is female for the same reasons as Antroz. Kojol was actually a last-minute addition, after I had found places for all but two or three of the Makuta we knew and figured I may as well put in the effort to place the rest, but I think it worked out well. Prime Kojol watched Artakha, spoken of in legend as a paradise, and now Melding Kojol is watching over this world’s renowned sanctuary. -The ending does feel a tiny bit…unfinished. I opted to leave it that way because I thought it would help reflect the way Antroz and Zaekura are feeling right now, and because I thought moving onto another scene (such as Ga-Koro) would be bad for pacing. I will try to get Section VI out soon so that feeling doesn’t drag on too long. -Reviews to be submitted here

Jaller: "I don't know who you are or why you have a chainsaw sword, but--" Barraki: "Hang on, is that sub piloting itself?!"

So not only did the Toa take Turahk's finger, they took a whole letter from his name?! What vile fiends!

Oh snap that sounds like it’s gonna be fire, I better heatproof my headphones

Note how the red light makes them look evil. Extra Villainous Inika Light

I recently discovered it also helps if, even though you know that character's going to come back, they have a shockingly realistic response to their impending doom because they don't know they're going to come back. Not referring to anyone in particular, of course. ;_;

Thank you! Chapter 13 is up now, moving us right along. It's weird to look back and see that at this point in the first story, it was closing in on the ending; I figured this was going to be the longest one yet, but still, wow.