Voltex

EPISODE EIGHT “From a Spark, an Inferno” -[A Feast for Titans]- The riot in Koro Prison continued to intensify as the prisoners were slowly but surely overtaken by the guards – until Ehks, Toru, and Taktun returned with Vultraz in tow. Arming the prisoners with stolen weapons, they were able to tip the scales.As the alarm went up, the group followed Vultraz, fighting their way past several checkpoints to escape the prison. Many of the prisoners followed them, seeking the same escape… but at the final checkpoint, they found nothing……but dust.Vultraz set off a cache of darkfire that he had hidden away, blowing a hole open to the outside world. The group broke through the final barriers and made their escape, sneaking back into Silodas to steal a ship.Silodas was in chaos; with reality crumbling apart, the city was suffering a cataclysmic series of events. The ground was rupturing around them and buildings fell – and all around them, Protectors were turning to dust and crumbling in the wind. They saw this happen to Korgot, along with several of the other prisoners.As the group sprinted the rest of the way, they witnessed buildings being decimated by the same force decimating Protectors – and in the harbor, many ships were suffering a similar fate. All except one: the Argo.They scrambled aboard, and Voltex used his powers to force the Argo out to sea. As the group set sail for the Isle of the Dead, they all took a moment to rest, and prepare for what was still to come.Kulta awaited them. -[A Dream of Shadows]- Dying, Voxumo attempted to keep both the Falcion and both of his Nuva Shards out of Anahera’s hands. While he failed to take the Falchion with him, in his last seconds, he did manage to teleport to Luci, leaving the Shards to her.Anahera tried to claim the Falchion for herself, but was rejected by the sword – losing the use of one of her arms in the process.Luci managed to beat Efandril to claiming both of Voxumo’s Shards.With time and reality both collapsing, Rassilon and Rilgivi found themselves standing once more – a second chance to live.Luci immediately tried to use her Shards to create darkfire for use against Efandril. The attack did not reach its target, and instead began to consume the jungle and everyone in it.Takua fell to the darkfire, but not before trying to warn Efandril about Anahera.Both Efandril and Luci tried to teleport to the location of other and failed. The cascading implosion of Dark Energy that followed rendered both unconscious, allowing them to manipulate the powers of Kollorak like Efandril had years before. While Luci and Efandril fought, Feli and Kellam searched for Efandril. They were joined by Rilgivi, while Pulse and Anna went their own way, and found Anahera.Efandril’s past experience made the difference. Using darkfire as her weapon, she burned Luci and claimed the Shards that had, only minutes before, belonged to Voxumo. Feli, Rilgivi and Kellam arrived in the clearing as Luci’s corpse cooled – as did Juke, Rassilon, Isniel, Krosht, and Sahmad.Elsewhere in the clearing with the Falchion, Reisen arrived alongside Lein, Jakura, and Kranan. The four of them joined up with Pulse, Anna and Burnmad, but wasted time arguing with Anahera over semantics.Efandril, Feli and Kellam fought with Rilgivi, Isniel, Rassilon, Juke, and Krosht – and managed to defeat them. One by one their opponents fell; first Juke, then Krosht, then Rilgivi, then Isniel. Along the way, Efandril claimed the Shard that Juke wore, bringing her total to four.Rassilon and Sahmad, the last ones standing, agreed to an Accord with Efandril. Rassilon handed the Ignika Shard he had taken from Krosht over to Feli, bringing her own total to three.With the Accord in place, Feli healed Efandril and Sahmad; Efandril agreed to let Rassilon and Sahmad live, so long as they did not act against her own plans.The Accord drew the attentions of Kollorak and Axalara – and Thornatus took advantage of their distraction, downing both of them once again.Umarak was felled, and landed in the clearing with the Falchion – and was soon followed by Kazi, who had somehow wound up in the fight between the Dragons as well. While Anahera and the others debated how to help Umarak……Thornatus focused the entirety of his attentions on Efandril, Feli, Rassilon, Kellam, and Sahmad.

EPISODE SEVEN “The Monsters that Make Us” -[A Storm of Blood]- A day out from Hinterhall, the remaining members of the group – Anahera, Triki, Burnmad, and Mashani – make camp.Feeling betrayed by the group’s reactions to her receiving the Nuva Shard from Mutran, Anahera set about preparing the famed tea of her family, House Abissm – a poisonous concoction that would kill all but the hardiest of individuals without an immediate antidote given.Although Burnmad was suspicious of her, the others were not, allowing Anahera to set the trap with relative confidence and ease, having taken the antidote herself. She then handed out the cups.Triki was foolish enough to drink his in a single gulp, and it did not take long for Mashani to finish hers; knowing he was caught in a trap, Burnmad sipped his more slowly, and did not finish. Nothing is wrong, at first; and early in the morning, the group packs up camp and continues their journey……only for the symptoms to make themselves clear later that day. Both Triki and Mashani collapsed, convulsing, backs arched, with foaming lips and purple skin. As the two died, Burnmad’s body fought against the poison. His muscles strained and he emptied his guts over and over again – but he survived.Knowing he was too weak to challenge Anahera, Burnmad followed her to Hinterhall…. -[A Feast for Titans]- Prisoners of Elittra Ember, the group was separated. Alix was left in a communal area; Virndrung and Voltex were tossed into cells; Urot and Taktun were left to participate in Elittra’s next game; and Ehks was kept by Elittra’s side, to watch the game play out.While Taktun, Urot, and Ehks tried to delay with Elittra, the others got to work. Virndrung met Jaller Aodh – the former commander of Fort Madacus – as well as Nikila Aodh, whom Voltex seemed to recognize. Alix, meanwhile, met the prisoners Vertak, Dreisen, and Mazeka.After the introductions, Jaller told Virndrung and Voltex about another prisoner, Vultraz, who apparently had a plan in place to escape the prison.Down in the communal area, Alix also learned about Vultraz. Alix also heard more details about the nearly insane plans that Vultraz had concocted and learned that Vultraz had recently been sentenced to solitary confinement.Growing desperate, Ehks used the only tool that Elittra had left her – the Vahi. Its use killed the Toru personality within Urot, but was also enough to freeze Elittra within a single moment in time.One of the guards moved to attack Ehks, only to be killed by their partner……who quickly revealed himself to be Vultraz, having escaped from solitary and infiltrated the guards of Koro Prison. Together, he and Ehks killed Elittra, and he led them toward the armory, to prepare for escape.Down below, the prisoners were all gathered for their evening meal. Virndrung, Voltex and Alix were able to reunite. Not knowing if they could risk waiting for Ehks and the others, Alix and Virndrung started a riot within the dining hall.Having raided the armory, Vultraz led the others toward the dining hall, knowing that they would need to arm the rest of the prisoners if they had any hope of escaping. In the dining hall, despite getting in the first strike, the prisoners began to fall, overwhelmed by the guard’s superior armaments and positioning…. -[The Watchers of Winter]- At the Wall Between Worlds, the group ascended the wall alongside the Watcher. Up above, they witnessed that both sides of the Wall were in disrepair; with reality itself crumbling thanks to the work of Miserix, different worlds were colliding – and the Wall was breaking apart under the strain.The Watcher and Teridax gave the group a history lesson, teaching them about Rollor’s thirteen Dragons, Ata’s thirteen Titans of Destruction… and Ma’s thirteen Titans of Creation, proving even Okoto’s oldest legends regarding the Titans to be incomplete at best. The group witnessed the beginning of the Great War, with the death of the Dragon Kardas at the hands of Mutran, Sahmad and others, the Accord with Baranus, and then the attacks on Okoto by Axalara, Thornatus, Skopio, Baranus, and Kollorak. They also witnessed Miserix’s descent upon Okoto, and watched his Dream rewrite Okoto’s reality.The Watcher revealed that just as Teridax led the Titans of Destruction, he led the Titans of Creation – but he was sentenced to serve on the Wall, and Teridax sentenced to eternity under Okoto, when they became as close as brothers. The group was shown the death of Miserix at the hands of Voxumo, Pythia, Tabek, Virndrung, Pouks, Voltex, Taktun, Pulse, Alix, Urot, and Ehks. They learned that the Dream could be destroyed and reality restored by re-forging the Kanohi Nuva, Mask of Ultimate Power… but also learned how the Shards and the completed Mask had corrupted the likes of Voxumo, Makuta, Pythia, TL, Pulse, Tekulo, Luroka, Portal, Nato, Rilgivi, Anahera, and Efandril throughout history. They learned the Watcher’s name – Mata-Nui – before the Wall shuddered beneath them, breaking under the strain of another calamity striking Okoto.Teridax and Mata-Nui remained behind to hold the Wall together long enough for reality to be restored, sending the group to the source of the latest calamity – Hinterhall. -[A Dream of Shadows]- Voxumo, Pulse, Tabek, Kazi, Efandril, Luci, Feli, Juke, Reisen, Lein, Kellam, and Umarak had all gathered in Hinterhall, where the Dragon Thornatus once more flew free. Luci managed to sneak back into the core of the Temple of Time, where – realizing that she couldn’t understand any of the instructions for the technology within – she started manipulating the controls at random.Time broke apart.Everyone in Hinterhall underwent a rapid, traumatic series of fatalities and modifications before returning to themselves, and Hinterhall suffered the same. A crater was left where the Temple of Time had stood, and above them, Thornatus was joined by the resurrected Axalara, and Kollorak regained his true form. Shortly after this, the Watcher sent Kranan, Isniel, Jakura, Sahmad, Anna, and Krosht to Hinterhall. The group found themselves standing off against all the others, as Voxumo and Efandril pushed for everyone present to pick a side. While Axalara and Umarak began to fight off Thornatus so that the Scourge of Fire could not burn everyone to a crisp, the Protectors down below began to pick their sides. Feli and Kellam sided with Efandril, while Pulse and Tabek supported Voxumo’s claim. The rest were paralyzed by indecision, torn between supporting Juke or supporting Voxumo. Time continued to shift wildly as they fought; Hinterhall was returned to its former glory, only to shift to a burning jungle, then back to the past before Hinterhall had even been built – and then begin to burn again, thanks to Thornatus.Efandril and Feli managed to repel attacks from Voxumo, Pulse, Luci and Tabek; Feli was able to claim the Ignika Shard that Pulse had worn. They were able to wound Luci, while Pulse and Tabek suffered grievous injuries from both Efandril and from the fires burning around them. Tabek sacrificed himself to try and buy Pulse time to escape.Takua arrived in Hinterhall, with the intent of warning everyone about Anahera’s imminent arrival… but found himself distracted by the battle consuming the city.Voxumo had a standoff with Kollorak, but managed to escape from the Dragon and continue hunting Efandril……only to be swept away by a tide of water, as Anahera announced her arrival, with the still weak Burnmad reluctant at her side. Voxumo and Anahera both tried to use their shards to unleash devastating attacks on the other. Voxumo’s, unfortunately, failed – dealing only a minor wound to Anahera… but Anahera’s attack was even more successful than she had wished for.Thanks to a ruptured artery, Voxumo collapsed, his thoughts fading away fast as he bled to death from an internal wound, suffering from a terrible stroke. He had just enough time to attempt one last maneuver with the power of the Shards he wore….

EPISODE SIX “Ashes” -[A Game of Hunters]- Having arrived in Hinterhall, the group encountered the Titan Umarak. Umarak restored Reisen’s true memories to him, and warned them about Efandril and her companions, who had already descended beneath the Temple of Time. The group agreed to try and stop the others from claiming the Shard beneath the Temple and descended below…. -[A Clash of Brothers]- The group arrived at Briar Patch, where Voxumo used his Ignika Shard, sensing several living Protectors in the city. They ran through the city to the White Wolf Pub, where they found Kazi still unconscious outside. Inside the inn, they found the dead body of Nato, with TL (wearing a Nuva Shard) and Rilgivi locked in combat. TL by this point had lost an arm in the fight, and was not long for the world.Rilgivi managed to slash her sword through TL’s chest, but lost her arm to a blast of Dark Energy. While she was down, Voxumo tried to use his own Nuva Shard against TL, but found himself evenly matched……until Rilgivi impaled TL on her sword from behind, killing him, and claimed the Jungle Protector’s Shard for herself. While Voxumo and Rilgivi duelled for the Shard, Pulse left the pub and started reviving Kazi. The two were joined by Zatth, and the three watched as the pub collapsed as Rilgivi caved the roof in.Attempting to free herself from the rubble, Rilgivi used her Shard to blast the rubble in all directions; freeing herself, but also removing half of Tabek’s arm and killing Zatth. Voxumo wasted no time in freeing himself. While Pulse tended to Tabek and Kazi, he slew Rilgivi, and claimed a second Nuva Shard for himself. Voxumo healed Tabek as best he could before giving Pulse his Ignika Shard, knowing that it would not continue to obey his commands now that he had gathered another Nuva Shard. -[A Storm of Blood]- With Kranan missing, the remaining members of the group were gathered on the deck of the ship and confronted by Mutran.Burnmad tried to lay claim to the Shard, but Mutran refused, admitting to a temptation to give it to Anahera instead, in the hopes that someone else would kill her to gain the Shard. Unseen by the others, Takua fled the instant it became clear that Anahera was likely to get the Shard.Anahera was given the Shard, though not without Burnmad trying to stop her. After lecturing Mashani on her refusal to get involved – and trying to lecture Triki, to little success – she appeared to forgive them.Mutran offered to teleport the group to their next destination – Hinterhall – but the group ultimately refused, preferring to travel there themselves to avoid being transported into the middle of a situation that might get them killed. -[A Feast for Titans]- The group had arrived in Aodhiim at last. They decided to head further south to Silodas, the nation’s capital, to try and find a ship that might take them to the Isle of the Dead.In Silodas, they were led to the palace hall and greeted by Korgot Coal, leading in the absence of the Imperator. There Korgot showed them the bloodied and imprisoned Mopitus Mirep, Tronameg’s first mate; the pirates had sailed to Aodhiim and beaten them there.After hearing that a Protector named Elittra had been waiting for them, the group was led to her domain – Koro Prison. It was a veritable fortress, with too many guards, checkpoints, and winding paths to count. Deep within the prison, they entered Elittra’s office – a large chamber lined with cells full of prisoners, with a desk in its center here Elittra sat. She introduced herself, focusing on Ehks to an uncomfortable degree, and then led them deeper into the prison……and first stopping by a cell containing Piruk Lasang. He and Ehks reacquainted themselves, with Piruk explaining how he found himself in Aodhiim, having never succumbed to the Dream, as if someone or something else had revived him.Elittra then led them to Tronameg – or what was left of him, at any rate. Here, the truth of her intentions was revealed. Urot made the mistake of calling her out on her insanity, and in return, was the first to be chained – followed by Voltex, Virndrung, Taktun, and then Alix. They were prisoners of Aodhiim… or were they just prisoners of Elittra? -[A Dance with Time]- Efandril, having descended into the Heart of Rollor, witnessed visions of the thirteen Dragons and her own life, as she and Kollorak were judged. Luci and Feli both followed her in, and witnessed visions of their own, as they were judged as well. Luci was judged unworthy, and sent back to the shore – but the other two proceeded. While Efandril was judged unworthy on her own, Feli was given a choice; to either claim the Shard for herself, or to align with Efandril, and allow the Imperator to take it. Feli chose the latter, assisting Efandril out of the pool.Efandril claimed the Shard, and as she did so, the cavern above them trembled. At the same time, another group of Protectors – Juke (with his own Shard), Reisen, and Lein – arrived. The two groups introduced themselves once Efandril and Feli returned to shore, but above them, the cavern roof began to glow orange, melting into molten rock. The air around them began to heat. Tensions were high, but Efandril decided to delay a confrontation, instead moving to make her way back to the surface. Up above, Tijekti opened the door to find Hinterhall in flames, and Thornatus now free. She tried to flee with Tekulo and Nidhiki in tow, but the Dragon cornered them, and all three burned.Down below, Efandril used her Shard to erect cold shields of Dark Energy to deal with the heat, powering them with the life force of everyone with her – and herself. Luci, taking issue with this, attacked.In the ensuing scuffle, Lein prevented Luci from killing Efandril, while Efandril’s final guard, Kellam, was forced to duel Reisen when the Protector of Water tried to strike as well. Efandril retaliated by striking Luci with Dark Energy, though Feli tried to hold her back.Before the fight could become more deadly, the tunnel roof began to melt down onto the group. By mutual unspoken agreement, everyone halted hostilities and focused on fleeing back to the surface……where they found the city ablaze, much of it reduced to cinders, and Thornatus flying overhead. The Protectors of the city were scattered in terror; Juke nearly died trying to convince a few to flee. Luci fled from the group back to the top of the Temple, but was unable to find something to control the beam with; she would have to return back below and risk drawing Efandril’s attention to access the technology within the Temple.Down below, Efandril asked Kollorak about Thornatus, and was told of the Scourge of Fire’s destructive capabilities; the only way to defeat or destroy him would be to find a source of power just as strong as Thornatus. -[The Watchers of Winter]- Down in Briar Patch, before the arrival of Voxumo’s group, Nato was slain by TL and Rilgivi – but not before he managed to turn Rilgivi against TL, guaranteeing once more the Jungle Protector’s demise. Up north, the ragtag team of Isniel, Krosht, Jakura, Kranan, Sahmad, Anna, and Teridax left Grave’s Peak behind, travelling to Rollor’s Reach.They found the city abandoned. The Citadel was surrounded by magic, and when they entered the city, they found it full of magic as well. It sparked along buildings and streets, and even danced around each member of the group, as if curious.The Citadel itself seemed to shift and sway, distorted. With no other options, the group entered, and found themselves in a gray landscape – one very familiar to Krosht, Isniel, and Teridax. But the Wall here was cracked and crumbling, in a tragic state of disrepair.They were met by Metus and FF Crustallus, who led them into a settlement at the base of the Wall that fared little better than the Wall itself. There, the group found the Watcher awaiting their arrival.

EPISODE FIVE “Those Who Wander” -[A Game of Hunters]- The remainder of the group following the death of Rassilon found themselves in a standoff with their counterparts from another world, who were led by Sil. In the battle that followed, Sil killed Keahi – but Juke managed to recover the Shard. Sil and the rest of the doppelgangers were slain, except for their own Juke, who managed to flee.Defeated even in victory, the group exited the Labyrinth. Juke could feel the Shard he now carried pulling him toward Hinterhall. Sahmad, however, insisted on travelling further north to Grave’s Peak, intending to find Nato Greavesey and pay for the crimes he had committed against the North. Jakura decided to join him.After boarding the Lhikan, the group sailed to Karamu. Once there, Sahmad and Jakura split from the rest of the group and travelled north. Juke, Lein, and Reisen entered Hinterhall and discovered the frozen Dragon towering over the city. They made their way toward the Temple of Time, and encountered the Cornerstone’s Guardian, Umarak, along the way.Sahmad and Jakura made it to Nokama’s Landing where they were joined by the merchant Anna. Together the three continued to Grave’s Peak, where a blizzard had begun. Outside the city, they found Kranan, and soon after Isniel, Krosht, and Teridax also arrived. Kranan held a Shard of the Ignika. -[A Clash of Brothers]- With Onaku having abandoned them, Lucina dead, and a Shard of the Ignika lost to the Protector in Black, the group headed to Nokama’s Landing with Anna, who told them of a contact within the criminal underworld.There she introduced them to Gaius, who in turn put them in contact with Tharja, a Prophet of Ata. With the combined efforts of Gaius and Tharja, they were able to make it to Makuta City. They arrived in the dark of night, but the city was alive; the harbor was burning, and the city guard was active through the city. The group snuck to the Temple of Ata, which stood over the Cornerstone. There they joined another group: Ehks, Virndrung, Toru/Urot, Alix, Tabek, Pouks and Voltex. Voltex led everyone through the Temple of Ata to Makuta’s workshop, and from there, down to the Cornerstone – the Chasm of the Gods, where Voxumo’s group found a Heart of Ata waiting for them… as well as……the Protector in Black, who had used the Shard he stole to kill Makuta and claim a Shard of the Nuva. The Protector in Black was revealed to be Miserix as he returned the Ignika Shard to Voxumo.In the moments that followed, both groups learned that Miserix was responsible for Okoto’s current condition, locked into the Dream… and then the battle began. Miserix and the undead Makuta – powered by Dark Energy from the Heart of Ata – battled both groups. Both Ehks and Voxumo found themselves knocked into the Heart, though they managed to destroy Makuta and emerge mostly safe; Ehks thanks to Axalara sacrificing herself, and Voxumo thanks to the Ignika Shard. Miserix knocked Urot unconscious and wounded Voltex enough to remove him from the fight before killing Pouks – but working together Pythia, Voxumo, Virndrung, Alix and Ehks were able to slay him; with Ehks, Alix and Voxumo landing the final blows. Pythia immediately claimed the Nuva Shard, only to be attacked by Voxumo for it; she ended up diving into the Heart herself, committing suicide, only to emerge a moment later as Makuta had, undead and powered by Dark Energy. The others managed to slay her a final time, and Voxumo finally claimed a second Shard. With no Guardian replacing Makuta, the Cornerstone became unstable, and they were all forced to flee. Up above they split up; Voxumo, Pulse and Tabek following the pull of Voxumo’s Shard to Hinterhall, while the rest journeyed to the Isle of the Dead.Voxumo’s group found Zatth as they escaped Makuta City, and he joined them in their travels. They made their way through Stoneworth and then the Ancient City, where they encountered a different reality in which Pulse and Voxumo ruled together. Reality was continuing to crumble, with different worlds colliding; they left the bright mirror behind, and arrived in Karamu. -[A Storm of Blood]- Alongside Sil and Vultraz, the group managed to escape Irnakk, and as they entered Agua Hielo, they left the world of Scattered Crystals behind. In Burned Harbor, Anahera found herself haunted and taunted by whispers of her true memories. She and Kranan were split from the rest of the group; Anahera found herself in the docks, while Kranan met Mutran himself. While Anahera spoke with Zaktan, Hakann and Avak, and Kranan spoke with Mutran, the rest of the group encountered Gavla Lurrun. Gavla warned them about Mutran and about Anahera before departing. In the harbor, the three Piraka judged Anahera for crimes of a life she could not remember. Mutran then split himself, appearing to Anahera and the rest of the group while continuing to speak with Kranan. He returned Kranan’s memories to him, and used Shadow Leeches to turn him from a Protector of Ice into a Protector of Shadow – and then sent him north to Grave’s Peak, to join Isniel and Teridax in their quest to the Citadel.With Kranan gone, Mutran returned Anahera’s, Takua’s, and Mashani’s true memories to them, and teleported all of them onto the ship with himself and the Piraka. He offered the Shard of the Nuva under his guard to them…. -[A Feast for Titans]- After being captured by Tronameg and his pirates, the group reluctantly agreed to help them steal their ship back from Makuta City. Unfortunately, they alerted the city guard upon entry, and at the harbor, found Tronameg’s ship burning. The pirates commandeered a different ship and betrayed the group, leaving them behind as they burned the harbor and the rest of the ships in their wake. Hunted by the city guard, the group fled toward the Temple of Ata, hoping to lose the city guard by entering the Cornerstone. There they ran into Voxumo’s group – Voxumo, Pulse, Taktun, and Pythia. The two groups entered into the Temple and then the Chasm of the Gods, where they fought a slew both the undead Makuta and Miserix, though Axalara sacrificed herself during the battle to save Ehks, and Pouks was killed by Miserix. Pythia also died trying to claim the Nuva Shard for herself, and after her death, Voxumo claimed it instead.As the Cornerstone began to collapse, the two groups split; while Voxumo’s group (now consisting of just himself, Pulse and Tabek) headed for Hinterhall, Ehks’s group (now consisting of her, Toru/Urot, Virndrung, Alix, Taktun, and Voltex) decided to head for Aodhiim at last, and make their way to the Isle of the Dead.They travelled through Kamuk, stumbling in and out of different worlds as reality continued to crumble around them. In the Ancient City they encountered a world three years behind them and very similar to their own, before returning to their own reality as they arrived in Aodhiim…. -[A Dance with Time]- While Tijekti remained behind in the Purple Oasis with Tekulo and Nidhiki, the rest continued to explore the city. They made it all the way to the Temple of Time before being caught by the Hunter, where Photok died trying to escape.The Hunter took the Ignika Shard from Efandril, and spoke with her and Luci at length. In the process, both Luci and Efandril regained their true memories, putting them further at odds… and yet at the same time, uniting them further against the Hunter.While the Hunter was distracted, Feli escaped her cage and claimed the Ignika Shard for herself; in the process, Kollorak was able to make himself visible to her and Luci, using the Shard and the latent magic within the Cornerstone. Feli then fired an arrow into the back of the Hunter’s neck, knocking him out long enough for the group to enter the Temple of Time. Feli, too, recovered her true memories.At first, the group travelled to the top of the Temple, encountering the Beacon; a beam of energy shooting up into the sky. Finding nothing else of import, however, they travelled into the Temple’s depths. They ignored the Temple’s controls, however – both not wanting to risk freeing the Dragon, Thornatus, frozen above and intent on finding the Shard.And find it they did. They entered a system of natural tunnels directly beneath the Temple, and deep within, they found a gray pool with the Nuva Shard at its center – a Heart of Rollor.After a warning from Kollorak about how the pool might perceive balance, Efandril stepped in, and vanished beneath its surface – and Kollorak vanished with her.The two found themselves in an empty gray landscape, with no shading and no depth at all to be found; nothing to separate the ground they stood on from the sky above, or from any walls that might contain them. Kollorak was restored to his true form here; a massive dragon with shimmering blue scales. Their judgement awaited. -[The Watchers of Winter]- After meeting with the leaders of the Rebellion, Nato, Rilgivi, Krosht and Kazi split off with different Rebellion members to wait until the end of the week. Isniel, TL and Teridax continued their work at the farm.When the end of the week arrived – and the other Leaders, Burnmad and Terrorsaur, with it – the Rebellion gathered in all of its might. TL, Isniel and Teridax reunited with Rilgivi and Krosht. They found the Rebellion full of familiar faces; Voxumo, Efandril, Jed, Teridax, Umarak, Sahmad, Ekimu, Anahera, Elittra, Lester, Chloe, and more. Nato, however, had betrayed the Rebellion, seeking out Terrorsaur. There he learned of Voltex’s fate within the Dark Mirror – the Mask Maker had been fused with Kulta in a series of horrifying procedures and enslaved by the Leaders. Proving just how similar he was to his Dark Mirror counterpart, Nato had no issues with this.During the battle, Terrorsaur gave Nato the tool necessary to open the Vault; Nato made his way down below, killing both Onaku and Sisyphus before……the others finally arrived, having destroyed most of Voltex’s Converted and carving out enough of the Leader’s forces that the Rebellion could potentially emerge victorious. TL opened the Vault and claimed the Nuva Shard within, opening a portal to a gray landscape with a giant wall. Everyone stepped through, despite attempts to attack Nato.At the wall, they encountered the Dark Mirror’s Watcher, who lectured the group and Nato about history, and their inability to work together. He then sent them back to their universe, but split them up: while Isniel, Krosht and Teridax landed outside Grave’s Peak and found Kranan, Jakura, Sahmad, and Anna waiting for them, Rilgivi, TL and Nato ended up in Briar Patch.Nato attacked TL and did permanent damage to TL’s right shoulder, preventing the Jungle Protector from using that arm – but Rilgivi in turn stabbed her sword through Nato’s left knee…Outside Grave’s Peak, a blizzard raged. The newly assembled group introduced themselves, and Teridax pushed for all of them to journey to the Citadel in Rollor’s Reach, guessing that another Shard would be found there.

EPISODE FOUR “From Shadows We Fall” -[A Game of Hunters]- The group entered the Labyrinth of Control, alongside Keahi, Anita, and several crew members from the Lhikan and Last Odyssey – only for everyone to be scattered immediately by the magic of the Cornerstone.After wandering on their own through the Labyrinth, each group member found something. Lein found the Cornerstone’s Guardian, Kirbraz, who offered to give Lein her memories back. Lein, for some inane reason thinking that regaining her memories would be a bad thing, refused.Rassilon reunited with Reisen, while Reisen reunited with Rassilon. Only, the two seemed to be having two different conversations….Jakura found his long-dead brother Sil, alive and well. After a conversation that was at times more confusing than informative, Jakura decided that Sil must be from a different reality, one where Jakura had died and Sil had survived. Juke found a massive serpent, and the corpses of Keahi, Anita, Lein, and crew members from both ships.Lein and Kirbraz were interrupted by the arrival of a bloodied Juke, who carried with him a shard of the Kanohi Nuva. Rassilon and Reisen were found by Sahmad, who spoke of Keahi being given the shard and regaining his memories. He was thrown off by Reisen, and the situation rapidly became hostile, until Sahmad forcefully teleported himself and Rassilon away; regaining his memories had returned to him his life as a Mask Maker.Reisen and Rassilon were found by Sahmad, who treated Reisen with hostility. He and Rassilon then turned on Reisen before disappearing……only to seemingly reappear before him. Enraged by their apparent betrayal, Reisen killed Rassilon – only to realize that the Rassilon and Sahmad who had appeared were the same two he had been traveling with all along. In mourning now for their fallen friend, the two reunited with Keahi and Anita; Keahi tried to give the shard of the Kanohi Nuva to Reisen, but was unable to release it. The entire group finally reunited in the center of the Labyrinth, but things became even more complicated than before as Jakura, Lein, Reisen, Sahmad, Juke, Keahi, Sil, Reisen, Sahmad, Rassilon, Juke, and Anita all stood off against each other. -[A Clash of Brothers]- Everyone except for Pythia and Symphona had found each other at the Heart of Ma, a pool of the goddess’ divine essence. They were joined by Jed Corruich and the Cornerstone’s Guardian, Ekimu.Although tensions were high with Voxumo, Pulse and Onaku having regained their memories, the group was wise enough to push forward. Ekimu offered up the shard of the Kanohi Ignika that he was protecting, and Voxumo accepted the burden. They began planning to escape……only for Ekimu to be murdered by the Protector in Black, who was joined by several Prophets as Symphona returned with Pythia as her hostage. The Prophets soon killed Lucina and took all accept for Voxumo hostage.The Protector in Black asked for an Accord; in exchange for the Ignika Shard, he would allow the group to walk free. After his attempts to avoid it failed, Voxumo accepted the Accord and handed the shard over.The Protector in Black and the Prophets allowed the group to leave the Cornerstone, and they returned to the surface unchallenged. Once there, Onaku decided to abandon the group, and was last seen headed for the harbor. The rest, at Voxumo’s urging, decided to seek out Agua Hielo’s criminal underbelly, with the hope that the criminals would be more likely to assist them against the Prophets. -[A Storm of Blood]- The group decided to make their way to Burned Harbor by travelling around the outskirts of the Ancient City. While perhaps a smarter idea than attempting to pass through Fort Madacus, it unfortunately ended with the group being pulled into the Cornerstone. Okoto’s reality continues to crumble, and with the various legendary masks now leaving the Cornerstone, the walls between worlds are thinner than ever. As they entered the Ancient City, the group found themselves in one such world – the world of Scattered Crystals.They found the Ancient City full of celebrating Protectors. They were met by this world’s version of Sil Aodh, who took them to a bar owned by his friend Vultraz. There he told them of the Second Long Night, a two year period in which Okoto – under the banner of King Pulse Vatten – fought against the Army of the Dead and emerged victorious.Although Triki did his best to sow dissent (whether intentionally or not was unclear) and Burnmad was curious about the fate of Aodhiim in this world, the group was interrupted by screams, as a mysterious nightmare known as Irnakk arrived and began consuming victims. With Sil and Vultraz alongside, the group prepared to try and flee. -[A Feast for Titans]- Despite knowing that travelling to Valmai would be the fastest route to the Isle of the Dead, their next destination and where they knew that Kulta would be found, the group instead… …went in the opposite direction, deciding once again (against all advice of Pouks, the member of their party with the most experience in Kamuk) to try traveling through Kamuk.After travelling through Kamuk, they approached a canyon, where they were cornered by a group of pirates led by Tronameg. The group agreed to join Tronameg’s crew and help him to steal back his ship from Makuta City, hoping that the pirate would then sail with them to the Isle of the Dead…. -[A Dance with Time]- Thanks to more than a bit of luck, the group managed to escape the grasp of the nightmare Irnakk, and fled from the Ancient City with their shard in tow.They travelled into Karamu, stopping at the White Wolf Pub in Briar Patch for a quick rest. Here, Efandril managed to convince the rest of the group to stick with her until Hinterhall.Arriving at Hinterhall, they found a massive Dragon frozen alongside the rest of the city, towering over the Temple of Time. Its eyes seemed to follow the group from afar.Lurrun was slain by an arrow trap as they made their way through the city, and Tijekti was seriously wounded, but the rest managed to escape injury. Taking care to avoid the various other traps in their path, the group came to the Purple Oasis, and saw movement inside. Spotted at the open door, they were welcomed in by two Jungle Protectors…. -[The Watchers of Winter]- At the home of Elittra, Nato and Kazi argued over the plan to get home. Kazi ended up retreating from the room, refusing to speak with Nato further. Rilgivi and Krosht were forced to try and turn Nato’s opinion around and convince him to join up with the Rebellion that Kazi had spoken of, as it would be their best chance at getting home. Back at the farm, Isniel and TL survived another day of work. That night, Lester snuck them out into the city to meet with the Kingslayer, Jed Corruich. Jed told them of the Rebellion and of the plan to strike by the end of the week. The two agreed to help, and in return, Jed promised to help them find the shard hidden in a vault beneath the city, so that they could return home.Finally convinced, Nato spoke again with Kazi. Although the two couldn’t come to terms, they did agree to work together for the time being.Upon Elittra’s return, she took the four Ice Protectors to meet her King and Queen. She led them to the basement of a tavern, where they found Voxumo Ash and Efandril waiting for them – as well as several other familiar faces, some more surprising than others. The meeting started off somewhat poorly, however, as the group learned that Nato’s attempts to kill Sisyphus Glacies had apparently backfired – the Khan had a secret alliance with the Rebellion, and in the aftermath of Nato’s attack, had backed out.

Better/worse/equal to the first?

EPISODE THREE “All Our Sins Remembered” -[A Game of Hunters]- Aboard the Lhikan, the group met with Ancient. Like the crew of Last Odyssey, Ancient recognized Lein, Rassilon, and Juke; but he also remembered Reisen.Although unable to restore what he called the groups ‘true memories’ to them, Ancient directed them to a location where he believed they might manifest – another of the Cornerstones, the Labyrinth of Control. He also informed the group that the Labyrinth might hold what they were seeking; a shard of the Kanohi Nuva, Mask of Ultimate Power.On the voyage to the Labyrinth, Rassilon filled Ancient in on the Essence of Annona. Although Juke claimed it was merely a name, it had more meaning to Ancient and the crew of the Lhikan, who were horrified to hear of what Miserix had done to the Titan Annona. The group was also informed of who Miserix was, learning that he was the Scourge of Reality, a mighty dragon created to restore balance to the world by destroying it. After sailing for two days, the group arrived at the Labyrinth. Joined by Anita, Keahi, and eleven other crew members from both ships, the group entered the Cornerstone…. -[A Clash of Brothers]- Accompanied by Symphona, the group entered the Tomb of Ekimu. They found the halls beneath the tomb lit by a strange glowing white liquid in the walls; when asked, Symphona simply referred to it as the divine grace of the goddess of creation, Ma.One by one, the group found themselves separated from the rest by the Cornerstone. Taktun and Pythia both found themselves lost alone in the halls, while Voxumo and Onaku found Ekimu and Jed Corruich respectively, while Pulse and Lucina remained with the Prophets.Voxumo regained his true memories from Ekimu, learning of his own demise at the hands of Jed and the orders of Pulse. They were soon joined by Pulse, who had been ordered to flee from the hostile Prophets by Lucina; Pulse regained his memories too, causing tensions to rise up between the two Protectors.Left behind to battle the Prophets, Lucina was found and assisted by Taktun, while Symphona found Pythia, and began trying to twist Pythia’s perceptions against the rest of the group.Onaku and Jed ventured into the heart of the Cornerstone, and found a large pool of the glowing white liquid, which Jed referred to as a Heart of Ma; the closest the goddess could come to taking a physical form in the world, and one of many denoting islands in her favor. Jed then assisted Onaku in regaining his memories. Like both Voxumo and Pulse, recovering his true memories was a traumatizing experience. Onaku learned of Miserix, and then took a dip in the Heart of Ma. Submerged under the surface, Onaku felt power and energy rushing through his veins, as his body regained its youth. Once it spit him back out, his skin burned from the divine energy – and he felt the all-too-familiar ache of immortality in his chest.Jed prevented Onaku from self-harming to test his immortality, and they were soon joined by Taktun and Lucina. Pulse, Voxumo and Ekimu debated the merits of Okoto’s kings, before also joining them.With Pulse, Voxumo and Jed all reunited for the first time since the War for the Throne, tensions were high – and Pythia was still missing…. -[A Storm of Blood]- Anahera recovered Triki from the trap in the blacksmith’s shop, though to the surprise of her, Takua and Mashani, Triki was… different. The Jungle Protector seemed to flip between a gentlemanly personality and a raging, ultra-violent personality on a whim, perhaps broken on some level by whatever he’d be forced to experience while trapped.After a brief interrogation, Kranan managed to convince RG of his good intentions, and RG revealed what the Vakama Ruins were protecting – a shard of the Kanohi Ignika, Mask of Life. RG gave the shard to Kranan, warning him that it could not end the dream like the Kanohi Nuva… but that it could be useful if the Kanohi Nuva were to fall into the wrong hands. With the shard given away, RG banished them back to the rest of the group, though he did not accompany them.Uncertain how much to share with the rest of the group – and not entirely certain what the shard could do – Kranan fumbled his first interaction with Anahera, arousing the Water Protector’s suspicions.With some difficulty, the group came together and agreed to move onto Burned Harbor. After some discussion, they decided to travel there by attempting to go through the outskirts of the Ancient City. -[A Feast for Titans]- After speaking with the Guardian of the Cornerstone, the dead and dying dragon Axalara, several members of the group regained their memories. Ehks, Voltex, and Toru all regained their entire lives, while Virndrung remembered enough to be cognizant of the potential threat that Toru now posed to the group. Elsewhere in Fort Patrus, a Stone Protector by the name of Tabek Umrik awoke. Having been en route to Valmai with several friends, he was drawn into the Cornerstone, and his friends lost their lives. Attracted by Axalara’s whispers in his mind, he began sneaking over to the group.Still half-broken from losing his friends, Tabek found the group in chaos. He recognized Voltex, knocked unconscious from regaining over 1000 years of memory in an instant, and found Ehks and Toru both broken on some level by learning the truth of their pasts. The group began to descend into chaos and infighting as Virndrung went after Toru, until Axalara intervened. Axalara informed Ehks that she could speak with the Ice Protector through her spear, and then gifted the party with the legendary Kanohi Vahi, Mask of Time, which Ehks claimed. She then left the group with an ominous warning about a world of Shattered Glass.The entire group knew where to head next. Ehks, Voltex, and Toru had a history with Kulta… and they knew where to find her. The time had come for them to travel to the Isle of the Dead. -[A Dance with Time]- With Luci still trapped, the group followed Trijhak the Mad to her. He led them to a large room full of coffins, and the two Skull Warriors with him attacked the group. Efandril scuffled with Trijhak personally before freeing Luci, while Feli and the guards managed to slay both Skull Warriors. With Luci freed, Efandril tried to kill Trijhak, but was tossed aside. When the Mad King tried to retaliate, he was slain by Luci.As Trijhak and the Skull Warrior died, the entire Cornerstone shuddered around them as something intangible cascaded around the group. Efandril claimed the Ignika Shard that Trijhak had been wearing, and felt a small rush of power from it.With the compulsion pulling them into the Cornerstone now gone, the group moved to return to the surface, only to be distracted trying to free the remaining prisoners. Unfortunately, they were all far too insane to be of any use to them.Something approached.By the time the group realized what was happening, it was already too late; they were in the grasp of a Nightmare.Alien tendrils poked their way into the groups’ minds, poking and prodding. The air around them turned stifling, and when they attempted to flee, it was like swimming through mud. The hall of cells slowly transformed into a hellish tunnel of skin and blood and bone. Shadows in the corner of their vision coalesced into a grotesque, writhing form; one that nobody in the group could bear to look at. The air began to roar dully, and the tunnel began to pulse. Feli managed to learn that the Nightmare couldn’t stand heat, but was unable to produce a flame to fully chase it off. Efandril tried to use the Ignika Shard, but doing so only attracted the Nightmare’s attention, drawing it to the shard and the group, its anticipation filling the air… the anticipation of a new meal. -[The Watchers of Winter]- The group remained trapped in the Dark Mirror.Working during Day 2, Isniel and TL were watched over by Lester as they worked the farm alongside Chloe, Tarduk, and others. TL foolishly focused his attention on Lester and even tried to engage with the Fire Protector, threatening to blow Lester’s cover.TL and Isniel were then taken to one of the cages, and locked inside to fight each other by the guards. While they at first tried to pretend, the guards did not buy it, and the two were forced into an actual brawl for fear of facing even worse consequences if they did not. Suffering a dislocated shoulder, Isniel was forced to take drastic measures when TL once again drew the suspicions of the guards toward Lester. Using a knife tossed in by the guards, Isniel stabbed TL in the shoulder, and began beating him bloody with his fists. The two were saved a few moments later by the return of Onaku, who was furious with the guards for setting the two up in a cage match, worried that the damage the two had done to each other would give the farm a poor reputation for their service to visitors. While Isniel was sent back to the food rows, Lester took TL to one of the doctors; thankfully, it seemed that being stabbed had finally taught TL to keep his mouth shut.The night before, the other three had been abandoned in the office of Khan Sisyphus. Working together, Nato and Rilgivi managed to break the window, and the three used the cage holding Kazi to climb up to the roof.After pulling Kazi up and freeing him, the half-starved and half-frozen Ice Protector began guiding them to his safehouse. Along the way, they learned that Ehksidian Glacies was the commander of the city guard, and that she was organizing the entire force to search for them.They didn’t reach the safehouse until midnight. With Kazi having to be half-carried, they found themselves welcomed to the home of Elittra Ember. She gave them a quick tour, and admitted to killing the Dark Mirror’s version of Krosht. Elittra then left to go hunt down her contact, and fill them in.

BEHIND THE THRONE EPISODE ONE “Too Many Meetings” -[Eight Months Earlier]- Voltex stepped through the door and into the board room. Down at the far end of a table long enough to hold at least one hundred people sat Ekimu and Makuta; the latter waved him down. Taking a deep breath to psyche himself up, Voltex made his way down the room. His footsteps echoed, the only sound to be heard above his own breathing. I may have to start on that diet Voxumo recommended if I’m this out of breath from walking, he thought to himself. “Take a seat,” Makuta said once he had reached the end of the table, gesturing to the chair across from him. Voltex sat, and Makuta leaned forward. “So. Welcome back.” “Hahaha, yep, feels welcoming,” Voltex said, his weak chuckle giving away his nervousness as he rubbed the back of his neck. “I, uh, I realize that Mask Maker Productions has had a wildly successful year so far, but… do your new offices really need to be so intimidating?” “They do, actually,” Makuta said. “Omega Turtle Productions tried to wrestle a couple upcoming projects from us, and then we had to deal with SPIRIT Studios trying to quadruple their budget for their Journey to One spoof. And those were just the two most noteworthy incidents, mind you.” “…oh.” “So,” Ekimu said, folding his hands together. “Season 3. You made it to the end, despite that unfortunate drama with Onaku toward the end.” “Ah well, y’know, I can be pretty hard to work with,” Voltex said, shrugging. “I mean, Blade would tell you that. And Portalfig. And Xaeraz. And Chro. And TBK. And Ehks… huh.” He thought back over all of his projects throughout the years, and the epiphany hit him like a truck. “I should probably stop trying to partner up with people.” “Regardless, everyone here was very happy with Season 3, all things considered,” Makuta interrupted before Voltex could fall into a tangent. “We could have done with the cliffhanger not copying that Avengers movie so much, but it got the fans talking. Everyone is hyped up for Season 4. So lay it on us!” Voltex glanced between the two executives, eyebrows furrowed. “Lay what on you?” “Your pitch,” Ekimu said slowly. “For Seeason 4.” “Ah, yes. Right. Season 4. I totally have that planned. Yep.” Makuta’s face fell into his hands, and he groaned. “You don’t have anything planned, do you?” “…no,” Voltex admitted. “And the cliffhanger to Season 3 was because you had run out of budget.” “Well, not entirely. There were some contract issues with a few actors as well. You wouldn’t believe the alterations that Jed tried to ask for!” Makuta rubbed his temples, glancing over to Ekimu beseechingly. The golden armored Mask Maker sighed before turning to Voltex. “You must have some ideas for what would happen after Season 3.” Tapping his knuckles on the table, Voltex nodded. “A little bit. Obviously Miserix will be the main antagonist, and I plan to bring back a few deceased characters, to emphasise how drastically different this new reality Miserix has created is. But beyond that, there’s still a lot. I mean, I know the season was popular, but I need time to iron out all of the details. That’s how this usually works.” “We know,” Ekimu said, gently reaching over to rest his hand over Voltex’s, preventing the tapping before Makuta (whose eye was twitching) could explode. “The successes we’re enjoying were rather unexpected, Season 3 expected. We’re just looking to capitalize on that success, and continue building the hype, so to speak.” “Is there something else we could use?” Makuta asks. “We ran the Long Night limited series between Season 1 and Season 2, perhaps another like that?” Voltex considered it for a moment before grinning. “That might be perfect, actually. I was hoping Rassilon could somehow return for the next season, and there’s bunch of backstory for Voltex, Sahmad and the other Matoran I could explore.” He paused, growing more serious. “I’m warning you now, though. I’ll need more time than usual to plan for the next season if we’re releasing something else in between.” “That’s acceptable,” Ekimu said. “You have two days to plan out the interlude,” Makuta said, pushing his chair back and standing. “Will that work?” Voltex also stood and shook Makuta’s hand. “I’ll see you in two days.” --- Two days later found Voltex practically vibrating with excitement as he dropped into his seat, sliding two massive folders to Ekimu and Makuta respectively. Both Mask Makers looked a little intimidated, but began to peruse the materials regardless, waving for Voltex to speak as they did so. “Alright.” He leaned forward, still grinning. “Welcome to Last Odyssey. Protectors of Jungle all over Ithaca have been having strange dreams, and they decide to send the dreamers off on a voyage to learn what’s causing them. Leading the voyage are four Protectors: Rassilon, Juke, Seqala, and Valen, who have all also dreamed of a figure known as the Watcher. They’re also accompanied by Tex and Lewa, to give viewers a few more familiar faces to follow.” Both Mask Makers nodded. It was Makuta who asked, “so what happens?” “The primary point of Last Odyssey is to explore the history of the Matoran and how they tie into the Great War,” Voltex began. “The first stop of the voyage will be the home of the Matoran, where the group will meet the Titan Annona, as well as find the village where Voltex, Sahmad, and their friends all lived. While there, the group will dream of key moments in some of their backstories – Voltex, Velika, Sahmad, and Lein.” “Why Lein?” Ekimu asked, frowning down at the folder. “Telluris is closer to Sahmad, correct?” “He is, but Lein joins the crew later on,” Voltex said. “Go on then.” “They convince Annona to join them, and then sail for the new home of the Matoran – Destral,” Voltex continued, fighting not to bounce in his chair. “Destral is ruled by the Titans of Destruction; Teridax’s brothers and sisters, if you will. And it’s populated with several different species – but the crew will just visit the Matoran. While there, Valen perishes during a series of challenges known as the Gauntlet; but the rest complete it, and in doing so, win the respect of the Matoran. There’s a romantic connection between Juke and Telluris, but unfortunately, Telluris must remain behind to rule Destral; but Lein joins the crew here, as does another Matoran named Kirbraz, Toa Takanuva, and the Dark Titan Mutran.” “Then they hit the shipwreck?” Makuta asked. “Right. The Piraka from the Odyssey oneshot we did return here and join up with the crew after they’ve rescued Ancient,” Voltex said. “I was wondering if you’d find a way to work him back in,” Ekimu murmured. “His appearance in Season 3 seemed rather disconnected… then they return to Okoto?” “Right, and that’s where everything really goes wrong.” Voltex chuckled, and it soon devolved into a maniacal laugh, one perfected after years of practice killing his fans’ dreams. The two Mask Makers shared an exasperated look as they waited for him to calm down. It took a full minute before he caught the looks on their faces and stopped, rubbing his neck awkwardly. “Er, right. So they land on Okoto. They lose Reidak, Takanuva, Lewa, Tex, and Seqala to the dusting. Mutran kills Thok and Vezok before they can be dusted, and then teleports away with Zaktan, Avak and Hakann, while Ancient flees back to the ships. Annona sacrifices herself to save Kirbraz from the dusting, leaving Lein, Juke, and Rassilon alone to face off with Miserix – and the series ends there.” “What a downer ending,” Makuta muttered. “The rest looks like it’s so lighthearted.” “Yeah, can’t really be helped.” “Consider it approved,” Ekimu said, slamming his folder shut. “Get to work.” Voltex saluted. “Yes sir! Er, sirs.” -[Two Months Earlier]- “So?” Voltex asked, sliding into what he was rapidly beginning to think of as his seat at the way-too-long table. “How about those Last Odyssey reactions, huh?” “They were really into Juke and Telluris,” Makuta said. “I wish we’d known, we could’ve capitalized on it.” “It wasn’t just the burgeoning romance, it was everything Juke,” Ekimu corrected. “I’ll admit to swooning once or twice myself when he was onscreen.” Makuta grunted. “The twist with Annona at the end, too. They were more shocked about that than they were about Seqala.” Voltex shrugged. “Onto Season 4 then,” Ekimu said, turning to Voltex. “Are you ready?” Voltex blinked at him. “You… are not ready.” Voltex grinned weakly. “I may need a bit more time. Budgets, y’know. Also, I should warn you right now, it’s going to be big. Almost everyone is coming back in some manner.” Makuta frowned. “How is that possible?” Tapping the table, Voltex chuckled nervously. “I may be messing around with alternate universes this go-round. I’ve got a fancy naming scheme for all of them, too! All glass-related. Dark Mirror, Shattered Glass, Bright Crystal, Scattered Lens… I could go on!” “Please don’t.” It was Ekimu’s turn to rub his temples and sigh. “What are your budget expectations?” “Well er… you remember the budget you gave me for Season 3?” Voltex asked. “One hundred million,” Ekimu said, looking distinctly like he wanted to gouge his own eyes out. “You want more, I’m guessing. One fifty?” “…two hundred. Maybe two fifty.” Makuta’s face hit the table. -[One Week Earlier]- “…and so now we begin filming next week,” Voltex said, chugging the rest of his coffee and signalling the barista for a refill as he reclined in his seat. Portalfig took a moment to examine his friend. The showrunner/director/writer’s eyes were bloodshot, and his fingers had the twitchiness of several days without sleep. His clothes were ruffled, and if he had to guess, Voltex hadn’t changed them for at least three days. The stress was clearly eating him alive. “Are you sure you don’t need any help?” he asked, leaning forward as the barista returned, pouring a generous helping of coffee into Voltex’s waiting mug. “Listen, the stress is clearly getting to you.” “I’ll be fine,” Voltex said, waving one hand dismissively while using the other to pull out a flask and pouring what was, from the smell of it, something with far too much alcohol for nine in the morning into the mug. “I always get like this the week before filming. It’ll be better once we start production.” “If you say so,” Portalfig said slowly, not believing a word of it. “I can come for moral support, you know. I’d love to cameo.” “If I can work you in organically I’ll let you know, but it’s pretty stuffed already,” Voltex said, sipping at his death in a cup while his gaze flickered wildly around the coffee shop. “Budget, you know. Have to re-use a lot of the same actors and characters in the alternate universe bits to save cash and whatnot. I hope the fans can keep track with six different Onakus running about.” “…right. But I mean, I can just-” Voltex held up a hand, cutting Portalfig off. “Listen, this is starting to feel a lot like my meetings with Ekimu and Makuta. And I have to say, I’m not really a fan. They kicked me out of the last one because I tried to bench press the table.” Portalfig paused. “Didn’t you say that table was like, a hundred feet long?” His friend shrugged. “I was very drunk.” “Soooooo,” Portalfig drew the word out as he hunted for a new topic, before the baristas could throw them out. “Er, what are you filming first?” -[Production: Day One]- “Alright Campaign One, listen up!” Voltex shouted. “We’re filming your meeting with Maglya today. You all know what’s happening!” “I have a question,” Burnmad asked, raising his hand. “Does Reisen have to drink the Essence of Annona in this scene? It’s just… it’s kinda horrifying. That Miserix did this to Annona. And that we’re literally drinking her.” “At least Reisen never knew her,” RG mumbled, looking even more green than he should. “She was basically Lein’s mom.” “And Sahmad’s,” Sahmad said, shuddering and turning away to retch. “Ugh, oh god, I thought about it. I’m gonna be sick.” “No can do, Sahmad!” Voltex said cheerfully, smacking him in the back and sending him sprawling into Jakura. “Alright, you all ready to go?” The group reluctantly nodded and stepped into their positions. Voltex returned to his director chair, and nodded to Unit, who was manning the cameras. “Ready? Set! Action!” To Be Continued?

You're all good - just need to change your agility or intelligence to 4. Doesn't matter which.

EPISODE TWO “The Nature of Reality” -[A GAME OF HUNTERS]- In Fort Madacus, the group met with Commander Maglya Pyre. The Commander offered them shots of a mysterious liquid called “Essence of Annona”. While Juke and Rassilon’s bodies rejected the liquid – and Jakura remained partially immune to its effects – Sahmad, Reisen, and Lein experienced its full effects.Those experiencing the effects of the Essence found that everything around them glowed, and their vision was strong enough to pierce through even the darkest of shadows. Some could now feel the magic around them, pulsing like a heartbeat, and that their strength was far beyond what it had been before. With the Essence and a conversation, the Commander seemingly managed to convert Reisen, Sahmad and Lein to the beliefs of those in the Fort, and their mission: to unite the shards of the Kanohi Nuva, Mask of Ultimate Power, and bring them to Miserix to be re-forged, and re-balance Okoto. That desire to achieve balance at all costs slowly became the driving force behind their actions.Joined by Keahi and a dozen soldiers, the group continued their journey to Shipwreck’s Cove.As they arrived, they found two ships sailing in an endless circle, deep in the water. One matched Okoto’s style, though it was more advanced than any ship the group had seen – including Reisen, once a pirate. The other ship was more rundown and threatening in its construction.With assistance from Keahi’s soldiers, the group built a raft and floated over to the ships, pulled along by the Cornerstone. They boarded the Okotoan vessel, named Last Odyssey, and met its captain, Anita Lasang… only for her to insist that Rassilon was the true captain of the vessel.Anita tried and failed to convince Rassilon, Juke and Lein that they had once all sailed on the Last Odyssey. With no answers to give the confused group, she directed them toward the other vessel – the Lhikan, a ship from Destral that once belonged to a group called the Piraka.The group, along with Keahi and Anita, used a lifeboat to sail over to the Lhikan. It was crewed by many different species, none native to Okoto – and captained by a massive figure with blue and gold armor named Ancient. He recognized Rassilon, Juke, and Lein as Anita had… but also Reisen. -[A CLASH OF BROTHERS]- After losing their memories, the group met with Anna outside of Riverrage. They found her without any additional protection – but she gave off the impression that she did not require it.Their journey to Ignika City was unexpectedly uneventful, and through Taktun, they were granted entrance and taken to the humble home of Lady Sylvia Rayne. Leaving Anna behind, they sat with Sylvia and her wife, Lady Symphona Tyde, as well as several Prophets of Ma for dinner.During the meal, Symphona revealed that the Prophets had expected the group to arrive for several days. Thanks to the favor owed to Taktun by Sylvia, the Prophets reluctantly agreed to let the group see the Tomb of Ekimu.On the way to the Tomb, Voxumo learned a bit more about the Prophets, and Symphona warned the group of the Tomb’s Guardian – the undead Ekimu, resurrected by the Cornerstone’s magic. She also hinted at something else in the Cornerstone but insisted that it would be easier to show the group than to tell them.Arriving at the Tomb, the group was shown Ekimu’s empty sarcophagus, and then taken down below, into a hall lit by a strange glowing white liquid in the walls… the heart of the Cornerstone. -[A STORM OF BLOOD]- Immediately upon entering Vakama City, the party found themselves separated. While Triki, Takua and Anahera remained together at the entrance to the city, the others were all scattered. Mashani was left in a maze of back alleys; Burnmad outside the old chambers of the Council of Fire; and Kranan trapped in a cell with only a Fire Protector named RG for company.Triki was soon trapped inside a blacksmith’s shop, and then both muted and paralyzed. While trying to free him, Anahera and Takua spoke of Efandril, and Takua’s clear loyalty to her.Burnmad found himself meeting with the Council of Fire – Dragonstar Ember, Sil Aodh, Smoke Monster Boscage, Chloe Saryian, RG II Coal, Unit Ember, and Toa Tahu. Attempting to flee the conflicting emotions, memories and thoughts the Council was bringing, Burnmad followed Smoke Monster down to the dungeons, to meet RG I.Using Kranan’s sword, Burnmad stabbed Smoke Monster when the Jungle Protector attempted to murder him, before freeing Kranan and RG.Back up above, Takua and Anahera reunited with Mashani, and continued their attempts to free Triki.As they made their way back to the surface, RG asked Burnmad and Kranan about their mission in Vakama City; at the mention of Miserix, RG seemed to calm. He revealed himself to be the Guardian of the Cornerstone, as well as having magic at his disposal. Although RG claimed that this Cornerstone hid nothing, Kranan suspected that the Guardian was actually trying to hide something from them; Vakama City might not hold a shard of the Kanohi Nuva, but perhaps it hid something else…. -[A FEAST FOR TITANS]- The group managed to escape the Blade Burrower tunnels, and emerged to the night sky over Kamuk, with the Patrus Ruins below them. They slept for the night, only to wake up to the night sky again; time was not working as it should.Arriving at the Cornerstone, they found the entire city locked in a moment in time, with many buildings half-collapsed, with rubble floating in the air. After a brief vision of a dying dragon, the group was separated. Virndrung found himself in Ignika City, with Aodhiim banners flying overhead; Alix found himself lost in the dark; Urot found himself in an endless expanse, facing a twisted reflection of himself in the mirror; and Ehks found herself facing off with the Protector in Black.While Alix was taunted by the voice of his father, Ehks was tormented with visions of her lost friend Velika and given the choice to trade one of her companions to bring him back. She refused, regaining her true memories; memories of a journey into the past with the Mask of Time, her role in the fate of Kulta, and the Great War. She fought through the illusion, and the Protector in Black vanished, allowing Ehks to save Alix.Urot spoke with his twisted reflection – Toru Sevoi – who claimed to be their true persona. Wrestling control away from Urot, Toru awoke in the home of Velika. In the basement of Velika’s home, Toru found an ancient map (which he stole) and a wall of histories, displaying Velika’s apparent loyalty to Voltex, and mapping out a history of Okoto that conflicted with his and Urot’s memories, including events like a Long Night, and objects called Masks of Power. The histories did, however, claim that Toru served Kulta – leaving Toru to believe they were on the right track.After speaking with his sister, Hahli Vatten, Virndrung managed to break himself out of the illusion. Awaking in the central bazaar of Fort Patrus, he soon found Pouks knocked out – and was then knocked out himself. The rest of the group re-united (minus Voltex) and managed to find Pouks and Virndrung, and the one who attacked them – Voltex, hallucinating an attack of giant spiders. After breaking Voltex free, Voltex used magic to wake up those he had attacked, and they went to investigate a massive black creature at the other side of the city.The creature turned out to be a massive Dragon, suffering from fatal wounds. A voice then spoke in their minds, congratulating them. -[A DANCE WITH TIME]- The group was scattered by the magic of the Cornerstone after entering the Ancient City. Lurrun was left with Photok by the gates; Efandril found herself in the forge of the Mask Makers; Tijekti found herself in a room with four walls and no doors or windows; Feli found herself in the central square of the city; and Luci found herself locked in a cell.Lurrun and Photok encountered Nuhrii Coal and his soldiers while trying to find the others; the ensuing encounter ended with Photok being murdered, and the soldiers advancing on Lurrun.Feli, after finding a better viewpoint, found the entire square filled with a massive crowd. Panicking, she tried to escape the crowd and came face-to-face with the King, Pulse Vatten. The guards tried to kill her, but a scream from Photok broke her free of the illusion – though a hint of the wound remained.Feli managed to save Lurrun by killing Nuhrii and his soldiers, who all vanished into thin air (taking Feli’s arrows with them). Photok died in Lurrun’s arms, only to vanish as well; unsettled, the two Protectors searched for Efandril.In the forge, Efandril found plans for several Masks of Power – the Mask of Control, Mask of Creation, Mask of Life, and Mask of Time. She took the plans for herself and then left for the throne room, where the throne of Okoto called to her….Luci, stuck in her cell, met Trijhak the Mad. The Mad King had two of his Skull Warriors pull her from her cell and drag her away, where she was locked into a coffin and then abandoned.Efandril found herself being named the Queen of Okoto by several familiar faces of her most loyal companions – Kapura Coal, Takua Pyre, Elittra Ember, and others – only for the sight of Kollorak, still wearing the form of Tahu, to appear. Kollorak’s taunts led to the illusion collapsing, and moments later, Efandril managed to break free completely when Lurrun and Feli appeared.The three journeyed into the depths of the Catacombs, where they found an alive and well Photok trying to break through a wall to save Tijekti. After managing to free Tijekti and the guards that had accompanied them, they found Trijhak and his Skull Warriors. The Mad King promised to lead them to Luci, who remained trapped in the coffin, slowly losing her mind…. -[THE WATCHERS OF WINTER]- On the way to Grave’s Peak, the group split up. While Nato and Isniel took the direct path, the rest braved the wilds, and encountered Kurahk. They managed to flee, though it felt like the Rahkshi had deliberately allowed them to escape….Wasting no other time, they entered the Cornerstone, and found a world of nightmares: Dark Mirror. After a disastrous first encounter with some guards who whipped Isniel into submission, the group learned that in this reality, Earth Protectors were seen as abominations, and Jungle Protectors as animals – and even the Stone Protectors were second class citizens at best.The group was led to a “farm”, where the Protector in charge – an alternate Onaku Greavesy – took Isniel, TL, and Teridax. Wanting to learn about this world’s history, the others were directed to the city’s foremost historian – its Khan.While the Ice Protectors were taken to the Khan, TL, Teridax and Isniel were assigned to ‘Delta Group’ in the farm, where they are worked to exhaustion by a trainer named Lester.While waiting for the Khan, Rilgivi and Krosht read an account of this world’s history; a War for the Throne between Pulse Vatten and Voxumo Ash ended with both kings dead and the entire Jungle nation burned. In its aftermath the Jungle Protectors were enslaved, while Nato Greavesy, Burnmad Aodh, and Terrorsaur Rayne took control over Okoto – though Nato was apparently assassinated by a Protector named Kazi Nivis a few years later. Nato, meanwhile, met the Khan – Sisyphus Glacies. The encounter led to Nato re-gaining all of his memories up until his execution of Sisyphus Glacies in the year 327 AE. The Khan, meanwhile, admitted to the killing of the Dark Mirror’s Nato, and showed Kazi being displayed for the public to witness. Nato cut open the Khan’s throat, but Sisyphus was revived. In the fight that followed, Sisyphus revealed a strange command over both power and time before fleeing, leaving the Ice Protectors to try and find a way out before the guards could arrive to capture or kill them.Back at the farm, TL and Isniel met Chloe Saryian and Tarduk Boscage, but were labelled as insane when they both, for some inane reason, decided to continuously insist that the history they remembered was entirely accurate. They were interrupted by the arrival of Lester, who spoke very briefly with Chloe and Tarduk in code about a king and a prisoner before retreating at the sight of TL, promising to return the next night.

EPISODE ONE “Dreams in the Dark” -[A GAME OF HUNTERS]- Rassilon, Juke, Jakura, Lein, Reisen and Sahmad met each other in the White Wolf Pub, in the abandoned city of Briar Patch.After introducing themselves, the six began their journey to Shipwreck’s Cove, deciding to take the fastest route there by taking the route through Fort Madacus.They encountered a group of Aodhiim soldiers camping out and attempted to rob them – but instead found themselves victim of a trap set by Keahi Coal, the captain of the soldiers. After clearing the air, Keahi and his soldiers escorted the group to Fort Madacus to meet their commander….Once in Fort Madacus, the group learned that every soldier in Fort Madacus was a devout follower of the god Rollor, all wearing the god’s symbol and claiming that their mission was to restore balance to the world.Finally, the group was taken to a run-down home; the dwelling of Commander Maglya Pyre. -[A CLASH OF BROTHERS]- Pulse, Voxumo, Pythia, Taktun, Onaku and Lucina all met each other in Lucina’s forge, in the city of Riverrage.After introducing themselves, the six discussed how they should try to enter Ignika City and find the Tomb of Ekimu. They frequently got sidetracked into debates about how to deal with the various obstacles that might end up in their path – namely the Prophets of Ma – though Taktun mentioned that Lady Sylvia Rayne owed him a favor, which might be useful to them.They decided to find a Protector named Anna, an infamous merchant, to see if they can join her caravan to Ignika City. Unfortunately, Pulse said something that has now been forgotten; something that wrecked the minds of everyone present. The entire group has now been left with all memories barring their meeting in the forge and their dreams of Ignika City gone, with no clue as to whether they’ll return…. -[A STORM OF BLOOD]- Anahhera, Burnmad, Triki, Kranan, Mashani, and Takua all met each other in Valmai, having been summoned there by Miserix.Miserix explained their mission to them: to go to the Vakama Ruins and Burned Harbor Cornerstones, in the hopes of retrieving the artifacts powering them, and restoring balance to the island.While Miserix went off on a mission of his own, the group headed east toward Vakama Ruins. On the verge of arriving, they ran into a group led by Efandril – all of whom were apparently on their way to Valmai. Takua and Triki shared every detail about their group’s task possible.They then entered the Vakama Ruins, and the Cornerstone immediately began to impact their senses, its magic threatening to overload them…. -[A FEAST FOR TITANS]- Ehks, Alix, Virndrung, Urot (and friend), Voltex and Pouks all met each other in Last Rest, drawn together by dreams of the Patrus Ruins.After a brief discussion, they decided to make their way to the Cornerstone by travelling through the North, stopping by Stoneworth along the way, avoiding the pull of Grave’s Peak, but……upon finding the mining tunnels they intended to use to cross through the mountains, they found a sign warning them of ‘Blade Burrowers’. Nonetheless, they entered the tunnels. Down in the dark, they found themselves directed and hunted by the Blade Burrowers. Though they nearly took the wrong path many times and came close to losing a few of their number, the group managed to survive, and came to a stop at a locked door. -[A DANCE WITH TIME]- Luci, Feli, Lurrun, Tijekti, and Photok – all prisoners of Aodhiim – were summoned by Efandril to share their dreams of the Ancient City with her, and to introduce themselves.Efandril managed to make her offer worth the prisoners’ while; in exchange for assisting her in a journey to the Cornerstone, they would win their freedom… and perhaps any other treasures they might find along the way.As they passed by the Vakama Ruins, they ran into a group led by Anahera. This other group included a Jungle Protector named Triki and Efandril’s closest advisor, Takua, both of whom shared their group’s mission to journey to the Vakama Ruins and Burned Harbor on behalf of Miserix to claim the artifacts powering them.The group eventually made it to the gates of the Ancient City, and could already feel the Cornerstone below calling to them…. -[THE WATCHERS OF WINTER]- Nato, Rilgivi, Isniel, Krosht, TL and Teridax met on Rilgivi’s ship in Gelu’s Harbor, introducing themselves.While the others shopped for supplies, Nato & TL attempted to meet with Lady Taei Tivan, but were instead imprisoned ‘for their own good’ due to a suspected infection of magic by Captain Metus.Rilgivi attempted to meet with Lady Tivan herself, but through her hostile actions and refusal to cooperate, was also placed in a cell.Luckily for the group, Isniel was able to masquerade as a doctor with experience in the magical field, using Krosht as an employed sword and Teridax as an assistant. He pretended to cure Nato, TL, and Rilgivi, freeing them from prison (helped along by the overworked and overtired Metus).The group then exited the Gelu’s Harbor prison, hoping to begin their journey to Grave’s Peak.

EPISODE ZERO “The Great Game” -[Ehksidian Glacies]- Memory is the key. Memory is the key. Memory is the key. Memory is the key. “That’s a fancy weapon. Looks rather… dangerous. Perhaps I could take it off your hands?” No no no no no. Keep it secret. Keep it safe. Memory is the key. Memory is the key. “Get out of my head!” The whole world, replaced by a wall of gray fog. A battle playing out in reverse, Skull Warriors and Undead alike rising. Turning to a Stone Protector, wounded. Minutes rewinding in the background. Hours. Days. Weeks. Months. Years. A Jungle Protector leaning on his sword, wheezing. A Mask Maker, wearing the Mask of Time. Velika- “I see you.” A whisper on the wind. Her companions freezing with fear. A chill running up her spine. “I see your fates….” Slowly turning to the awful, terrible voice. Face to face with gleaming red eyes, a horrifyingly familiar skull. A Titan. The Titan of Destiny. Kulta. Kulta. KULTA. “Get out!” “Not like this!” Velika in her arms, clutching at her, desperation in his eyes. “I can’t go now. Not like this. I don’t want to go!” His armor flaking away, turning to dust- “GET OUT!” “Remember me, remember me please!” And then he’s gone, crumbled away, and she holds nothing but dust in her arms… …Voltex stumbling to a halt beside her, defeated, lost, alone, afraid. Kulta, the Skull Grinder. Destiny incarnate? That name, pounding away in her mind. Kulta. Kulta. Kulta. Driven mad, staring into the future. At Okoto’s destiny. Its dreaded destiny. No more running. The dreaded. “GET OUT OF MY HEAD!” She burst awake with a scream on her lips, soaked in a cold sweat, her blanket tossed across the room, gasping for breath. Her eyes fell to her spear, propped up against the end of the bed. Calming her, somehow. But she knew it was the spear’s fault. Her gaze slowly drifted across the room, finding her companion already awake and watching her. Voltex. Hunched by his pillow, arms wrapped around his knees, blue eyes staring at her from his pure white mask. Eyes all-too aware of the dreams she suffered from. Dreams that he understood too well. “What was it this time?” he asked, softly. Quietly. “…the same,” she finally murmured, gazing at her spear once more. “The Titan. The undead. That Protector… Velika. And that name… Kulta. I can feel it pounding in my skull. Over and over and over.” “Anything else?” She wished he would shut up, stop prying. Stop asking all the right questions, stop driving her forward. She wanted to ignore the pull in her chest, the direction of the spear. “South still,” she said at last. “Kamuk, I think.” “A Cornerstone.” It wasn’t a question. “Yes.” “Then that’s where we’ll go.” -[burnmad Aodh]- As if in slow motion, the knife spiralled through the air. He watched it sail toward him, the blade glinting in the torch light. A towering warrior with a skull for its face stepped forward, just as slowly, jabbing a massive sword through the chest of a Jungle Protector, impaling them on its blade. The Protector was lifted into the air. He felt the knife bury itself into his throat, felt himself beginning to choke. He sank to his knees, reaching up to the handle of the knife. Fumbling it weakly, desperately, as the Jungle Protector was shoved off the sword of the warrior, their corpse tumbling to the flood in front of him. Blood poured from their open wound, staining the floor beneath them red. The pool of blood spread until it hit his knees. He was dying in a pool of his own enemy’s blood. Smoke Monster, he thought, that’s their name. The world was fading away now, turning black. Turning cold. He fell forward, hands splashing blood everywhere as they hit the floor, and then he sank down further, resting his face in the warm, coppery liquid. Voices were yelling now, but he could not understand them. Dimly, he registered that hands were grabbing at him, but he could not move. He could not breathe. He felt the chill of death seeping into his bones… …no, no… something else…. “Wake up, Burnmad.” He weakly turned his head, staring up at the speaker, towering above him. RG Coal. You’re dead, he tried to say, but he could not. “Wake up,” RG said, staring down at him. “This is not where you die, Burnmad. Not anymore.” What does that mean? -[Rilgivi Nivis]- “The wall that divides the world fractures,” the silver armored figure said, gazing out over an endless fog. “You know what will happen if the two collide.” Rilgivi shook her head. “You must have me confused with someone else… I apologise.” The figure turned to her. “You must forget what you think you know. Search deeper within yourself… what you fear. It has already come to pass. You lost thousands on that day… but those who travelled between the realms with you may have suffered the worst fate of all. The same fate met by those decimated when Okoto entered its dream.” “Dream?” “The Great Game.” “I don’t understand.” “You will, soon enough. I can see it now. The dream fractures, reality splits apart. He is growing desperate… he will make his move for the shards soon.” “You see what?” “Everything. I watch, I listen, and I remember… and soon, you will too.” And then the wall and the figure faded away. When she awakened, she remembered nothing. -[Luci Clepta]- “You ever have any regrets?” Luci paused; she was in the middle of rummaging through a bag of jewels (almost useless), knives (too many to take them all), and gold (well, almost none of that, but she took what she could get). Her eyes drifted over to the corpse that the bag had belonged to minutes before, and then further up to her companion, whose troubled gaze was fixed upon the corpse as well. “You’re free to try your luck in one of the cities anytime, Photok,” she said, after the silence had stretched for a long moment. “I never asked you to join me.” The answer did little to appease Photok’s worries, but she ignored him, turning her attention back to the bag. Once she was certain she’d found all the gold in the bag, she stood up and brushed the dirt off her knees. “Not much, but we can make do with it for now.” “You sure this was smart?” Photok asked, glancing around the burned landscape of central Aodhiim nervously. “I don’t think the Fire Protectors would take kindly to finding one of their own dead.” “We’ll be gone before he’s found,” Luci muttered, nudging the corpse of the Fire Protector with her foot absentmindedly as she added the gold to her wallet. “Vakama City might’ve been a bust, but we were expecting that. Not a whole lot would survive an explosion big enough to kill everyone inside. The Ancient City should be better pickings, though.” Photok sighed, but didn’t bother to disagree, or attempt to convince her otherwise. He’d long since learned she wouldn’t listen. And despite his complaints, in the end, he had nowhere else to go. Just like her. -[Pulse Vatten]- The timer went off with a ding that echoed throughout the former forge, and Pulse Vatten, Protector of Water, took a deep breath to calm himself. He approached the oven and with trembling hands, used a set of metal tongs to remove his latest creation. The lump of bread that emerged looked… well, less than edible. A spike of pain stabbed through his head, and he grimaced, shutting his eyes tightly; the bread fell to the floor, forgotten. It kept driving deeper into his skull, and deeper into his skull, and deeper into his- -a gentle hand clasped his shoulder, and turned him to face its owner, and his closest companion these past few years. Voxumo Ash, Protector of Fire; he looked worried. “The pain again?” Pulse nodded, shivering as another wave of pain lanced through his head. “I…” “Just let them come,” Voxumo said quietly. “We’re safe here. No need to fight them.” Pulse nodded. “You’ll…?” “I won’t let you fall.” Here goes… nothing. His last thought before the visions consumed him was that he was incredibly lucky to have found a companion that he could place so much trust in with Voxumo. Six figures, taller than any Protector. Toa…? Stolen from a distant land by the sky, turned to comets. Raining down on Okoto from the heavens. Blue struck down by lightning, vaporized. White crumbling away. Brown and Black following. Then Green. Red, crashing on a barren island and then standing to meet a towering figure with only a skull for a face and gleaming red eyes- Another figure, as tall as the Toa. Small antlers stretching out from either side of their head. The Hunter, reduced in strength. Trapped within a city frozen in time, letting loose a massive arrow- An ordinary, almost forgettable voice, calm and confident. “Beware the Brothers.” A chasm, stretching deep underground into a black void, shaking and shuddering, guarded by an ancient Protector- A Protector with gold and blue armor, wearing an ornate mask, trapped within his own tomb, watched over and studied and experimented upon by others, by Protectors of Water. Beneath that, a chasm of white, the divine essence. Creation. Kneeling before him, a Protector of Water. A young, fierce warrior. Loyal to the end. Loyal to him, the rightful king. “Jed,” he said, “I give you the most dangerous task of all….” “I will do as you command, your grace.” Kingslayer, the wind seemed to whisper. Kingslayer. “Sneak into the enemy camp,” he ordered. “Kill the usurper.” An old city, once lost to time, before it rose from the waves. A hunched figure once standing before it, clad in white and black armor, bright blue eyes old and weary and tired. In the desert, another old and great city. Two figures – two brothers – dueling each other. Ekimu and Makuta. The ground exploding beneath them, Dark Energy crackling through the air. The divine essence. Destruction. A blue figure with a ceremonial golden mask, his own father. Trijhak Vatten the Mad, roaming his lost halls. The Ancient City abandoned. Its catacombs haunted by ghosts of the past, driven mad. A blue figure, staring at an island in the distance, an island of the dead. His own son, Virndrung Vatten. Separate from him. Lost. Kin who wishes not to be kin. Caught in a prison of fire. A Protector with pitch black armor. The Protector in Black. A simple request. A simple question. Have you ever questioned the nature of your reality? The Protector in Black, always watching. Ekimu, bleeding out on the floor before him- The Protector in Black watching- -and then there was nothing. -[Juke Bawks]- “This world was on the brink. Chaotic. Unbalanced.” He knelt in the dirt, cupping the small, translucent blue creature in his hands and gently placing it on his shoulder. Ashes scattered in the breeze. The creature gripped his shoulder with tiny claws, rubbing against his neck. “I don’t want to go!” Rassilon staggered toward him, fighting his way out of the water and onto the rocky beach. The other Jungle Protector was soaked and still hacking up water; Juke moved to assist him, but Lein beat him to it. “Find the Labyrinth… find her!” “We need to get out of here,” Lein said, casting a wary glance about their surroundings. “This beach reeks of magic.” But they had a purpose for being here, didn’t they? Juke was no longer certain of anything. He felt lost and alone. His heart was racing, adrenaline flowing through him. He had a nasty feeling that he had stumbled way over his head into something larger than he had the capacity to imagine. What he wouldn’t give to be back on his farm, or back with Telluris… …wherever Telluris might be. -[Jakura Aodh]- He accepted two drinks from Efandril, and held them to his chest carefully, so as not to spill them. He turned and offered one to Balta, his closest advisor. Then he raised the remaining glass to Efandril. “There are none who know unity better than you, my good and faithful friend,” he said. “Your accomplishments are evident in all that this nation does. You are the shining example of a true Fire Protector… and so I offer this toast to you.” “To peace and harmony,” Balta said. “To destiny,” Jakura added. He raised the glass to his lips drank it all with a single mouthful. It was a bit on the dry side, but as far as Aodhiim’s stocks of red wine went, it was quite good.... His head felt a bit fuzzy, though. Perhaps there was more alcohol than he’d been anticipating? And was the world swaying around him? Odd. He wasn’t typically a lightweight. His fingers felt numb. Efandril was smiling. Jakura fumbled groggily, blindly, at his belt as he staggered backward into Balta. His advisor crashed to the floor; Jakura managed to catch himself on the table, clutching it with a grip that was quickly growing weaker. Across the hall, the windows lit up in a flash of purple – a flash that was followed by a purple mushroom cloud rising into the sky in the distance. He was choking, the world going black. He slid to the floor, staring up at Efandril. “The Imperator is dead,” she declared. “Long live the Imperator.” -[Voxumo Ash]- He burned in the raging fire. His left arm was a charred, twisted ruin, he imagined his face was likely the same. Smoke was filling his lungs. An arm wrapped around his neck from behind and squeezed. Even with his left arm screaming against the action, he raised both hands and tried to pull his attacker away – but they only tightened their grip, as a hand moved to cover his nose and mouth. Voxumo struggled in their grip, his hands twitching madly in his panic as he scrabbled for a solid grip but was unable to find one. His heart was pounding. The smoke still choked him, just as much as his attacker. He had no air. Everything was going dark. He felt his eyes bulging as his attacker squeezed and squeezed and squeezed. Darkness overtook his vision entirely. His attempts to free himself slowed, his muscles no longer responding. He felt something snap in his neck. And then he saw nothing at- -his eyes flew open, a wordless shout on his lips, a single word echoing in his mind: Kingslayer. “Just a dream,” he muttered, rubbing at his pounding head. “Just a dream… just a nightmare.” -[Anahera Abissm]- “Life is a treasure,” Anahera snapped, towering over the body of Gavla Lurrun. “Ma grants us life. Wishes us to protect it. Through unity and goodness… but you and your people, Gavla… you broke that unity. You have no regard for life. I must protect the rest of us from your disease.” Nearby, the two Visorak chittered. “You’re lying to yourself,” Gavla managed to say, blood bubbling from her lips. “You think you’re a divine hero, chosen by the gods, but you’re not. You’re just another insane, bloodthirsty lunatic who will be lost to the pages of history. But go ahead. Finish the job. You’ll find no salvation from your delusions with me.” “I don’t expect you to understand.” She glared at Gavla, plucking at the water within the Protector, ensuring that the head of House Lurrun could not escape her fate, before dragging the Protector out on the streets of Burned Harbor. “I expect you to watch. Burned Harbor’s judgement begins now… may Ma forgive your actions.” She grasped the ocean and pulled it in, willing it to surge into and around the city, surrounding it in a dome of water. A column slammed down from its apex, slowly turning from the blue-green of the sea to a distinctive, coppery red. “Judgement calls,” she said. “Your people have given the wrong answer.” More and more water thundered down, tearing Burned Harbor apart. Through it all, Anahera, Gavla She grasped the ocean, she pulled it, willing it to enshroud the entire village in a surging, powerful dome. No one would be able to run, not through that stormy, wild tsunami. A column slammed down from the apex of the dome. Slowly, it turned from blue-green to angry, mottled red. "Judgement calls, Gavla," said Anahera. "And it seems your people have given the wrong answer." More and more water thundered down, the column growing as it did. Soon, the dome would be full, though Anahera kept herself and her companions dry. “You’re insane,” Gavla croaked. “Not even you can breathe water and survive.” “I don’t have to. See the water, how it circles us?” she gestured first to the dome, and then to the two Visorak. “These two Visorak… myself… we are servants of Ma. But you… you must witness what you have wrought.” Gavla barked out a single harsh laugh, blood and spittle flying from her lips. “They’re no servants of Ma. They serve a different god… Miserix. He seeks to tear apart the world.” Anahera held firm. “You are mistaken, I’m sure. All serve Ma’s will. It is a pity, Gavla. I’m sure at least some of your people could have been good… but if they bend to the will of the likes of you, perhaps not.” Burned Harbor crumbled around them under the onslaught. She could hear muffled, distant screams- -and then silence, except for the roaring of the waves. Slowly, the water drained back into the sea. “It is done,” Anahera said, smiling down at Gavla. “Your people proved unworthy.” “As did you.” She spun around to face the speaker – a spindly figure with black and silver armor, and lime green highlights. They towered over her, a look of disappointment on their face. “Begone from here, miserable creature,” the figure said. “You do not deserve this success. You are a monster, and if I see you, I promise that you will be destroyed. Such wanton destruction… Ma would be ashamed.” Then they grinned. “Then again, what do I know? I was born of Ata.” Before Anahera could respond, the figure waved a hand – and then she was waking up, the dream fading away, the memory once more a forgotten past. -[Toru Sevoi? Urot Coal?]- “My name is Toru Sevoi. I am a Protector of Earth.” “My name is Urot Coal. I am a Protector of Fire.” “I lead the people of Earth. I guide the Faith of the Skulls. I serve her grace, Kulta. Destiny incarnate.” “I lead those who have been exiled by everyone else. I guide the Brotherhood of Ata. I worship death, the greatest balancer of all.” “I am both.” “I am neither.” “I am someone old,” “and someone new.” -[Nato Greavesey]- The land stretching out before him was a barren wasteland. Once the jungle of Okoto, it was now decayed and dead; a stretch of devastation. Smog and smoke filled the air, and the night sky was dark. The world was full of terrors. In the distance, where he imagined the Ancient City might be, a dark tornado swirled, crackling with lightning. An army waited down below. The army of the Dead. At its head stood a massive figure. A Titan, with a skull for a face and gleaming red eyes. Remember. “Close the gate!” he yelled. The few Protectors with him hurried to barricade the entrance to the Temple of Time. Nato remained on the parapet, calling out a greeting and a challenge to the Titan. It did not respond. In silence, it began to stride toward the Temple. The Dead followed, shuffling, just as silent. Silent as the grave. He could feel a chill in the air. Remember your promise. Within moments the Titan had crossed half the distance. The closer it got, the further the temperature fell. As his companions re-joined him – four other Ice Protectors, and five Fire Protectors – he turned to them. “We need to figure out when we are. Is this an apocalyptic future, or are we in the past?” The Titan reached the Temple of Time before they could answer him. As if in response to its presence, a blue energy shield shimmered into view. “It’ll be okay, right?” one of the Fire Protectors – Raanu – asked, sounding uncertain. “Yeah, totally,” an Ice Protector – Kazi – said. “It protected us before.” Remember your word. The Titan reached out with one hand and reached through the shield, placing it on the outer wall of the Temple. The shield flickered and rippled, before shattering into nothing at all. One of the Dead grabbed onto the wall and began to climb. And after a few seconds, so did the rest. “Burn them!” Nato ordered. Armed with only torches, shields, swords, and a few other supplies, they burned what they could. A few of the Dead went down, igniting others on the way, but it was nowhere near enough. And then the army of the dead was upon them. Your memory. They fought with everything they had, refusing to let the Dead up onto the parapet – but they couldn’t hold it for long. They numbered only ten, and the Dead numbered in the thousands. “Fall back!” Kazi yelled, as one of the Fire Protectors collapsed. “Back to the center!” As they fell back to the center of the Temple, where a beacon of pure energy was being beamed into the sky, the Dead began to slow – until at last, at the beacon itself, Nato and his comrades outpaced their foes. But it still wasn’t enough. The Key. Energy lanced out from the beacon, blasting the Dead and the Skull Warriors among them to pieces, but it still wasn’t enough to tip the tide… and then the Titan landed before them, the Temple shuddering with the impact. The Titan seemed to feast on the energy of the beacon, absorbing it for its own use. He found himself standing with Raanu on his left and Kazi on his right, the others all having fallen. With grim determination and desperation fueling his actions, Nato held his sword before him, staring into the gleaming red eyes of the Titan. “Fall back,” he said, his voice hoarse. Your choice. “To where?!” Kazi snapped. “We die fighting here, or we die running. It makes no difference.” A massive sword faded into existence in the Titan’s hand. It would be upon them in seconds. This was not a duel they would survive. The beacon scorched their backs; they could retreat no further. The Titan lunged forward; Raanu threw himself between Nato and its sword and was cut down like butter. Kazi met the same fate an instant later, leaving Nato alone against the Titan. “You should have let me kill you here,” the Titan said, a curious tone haunting its voice. “It would have been a mercy. You have no choice now but to suffer. I fought to change Okoto’s destiny… I failed.” Was that… regret? “I always have a choice,” Nato declared, with a conviction he didn’t feel. “And I promise you, as long as I still stand, I will always choose to fight.” The Titan’s figure shifted, becoming that of a figure with rusted, navy blue armor. “Right,” the rusted figure drawled. “You’re a man of your word, aren’t you?” It shifted again, becoming a Protector clad in pitch black armor…. “But your word means nothing,” the Protector in Black said softly. “Your conviction is meaningless next to mine… and how can you make a choice, when you do not remember the key?” Memory is the key. The Great Game begins.

Zippy, both approved. Anahera locked into Campaign 3, Juke locked into Campaign 1.

both approved, though Triki will likely be placed in Campaign 3, as that has the least signups at the moment.

...to sign up for the Great Game. It'll function similarly to a DND type of game if you're curious, and you can play this without having played others in the series. Click the banner below if you'd like to play the game:

Juke & Anahera just need additional fears and dreams, and then they'll be approved. Lurrun approved and locked for Campaign 5. 2 DAYS REMAIN TO SIGN UP!

yup, they've been approved and locked in

Kranan looks good, he's just missing the stats. You'll need to edit them in, numbered from 1 (weakest) to 4 (strongest). Once you do that, he'll be approved and locked in for Campaign 3. For Taktun: Stats need to be ordered from 1 (weakest) to 4 (strongest). Remove the bit about a "spiritual connection", that doesn't fit within the world. Also keep in mind that you're extremely unlikely to end up in Campaign 1, as the queue for it is already very large. For Tijekti: Stats need to be ordered from 1 (weakest) to 4 (strongest). Once that's done, she'll be approved and locked in for Campaign 5. For Mashani: Stats need to be ordered from 1 (weakest) to 4 (strongest). You also need at least one more fear for her. Once that's done, she'll be approved and locked in for Campaign 3. - E: Kranan approved & locked for Campaign 3. Pythia approved & locked for Campaign 2. Imrukii, your fixes are good. Taktun approved, locked for Campaign 2. Tijekti approved, locked for Campaign 5. Mashani approved, locked for Campaign 3.

Lein approved, but be warned that Onaku is already 1 ahead in the que, so she's likely going to be placed in a different campaign. You can feel free to change campaign preference, but I'd warn you against placing a Jungle character in Campaign 5.

u should play

Been a few years since I last did one of these I think. I will of course give a quick shoutout as per usual to the movies I didn't get a chance to see yet but think that I would enjoy: A Quiet Place, Ocean's 8, Christopher Robin, A Simple Favor, Assassination Nation, The Old Man & the Gun, Bad Times at the El Royale, Widows, Creed II, Bumblebee, and Anna and the Apocalypse Anyway with that done, let's get on with the show. #1: Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse God, this was a tough one. I went back and forth between the top two for awhile, and I was hesitant just because I saw this one so recently - but at the end of the day, I had to do it. This movie's score - by Daniel Pemberton - is amazing. The soundtrack curated for the movie is amazing. The animation is revolutionary (literally - I'd be willing to read a book on everything that went into developing the visual design for this film and how they implemented all of it). The story is heartwarming. The jokes are funny. This movie gets Spider-Man. It gets Peter Parker, and better yet, Miles Morales. The Spider-Verse is a fascinating concept, and I can't wait to see it explored further in future films. Getting to see two sides of Peter Parker and how they both impacted Miles was great. Seeing Miles' journey into becoming the new Spider-Man - a Spider-man that is unique to him - was even better. I really liked Spider-Gwen and can't wait to see more of her. Please, go see this movie. See it in 3D if you can. #2: Mission: Impossible - Fallout Back in 2015 when I first saw Rogue Nation, I thought it was a good film, but not a great one. I was just off the heels of Mad Max: Fury Road and Kingsman: The Secret Service, both of which had blown me away. This year, I was coming off of Avengers: Infinity War (more on that in a bit), and found myself almost reluctantly excited for this film. Then the reviews started coming in, and I knew this was a movie I had to see. Like all Mission Impossible films, the story is a little convoluted and a bit of a mess - but it works. And god, everything else. The fight scenes are frenetic. Every hit has an impact. Characters stumble, fall, wheeze, get the wind knocked out of them. The stunts are relentless, and with Tom Cruise himself performing them, you get to see many unique shots that wouldn't be possible otherwise. I could go on about the HALO sequence, or the bathroom fight, or the climax at the end. I could talk about Henry Cavill's character, who rivals Tom Cruise every step of the way. I could talk about the way the film plays with your expectations and it works, or how I felt like Imax was finally worth it. But I don't have that much time. Christopher McQuarrie has directed an action masterpiece with Fallout, and it's clear that the longer he and Tom Cruise work together, the better they're getting. Here's hoping the two will reunite at least once more for a Mission Impossible 7. #3: Avengers: Infinity War You had to know this would be here. Ten years of buildup. Iron Man and Thor teaming up with Doctor Strange, Rocket Raccoon, and Spider-Man to fight Thanos. An Avengers film where the main villain is arguably the main character. And the ending. We all know how it'll end with Avengers 4, but I'm excited to see just how they'll make it happen. #4: Isle of Dogs Wes Anderson is one of my favorite directors. The Grand Budapest Hotel will always rank among my favorites. Isle of Dogs is no exception. The stop-motion, the framing, and Wes Anderson's brand of slightly off-kilter humor. It's a pleasant package, and you should watch it if you have the opportunity. #5: Black Panther A cultural phenomenon, one that I hope Captain Marvel will echo in some form next year (because money talks, and it'd be nice to move on from all white males with five o'clock shadow). I know it's still kind of a low bar, but Kilmonger is my favorite MCU villain to date, and I hope he'll get to come back in Black Panther 2 for a quick ancestral plane cameo. I'd say more, but so many others have already said it before me, and they've said it better; so I'll leave it at that.

both good

send me any Qs you have on Discord, I can answer them for you.

Toru/Ehks/Krosht good to go

all 3 good