The Transforminator Chronicles: Bionicle Destiny

Kopaka, Kualus, and Lerus landed their aerial steeds on the outskirts of Ta-Koro- or rather what what Kopaka recognized as Ta-Koro. Patrolling the fiery region were numerous Rahkshi and Exo-Toa, the latter being piloted by Toa of Shadows. Guarding the gate to the mighty fortress built near the Mangai Volcano were two tall beings in black and red armor.

While Kopaka surveyed the situation, Lerus said, "Having second thoughts about this mission, are you?"

"Far from it," the Toa Mata of Ice replied. "Think your Nivawk friend could-"

"No," the Matoran interrupted. "Taking on other Rahi is one thing, but I don't think Ruri could stand her ground against those Exo-Toa."

There was a moment's pause before Lerus spoke again. "However, there is one thing."

"What?" Kopaka asked.

The Matatu-wearer wrung his hands. "It's... pretty hard to explain. Look, just make me angry."

Both the Toa and the Rahaga gave him a bemused look. "How?"

"Just think of something to infuriate me."

Kopaka and Kualus exchanged looks before the latter said, "Your mask reeks of Mahi dung."

Lerus rolled his eyes. "Come on, you can do better than that."

"Well, we're both Toa- former Toa, in my case. Insulting ugly Makuta is one things, but not-so-ugly Matoran is another."

Lerus smirked. "Fine. I'll just go ask the experts."

Before either Kopaka or Kualus could stop him, the Matoran climbed over the rock they were hiding behind and casually strolled into Ta-Koro, coming onto clear view of the Rahkshi and Exo-Toa.

"Hey, guys," he said cheerfully. "How's it going?"

The Rahkshi hissed as they took aim with their staffs while the Exo-Toa trained their Electro-Rockets on the Matoran. Despite the unfriendly welcome, Lerus smiled.

"Is this a private club or can anyone join?"

In response, a Rahkshi Panrahk fired a bolt from its staff, causing the ground before the Matoran to explode.

"Sorry, but that's not what I want. Haven't you got any better?"

A Rahkshi of Chain Lightning screeched as it raised its staff up high and charged towards Lerus. The Matoran nonchalantly stepped to the side and stuck out a leg, which the silver Rahkshi clumsily tripped over.

"No, you're not the one I'm looking for." He then set his eyes on a Rahkshi Kurahk and grinned. "Hey, white and ugly! How are things going for you?"

The white Rahkshi's eyes flared with ire and it fired its Staff of Anger. It would be the worst mistake it had ever made.

And its last.

* * *

Makuta Nathuz paused as he approached his Matoran test subjects when he heard the sound of thunder. He tightened his grip around the Spear of Fusion he held, nearly snapping it into two. Twice now had he been prevented from performing his assigned task. He would make sure it would be the last.

Setting down the spear, he flashed a sneer at the awaiting Matoran subjects and said, "Don't expect to be so lucky next time."

With that, the Makuta strode out of his lab and towards the fortress' front gate. Not bothering to have the guards lower the drawbridge, he used his Density Control powers to phase through it instead and stepped out into Ta-Koro. It was then that he saw the strangest thing he had ever encountered in his life.

An Onu-Matoran- as tall as a Toa and as wide as a Steltian laborer- was tearing apart an army of Rahkshi and Exo-Toa. In spite of this horrific scene, Nathuz couldn't help but smile slightly. Never before had he been so proud of an experiment. It was thus a pity that he had no choice but to euthanize it.

Bringing out a pair of long, bladed staffs, the Makuta used his Mask of Repulsion to propel himself from the ground and dive into the battle.

* * *

For the time being, Lerus was no more. There was only Notar.

The Onu-Matoran tore through Ta-Koro, ripping Kraata from their Rahkshi shells and prying Toa from their Exo-Toa suits. Bolts of energy shot past his head, not none inflicted any damage on him; they only served to vex him further.

Then, as if he was angry enough, the cause for everything that he was landed in front of him: Makuta Nathuz.

Notar let out a cry of rage and lunged at the Makuta. Nathuz blinked out of existence the moment he came within arms' reach, only to reappear behind the large Onu-Matoran.

"At the very least, I am pleased that you have become the very instrument of destruction I wanted you to be," Nathuz said coldly. "Thankfully, I was wise in building in a failsafe."

The Makuta clicked his fingers and Notar roared in agony. He clutched his head and dropped to his knees, pounding his fist onto the ground. In the midst of his pain, he barely noticed Nathuz standing over him.

"I have one last task for you to perform," the Makuta said in a soft hiss. He raised a pointed talon towards the spot where Toa Kopaka and Kualus were hiding. "Kill them."

Notar looked up at him, his eyes nearly bulging out of his twisted mask. "No," he managed to snarl.

"Are you sure?" Nathuz said coldly as the pain intensified.

The Onu-Matoran let out an anguished cry but refused to bow to the Makuta's will. Seeing the refusal in his eyes, Nathuz frowned.

"A pity."

With that, he raised his spiked staffs, ready to plunge them into Notar's back. The Onu-Matoran closed his eyes, bracing himself for the end.

Suddenly, a blast of light radiated from the top of the Makuta's fortress. Nathuz and the remaining Rahkshi screeched out as they shielded their eyes from the blinding ray. It then dimmed down, revealing a silver figure standing on the crest of the fortress.

"I am Takanuva," it bellowed. "Toa of Light... and Shadows. Bow to the will of Makuta Necrosis... or forever be cast into darkness."

EPILOGUE

Velika quietly hummed to himself as he moved through the sands of Bara Magna. He was quite pleased with the deal he had made with the Shadowed One and his building army. True, he would be forced to eliminate the Shadowed One when all was said and done, but if Slayer performed the job to his satisfaction, then it would not matter.

He cast his wandering gaze to a group of beings heading for the temporary site of New Atero. Led by six Matoran, he could see the Great Creator Artakha, Toa Helryx, the warriors Axonn and Brutaka, and Toa Lewa Nuva. This could be his opportunity to eliminate those who posed a threat to Spherus Magna's prosperity... but he would not take it. The risks were too high.

Directing his eyes to the shining gem that was Solis Magna, Velika smiled. The day that his brothers and sisters- Arctur, Heremus, Angonce, Xera, Ilrion, and the rest- would return to Spherus Magna and retake their place as rulers was fast approaching.

And he would see to its occurrence personally.

TO BE CONTINUED

Saturday, February 8, 2014

Bionicle Destiny: Volume II, Chapter Ten

CHAPTER TEN

"I think this is the place."

"What threw you off? The fact that we're surrounded by two dozen Rahkshi?" Kodan said bitterly.

Pohatu gulped. "Something like that."

The Rahkshi hissed as they aimed their staffs at the Toa of Stone, Kodan, and Pouks. The trio's trip to Ta-Wahi had been a quick one, thanks to Pohatu's Mask of Speed, but it had came to an abrupt halt courtesy of a Rahkshi of Slow's staff.

With the way the other Rahkshi were now closing in, Pohatu supposed it would do no good to offer them some Madu fruit.

Glancing at Pouks, the Toa Mata of Stone said, "You've got a Rhotuka spinner. Couldn't you-?"

The Rahaga shook his head. "It wouldn't do much good. Rahkshi are quick to act. I wouldn't be able to charge the spinner in time."

"A wise choice, I must say."

The trio looked up to see a winged figure flying over them. Bright green eyes glowed behind its wedge-shaped mask while it wring its clawed hands.

As the figure descended to stand before the cornered trio, Pohatu said, "Uh, hi there. Mind introducing yourself?"

"I am Makuta Sorefus," the being said.

Alerted by the mention of the word "Makuta", Pohatu created a large boulder with his elemental powers, but a Rahkshi Guurakhk destroyed it with its Staff of Disintegration.

"Now, now," Makuta Sorefus said coolly. "Let us not be hostile. Did I not provide you with a warm welcoming party?"

"If by warm, you mean those Rahkshi of Heat Vision I'm seeing, then yeah," Pohatu retorted.

Sorefus gestured to the two dozen Rahkshi and they all lowered their staffs simultaneously.

"My apologies for that," the Makuta said. "We would be most honored if you would join us."

Pohatu raised an eyebrow. "Who's we?"

"Why, my brother and sisters, of course. Not to mention the other Matoran, Toa, Turaga, Skakdi, and Vortixx that are our current guests of honor."

The Toa of Stone crossed his arms. "Yeah, sorry. If you think I'm falling for that, then you've got another thing coming."

Sorefus' mask was devoid of expression. "Do I?"

Suddenly, a maroon-colored Rahkshi broke away from its brothers and fired a bolt from its staff, knocking Pohatu out cold.

* * *

"What... is that thing?" Kopaka asked as the black and silver Rahi bird clashed with the Waldurak.

"It's called a Nivawk," Kualus said. "One served under Makuta Teridax while he was posing as Turaga Dume."

Kopaka recognized the name from Turaga Vakama's tales of Metru Nui, but this was the first time he had seen one in person. It fought with much ferocity and moved too fast for the Waldurak to take aim with its weapons. In short time, it grew too frustrated and retreated from the fight, vanishing into the Motara Desert.

As the Nivawk landed onto the ground, Kualus brought the Gukko down as well. As he and Kopaka disembarked from the Rahi, they were surprised to find a black and green Matoran perched on the Nivawk's back.

"More strangers, huh?" the Matoran said. "I'd be a Muaka's dinner...."

"Who are you?" Kopaka asked.

"Name's Lerus. You friends with that Toa of Stone, Po-Matoran, and Mini-Rahkshi that were here earlier?"

"Yes. Where are they?"

"Last I saw them, they were headed for Ta-Wahi." A frown crossed the Matoran's Kanohi Matatu. "You're not planning on going there as well, are you?"

"If that's where Pohatu is, then yes." Kopaka eyed the Matoran carefully. "Is there something wrong with that?"

Lerus nodded. "Very few have returned from that realm alive, and if they do... they're usually not the same."

"That's a risk we'll have to take," the Toa Mata of Ice said. "Do you wish to accompany us?"

Lerus was silent for a moment before sighing. "I suppose I might as well. They're going to catch me sooner or later."

Kualus smiled as he climbed back onto the Gukko. "Then there's really no use delaying. Let's go."

* * *

Hahli groaned as she opened her eyes. The last thing she remembered before being knocked out was standing on a beach with Takua, listening to a cold, spine-tingling voice. Her eyes then widened when she saw that she was not alone.

Chained to the wall much like herself were her fellow Toa Mahri- Jaller, Hewkii, Kongu, and Nuparu- though they were in their Matoran forms like she and Takua were. Also present were the four Rahaga Norik, Gaaki, Iruini, and Bomonga; an Onu-Matoran wearing a Kanohi Pakari; and four purple and black beings of a race she did not recognize.

At that moment, the door to the chamber they were in swung open and a hunched-over being in red and silver armor appeared, a sparked spear in hand. His head was like that of a serpent's, and when he spoke, it was with the same voice she and Takua had heard earlier at the beach.

"So many subjects," Makuta Nathuz mused. "And yet, so little time. Where shall I start?"

The tip of his spear began to glow.

"Shall I, as the Matoran say, just wing it and see what happens?"

Friday, February 7, 2014

Bionicle Destiny: Volume II, Chapter Nine

Decided to do this daily instead of every other day.

CHAPTER NINE

-29,999 Years Ago-

The year had dragged on like a century, but Velika's days of torturous labor had finally come to an end. After finally realizing that his repairs were not up to satisfactory, Karzahni had announced to the Matoran of his land that he would be sending to the Southern Continent so that no one would find out about his mistakes.

As the Matoran boarded the boat prepared for them, a Ga-Matoran by the name of Kyrehx found Velika carving something into a slab of stone.

"We're all waiting on you, Velika," she said. "What's the hold up? Don't you want to get away from this place?"

"Of course," Velika replied. "I've just decided it needed a sign to greet future visitors."

Puzzlement crossed the Ga-Matoran's mask, but she simply shrugged and headed back for the vessel. Velika quickly finished his work and followed Kyrehx, leaving behind his inscription. Getting into the boat, he was handed an oar and assisted a Le-Matoran in rowing the boat, setting it on a course for the southern continent.

As they moved, Velika thought back on the inscription he had made for Karzahni's realm: This is a realm of shadow, of famine and plague and blight. This is a world of darkness, and there is no place for light.

He couldn't help but be appalled bu his brothers' workmanship. To create a land of such horror, and a ruler just as terrible. Was this the extent of what Angonce, Ilrion, and the others were capable of creating? Or was there even worse out there.

Another fire burned in his chest, but it was not one of anger; more like... determination. If these beings were as intelligent as the Agori or the Glatorian, and had more powers than either race, than there was a chance that they could bring about Mata Nui's downfall and thus leave Spherus Magna unwhole forever.

And yet... he could do nothing but simply observe. If Mata Nui were to fail, then so be it. It would only serve to prove that even the Great Beings were not infallible. But if he ever came across the opportunity to eliminate those who posed a threat- to eliminate the Powers That Be, then he would seize it.

If only for the greater good.

-Present-

"Gelu, stop!"

Chiara fired a lightning bolt from her hand, knocking the vengeful Ice Glatorian away from Oris. Orde then moved and used his telekinetic powers to pin Gelu to the ground. Meanwhile, Zaria helped the Jungle Glatorian up to his feet.

"See I hit a nerve there," Oris grunted, brushing himself off. "Look, fella', I'm sorry I killed your brother. I wasn't much fond of killing our brothers and sisters either."

Gelu glared at the other Glatorian, but his anger seemed to slowly fade away. When he let out a slow and steady sigh, Orde saw it safe to release him. As the Ice Glatorian stood, Oris found it save to speak again.

"You weren't the only one to lose someone close to you, you know. I lost the woman I loved to the Rock Tribe in the Black Spike Mountains."

Gelu frowned, his previous hostility towards the green Glatorian slowly fading away. "I'm... sorry to hear that."

Oris shrugged. "Ah, you wouldn't have known. At least she made her death worth remembering. Took five special forces Skrall down with her."

"What was her name?"

"Nuria, from the Agori word for fierce. Quite fitting, knowing her."

Gelu smiled. "I can imagine."

"Okay, so are we all friends now?" Chiara asked impatiently. "If so, can we get on with our quest?"

Oris chuckled. "Only if I can come along. The Zauran are many, and the wild ones won't think twice before eating you. You'll need someone who has experience with them."

"That we will," Orde said. "Now let's get a move on before that Zauran you saved us from comes back with reinforcements."

As the company of eight continued their trek through Bota Magna, they all failed to notice the intent eyes watching them.

* * *

Scarlet eyes glowed intensely on the Dark Hunter's pale-white face. He counted at least eight beings, seven of which his employer had described. As he mulled over his methods on how to eliminate them, he passed a thin hand over the Impact Crystal Launcher he currently carried. The Vortixx-made weapon would be most useful in at least subduing them.

The black and white Dark Hunter who went by the name Slayer grinned wickedly. Unfortunately for his soon-to-be-victims, he was in no mood for doing things swiftly. He wanted to make this set of kills as fun as possible.

Replacing his launcher with an Energy Siphon Blade, Slayer did his best to hold in his building laughter. Today was going to be a good one indeed.

-995 Years Ago-

Night had fallen on Voya Nui. The Endless Sea was calm and serene and the moon was in clear view. Mount Valmai quietly rumbled and wild Rahi were no where to be seen.

Such days were rare on Voya Nui. Some might have called this night romantic, a time for peace and to count blessings. But Velika was not counting blessings. He was counting future victims.

Tren Krom. Karzahni and perhaps Artakha. The Makuta, if they were indeed responsible for Mata Nui's downfall.

He set down the tablet he had been working on for a while now. He hadn't added much to it ever since Voya Nui broke off from the Southern Continent, but he still liked to read it from time to time to keep track.

He directed his eyes towards the sea, towards Aqua Magna. It wasn't until now that he realized that he was technically back home, or at least a piece of it. Mata Nui had crash-landed here while in the midst of his mission. Who knew when he would rise again.

His thoughts then moved towards the Mask of Life hidden beneath Mount Valmai. It would only be a matter of time until someone- whether they be Toa or otherwise- would come to Voya Nui and use the Kanohi Ignika to 'jump-start' the Great Spirit.

Until then, all he could do was wait....

"Hey, Velika!"

The Po-Matoran turned his attention to the Ta-Matoran named Balta, who had a somewhat sardonic look on his face.

"Dalu's giving me swimming lessons and I was wondering if you wanted to take them too. You know, just so I wouldn't be the only one to suffer."

With a smile, Velika nodded. It may take another thousand years for things to happen, but he would make them worthwhile.

If only for the greater good.

Thursday, February 6, 2014

Bionicle Destiny: Volume II, Chapter Eight

CHAPTER EIGHT

Zamor Spheres zoomed past Kopaka's head as he and Kualus evaded the Waldurak while riding a large Gukko bird. He returned the vicious Rahi's attacks by sending out shards of ice from his Ice Sword, but they had no effect on the creature.

The Toa of Ice and the Rahaga were well on their way into Po-Wahi and the Waldurak was showing no signs of ceasing pursuit. As another Zamor Sphere nearly missed his head, Kopaka turned to Kualus and said, "What's your Rhotuka power?"

"Carries the victim towards us," the Rahaga said bitterly. "Which, obviously, is the last thing we want."

Kopaka pondered on their situation before coming up with a solution. "Send out a bird call."

"I beg your pardon?"

"There must be more bird Rahi nearby. Perhaps you can summon more to help us."

"And if they're worse than the Waldurak?"

Kopaka grimaced. "Only one way to find out."

A frown creased the Rahaga's face, but he went with the Toa's plan anyway. Putting his hand to his mouth, he let out a series of clicks, whistles, and hoots, not unlike the ones Turaga Nuju often uttered. For a while, nothing responded. Then, a loud caw greeted them as a large, winged figure flew into view.

Kualus' eyes widened. "Oh, Great Beings protect us...."

The Nivawk spread its vast wings and shot towards them.

* * *

Takua winced as Makuta Viraka tightened her grip around his arm while she dragged him towards this 'master' she and Nathuz were referring to.

"There is no point in struggling," the Makuta hissed. "Your fate has been decided."

The two of them eventually arrived at a large, black door. Keeping her grip on Takua's arm, Viraka rapped her fist against the door. Without any vocal acknowledgement, the door slowly creaked open and the Makuta dragged the Matoran into the chamber.

The room was made completely of obsidian. Fire illuminated the black walls, lined up in a row that led to the jagged throne at the end of the hall. Occupying it was a tall, burly being armored in all black, with only his silver Kanohi mask breaking up the color scheme.

In a voice colder than the tip of Mount Ihu, the Master spoke. "What brings you here to my comfortable abode, Viraka?"

Viraka finally released Takua while the door behind them slammed shut.

"This is one of the beings we abducted earlier, Makuta Necrosis," the female Makuta said. "He is an Av-Matoran, and used to be the Toa of Light Takanuva before arriving here."

"An Av-Matoran, you say." Makuta Necrosis' eyes flickered with intrigue. "The bane of our brothers. The first to be introduced to our universe."

"Yeah, and the most ticked off and bemused person in this room," Takua said irritably. "You'd better have answers to my one hundred-thirteen questions and fifty-five followups."

A wry smile twisted the Master's mask. "I will see what I can do."

"First of all, what is this place?"

"The Matoran call it Eratus Nui, loosely translating into 'Great Prison.' It was created as a pocket dimension attached to the Matoran Universe to imprison beings too unstable for the Pit to contain. My fellow Makuta Sorefus and Nathuz were the first to be imprisoned, before we broke from our chains and traveled between dimensions to obtain subjects for our experiments."

"Okay, now explain why Hahli and I are Matoran again."

"People who end up in Eratus Nui are instantly reverted to the weakest form they've been in life," Necrosis said. "Whether it be Matoran or Turaga, it matters not. There have been exceptions, of course. Case in point...."

The Makuta gestured with a clawed hand and a hidden chamber near his throne opened, revealing a chained-up, multi-colored monstrosity, a gold Kanohi Hau being the only recognizable part Takua could identify.

"This hapless mutant Ta-Matoran calls himself Gaardus," said the Master. "He landed here practically in my lap, outside my fortress. Normally, I would have Nathuz or Sorefus work on him, but I see him as a potential future asset."

"I'll never work for you!" Gaardus snarled, wrestling against his chains. "I'll tear you apart!"

Necrosis made another gesture and the door to the small chamber slammed shut, silencing the mutant Matoran's screams. He then returned his attention to Takua as the latter spoke again.

"So, why was I brought here?"

A wicked grin contorted the Master's mask. "As I said earlier, Av-Matoran are the bane of my people. One less potential Toa of Light will rid us of an obstacle to our total domination."

Takua swallowed. "Are you going to kill me?"

The Makuta laughed harshly. "Kill you? Goodness, no. You're no use to me dead."

Suddenly, Takua felt his legs wobble and he fell to his knees, feeling awfully drowsy. Behind him, Viraka's Mask of Hunger glowed brightly.

"Alive, on the other hand...." The Master chuckled. "Alive, you are worth much, much more."

Tuesday, February 4, 2014

Bionicle Destiny: Volume II, Chapter Seven

CHAPTER SEVEN

-30,000 Years Ago-

"A Mask of... what is it, Biomechanics? Tsk, tsk, that simply will not do."

As the black and gold being discarded Velika's former mask, he quickly replaced it with an old Kanohi Komau. After affixing the mask to the Po-Matoran's face, Karzahni grinned widely.

"There now, isn't that better?"

Not really, Velika thought as he looked over his 'rebuilt' body. Karzahni was certainly no Artakha, but even a Nynrah Ghost could have done a better job than this. He was notably a lot shorter and more hunched than he was before.

"I admit, it's not my best," the mad tyrant said. "Here, to make up for that, why don't you select a pair of tools."

Karzahni then dropped down a pile of rusty tools onto the ground. Velika picked up a pair of Power Carvers, intending only to examine them, but Karzahni quickly got rid of the rest before he had a chance to survey them.

"Excellent choice," the madman said, a wide grin plastered onto his Kanohi Olisi. "Now, how about we test your repairs by getting you to work?"

With a sag of his shoulders, Velika headed over to the factories of Karzahni's realm, listening as the ground screamed with each step he took and glancing at the 'sculptures' of lazy Matoran. Burning ice spewed from volcanoes and dust descended from waterfalls.

In his life on Spherus Magna, he had thought there was no such thing as a realm of Chaos, a place where doom was eternal. Now, he had been proven wrong.

Touche, Angonce.

-Present-

Chiara was the first to move in response to the Zauran. Lightning crackled from the tip of her Strike Spear and into the creature's mouth, causing the giant lizard to recoil in pain. Next was Zaria, who lifted his Iron Hammer and swung it at the Zauran's bulky legs.

As the beast let out a furious wail, Gelu turned to Orde and shouted, "Can you lift me up towards the Zauran's head?"

Orde blinked as he computed the Glatorian's request before nodding. He then used his telekinetic powers to lift Gelu off the ground and up towards the lizard's head. The Zauran fumed upon seeing the Ice warrior and attempted to attack him with its maw, but Orde's telekinesis moved him away in time.

The Toa of Psionics then released Gelu from his control and the Glatorian landed right onto the Zauran's head. He then raised his Ice Slicer and was about to plunge the blade into its head when the beast suddenly reared up on its hind legs and let out a terrible roar.

As Gelu slid down the Zauran's back, a shrill cry broke through the jungle and the lizard responded with another roar. Then, apparently forgetting about Gelu, the Toa, and the Matoran, the Zauran headed into the thickness of the green and vanished.

Just as Gelu was getting back on to his feet, a green-armored figure appeared from where the Zauran had disappeared to. Gelu and the Toa instantly readied their tools again but the green warrior raised his arms.

"Wait," he said. "I mean you no harm. In fact, I just saved your hides from that thing."

"You mean you're the one who uttered that cry?" asked Zaria, lowering his Iron Hammer.

The stranger nodded. "Indeed. My name is-"

"Oris," Gelu said bitterly, keeping his Ice Slicer trained on the being. "I remember you. You served in the Core War, for the Jungle Tribe."

The green Glatorian raised an eyebrow. "Why, yes, I did. However, I don't recall having ever faced you on the battlefield."

Gelu's azure eyes flared. "It was at Gatherer's Ridge, near Tesara. I was under the command of Certavus, you under Vastus. Ring any bells?"

"Perhaps," Oris grunted. "It was over a hundred millennia ago. Why is it relevant now?"

"You killed quite a few of our men," Gelu said coldly. "Including my brother."

Oris blinked. "Your brother, eh? Well then, I'm deeply sorry for that. We were at war and, you know, all Ice Glatorian looked the same to me."

"Doesn't matter," Gelu said as he kicked the Jungle Glatorian square in the chest. As Oris fell to the ground, Gelu stood over him and raised his blade. "I have waited long enough for this."

-30,000 Years Ago-

He had lost track of time. Ever since he had arrived at this accursed place, he had been hammering away- at what and for what, he did not know- and knew nothing but his name and past, but even those were becoming hazier as time dragged on.

As he worked on, he suddenly felt something warm inside his chest. It burned, as if someone had lit a fire inside of him. He had felt it before, long before the Shattering. But now, it raged in him stronger than before, wanting to be let out, like a beast rattling its cage.

It was anger.

He stopped his hammering. The cessation of noise was more deafening than any gentle breeze on Karzahni, for the other Matoran ceased working as well and turned to look at the still Po-Matoran. His eyes flaring with bile, Velika turned on his heels and started to head out the foundry.

A black and gold titan prevented him from going any further.

"The volcanoes growl, the ground screams, and the waterfalls roar." A sneer crossed Karzahni's asymmetrical mask. "And yet, I can still tell when the foundries cease to make noise. It happens often, but it is usually with good reason."

The sneer twisted into a grin. "But there is never a good reason, and so the foundries carry on as always. So, my friend, I challenge you to come with a good enough reason before I decided what to do with you."

Velika looked up at the mad ruler of this execrable realm, meeting his glare with his own. "You are insane."

"I'd rather us the term 'creative,' but art is always so subjective."

The Po-Matoran kept his gaze on the tyrant. "How could the Great Beings have created such an abominable creature like you?"

Karzahni opened his mouth and the worst laugh Velika had ever heard came out of it. It rang throughout the foundry and could have shook the island had its owner willed it. The titan then leaned forward and glowered into the Po-Matoran's eyes.

"You think I'm bad? How about I show you something far worse."

The amalgamation that was Karzahni's mask glowed and flung Velika into another world. He was standing in a desert, not unlike the Wastelands of Spherus Magna. A black and silver monstrosity marched through the sand, leaving the corpses of Toa, Glatorian, and others in its wake. The blood of its victims coated its razor sharp talons.

As it slowly approached Velika, a voice spoke in his mind.

Marendar. The Harbinger of Salvation.

And then the illusion faded. Velika was back in Karzahni's realm, still standing before its ruler. The mad grin had vanished and was replaced by a look of mild bewilderment.

Finally, Karzahni found his voice. "Most intriguing."

And it was with that the black and gold titan walked away, and the Matoran resumed work again.

Sunday, February 2, 2014

Bionicle Destiny: Volume II, Chapter Six

CHAPTER SIX

Toa Kopaka activated his Kanohi Akaku to see through the blizzard that had just broken out. He had initially been in the direction of Po-Wahi, in the hopes of finding Pohatu, but with the storm now obscuring his view, he was no longer sure where he was headed.

Suddenly, he heard a series of tweets and whistles. Looking up, he could see a Gukko bird- awfully larger than normal- appearing through the veil of snow and landing in front of the Toa of Ice. Riding it was a small, hunched-over being with a head resembling that of a Rahkshi Kurahk's.

Kopaka blinked as realization dawned on him. "Toa Kualus?"

Something resembling a smile crossed the Rahaga's face. "Not exactly 'Toa' anymore, but yes, I am Kualus. It's a rather long story on how I got here."

Kopaka smirked. "Same here. Mind if you gave me a lift and we exchange stories along the way?"

Kualus chuckled. "I was actually hoping you would say that."

As Kopaka moved to climb onto the Gukko, he suddenly heard a low growl. Kualus heard it as well, for he looked in the direction of the sound and frowned.

"I know that sound," the Rahaga murmured. "That is the growl of a Waldurak."

Kopaka gave him a bemused look. "A what?"

"A rare species of Rahi found on Nynrah. The Fe-Matoran crafters there modified it to test how well a Rahi could control weapons."

"And the result?"

"That," Kualus said, pointing his Rahaga staff at the monstrosity that now appeared from the blizzard.

Large, thick limbs supported a small, flat body. On either side of hiss front legs were two Nynrah Ghost Blasters, while each of its rear legs sported Zamor Launchers. Underneath its body was a Cordak Blaster, and its thin, whip-like tail ended with an acid-tipped stinger.

As the Waldurak started to approach, Kopaka turned to Kualus and said, "I suppose now wouldn't be a good enough time to get your Mask of Rahi Control back."

"I suppose you should get onto the Gukko."

* * *

The Makuta was drawing closer, slowly taking his time but still too fast for Takua's liking. As Nathuz raised his spear, the Av-Matoran shut his eyes and braced himself for the end.

"Stop."

Takua slowly opened his eyes to see that the Makuta had frozen in place, his eyes still glued to him. Behind Nathuz was a female being in black and blue armor, wearing a Kanohi Avsa.

His eyes still on Takua, Nathuz hissed, "For what possible reason should I stop, Makuta Viraka?"

"That Matoran is one of Light."

"And?"

"You know what the Master said."

Nathuz finally peeled his eyes away from Takua and turned to face Viraka, anger contorting his mask but barely inflicting his voice.

"Ah, yes. We mustn't disobey the Master's wishes. Very well, Viraka; I shall work with the Ga-Matoran instead."

"Don't you dare touch her!" Takua snapped before he could stop himself.

Nathuz whirled on him, his scarlet eyes flaring. "What was that, Matoran? Was that a command? Are you, dare I say, telling me what to do?"

Takua's heart raced, his eyes stricken with fear. The Makuta seemed as if he was daring him to speak again, but he could not find the courage to do so.

Viraka finally broke the silence by saying, "Leave the Ga-Matoran for Sorefus. Makuta Nakiv and the others have brought in another group of prisoners. See to their 'sorting.'"

"And you?" Nathuz hissed.

A grin flashed across Viraka's mask. "I shall deliver the Av-Matoran to the Master."

Takua gulped as the female Makuta undid his restraints. This day was getting worse by the minute.

* * *

Pohatu scratched his head as he eyed the Matoran named Lerus strangely. "Fused... with an Onu-Matoran. Okay, how does that work, exactly?"

The black and green Matoran smirked as he set himself on a rock. "Have you heard of the Spear of Fusion?"

"Yeah, it kinda rings a bell."

"Well, there's this Makuta named Nathuz, and... he really likes fusing things. A lot. So, one day, he decided to fuse me with an Onu-Matoran.

"However, it didn't work like he intended. Even though our bodies were fused, my mind kind of... dominated the Onu-Matoran's. So, this is pretty much still my body... most of the time."

"Most of the time?" Kodan asked.

"Well, you see, sometimes when I get really angry, the Onu-Matoran part of me- I think his name's Notar- kind of... resurfaces and takes over."

"And then what?" Pohatu asked.

Lerus shrugged. "I don't know. I never remember what happens after that."

"Most interesting," Pouks said. He then eyed the perched Nivawk. "So, what about...?"

"Oh, yeah." Lerus stroked the bird's side. "Ruri here helped me escape from my Makuta's captors. She's a lot more tame than other Nivawk."

Pohatu scratched his chin. "Say, where are these Makuta located?"

"At this fortress near this volcano," Lerus said. "They call it Fort Chaos, I think. Creative, I know."

A wide grin broke out on the Toa of Stone's face. "Fast name to say. I bet I can get us there even faster."

Lerus' eyes widened. "Wait... you're not actually thinking about-?"

"Hey, we've gotta get to the bottom of this sooner or later." Picking up Kodan and Pouks, Pohatu winked at the fused Matoran as his Kanohi Kakama started to glow. "You're free to come with us... if you can catch up."

With that, the Toa of Stone used his mask power to speed through the Motara Desert and towards Ta-Wahi, leaving clouds of sand in his wake.

Friday, January 31, 2014

Bionicle Destiny: Volume II, Chapter Five

CHAPTER FIVE

-30,000 Years Ago-

"Wow, Velika. If it weren't for your brown armor, I would have thought you were a Fe-Matoran, the way you're always working."

Velika cast an aside glance to the Bo-Matoran standing in the doorway to his workshop. With a smile, the Po-Matoran said, "Idle hands are Karzahni's workshop. Busy ones are Artakha's playground."

A bemused expression crossed the Matoran's Kanohi Zatth. "Huh?"

"Don't mind him, Lakar," said a Su-Matoran who appeared next to the Matoran of Plant Life. "He's been talking like that for years."

"Why?" asked Lakar, a recent arrival to the Northern Continent.

"Beats me. Say, Velika, when you're done with... whatever you're working on, can you help me and Chiara with the supplies that have just arrived?"

"Certainly, Sudora," Velika replied. "Just let me-"

Suddenly, he froze. His eyes moved down to the launcher he had been working on, which used a design based on the Thornax Launchers used on Spherus Magna. Something was wrong; the power coupling he had installed was misaligned. If he didn't fix it soon, it would-

The flash of light that followed was the last thing Velika would see for a while.

* * *

"I'm sorry, Turaga. I've done everything I could."

"I understand, Toa Daxius. You are dismissed."

Velika awoke in time to see a Toa of Sonics walking out of the room he was in. He then turned his attention to the Turaga of Fire standing over him, a frown creasing his Kanohi Komau.

"Turaga Kalam?" Velika murmured. "What happened?"

"It would appear that an invention of yours exploded in your face," Kalam said. "Luckily, Lakar was able to save you from getting killed. Unfortunately...."

The Turaga's speech trailed off, but he did not need to finish; Velika already knew what was wrong.

"I can't feel my arms."

Kalam sighed. "Yes, they were destroyed in the explosion. Toa Daxius was able to heal the wounds with his mask, but we don't have the means to repair them."

Velika felt a sick feeling in his stomach. "You mean...?"

"Yes," Kalam said solemnly. "I am sending you to Karzahni."

He lowered his head out of shame. Once he had been among the brightest of the Great Beings, but a single mistake had turned him into a failure.

He would make up for this. Perhaps not today, perhaps not in a thousand years, but he would correct his mistakes. Every last one of them.

No matter what it took.

-Present-

Gelu used his Ice Slicer to cut through the thick vines of Bota Magna. Following him were three Toa- Orde, Chiara, and Zaria; three Matoran- Kopeke, Balta, and Garan; and Kabrua, who was being restrained by iron cuffs made by Zaria.

"I still don't see how we can trust him." Chiara had said earlier. "If he knows how to turn off our powers, then-"

"Then why hasn't he done so?" Gelu had interjected. "Obviously he's not since Zaria can still use his powers."

"Maybe it's a trick. Maybe he's trying to lure us into a false sense of security."

"He's not," Orde had then said, having used his Psionics powers to read the Vorox's mind. "I don't know what exactly he's up to, or why, but I don't think he's planning to betray us."

"Yet," Chiara had muttered.

As the eight of them made their way through the dense jungle, the earth suddenly shook with a terrible tremor. Gelu and the Toa looked up to see giant, bio-mechanical lizards crashing through the jungle.

"What the heck are those?" Zaria exclaimed.

"The Agori call them Zaurans," Kabrua said. "They've been able to tame some of them, but there are still plenty of wild ones out here."

"Great," Chiara muttered. "Maybe we should have brought a Mask of Rahi Control."

"I doubt these are like Rahi," Orde said.

"I was being sarcastic."

"Quiet," Gelu hissed. "I don't think they've noticed us yet, so if we move slowly and quietly enough-"

"I have a better idea."

Moving faster than the others could follow, Kabrua broke free of his restraints and lunged at Gelu, pinning him to the ground and aiming his stinger tail at him. Chiara was the first to move, bringing out her Strike Spear and aiming it at the Vorox's neck.

"One move and you're fried Takea sticks," the Toa of Lightning snarled.

A sly smile crossed Kabrua's face but he complied with her orders to the letter, remaining stock still.

"I appreciate the rescue..." Gelu grunted. "But I'd rather not have a Vorox on me all day."

"It's just your luck, then, that I have no intention of sticking around," said Kabrua.

With that, the Vorox got off of the Glatorian and ran off into the depths of the jungle. As Gelu got to his feet, another roar shook the ground.

"Do you think they've noticed us?" Balta asked.

Gelu frowned. "I don't know." He then turned around and froze. "Oh yeah, they have."

The Glatorian and three Toa quickly readied their weapons as an enormous Zauran revealed its impressive set of razor-sharp teeth.

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

Bionicle Destiny: Volume II, Chapter Four

CHAPTER FOUR

"...Then a portal opened up right beneath our feet and then, wham, here I am in Po-Wahi. Somehow."

Toa Pohatu sighed as he leaned against a large rock located in the middle of the Motara Desert, which, as far as he knew, should no longer exist. With him was the Po-Matoran Kodan, whom everyone thought to be dead until he and Kopaka met him on the Red Star, and Toa Hagah Pouks, who had somehow reverted back to his Rahaga form. Pohatu himself had changed, for he was now lacking his Nuva armor and looked as he did when he was a Toa Mata.

Pouks scratched his chin after Pohatu had finished his tale. "This is indeed peculiar. I wonder if there's any rhyme or reason to these events."

Pohatu snorted. "Right. Name one event that has ever had a rhyme or reason to it. Go on, I dare you." When Pouks opened his mouth to respond, the Toa of Stone raised a hand. "Never mind. That was rhetorical."

"Maybe we should get moving," Kodan suggested. "I'm not exactly comfortable in staying in this one place. Maybe we could go to Onu-Wahi and find Mavrah."

"Or maybe we could ask that strange bird what's going on," said Pouks, pointing to the sky.

Pohatu and Kodan followed his gaze and saw a large, ebony-colored Rahi bird circling over them, cawing and flapping its silver wings. But what Pohatu found most intriguing about it was the black and green Matoran that was holding onto the Rahi's back.

"What is that thing?" the Toa Mata of Stone asked.

"A Nivawk," Pouks murmured. "The other Rahaga and I knew of one serving Makuta Teridax before the Great Cataclysm, but we weren't aware of any others existing."

"Are they friendly?"

Pouks frowned. "Far from it."

As the Toa of Stone readied himself for the possibility of an attack, the Nivawk slowly and gracefully descended. Once it had touched ground, it folded up its wings and its Matoran rider disembarked from it.

"State your names and business," he demanded.

Pohatu exchanged glances with the other two before saying, "I'm Pohatu, Toa of Stone. The Po-Matoran is Kodan, and the not-Rahkshi is Pouks. As for our business... we're still trying to figure that out."

The Matoran smirked. "Glad I'm not the only one, then. My name is Lerus, and my story is even more complex than yours."

Pohatu raised an eyebrow. "You mean you heard ours?"

The Matoran nodded. "Yeah, my hearing's almost as sensitive as a De-Matoran's. Anyway... you sure you really wanna know my story?"

"Shoot."

Lerus smiled grimly. "I used to be just your everyday Le-Matoran... until a Makuta forced me to share a body with an Onu-Matoran."

* * *

"He's escaped."

Takua awoke to the sound of the icy cold voice. Opening his bleary eyes and waiting for them to clear up, he found that he was dangling from a ceiling, with strong iron chains connecting his arms to a rack over his head. Next to him, in a similar situation but unconscious, was Hahli.

Takua then moved his attention to the nightmare standing before him.

Armored in red and silver, the being was hunched ever with a burly torso and lanky limbs somehow supporting it. Scarlet eyes glowed behind a serpentine mask and a pair of fangs jutted from its mouth. Takua instantly recognized it as the Kanohi Crast, a mask worn by the late Makuta Krika. With the large Makuta was a female being in a similar color scheme, and a cowering Steltian of the laborer class.

"Yes, Makuta Nathuz," the latter murmured, his entire body shivering. "He was right here with the others and then when I looked, he was gone."

The Makuta's eyes flared. "He escaped under your notice. You should have seen him running off."

The Steltian lowered his head out of shame. "I didn't... I'm sorry, master."

"Sorry." Nathuz took a step towards the blue and white brute and raised a clawed hand to his face. "You say you're sorry."

The Steltian gulped and nodded. "Yes, master."

"You let one of our prized experiments escape... and you say you're sorry, as if expecting reprieve. Is that right?"

The brute nodded, conscious of the fact the fact that the Makuta's hand was now touching his face.

"Do you take me for a fool?" Nathuz asked in a soft hiss. "Do you think I forgive incompetent slaves?"

The Steltian hesitated before shaking his head. He knew what fate awaited him now.

"In that case, apology accepted."

Takua quickly shut his eyes as the Makuta channeled his Plasma powers and caused the Steltian's head to melt. The laborer's initial screams quickly died off and Nathuz let his body fall to the floor.

"Get this pathetic thing out of my sight, Spyra," he hissed to the female being, who grinned wickedly and gleefully dragged the corpse away. Takua's heart immediately leaped as Nathuz then focused his blood-red eyes on him.

"Ah, yes," the Makuta hissed. "The Av-Matoran. The bane of my people. The destined Toa of Light."

"How do you know that I used to be a Toa?" Takua asked.

"My brothers and I have traveled from this world to yours. We soon came across news of a Toa of Light. As such, I have made the necessary preparations."

Takua's eyes widened. "Preparations for what?"

"You ask too many questions. You would do well to remain silent."

With a click from the Makuta's fingers, Takua suddenly found that he could not speak. Helpless to do anything, he could only watched as Nathuz approached him with a spike spear.

Monday, January 27, 2014

Bionicle Destiny: Volume II, Chapter Three

CHAPTER THREE

-100,000 Years Ago-

So this is the world my brothers have created, Velika mused as he wandered through the graceful fields of the Northern Continent, admiring the artificial bota and roaming fauna.

Not too long ago, the Matoran had finally finished the construction of their own universe and Mata Nui was now on his way to repair Spherus Magna. Velika had made it his personal task to observe how well the Great Spirit would perform this mission and how he would maintain the world inside him.

"Hey!"

Velika's attention was directed towards a female Matoran- one of Lightning, going by her blue and white armor- running towards him. After stopping to take a breath, she smiled at the faux Po-Matoran.

"Turaga Kalam was wondering where you were. It's time to go to work."

"Work?" Velika asked, genuinely surprised. "I thought we were finished working."

The Vo-Matoran shook her head. "There's still a lot more to do. Come on, the Turaga's getting impatient."

Velika mused over this as he followed the Matoran. It would seem that Angonce and the others had made the Great Spirit's internal workings more complex than he had initially believed.

"By the way, what's your name?" asked the Vo-Matoran.

Velika hesitated only believed. He supposed it would do no harm to use his real name, considering that the other Matoran would not know better.

"Velika," he said quietly.

The Vo-Matoran beamed through her Kanohi Volitak. "Mine's Chiara."

As the two of them continued towards the village, Velika could not help but smile to himself. His life here would be a most intriguing one.

-Present-

"Velika?"

The incredulous statement of the name came from three beings at once: the Onu-Matoran Garan, his friend Balta, and Toa Chiara.

Kabrua, who had delivered the news of the Great Being's identity, smirked at them. "Ring a bell for you?"

Garan exchanged a glance with Balta before saying, "He's a Po-Matoran we met on Voya Nui. Balta and I were both friends with him."

"I knew him as a Matoran on the Northern Continent," Toa Chiara said quietly. "The Turaga sent him to Karzahni shortly before I became a Toa."

"And yet all this time he was a Great Being." Balta shook his head in disbelief. "Amazing."

"I'm not sure I buy it," said Toa Helryx, who had to have the Vorox's words translated to her like Toa Lewa, Artakha, and the others who were trapped in the cursed Great Being's fortress. "What's he been doing all this time? And what's he doing now?"

"All I know is that he doesn't want to be found by the Matoran, or anyone for that matter, and tasked me and my fellow Vorox in killing the Glatorian and his Toa friends," Kabrua replied.

"So we have to hunt down a Po-Matoran," Toa Zaria said. "Can't say I've ever done that in my life. Any idea where he is?"

Kabrua shook his head. "Last I saw of him, he was here in Bota Magna."

"Then let's go find him," Toa Orde said. Turning to Helryx, he added, "I think it would be best if you, Artakha, Axonn, Brutaka, and Lewa head for New Atero, so you can catch up on recent events. The Matoran can lead you there."

"Wait," said the Le-Matoran Tamaru said. "We have to go back? Even though we just got here? Talk about unfair!"

"The jungles of Bota Magna are dangerous for small ones like you," said Sarob. "Even we Agori dare not trek beyond the boundaries of our village."

"Well, can Kopeke at least go with you?" asked Macku. "He is the Chronicler, after all. Who knows what historical repercussions this quest could have."

"And Garan and I know Velika better than anyone," Balta said. "Maybe we could reason with him."

Orde glanced at Gelu, who, after a moment's hesitation, reluctantly nodded.

"All right," the Toa of Psionics then said. "You three can come with us. But the rest of you have to return to the campsite."

Macku sighed. "Well, so much for the Chronicler's Company being back in action." She turned to Kopeke and smiled. "Good luck, Chronicler."

"Thanks," the Ko-Matoran said, returning the smile weakly. "And if I don't make it back, ask the Turaga to pick a new Chronicler."

"Let's hope it doesn't come to that."

* * *

The trio of lenses on Kopaka's mask rotated as he studied the Wall of History, located deep in the Sanctum.

In short, Eratus Nui had been created as a pocket dimension to imprison beings too dangerous for even the Pit to handle. However, at some point, two Makuta- Necrosis and Sorefus- had found a way to travel between dimensions, abducting Matoran left and right.

That was where the Tribe originated; several beings had been able to escape from the Makuta with the help of a titan known only as Adran. Once the tribe had been established, Adran vanished into the mountains of Ko-Wahi, never to be seen again.

Two Toa, named Daxius and Xadira, had then used their Toa power to create four new warriors- Deraln, Kyron, Nalrik, and Fortaan- and together with veterans Luna and Laselv, they formed the Toa Eratus, protecting the Tribe and newcomers from being abducted by the Makuta.

As he finished reading, Kopaka stood up and looked at the Vo-Matoran who served as Eratus Nui's Chronicler. "I see that you've been through some rough times," he said.

"Glad you noticed," the Ruru-wearer said, a hint of bitterness in her tone. "So, you plan on staying here for long?"

Kopaka gave her an icy glare. "I don't suppose I have much choice. Though, if you are strictly referring to here in Ko-Eratus, then I'm afraid not. I have a few friends to find."

"Well, I certainly hope you're not planning on going alone."

Kopaka looked up to see Toa Luna standing in the doorway, her fellow Toa Eratus Laselv accompanying her. Crossing her arms, the Toa of Lightning frowned.

"The Makuta's minions are numerous. Rahi predators patrol the skies, Toa of Shadows stalk the ground... do you honestly think you would make it out there alone?"

"You have an entire village to protect here," Kopaka said. "Why would you sacrifice yourselves out of concern for me?"

"We're not suggesting that we accompany you," said Toa Laselv. "Rather, we're imploring you to stay here."

"I'm afraid I cannot," Kopaka said. "There's a fellow Toa out there and two Matoran. I have to-"

"Odds are, the Makuta have already gotten to them," Luna said. "They'll get to you if you go out there."

"So be it, then."

And with that, the Toa Mata of Ice turned on his heels and strode out of the Sanctum.