CHAPTER 4

The Journeys

After being dragged into the chamber by his escorts and pushed onto his knees, Korii examined his surroundings. The council chamber he was in had been carved from solid granite, adorned with brass struts and lit by simple torches. Much like most of the rebuilt city of Vulcanus, the architecture was a seamless blend of Agori, Glatorian and Matoran designs, with carvings of the Kanohi Hau, Huna and Arthron etched into the far walls above four plain thrones. As he pondered what was to happen to him, Korii was unaware of the hunched figure approaching him.

"I have questions for you."

Korii looked toward the Turaga before him. Diminutive as he may be, he radiated an air of authority; not one earned by his station, but through his actions. His body was riddled with faded scars, ones that even his transformation into a Turaga could properly erase, yet he walked unimpeded - he carried his firestaff at his side, rather than as a cane. His Noble Hau made his every expression appear dour, as if everything around him was naught but an inconvenience. Recognising who this was, and knowing their history, Korii's anxiety began to build. This was Tahu, the Great Spirit's Champion. As the tension increased, the Turaga spoke;

"Why are you here, Toa."

"Because your Glatorian friends here were very insistent upon it, wise one? You could have just asked or sent a letter." Korii muttered, attempting to ease the tension with sarcasm, the only way he knows how. Tahu's eyes narrowed in response, his patience already wearing thin.

"You know full well what I mean, Toa."

"I really don't, honored Turaga."

Tahu's glare fixed upon Korii's eyes, his own pink lenses almost piercing his very soul.

"Toa were created in times of great need. We were forged by destiny in preparation to protect the Matoran from a specific threat. I and the Toa Nuva were created to reawaken the Great Spirit, Turaga Vakama and his kin were chosen to save the population of Metru Nui from the Makuta, and Turaga Jaller and the other Mahri were chosen by the Great Spirit himself to retrieve the Ignika and save him, lest our world perish. We were made to avert cataclysms, to end wars, to save countless lives. Most of us did our duties until our dying breaths, and those left sacrificed their power to keep this world safe. The Toa have been extinct for milennia, and none have appeared since. No Toa, no catastrophes, just an age of prosperity. Now you are here, Korii. You and that barbarian in the dungeon. You have both appeared without warning, and instead of taking up the mantles we once bore you both chose to turn to fighting in those damned arenas, squandering your gifts and throwing our legacies into the dirt. You are here for a reason, Korii, so I ask again: Why are you here, 'Toa'?"

Korii felt an icy pit in his stomach. He didn't have the answers Tahu sought, and was desperately trying to think of a way of explaining this without incurring the short-tempered Turaga's wrath. Best he could do was explain the last few days to him;

"I wish I knew, wise one. Three days ago I was just another Matoran, working under Nuhrii in the New Atero Guard. We were pursuing a Glatorian who'd robbed several market stalls and I crossed paths with somebody - they were wearing a cloak but from their stature I assumed they were a Turaga like yourself - he gave me some cryptic riddle about duties and destinies, then vanished faster than a Turaga should be capable of. I dismissed it and went back to arresting the thief. When I made it back to Vulcanus, I found a package waiting for me. A blue stone wrapped in rough fabric. When I touched it, I passed out and just.. woke up like this. In a bizarre twist I was mistaken for a Glatorian and accused of robbing my own home, and had to flee. I enlisted in the Arena to keep a low profile. All I can tell you is that I've been hearing a voice, guiding me to various places. I heard her when I awoke as a Toa, and again at the arena - whoever she is, she pointed me to the dungeons, to 'seek out my brother', and that's how I ended up in the cells with that Toa you have restrained down there." Korii sighed.

Tahu seemed to calm noticeably, almost seeming curious.

"Voices? Had you not ended up in a room with the only other known Toa on this planet, I'd assume you were mad." Tahu muttered. "Turaga Vakama was prone to visions when he became a Toa, but nothing as specific as this."

The Turaga looked to Korii once more.

"His visions concerned the Matoran's impending danger. I can only assume whoever is calling to you is doing the same somehow. The prisoner mentioned something similar, but I again dismissed it as ramblings of a lunatic - like you, he was found in the arena. He, however, did not win honourably. I'll spare you the details."

Korii looked at Tahu, perplexed. "I should speak with him. Maybe he knows more about this voice. If I can find out what or who it is, I might discover why I'm here."

Tahu narrowed his eyes again.

"My thoughts exactly. He's too dangerous to be freed and left to his own devices, but I'll be willing to release him into your custody should he provide anything more useful than colourful Agori language. You two likely share a destiny, but I'd rather not potentially allow the story of Nidhiki or Tuyet to repeat itself. Learn what you can, he may know of other Toa. If there are more, find them and bring them here; I'll release him to you on that condition. He could be a great asset in whatever's to come, or could be your downfall."

Korii bowed his head.

"Thank you, honoured Turaga."

The guards removed Korii's restraints and accompanied him and Tahu down to the dungeon where the second Toa awaited, still bound to the wall with stone restraints. The prisoner looked up, glaring at the guards until his gaze reached Korii. The Toa smiled.

"Good, I was getting lonely down here. Welcome back to my humble abode, brother."

"I have some questions... brother." Korii muttered, still confused by the chaotic night he was having. The prisoner frowned.

"Lose the muscle and hermit, and we'll talk. These are Toa secrets."

Tahu muttered under his breath and ordered the guard to wait outside. As he turned to leave, he spoke to Korii;

"Either of you step out of line and I'll have you up to your necks in concrete."

After Tahu's departure, the prisoner's expression softened again.

"So what do you want to know?"

"You hear this voice too, what is it? And, y'know... who are you?" Korii asked, trying to maintain a stoic facade.

"I'm Ferrun. Toa of Iron. And she's on our side, relax. She's been giving us instructions as part of the plan."

"Plan? What plan? Did that plan involve you getting locked up for Mata Nui knows what?" Korii shouted. "Did it involve trapping me down here too?"

"She sent me to the Arena, thinking some fighting experience would benefit me. I'd been fighting all my life but she knew what she was talking about so who was I to argue?" Ferrun sighed.

"While I was fighting, I ended up discovering my mask's power. I had it custom made while in New Atero not long after the city was built, and didn't know what it did... turns out it's a Pakari. I shattered my opponent's arm in a single punch. Stubborn idiot didn't want to call it quits, and that's when my elemental powers manifested... I didn't know how to control it, let alone its power. The poor guy was crushed by his own armor, it was like stepping on a tin of soup." Korii shuddered at Ferrun's description.

"Little did I realise there was a Turaga of Ice in attendance that day. He realised what I was and was outraged that a Toa would do such a thing, not realising that it was an accident and I had never used these powers before. He had me arrested immediately and I've been down here ever since; they took my mask and kept me in a metal-free room to prevent my escape. Once again, my element has proven to be a curse." Ferrun muttered bitterly.

Korii felt sympathy for his brother. A crime is a crime, he did kill his opponent after all, but it was an accident. Knowing his history, Korii also knew that Ferrun's life as a Fe-Matoran couldn't have been the easiest experience, and likely spent his entire life on the run.

"I'm sorry that happened, Ferrun. Tahu's been explaining the circumstances that create Toa to me, and thinks this voice we hear may be connected. There may even be more Toa she can lead us to. I need to know everything you've learned about it. There's a chance it could clear your name. Something's coming; I haven't the faintest clue as to what, but it's clearly connected to this voice and the Turaga that gave me my Toa Stone."

Ferrun looked up immediately.

"He came to you too?!"

"Who?"

"The Turaga! I came to Vulcanus a week ago and he approached me at the gates, handing me my stone and claiming it was 'hand-crafted by artisans from Sanctuary'. I dismissed the old fool, Sanctuary may as well be another world with how isolated it is, but I decided to examine the thing and all of a sudden... Toa. Then she called to me, and here I am. I don't know her name, only that she speaks to all Toa and claims to be the Great Spirit's only remaining servant."

Korii's eyes widened.

"Have you met her?" He asked, desperate for answers. Ferrun just smirked.

"Met her? I can take you to her, if you can free me. There are others waiting for us."

Korii stepped out of the cell without a word and looked to Tahu.

"He knows about other Toa. I need to take him with me, it's the only way he'll show me where they are." Tahu frowned at this request.

"Freeing him with only one handler is risky, and Glatorian can't effectively keep him compliant. Are you sure he won't pose a threat?"

Korii nodded silently.

"Then he's your responsibility. Whatever he does once he's released will be on you. You are a Toa, Korii, I'm trusting you to keep him in check... and to deal with him should he betray you."

Tahu gestured to a nearby guard, who left to retrieve Ferrun's belongings, before turning back to Korii.

"Find this elusive messenger of yours and learn all you can, then travel to New Atero. I'm sending a message to the other Turaga, it's high time they learned that the Toa have returned. We'll train you, Ferrun and any others you may meet; between us all, you'll become masters of your elements."

Korii nodded as Tahu turned to leave.

"Thank you, wise one. I'll try to be quick."

The guard then returned, handing Ferrun's equipment to Korii before returning to his post. Korii examined Ferrun's mask curiously as he entered his cell with another guard. Resting the spear and shield against a nearby wall as the Glatorian freed Ferrun from his bonds, Korii continued looking his mask over. Most Kanohi Pakari were smooth with rounded features; this one looked nothing like that. Its features were rough and angular, much more militaristic in tone than your average mask. Smooth plates swept inwards from both sides of the mask, with the central faceplate merging to create deep, imposing looking eyeholes, with a fin of coppered Protodermis jutting from the forehead and trailing off toward the back.

"Doesn't look like any Pakari I've ever seen."

Ferrun looked over to him as he stood up and walked over to his weapons.

"They're not the most common design, I'll admit. With all the mingling us and the Agori did after we ended up here, a few of the natives started learning the art of mask-making. Apparently it's styled after an old Glatorian helmet design used by the Iron Tribe. Guess I wanted to stand out for once, since there were no more Makuta hunting my kind." Ferrun shrugged, studying Korii's own battered mask as he spoke. "Makes me look tougher as a bonus. You look like you could use a new mask yourself, that Kakama looks like it's been all the way through a Tahtorak twice. What's the story?"

"A mad tyrant, Skakdi pirates, several mad Rahi and a Glatorian big enough to throw me across the continent, among many other things. All you need to know." Korii said before handing the mask back to Ferrun and leaving the cell with him.

The two Toa left the council building and walked into the empty street, the usual nighttime silence now replaced by heavy rainfall. As Korii began to walk into the road, Ferrun stopped him and stood silently, closing his eyes. Before Korii could ask him what was wrong, he felt it.

You have done well, Korii. You and your brother are instrumental in the Great Spirit's plan. The Turaga, however, are irrelevant. Ferrun has his own task, but you must part ways for the time being. I sense another of your brethren far to the north. You must head to the Bota Magna forests, to Tesara. Find him, and all shall soon be revealed.

Both Toa snapped back into reality, having both receive messages simultaneously. While Korii made sense of his own cryptic instructions, Ferrun placed a hand on his shoulder.

"Looks like I'm headed to New Atero, brother. There's a relic I need to retrieve. If we weren't headed in opposite directions I'd stick around, but it's rude to keep our friend waiting."

Korii frowned. "Turaga Tahu stressed that I'm to keep both eyes on you at all times. You've heared the stories of what he was like back then, and you've seen how grouchy he is now. Do you really want to actually tick him off?" Ferrun simply smirked.

"Relax, Korii. I'm sure when we've saved the world and brought Mata Nui's plans to fruition, he'll be just fine with it. Besides, I'm not going off the grid. When our tasks are completed we'll be headed to the same place. I give you my word that you'll see me again, and my word is my bond."

Korii nodded hesitantly, and the two bumped fists before turning to part ways. As Ferrun began to walk away, he called to Korii once more.

"The Dunes of Treason, a few miles east of Sandray Canyon. Head in that direction when you've found your target, she'll point you the rest of the way. I'll be waiting with the others, then we can travel back to New Atero from there."

Korii waved back in response.

"I'll keep that in mind, brother. Safe travels."

Chapter 4: Text

Dekana and Kitamo once again found themselves before the Water Tribe's capitol deep in the heart of Tajun, the grand metal gates gleaming like mirrors in contrast to the blues and golds making up the rest of the structure. Above the entryway stood a carving of an old Glatorian hero, sculpted in such a way that it broke the incoming waterfall above and chanelled it away from the gate, giving the illusion that the water itself opened up and allowed visitors in. Past its walls awaited the council chambers, with its pristine marble sculptures and thrones hewn entirely from basalt and protodermis. Having already sent a message ahead of time the various members of the Water Tribe council were already awaiting the pair's arrival.

"Welcome back, Kitamo. Your message seemed urgent, what could have happened so soon after your departure that required our attention?" Turaga Nokama asked, her tone somewhere between concern and curiosity.

"I encountered something strange while escorting our... guest to his airship, wise one." Kitamo reported, kneeling before her elders.

"Unusual fellow, clearly not an Agori but too short to be a Matoran. If I didn't know better, I'd have thought he was a Turaga." Dekana added.

"He gave us these, said they were trinkets from the Sanctuary."

Dekana handed his package over to Turaga Hahli, while Kitamo gave hers to Gali.

"Most curious, the Sanctuary isn't one for sending out travelling merchants... You say this figure resembled a Turaga, Dekana?" Gali asked.

"Yes, honored Turaga. I could only guess though, he was wearing a cloak. His hands were red, but he didn't sound like any of the Fire Tribe leaders. Seemed a little too disheveled to have been one, anyhow. Chances are it was an aging Fire Agori with a limp." Dekana responded, his own curiosity being piqued.

"Not all Turaga chose to become leaders, artisan. We were effectively transformed forcibly during the battle with Marendar, and some Toa took the loss of their power to heart. Some of us, such as the former Toa Nuva and my own team took up the mantle of leadership after the dust had settled but most scattered to the winds like grains of sand in a hurricane. Life as a Toa was one of adventure, and we spent our lives travelling from place to place. Some grew so attached to this lifestyle that they refused to let it go, even as Turaga. Lesovikk, for example, began travelling with the Chronicler as an advisor. Chances are you encountered one such soul, a Turaga in denial. One who still sees his duty as unfulfilled." Hahli mused, inspecting the package Dekana had given her. Nokama looked at the package herself briefly, her eyes widening with realisation.

"Mata Nui! It can't be..."

The room shifted their attention to Nokama. Gali hadn't seen her former mentor this surprised in millenia, not since two Ta-Matoran announced that they had found the fabled Kanohi Ahvokii.

"What is it, sister?" She asked.

"I have seen these objects before, long ago in Metru Nui. I was given one by Toa Lhikan, as were Vakama and the others..."

Nokama paused, carefully taking the parcel from Gali and unwrapping it to reveal a rough crystal, glowing a faint pink... the exact same colour as Kitamo's eyes and heartlight.

"These are Toa Stones."

"Toa Stones? How is that possible, wise one? There aren't any Toa left to make them." Dekana asked, having officially lost his grasp of what was going on.

"I cannot say. Gali and Hahli wouldn't recognise these, they were made Toa by other means. All the stones that have been found so far have been inert, but this one seems to have been activated at some point. Likely during the Marendar conflicts, as a failsafe that never came to be. Possibly by the same Toa that became the traveller you encountered."

Hahli handed Dekana's package to Nokama, who opened it to reveal a second stone. This one glowed pale blue, indicating it was indeed for Dekana.

"Are you saying what I think you're saying, sister? Have these two Matoran been chosen?" Hahli asked.

"Chosen for what, wise ones?" Dekana asked, his eyes fixed on the pair of crystals.

"It seems that the Toa are to return, and you two have been chosen. The first of a new generation, who will carry on the legacy of those before you. Take your stones and follow us, we will take you to Tajun's Suva. They were once used as a nexus of sorts for all Toa, but they use these stones to facilitate a Matoran's transformation if they are destined to do so."

"With respect, honoured Turaga, but my place is here at your side. My duty is with the Tajun militia, not gallivanting around Spherus Magna with a group of strangers playing hero." Kitamo bluntly added.

"Tread lightly, captain. A lot of good people laid down their lives 'playing hero'. My own brother was one of them; he gave his life to save us all. You prioritize your peoples' safety, and I respect that, but don't you ever talk about Toa like that. Matoro was our salvation, as was Takanuva, Helryx, Lhikan and every other Toa that gave their lives for our safety, on this world and the one before." Hahli snapped in response. Gali placed a hand on her shoulder.

"Hahli's team went through a lot, Kitamo. As much as the Agori saw us as bad omens, our arrival on this world awakening the Marendar and causing all that destruction, the Toa are heroes. Chosen by the Great Spirit himself to guard the universe from any threat, regardless the scale. The responsibility is daunting, but it presents an opportunity; you can take every ounce of that drive you have to keep Tajun safe and use it to protect the entire world, not just a single city. Whatever has prompted the creation of new Toa after all this time, I'm sure you were selected for that very reason. This is your destiny." Gali reassured her, as Kitamo took a knee.

"Forgive my disrespect, Turaga Hahli. You remember how I first met you both... I have naught but respect for you and all Toa by extension. On my honour, I shall shoulder this responsibility"

Dekana kneeled next to her in response.

"I'm no warrior, just a simple blacksmith. My only interaction with a Toa was during the fighting with Marendar, the shape he was in is clear as day in my mind. As much as I question why Mata Nui chose me, I too accept my destiny."

Nokama smiled, holding both stones out for the two Matoran to take.

"Then you are both ready. Take your stones and we shall head for the Suva."

As the pair reached out and touched the stones, they were engulfed in a flash of blinding light. Even the Turaga, veterans of a thousand battles between them, recoiled and averted their gaze before the light burned out their vision. Both Matoran's forms grew and changed, Kitamo's armor fusing to her body and Dekana's tools merged to form his weapon. When the light faded, the Turaga turned back to face the Matoran to find that the transformation had already taken place, without the use of a Suva.

Dekana stood up, disoriented from the experience, while Kitamo continued to kneel as she gathered her bearings.

"How is this possible? Toa Stones need a Suva to trigger the process..." Nokama gasped.

"Wait... What process? I'm not even sure what planet I'm on right now..." Dekana mumbled, reaching down to retrieve his smithing hammer and realising it was now six feet long. As he inspected the enlarged tool the realisation began to hit him.

"Funny, I don't remember bringing a warhammer with me.."

Kitamo finally looked up at Dekana, only to roll her eyes.

"The transformation happened already, genius. We're Toa now. Your tools must have changed into a Toa Tool along with you."

Trying to stand up, Kitamo retrieved her spear and used it to prop herself up. When she was stood up straight, she noted that her guard-issue polearm had changed into an ornate trident vaguely similar to Turaga Nokama's badge of office. As disoriented as she was, Kitamo was too proud to portray her own confusion.

"Well that's one way of getting better equipment, I suppose. I'd likely need a sack of widgets the size of a hibernating ash bear to get a weapon like this."

As the two new Toa gained their composure, the three Turaga took their own turn to kneel. Having never seen the leaders of her tribe do this, Kitamo finally let her confusion show.

"Bowing's our job, wise ones."

"You are Toa now, both of you. Protectors of this world and all those upon it. It is customary for Turaga to bow in your presence, as I once did for Gali so long ago." Nokama responded humbly.

"One thing still eludes me, honored Turaga... What were we chosen for? The Makuta and Marendar are gone, Spherus Magna is in a golden age of peace and prosperity, nothing more serious than the occasional angry mob of Skrall or Skakdi has happened in millenia!" Dekana exclaimed.

"We cannot say. Only the Great Spirit and his messengers have those answers. If you can track down the one that gave you these stones, you may learn your purpose." Hahli responded.

"I remember now... he was headed for the airship back to Sandray Canyon. It'll already have left by now, so we'll have to take the scenic route." Dekana added confidently. "Up for an adventure, sister?"

Before Dekana could playfully jab Kitamo's arm with his elbow, she grabbed it and quickly threw him to the ground, pressing her knee into the center of his back and lowering down to talk into his ear.

"I'm not thrilled to be stuck with you as it is, and your humour isn't going to do you any favours, brother. Next time you lay a hand on me, It'll get removed and reattached somewhere inconvenient."

"Okay, okay! Message received! I just got this body and I'd rather not have to try and repair myself in the first ten minutes, now get off!" Dekana pleaded, as Kitamo stood back up with a smirk.

"We'll head down to the militia's headquarters, I can procure a pair of Axalara for the journey."

"We don't need them, Kitamo." Dekana groaned, picking himself up from the ground.

"It'll take a day and a half to walk that far, you fool." Kitamo muttered.

"I never said we had to walk." Dekana replied smugly, tapping his mask.

"See these things? They have powers."

"We don't know what powers they hold yet, Dekana." Kitamo responded.

"I learned to smith at the Valley of the Maze. Turaga Nuparu had us learn everything from metallurgy to mask-making. I know just from looking that my mask is a Kadin, which gives its user the ability to fly. Yours is a Nakiri, the 'Mask of Adaptation'. We both have the means to get through that desert in a matter of hours. Also, if you're forgetting, I now have power over stone, and the desert is a Po-Matoran's preferred environment. Sand is no obstacle when you have the means to control it."

"Did I miss our training? We've had elemental powers for all of ten minutes, what makes you think you can bend deserts to your will? That'd be like me trying to conjure up a tsunami." Kitamo rebuffed, rolling her eyes.

"My point is that we can make the journey without vehicles. Sure, Kiina and Tarix aren't around to show us the elemental ropes as it were, but it's better than nothing. We aren't Matoran anymore, Kitamo. All we need is our own intuition."

Kitamo sighed. "I suppose you have a point."

The pair bowed once more before the Turaga, and turned to take their leave. Gali called to them as they walked to the exit.

"Once you've found this wandering Turaga, learn what you can and return here. We may no longer be Toa, but we can teach you all we can. As can the Stone Tribe Turaga, seek them out while you're in Sandray. And while you're there... Be sure to give my brother our regards."

"Of course, wise one." Dekana smiled, before leaving with Kitamo. The pair left the council chamber and emerged back onto the streets of Tajun, before freezing.

Welcome to the fray, brother and sister. There are others like you, others that will welcome you with open arms. The Turaga may once have cast the footsteps you are now following in, but they have lost their way. Your quest to find the wanderer is priority, but they must not interfere. You answer to none but the Great Spirit now. When you've found the answers you seek, Mata Nui will guide the way. We look forward to meeting you.

Dekana shook his head.

"...Did you hear that, Kitamo?"

"We're both clearly disoriented, Dekana. I could barely stand and your memories were jumbled, the voice we're hearing is probably just another symptom. Just ignore it, we have work to do."

Dekana nodded as the pair continued on their way.

Chapter 4: Text

All is going as planned. The crafter seemed to be content with his current life and his Ga-Matoran handler seemed particularly attached to her home, but they are parts of a greater whole. They will compliment the others greatly. This of course has its downsides - her desire to keep Tajun safe may have spurred her to pursue me, and I will have to take greater care to prevent this... for now, at least. Nonetheless, they suspect that I'll be staying in the Sandray Canyon, and that buys me time. If all goes to plan, I can soon put an end to keeping the Toa in the dark about their purpose. They must stand united if they are to meet what is to come. While they're searching for me, I'll already be on the way to Iconox. My instincts tell me the final chosen Matoran will arrive there in due time...

Chapter 4: Text

Kopeke rested against the balcony railing and looked down at the goings-on below. He hadn't really taken well to all the travelling his station came with, but certain views made it slightly more bearable. Bota Metru was always one of his favourite places to visit, its skyline seeming to be a perfect blend of Jungle Agori villages, the vast domes and chutes of Le-Metru, and the treetop canopies of Le-Wahi of old. Even the tree-centre he was in exemplified this, with ringed canopies layered about its mighty trunk. A chute hub encompassed the trunk's base, topped by several layers of deceptively high-tech housing and merchant stalls, before reaching the geodesic dome built into the treetops, it's countless branches becoming part of the structure itself rather than being removed.
He was here to meet with the Air Tribe Turaga, which was always a mixed experience. Wise as they may be, the Le-Turaga were eccentric to say the least. Their sage advice often peppered with bizarre metaphors or ramblings about friendly Rahi or their favourite food stalls, all jovial parts of an otherwise confusing whole. More often than not, Kopeke would leave their great wooden chamber unsure if he'd even aquired the information he came for. Regardless, the Chronicler's duty was to listen, difficult as that may be, and any private audience with the Turaga was an honor. As he looked down at the satched laid at his feet, Kopeke knew that this wouldn't be the most pleasant of meetings.
He continued to look down from the balcony, watching the barely-visible forms of his companions squabbling down on the ground below. Seeing them from this height was a challenge, but the various reds, purples and yellows stood out in the sea of greens and browns. He watched as Onepu presumably bragged to locals about the grand way he'd saved his Chronicler from maddened Nui-Rama back in the jungles, as Taipu wandered aimlessly trying to find a place for the Rahi to rest, as Tamaru tried to distract himself from the towering structures all around him and as Kapura seeminly blinked from one side of the market to another, startling those he spoke to.
Kopeke smiled and chuckled to himself. They weren't his ideal travelling companions, but they proved entertaining, not that he could ever say this. He thought to himself as he often did, about how even if he could just sit and join in their merriments when camping for the night, his station took priority. Making friends could wait, as it always did. Looking back, Kopeke was sure that the last being he'd been able to properly talk to that wasn't a Turaga was his old Kohlii partner back on Mata Nui, who was spirited away to become a Toa... and never returned. His musings were interrupted by Lesovikk, who had made his way over to the balcony.
"They're ready for you, Chronicler."
"Thank you, wise one. Will you be joining me? I'm sure your brothers have much to discuss with you." Kopeke muttered.
"Another time. There's only so much 'wind-flying, quick-thinking and ever-happy tidings' I can handle in one sitting. One day, I will find out why most Le-Matoran started talking in that incomprehensible slang, and interrogate whoever's responsible. It's just gibberish. I'll be waiting with the others for your return." Lesovikk grumbled, as Kopeke quietly chuckled to himself.
"Fair enough, these Turaga are an... experience. I'll try to make this brief, but if one of my honored hosts finally got hold of that Noble Kadin they've wanted for so long I'll likely be here all night." Kopeke smiled as the two parted ways.
As he walked through the great hall toward the council chamber, Kopeke once more took in his surroundings. Most cities on Spherus Magna had taken design cues from both Matoran and Agori architecture but Bota Metru seemed much more bizarre. Green-hued alloys lined the walls, decorated with woven bamboo and vines in some places and gold in others. Despite how high up in the tree this building was, the flooring seemed to be carved from stone blocks cut from the nearby mountains. Strange to look at for an outsider, but an impressive use of levitation disks nonetheless. The Air Tribe were an odd people on the best of days, but they're deceptively talented architects. As he approached the wooden door leading to the council chamber, a freakishly tall Glatorian stepped into his path. Kopeke looked this behemoth up and down, gulping nervously.
She stood at least nine feet tall, clad from head to toe in ornate green and gold armor, with detailing forged to resemble branches and vines. Her helmet was angular and finely detailed, likely made in the image of some native beast Kopeke had never seen before, with her piercing yellow eyes shining through its narrow slits. As she crouched down to lock eyes with him, Kopeke could feel her grinning at him.
"Welcome back, little one!" She exclaimed warmly.
"M-Mikraan, always a pleasure..." Kopeke muttered. "I'm here for an audience with the Turaga, as always. I'll take it you're here to greet me on their behalf?"
"As always, little guy! The boss knows how fond I am of walking tall amongst the smaller folk. I've carried weapons bigger than you!" Mikraan beamed, as Kopeke shuffled back nervously. He knew she was friendly enough, perhaps even too friendly for a Glatorian of her size, but the fear that she would one day follow through and use him as a blunt weapon in her next arena match would never leave him. Before Kopeke could respond, Mikraan had taken the liberty of lifting him by his arms and carrying him into the main chamber, where the Turaga was awaiting.
Before the two was a circle of ornate wooden desks, all seemingly carved from the same tree. Each was carved to accentuate the wood's natural patterns, the various ripples and knots resembling vast oceans or cloudy skies from a distance. These were intended for three Turaga and the Prime Glatorian, but only a single member of this entourage was available... naturally, the one Kopeke was hoping he'd be able to avoid. His hunched form could be seen at the far end of the council chamber, sat in his plain wooden throne, its only livery being his former Nuva Symbol carved above the headrest. As he frantically wrote on various pieces of paper, Kopeke was certain his host was just pretending to look busy. As Mikraan carried him closer, the Turaga looked up from his 'work' and smiled, before leaping up onto the table.
"Chronicler! What an ever-great surprise!"
"Turaga Lewa." Kopeke sighed, still being cradled by Mikraan like an infant.
"Put the poor Matoran down, my tower-tall friend. He's the Chronicler, not a hurt-wounded Rahi cub!" Lewa chuckled as Mikraan lowered Kopeke to the ground before leaving the two to discuss their business.
"The Great Spirit wide-smiles upon that one, Chronicler. Mighty as the tallest trees but as gentle as a mother ash bear tending to it's young. Had she pursued arena-fighting any longer, I have a deep-down fear the other tree-tall Glatorian would have gone the way of the Toa-heroes long ago." Lewa sighed with a smile.
"Thank you for... releasing me from her clutches, wise one. Mentioning Toa, that is partly why I'm here. We came here from the ruins of Atero, one of the Onu-Matoran archivists found something in the rubble and asked us to bring it here. I was hoping to meet with Turaga Matau, since it may reopen the old wounds for you and Kongu." Kopeke muttered, hesitant to show Lewa the discovery.
"Some fancy Agori shine-stones I hope? I embrace my colours with all the pride a Turaga of Air could, but breaking all the green up a little wouldn't hurt!" Lewa laughed nervously. "It's why I green-envied those cave-loving Onu-Matoran. All those oranges and purples, no two looked alike! Or those Av-Matoran... I remember little Tanma showing off his fancy powers after we got them all back to Metru Nui. In fact, that reminds me of the time I was..."
Lewa's sentence trailed off as Kopeke produced a battered Kanohi Hau from the satchel and presented it to him. Battle scars and centuries of weathering had left their mark, but the mask's original teal could still be seen amidst all the scratches and rust. Lewa jumped down from his desk and simply stared out of it, the colour practically draining from his eyes as he stood silently for several minutes.
"The archivists realised this belonged to a Toa of Air who fought in the battle, they asked me to bring it home. They aren't sure who wore it, but-"
Lewa took the mask carefully from Kopeke, and looked deeply into it's eyes. His usual cheery visage washed away by a mixture of sorrow, regret and anger the likes of which Kopeke had never seen him show in the ten thousand years he'd known him.
"Talmek." Lewa muttered quietly. "His name was Talmek."
Kopeke stood silent. The Chronicler's duty was to record history as it happened, Kopeke even witnessed some of those battles firsthand, but he had never heard of this fallen Toa. Though all likelihood dictated that this Talmek was made a Toa in the conflict's final days, Kopeke still felt a wave of shame wash over him as the veteran of the disaster silently mourned his brother. Moments passed, and Lewa snapped back to his usual self, gently placing the mask on his desk.
"Thank you, Chronicler. I'll quick-fly this over to New Atero myself. He deserves to be ever-remembered alongside the others. They all do." Lewa smiled, deftly masking his obvious grief with gratitude. "I so-hate to cut this meeting short like so many Tesara treetops, but I think I quite-need to be alone with my thoughts for now. Seeing that mask has opened up some old bad-wounds."
"As you wish, Turaga. Either way, Turaga Kopaka asked us to travel to Iconox when we were done here. Apparently Turaga Nuju calls for us, and I have my assumptions as to why. It's going to be a long trip, so I'd best make sure we have enough pack Rahi and supplies for the journey." Kopeke muttered, being incredibly uncomfortable with the tense atmosphere he unwittingly created. Lewa's attention turned back to the Chronicler as he finished his sentence.
"You don't mean to tell me you plan on making your way to Iconox on foot, Chronicler?"
Kopeke nodded, prompting Lewa to chuckle.
"Walk? Have you learned nothing at all from me after all this long-time, my Ko-Matoran friend? You have the good-grace of a life of adventure, even without the Great Spirit to watch over you!"
Kopeke groaned quietly, he knew where Lewa was going with this trail of thought.
"And what's an adventure if you don't fly?"
"Excellent point... wise one. However, Gukko birds don't fare well in the colder regions. I'm sure all the supplies wouldn't help either-"
"Hah! Those noble wind-fliers are all ours, Chronicler! One of our airships is docked in Tesara, I'll send word for them to wait for you. They'll carry you and your journey-friends to Iconox. I'm sure old Lesovikk will ever-love the rest... I'm convinced the day that one cracks a smile the world will end, and I could use a long-rest!"
"That's actually quite helpful, honoured Turaga. Thank you for your hospitality, I'll leave you be for now. Until we meet again." Kopeke said with a bow before taking his leave, still glancing over his shoulders on the chance that Mikraan was planning an ambush.
"Safe travels, Chronicler! I await your quick-return!" Lewa called out, as Kopeke rolled his eyes. Mikraan entered as Kopeke closed the doors, and approached the Turaga before kneeling.
"You seem down, boss. Want me to take you for a climb through the canopies?"
"Nothing would bring me more joy, gentle giant. Now stand up, it doesn't suit a mighty tree-sized warrior like yourself to stoop down to my level." Lewa smiled faintly, looking back to the mask on his desk. "But it will have to wait. Have a messenger Gukko sent to Tesara, I've loaned my airship to the Chronicler at my brother's request. It's that time of year, I think Nuju's feeling blue."
"As you wish. Just be ready for when I get back, I feel like having that rematch against Graalok while we're out." Mikraan grinned, before running out of the chamber to carry out her duty.
Finding himself alone in the chamber, Lewa smiled faintly. "So full of energy, that one. Reminds me of a certain ever-handsome Toa of Air there once was..."
As he chuckled to himself, Lewa moved back to the desk, pulling himself up to sit upon it again. Resting his staff next to him, he picked up Talmek's mask and examined it once again, recalling to himself where each of the familiar scars and pock-marks came from. The smile gradually faded from his face, and he closed his eyes with a weary sigh.
"I'm sorry, old friend."

Chapter 4: Text

The pieces are falling into place. Korii is en route to Tesara to seek out another of our brethren, and now that Ferrun has been freed should return shortly with the mask. The others will be ready for their own duties, once they grow accustomed to their new lives. Eventually I'll be able to convince the malcontent to fall in line, along with the shadow. Soon, the Great Spirit's will shall be enforced, and all will be as it should.

While we may now deny this, our world was built to operate a particular way and the evacuation shouldn't change this. All beings are gears in a well-oiled machine, and when the Toa disappeared a vital component was taken from it along with them. Now the Toa have returned, and it is their destiny to restore order to this world.

Chapter 4: Text

Night had fallen upon the streets of New Atero. The glittering towers above shone white in the moonlight while the streets below grew silent. With fewer witnesses around, it was time for Ferrun to fulfill his mission. In the eyes of the uninformed, what he had to do would seem wrong. Unlike Ferrun, they weren't privy to the bigger picture, and his actions were in service of the greater good. Travelling under cover of darkness through back alleys and covering his tracks by bribing guards, he had arrived at the Hall of History.
Within its walls were relics from significant events in the Matoran Universe's history, and he was here to retrieve one specific artifact. Awaiting him in an alleyway near the building was a rough leather satchel, containing something Ferrin would need. He opened the back to find a Kanohi Mahiki, along with a note;
Figured you'd want to blend in. I want this back when you're done. V.
Ferrun rolled his eyes as he discarded the note and satchel, before donning the mask. Tapping into the Mahiki's power, Ferrun took the form of a Glatorian guard. Looking down at his disguise, Ferrun rolled his eyes. While he was familiar enough with mask powers to use them, the Mahiki took some precision. He'd taken the shape of a Glatorian but kept his colours, making the illusion just that little less effective.
"Leave me a manual next time, brother..." Ferrun muttered to himself as he approached the hall's entrance. Almost immediately, he was stopped by a pair of Agori standing guard.
"Museum's closed. You'll have to come back tomorrow." One spoke.
"You sure I can't just quickly sneak in? They've got Turaga Jovan's staff on display, I came all the way from the southern wastes to see it." Ferrun replied nonchalantly.
"You heard him, Glatorian. Come back tomorrow." As the second guard finished his sentence, both found their helmets beginning to twist and deform as if the metal they were forged from had been given life. Quicker than they could react, their helmets had morphed to cover up their visors and mouths, and the nearby railings suddenly became like vines, wrapping themselves around the guards and fusing to their armor to trap them in place. Once they were immobilized, Ferrun grabbed the key from the nearest guard and made his way inside.
"Call this a compromise, I've got a thing tomorrow. Thanks for being so understanding, and I'm sorry I have to embarrass you like this. I'll be sure to lock back up when I'm done." He muttered with a smirk.
Once inside, Ferrun took a moment to take in the artifacts around him. To his left was a mural of the Toa Nuva leading the return to Metru Nui, while on the right stood a masterfully-sculpted statue of the late Toa Matoro. Dubious as his task was, Ferrun still took the time to drink in his surroundings, and show his respect to the fallen. Making his way deeper into the museum, Ferrun soon found himself at the Wall of Heroes.
He stood in awe of the display before him, a vast tablet carved from a slab of metal taken from the Great Spirit's own body, adorned with the masks of countless fallen beings. As he perused the various masks, he would occasionally stop to examine some. Lhikan's Noble Hau, Matoro's discarded Tryna, a heavily-rusted Kanohi Rode, so on. Eventually, he reached a section reserved specifically for Toa that fell at the Marendar's hands. More than thirty battered masks lined the wall in various colours, at least where they were visible. Some were so damaged that only shards were present, while many vacant spaces were left to account for Toa that were never found. Knowing he was in the right spot, but not which specific mask he was here to retrieve, Ferrun once more began to examine the wall, reading each plaque aloud as he went.
"Dalmek, Varian, Chiara, Iruini, Kamnu, Takanuva, Tuyet, Krakua... aha!" Ferrun smiled as he found the damaged blue mask he needed. While its scars from the Marendar conflict were plainly visible, this mask inparticular was heavily weathered and pitted, as if it was already well-worn before the battles began. It was a design he'd never seen before, almost resembling the sketches of the Ahvokii he saw elsewhere in the museum. Taking a moment to examine the mask before stowing it, Ferrun muttered to himself;
"Hope you don't mind if we borrow this, Helryx. We'll put you back when we've got what we need."
As he turned to leave, he noticed Toa Zaria's plaque on the wall. There wasn't much left of whatever his old silver Kanohi was, but Ferrun knew he was the only Toa of Iron still alive at the time of the evacuation. Ferrun suddenly realised he had been thrust into Zaria's shoes, and looked down to the ground.
"I know how this must look, and if you are out there somewhere watching me it must look bad. Regardless, I'm following Mata Nui's will. I'll return this mask when we've achieved our goal, and I'll make you proud. I'll prove myself worthy of the title 'Toa of Iron', you have my word... brother."
As Ferrun reflected on his situation, he failed to notice a group of four Matoran guards turn the corner and spot him, with Helryx's mask in his posession.
"Hold it right there, thief!" One called out, snapping Ferrun to attention.
In any other scenario, Ferrun would have disabled these guests much in the same way he subdued the Agori by the entrance, but he was familiar enough with a Toa's duty to know that taking such action against Matoran wouldn't do him any favours. Reaching out using his Iron powers, Ferrun instead manipulated the metal in their weaponry, bending it like a bundle of cables and wrapping it around their legs. As he made his escape, he heard one of the guards call for reinforcements.
"Oh, great..." Ferrun muttered to himself, quickly using his abilities to free the trapped guards at the entrance and throwing the stolen key at their feet. Turning back out onto New Atero's streets, Ferrun found another group of guards waiting for him.
"Stand down, Glatorian. That mask is priceless, there's nowhere on Spherus Magna you could fence it even if we were to let you leave with it!" Nuhrii shouted, stepping out of the group.
"This is about something more important than wealth, Matoran!" Ferrun yelled, calling upon his powers once more to try and control the metal bodies and armor of his pursuers. No longer having the focus or energy to properly use his elemental abilities, he was only able to knock them down. Regardless, he bought himself enough time to climb onto a nearby rooftop and make his escape.
After what felt like an hour of jumping from roof to roof, Ferrun made his way back down onto the streets. Finding an empty alleyway to hide in, Ferrun waited until the guards' shouting subsided. Finally resuming his normal form, Ferrun removed the Mahiki and donned his regular mask, before slumping down against a nearby wall to compose himself. He wasn't fully used to his elemental powers yet, and the additional focus of having to maintain the Mahiki's illusion had left him feeling drained. He chose to sit for a time and wait until the headache passed before making his way back to the hideout. He leaned his head back to rest it against the wall and shivered, noticing how cold the air had suddenly turned, before trying to get a few minutes of rest before anyone found him. What he hadn't realised was that he'd already been found by someone else. As the frost crept along the wall toward him, Ferrun simply sighed and withdrew into his thoughts.

Chapter 4: Text

As night fell, Korii decided to set up camp for the night. He'd been travelling all day and finally made it to the Bota Magna forests, and knew well enough that travelling them alone in the dead of night was a fool's errand. After gathering some wood and kindling and using his newly-discovered powers to get a fire going, he sat down and leaned back against a nearby tree-stump.
"Mata Nui, I wish I'd picked some food up before I left Vulcanus..." Korii said out loud to nobody. Seconds later, a metal bolt flew out of the treetops at improbable speeds, lodging itself halfway through the stump mere inches from Korii's head. It took a moment for Korii to react, but he was tackled back down to the ground as he tried to stand up. Stood over him, with a knife to his throat was a tall figure, his weathered green and black armor barely visible in the darkness, let alone the tattered cloak obscuring most of their body. Their face was obscured by their hood, but Korii could make out a cluster of four red lights. Three were on the left side of the stranger's head and appeared to be gradually blinking out, while the second was bright and piercing like most Matoran's eyes.
"Can I help you? Perhaps some aiming lessons?" Korii stammered, knowing that sassing his possible assassin may be a bad move.
"I shot-struck what I was aimin' for. Consider it a warning; you've set up shop in my home, and I'm not ever-given to sharin'."

Chapter 4: Text

Chapter 4: Text

CHAPTER 4

"Welcome back, Kitamo. Your message seemed urgent, what could have happened so soon after your departure that required our attention?" Turaga Nokama asked, her tone somewhere between concern and curiosity.

"I encountered something strange while escorting our... guest to his airship, wise one." Kitamo reported, kneeling before her elders.

"Unusual fellow, clearly not an Agori but too short to be a Matoran. If I didn't know better, I'd have thought he was a Turaga." Dekana added.

"He gave us these, said they were trinkets from the Sanctuary."

Dekana handed his package over to Turaga Hahli, while Kitamo gave hers to Gali.

"Most curious, the Sanctuary isn't one for sending out travelling merchants... You say this figure resembled a Turaga, Dekana?" Gali asked.

"Mata Nui! It can't be..."

The room shifted their attention to Nokama. Gali hadn't seen her former mentor this surprised in millenia, not since two Ta-Matoran announced that they had found the fabled Kanohi Ahvokii.

"What is it, sister?" She asked.

"I have seen these objects before, long ago in Metru Nui. I was given one by Toa Lhikan, as were Vakama and the others..."

Nokama paused, carefully taking the parcel from Gali and unwrapping it to reveal a rough crystal, glowing a faint pink... the exact same colour as Kitamo's eyes and heartlight.

"These are Toa Stones."

"Toa Stones? How is that possible, wise one? There aren't any Toa left to make them." Dekana asked, having officially lost his grasp of what was going on.

Hahli handed Dekana's package to Nokama, who opened it to reveal a second stone. This one glowed pale blue, indicating it was indeed for Dekana.

"Are you saying what I think you're saying, sister? Have these two Matoran been chosen?" Hahli asked.

"Chosen for what, wise ones?" Dekana asked, his eyes fixed on the pair of crystals.

"With respect, honoured Turaga, but my place is here at your side. My duty is with the Tajun militia, not gallivanting around Spherus Magna with a group of strangers playing hero." Kitamo bluntly added.

"Forgive my disrespect, Turaga Hahli. You remember how I first met you both... I have naught but respect for you and all Toa by extension. On my honour, I shall shoulder this responsibility"

Dekana kneeled next to her in response.

"I'm no warrior, just a simple blacksmith. My only interaction with a Toa was during the fighting with Marendar, the shape he was in is clear as day in my mind. As much as I question why Mata Nui chose me, I too accept my destiny."

Nokama smiled, holding both stones out for the two Matoran to take.

"Then you are both ready. Take your stones and we shall head for the Suva."

Dekana stood up, disoriented from the experience, while Kitamo continued to kneel as she gathered her bearings.

"How is this possible? Toa Stones need a Suva to trigger the process..." Nokama gasped.

"Wait... What process? I'm not even sure what planet I'm on right now..." Dekana mumbled, reaching down to retrieve his smithing hammer and realising it was now six feet long. As he inspected the enlarged tool the realisation began to hit him.

"Funny, I don't remember bringing a warhammer with me.."

Kitamo finally looked up at Dekana, only to roll her eyes.

"The transformation happened already, genius. We're Toa now. Your tools must have changed into a Toa Tool along with you."

"Well that's one way of getting better equipment, I suppose. I'd likely need a sack of widgets the size of a hibernating ash bear to get a weapon like this."

As the two new Toa gained their composure, the three Turaga took their own turn to kneel. Having never seen the leaders of her tribe do this, Kitamo finally let her confusion show.

"Bowing's our job, wise ones."

"You are Toa now, both of you. Protectors of this world and all those upon it. It is customary for Turaga to bow in your presence, as I once did for Gali so long ago." Nokama responded humbly.

"One thing still eludes me, honored Turaga... What were we chosen for? The Makuta and Marendar are gone, Spherus Magna is in a golden age of peace and prosperity, nothing more serious than the occasional angry mob of Skrall or Skakdi has happened in millenia!" Dekana exclaimed.

"We cannot say. Only the Great Spirit and his messengers have those answers. If you can track down the one that gave you these stones, you may learn your purpose." Hahli responded.

"I remember now... he was headed for the airship back to Sandray Canyon. It'll already have left by now, so we'll have to take the scenic route." Dekana added confidently. "Up for an adventure, sister?"

Before Dekana could playfully jab Kitamo's arm with his elbow, she grabbed it and quickly threw him to the ground, pressing her knee into the center of his back and lowering down to talk into his ear.

"I'm not thrilled to be stuck with you as it is, and your humour isn't going to do you any favours, brother. Next time you lay a hand on me, It'll get removed and reattached somewhere inconvenient."

"Okay, okay! Message received! I just got this body and I'd rather not have to try and repair myself in the first ten minutes, now get off!" Dekana pleaded, as Kitamo stood back up with a smirk.

"We'll head down to the militia's headquarters, I can procure a pair of Axalara for the journey."

"We don't need them, Kitamo." Dekana groaned, picking himself up from the ground.

"It'll take a day and a half to walk that far, you fool." Kitamo muttered.

"I never said we had to walk." Dekana replied smugly, tapping his mask.

"See these things? They have powers."

"We don't know what powers they hold yet, Dekana." Kitamo responded.

"Did I miss our training? We've had elemental powers for all of ten minutes, what makes you think you can bend deserts to your will? That'd be like me trying to conjure up a tsunami." Kitamo rebuffed, rolling her eyes.

"My point is that we can make the journey without vehicles. Sure, Kiina and Tarix aren't around to show us the elemental ropes as it were, but it's better than nothing. We aren't Matoran anymore, Kitamo. All we need is our own intuition."

Kitamo sighed. "I suppose you have a point."

The pair bowed once more before the Turaga, and turned to take their leave. Gali called to them as they walked to the exit.

"Once you've found this wandering Turaga, learn what you can and return here. We may no longer be Toa, but we can teach you all we can. As can the Stone Tribe Turaga, seek them out while you're in Sandray. And while you're there... Be sure to give my brother our regards."

"Of course, wise one." Dekana smiled, before leaving with Kitamo. The pair left the council chamber and emerged back onto the streets of Tajun, before freezing.

Dekana shook his head.

"...Did you hear that, Kitamo?"

"We're both clearly disoriented, Dekana. I could barely stand and your memories were jumbled, the voice we're hearing is probably just another symptom. Just ignore it, we have work to do."

Dekana nodded as the pair continued on their way.

​