Bionicle: The Return - Chapter 10: Ignika Revealed

It has been days since Gali and her team of Toa and Glatorian went after the Mask of Life, and the people were beginning to worry. Defenses were being placed all over, and the Matoran and Agori were busy preparing an Under City in case they needed to go into shelter.

Vakama wasn’t busy. Instead, he was sitting in front of the altar, wondering what is going to happen next. Suddenly, a clicking sound was heard from the right, next to Mata Nui’s sword. When Vakama looked, he saw a Vohtarak, a red Visorak.

Vakama: Hello friend.

The Visorak responded by a series of clicking sounds, speaking in the Visorak language. Visorak can easily understand the Language of the Alliance, as it has become known as, but they cannot speak it. Same vice versa, yet even so Vakama has taken the time to learn their language since he met his unusual friend.

Vohtarak: Vakama sad?

Vakama: Yes. And worried. I’m afraid that the Ignika has been stolen.

Vohtarak shook his body like crazy.

Vohtarak: Ignika gone!? To wear!?

Vakama: The West. A team of Toa and Glatorian have already gone, but it will be a while till they get back.

Vohtarak: We help?

Vakama stared at Vohtarak with curiosity.

Vakama: “We”? “Help”?

Vohtarak: You it was as Toa Metru, freed us from Makuta. We owe our lives. You need, we help.

Vakama: What makes you think the others would go along with this?

Vohtarak: We protecting village from dangerous Rahi since creation.

Suddenly, five more Visorak, Boggarak, Keelerak, Suukorak, Roporak, and Oohnorak climbed in through the front entrance.

Keelerak: You sure about this, Vohtarak? Soon as Toa, or anyone, walk in they think we attacking Vakama.

Vohtarak: Chance we must take. Toa need help.

Boggarak: Dangerous, both friend and foe.

Vohtarak: This meeting succeed, friends dangerous no longer. Vakama speak for us.

Vakama: You want me to speak with the council?

Vohtarak: We have no home. No environment good for us. Matoran creates environment for Rahi. Create environment for us, we both benefit.

Vakama stroked his chin.

Vakama: They will not take this lightly.

Vohtarak: Meet me at gate with guards. Take me to council. Translate, please.

Vakama: I will speak to the council about this proposal. I will let you know their say tomorrow.

Vohtarak: Thanks.

Oohnorak: Figure come. Toa or Glatorian.

Vohtarak: Tomorrow, Vakama.

The Visorak then left, running out the door, and to the back. Eventually, a Toa of Water called Helryx came up.

Vakama: How’s the first Toa of Water?

Helryx: I thought I saw something climb in like a spider.

Vakama: Indeed. But no need to worry. I’ll talk about it at the council.

*******************************

Takanuva: Alright, Nokama. I’m on my way.

As soon as Vakama came to the council hall, he asked Nokama to contact the council members that could be reached. Using the Windows of Sight, or TVs in our world, Nokama contacted the council outside of the city.

Nokama: Alright. Now hurry. Vakama says it’s important.

Takanuva: Understood.

The connection was then cut, and Takanuva began to collect his gear when he heard a knock on the door. He then opened it… and looked straight into the eyes of Ignika.

Ignika: Takanuva.

Takanuva then pulled out his sword.

Takanuva: So you’re the theif!

Ignika: How can you steel oneself? Isn’t that called running away?

Takanuva: You’re… you’re Ignika?

Ignika: Yes. Now can you point that thing away? I don’t have the time to make another body.

Takanuva: Sorry.

They looked at each other for a second, measuring each other up.

Takanuva: You’ve grown.

Ignika: You’ve shrunk.

Both: Hahaha.

They clapped each other on the back with one big hug.

Takanuva: Now why is it we’re behaving like two close, long lost friends?

Ignika: Because we’re alike in more than one way.

Takanuva then walked over to the sink and pulled out two cups made from the wood of a Thornax tree.

Ignika: I’ve come to ask you something.

Takanuva handed him a cup.

Takanuva: And what may that be?

Ignika took a sip of water.

Ignika: How long have you known that Teridax is alive?

*******************************************

Akingi: Ignika is getting stronger and closer to discovering us. How are the Rahkshi coming?

Teridax: We’ve got a whole army. Already half of them have been restored, including many of the Golden Rahkshi that I sent onto Bara Magna.

Akingi: The fall of the Titans. My how that rolls off the tongue.

Teridax: It was the fall of A Titan. Mata Nui survived.

Akingi: And fell, sacrificing himself to give life and hope to the planet.

Unknown walked in to the chamber that they were in.

Unknown: What is this place?

Teridax: It’s the command central, the maintenance room of maintenance rooms. Here, the Makuta could see everything. And there…

Teridax points to this giant sphere suspended in the air.

Teridax: There is the brain of the universe.

Unknown: It’s so huge.

Akingi: It needed to be, in order to control this monstrous creation.

Unknown: How could you control it?

Teridax: The mind and brain are two things. The mind contains the knowledge, training and memories of the person. Meanwhile, the brain contains the controls. Whatever brain I possessed, my mind could control it, because my mind remained the same. Yes, I needed to adjust myself to each body I possessed, but I got used to it.

Unknown: You must’ve trained hard.

Teridax: Unknown to the Toa and my fellow Makuta, I trained with the ability of changing bodies for years, using Rahi as test subjects. Ground Rahi, flying Rahi, water Rahi, any Rahi I would practice with. Later, many Matoran fell into an… accident. They would… lose control of their vehicles, and drive straight into whatever I desired.

Unknown: Indeed. Then you got much practice.

Teridax: Yes. And soon, I used my skills to attempt to poses my leader’s body. But he was stronger than I. Yet still, a part of me did get in. A part of me that was my goal, my will, my purpose only: to conquer the universe, and rule the Matoran. Of course, that small part of me became his as well, and he began to organize a rebellion against Mata Nui. But I soon took over.

Unknown: Very interesting.

Tyrant then walked in.

Tyrant: It is confirmed that all the Vahki have been reactivated. Now our progress to recover the Rahkshi is at full capacity.

Teridax: Send the revived Rahkshi to that little town you wiped out. I need to get working on building up my kingdom.

Unknown: What?!?

Teridax: Easy. I have no intention of ruling them. They will be destroyed. But my sons and I will rule this world. And we will begin our search for the Great Beings.

**********************************

Takanuva: You mean the dreams?

Ignika: Yes. The dreams.

Takanuva: For a few months now. Nokama said she would look into them. How’d you know about it?

Ignika: Nokama discussed it with Vakama at the Temple.

Takanuva: I see. But, alive? Teridax? That’s impossible!

Ignika: You thought so when you defeated him on the island Mata Nui. And the Barraki thought so when they destroyed the Maxilos that he was possessing. How can you be sure he isn’t dead now?

Takanuva sat there, his cup near the spilling point.

Takanuva: Recently, the dreams have become more vivid. He isn’t wearing the Mask of Shadows.

Ignika: I know. I have not sensed this mask before, but it is indeed evident that it is as powerful as me. Do you remember what it looks like?

Takanuva: No. I see it in my dreams, but when I wake up I forget what it looks like completely.

Male: It’s in the shape of a skull.

Takanuva and Ignika looked at the entrance to see two figures at the entrance.

Takanuva: The Shadowed One.

Ignika: Angonce.

Bionicle: The Return - Chapter 9: Time

Gali: Can you tell what was going on here, Hewkii?

Hewkii: All I can tell you is that our suspect stopped here, and stood here for about ten minutes. Then he went off to the right and… disappeared.

Gali: No struggle?

Hewkii: No. Whoever this is has the power to either fly or teleport.

Gali: Thank you.

She then went over to Jaller.

Gali: Jaller, you were touched by the energy of the Ignika, right.

Jaller: The Ignika is what made my team and I Toa Mahri.

Gali: I’ve noticed that those who have touched the Ignika, or felt its energy, have a bond with it. I’d like to see if you have one.

Jaller: How?

Gali: If there is a connection, I should be able to sense the energy passing through water… if I surround your head with it.

For a second, Jaller contemplated on it.

Jaller: Fine. Let’s do it.

Gali: You understand that the water will…

Jaller: I know the consequences. But there may be much more if we don’t do anything.

**************************

Ignika had teleported to the Maze Valley, which was now underground, hidden from all of those on the surface.

Except one.

Ignika knew that a Legendary Mask had been taken here. He could sense the power. But what mask was it.

It wasn’t any mask he recognized. The power was… different. Similar to the Great Being’s creation, but… not.

After reaching the outer edge, Ignika teleported into the center structure.

Male: And who might you be?

Ignika turned around to see a titanic figure holding a mask.

Ignika: I am Toa Ignika. And you?

Titan: I am the Lost One. I walked in the darkness, and hide from the light. I am the Lonely Guardian of Time.

He then lifted a mask that Ignika had never seen before. From it radiated the energy that Ignika was drawn to.

Titan: I am Voporak. And this is the Mask of Time.

*************************************

Teridax: I appreciate the “master,” miss Unknown, but could you…

Suddenly a blast of sand-like particles blasted him in the face.

Unknown: Don’t call me miss!

Akingi: What was that?!?

Unknown: I was really hoping to save this for later. My father gave me more than impenetrable armor. I can control anything.

Teridax: Anything?

Suddenly, his arms grabbed hold of his sword, and held the blade to his throat.

Unknown: Anything, so don’t even think of trying to betray me.

Akingi: So overconfident.

Unknown: What do you mean?

Akingi: You can control anything made of matter. But can you control… death.

Suddenly, the entire room went dark and cold. Slowly, the Unknown could feel her life energy draining. She focused on the energy, trying to hold it in. But to no avail. Her powers were indeed useless against Akingi’s powers.

Just as suddenly, her life energy returned to her, and the room returned to normal.

Unknown: How’d you know?

Akingi: I was created by one of the most powerful Great Being, and given the powers equal to that of the leader’s greatest creation. So I knew exactly what your powers were, and how they work, as soon as you entered my prison. So don’t YOU dare think of backstabbing us.

******************************************

Ignika: Voporak? Weren’t you once a Dark Hunter?

Voporak: How’d you know?

Ignika: Sitting on an altar for thousands of years, and hearing the Turaga tell the legends to every new generation has taught me lifetimes of knowledge.

Voporak: Ahh, I get it. You’re not a normal Toa, are you.

Ignika: No.

Voporak stroked the mask.

Voporak: Yes. I see now. You’re Ignika, the Mask of Life. Impressive. I didn’t know you could make your own body.

Ignika: You must’ve been secluded for a long time then. This is my second body.

Voporak: Indeed. Sounds like a lot has been happening since I went into hiding.

Ignika: Why have you been hiding?

Voporak stopped, and stared at Ignika. He stared at him, holding the Mask of Time in his hand for a good amount of time.

Voporak: Have you noticed anything strange?

Ignika: Like?

Voporak: Look behind you.

Ignika looked. There, he saw a fly right in front of his face. Only it wasn’t flying around.

It was stuck in time.

Voporak: I’ve accelerated our perception of time to such an extent, it seems like everything around us is frozen, while I’m holding our aging progress back.

Ignika: So you hid to keep the power to yourself?

Voporak: Well, not exactly.

********************************************

Gali: You ready?

Jaller: I’m going to be keeping a flame inside of me in case something goes wrong.

Gali: Okay, Kiina. Create a layer of water along his surface.

Kiina touched the ground with the tip of her staff. Slowly, water trickled out of the tip, and flowed over to Jaller and began encasing him. As the water moved up, Jaller’s limbs began to glow a slight red, but were cooled down to safe levels by the water.

Gali: Okay. Now stay still, Jaller.

Slowly, she began waving her arms over the water, her palm wide open as she tried to sense the energy connecting Jaller with the Ignika.

Gali: He’s north of here.

Kiina dropped the water, and Jaller shot a pillar of fire into the sky.

Jaller: Had to let the heat go somewhere.

Gali: No need to explain. Let’s go.

*********************************************

Ignika: What do you mean?

Voporak: Well, you see, after I got the mask from the Order of Mata Nui I felt a strange connection develop between us. Finally, I realized the destiny that the Great Beings had intended for me. I was to become guardian of the Vahi, the Mask of Time.

Ignika: So that’s the Vahi? Impressive.

Voporak: Isn’t it? But, as time moved on, I began to realize that the mask has a draw back. In order for you to become what the mask needs you to be, you must face your past. And my past is filled with darkness. I felt the torment and suffering of every victim I’ve killed, the grief of every child I stole. I saw the villagers in their homes I set on fire, my brothers I refused to save. All of this taught me what my path had brought me to.

Voporak then looked directly at Ignika.

Voporak: So you see why I have to make sure you’re the real thing.

He then pounced, and pinned Ignika. But instead of struggling, Ignika stayed still as the Mask of Time was placed on his face, nose to nose.

Suddenly, all of Ignika’s past was revealed. His creation. The lonely cavern. Voya Nui. Mahri Nui. His first time as a Toa. His sacrifice. All of it.

After looking through all his memories in what seemed like ten minutes, Voporak pulled the Vahi away.

Voporak: Well, you’re the real deal. So tell me, what do you want?

Ignika: I need to take the Vahi back to Vakama. We need to find the Toa of Time.

Voporak stared at the mask with distant thoughts on his mind.

Voporak: So many years. I thought it would be so easy to part with it, but now I find myself… sad. Ha, a sad Dark Hunter. How strange.

Ignika: You can always come with.

Voporak took one last look at the Vahi, then held it out.

Voporak: No. It is not time for me to leave, yet.

Ignika took the mask, and stared into Voporak’s eyes. In it, he could see years of darkness and shame.

Ignika: Well, you’re always welcome.

Voporak: Thanks.

Ignika walked out of the structure, and teleported away. Meanwhile, Voporak sat on a throne as he contemplated over the vision the Vahi showed him.

A large battlefield, with Toa, Dark Hunters, Vahki and Rahkshi corpses all across the battle field. Standing among the wreckage were four figures, three of them standing together, facing a large, unknown Rahi. It was huge, in the form of a Dragon Rahi. It was even larger than the Dragon Rahi that came through here a few hundred years ago. Everything about it indicated shear strength and power. And from the way it was looking at the three figures, it wouldn’t stop till everything was dead.

Voporak: Was that the future?

**************************************

Gali: Jaller’s right. He did teleport again.

Hewkii: I wondered why you spun around like that. Your connection must’ve gotten stronger for some reason.

Jaller: When I’m able to walk on two feet steadily, then we’ll laugh.

Kiina: Well, no hurry. Not like I have a guy twice as heavy as me on my shoulders.

Malum: Is that a joke? Or are you being sarcastic?

Kiina: Make your pick.

Malum stared at her for a second, then turned to Tarix.

Tarix: I think you should take the load from Miss Pouty Face.

Kiina immediately straightened up, and started walking ahead of the group. Tarix then winked at Malum, and they headed back home.

*****************************************

Teridax: Now that we’ve got that settled, can we move on to the issue at hand.

Unknown: And that is?

Teridax walked over to dark corner of the room, and reached into the shadow. A screech was heard, and Teridax pulled out a strange worm creature.

Unknown: What is that?

But Teridax didn’t answer. Instead, he walked out of the chamber, and opened the back of a Rahkshi.

The Unknown then got an idea.

Unknown (thinking): Akingi, can you still hear me?

Akingi: Yes.

Unknown: What is that?

Akingi: It’s a Kraata. These things are the brain of the Rahkshi. But how they’re created is a bit difficult to explain.

Teridax closed the Rahkshi back, and watched as the Rahkshi became mobile. It stood up, and looked Teridax in the eye. It was a silver Rahkshi, and it carried a staff with a pick axe-head on one end and a drill at the other.

Teridax: Go, start clearing the openings of debris.

He then turned to the Unknown.

Teridax: One down, over ten million to go.

Bionicle: The Return - Chapter 8: The Mask is Gone

Branar (Skrall Leader): What do you want with us, Dark Hunter?

Tyrant: Oh, please, don’t relate me with those traitors.

The Skrall has guided Tyrant and his army of Vahki to the camp of the Shadow Skrall, a team of Skrall that rebelled against Stronius when he sought strength in an alliance with the Glatorian and Toa. Surrounded by thousands of Skrall, Tyrant knew that even with his great strength, and the Vahkis’ support, if the Skrall were to attack it would mean the end of more than 75% of his team.

Branar: The Shadowed One didn’t send you?

Tyrant: I don’t even serve that fool. He betrayed me many years ago.

Branar: I see. So who did send you, then?

Tyrant: Have you heard the rumors of a new enemy?

Immediately, all the Skrall in the area began cheering and roaring.

Branar: Indeed. They call it the Unknown.

Tyrant: She is my master… well, one of them. The other is Teridax, the Makuta of Shadow.

Branar: I thought he was killed by Mata Nui.

Tyrant: Not exactly. His body was killed, but his spirit survived.

Branar: And what does Teridax want with us?

Tyrant: *chuckle* You can’t guess? We want your services.

***********************************************

Bomonga was going to take his routinely walks around the Temple. He had his staff, his scrolls, and his sanity, so he felt like it was a good day.

That wasn’t to last.

As he walked up to the Temple, he noticed impressions in the stone stair way. As he moved up, he began seeing scraps of iron and marble spread out across the steps. He looked up.

And saw that the door to the Temple had been ripped open. He dropped his scrolls, and used his powers to push him up the stairs, to the entrance.

As he walked in, he noticed that there was a straight line of footprints coming from the Mask of Life.

Or, where the Mask of Life was.

Bomonga hurried to the alarm bell, which unfortunately is around back, where there are no exits. Soon, Toa and Glatorian all over came running in.

Jaller: What’s the matter?

Bomonga: The Ignika is gone. These tracks must belong to the culprit.

Gali: Must be one heavy thief.

Hewkii: Or is he?

Jaller: Come again?

Hewkii: These footprints are one way. They come from the altar, not towards. This can indicate that whoever it is came from the altar. Also, if you look at the altar, you’ll see that it has some unusual markings on it.

Gali took a close look.

Gali: Incredible.

Ackar: Gali? What is it?

Gali: These markings are the similar to the waves of energy I saw coming from Ignika when he sacrificed himself to revive Mata Nui.

Ackar: So you think the Mask of Life had something to do with this.

Gali: Got any other explanation?

Gresh: Thief walks in and out backwards.

Hewkii: There would be signs of a second indentation in the steps. From what I can tell, whoever it is only passed here once.

*****************************************

Vakama: The Mask of Life is our top priority. From the tracks, it seems as if this mystery figure is heading towards the Unknown. What this person plans on doing is unknown.

Vakama then turned towards Gali.

Vakama: Gali, you got closest with Ignika. If you go, he may respond to you. I am putting you in charge of the rescue operation.

Gali: I won’t fail you.

Vakama: Very good. Pick your team.

***************************************

Teridax: Aaaagh!

Unknown: Teridax! Sir! Brother!

Teridax: Goooooh!

Unknown: Sir, are you alright?

Teridax: *gasp* That… was… close. I didn’t realize how powerful this mask would be.

Unknown: How does it feel?

Teridax: The Great Being must’ve given this mask a conscience. I could feel it intruding my mind when I put it on. Equal to the Mask of Life is right.

Teridax (phantom voice): Sssorrry. Got a bit excccited when you touched me.

Teridax: Can’t you use psychic abilities?

Akingi: That’s what I’m doing.

Teridax: Without using my mouth. You know, telepathical communication.

Akingi: Ah, right. Hang on a sec.

They ended up waiting ten minutes. Meanwhile, they checked up on the Vahki’s progress, and sent some of the recently revived Vahki out on patrol.

Akingi (telepathically): Alright, there we go. Don’t bother lying, though. I’m in your minds, so I know what you’re thinking. Wow, you’ve got some army here.

Teridax: Thank you.

All of the Vahki stopped and stared at him for a second, then continued on.

Akingi: Maybe we should communicate through our thoughts.

Unknown (thinking): Alright.

Akingi: Well, someone’s getting a hang of it. Oh, and I’m relaying your thoughts to each other, so you can hear each other’s thoughts.

Teridax: Sharing my thoughts with big ol’ fire and muscle here? Okay, but I don’t want her to know…

Akingi: Maybe we should just go somewhere else. You know, away from the Vahki so they don’t think you guys are insane.

Unknown: Good. It’s awkward sharing my thoughts with my short mas…

Teridax: SHORT WHAT?!?

Again the Vahki stopped. But then they continued without looking back.

Akingi: Master, she was saying master. Now let’s go. This is going to be harder than I thought.

********************************

Gali: Hewkii, any change in our suspect’s pace?

Hewkii: Negative. Whoever this is, this person’s got more stamina than we do.

Tarix: Think we should spend the night. It is about dinner time.

Gali: Very well. Malum, start a fire.

Malum: Normally I’d wait for a “please,” but this is an important occasion.

Kiina: Playing with the jokes again, Malum.

Malum: Hey, after hundreds of years being an outcast, till you find out you’ve been considered a hero for half that time, you try staying gloomy.

Kiina: No, thank you.

Malum: Suit yourself. I will say, exile was good medicine.

Gali: So is laughter.

Malum: Oh, that’s a good one. Haha.

Gelu: Got anything for me?

Gali: Cook duty.

Gelu: Makes sense. First I keep the food cool, now I warm it up. Wait, ice cools, so shouldn’t Malum cook?

Malum: Oh, sure. HEY, EVERYBODY! WE’RE HAVING BURNED RAHI AND ASH FOR DINNER!

Everybody: Hahahahaha.

*****************************************

A few miles away, a figure can be seen running to the west. His armor gave off a slight, golden light that radiated like a star in the night sky. He could feel the dangerous force. He stopped, and knelt on the ground, listening to the thoughts of this mysterious being. It was jumbled. There seemed to be three beings, but only one of them is the real one.

Suddenly, two of the beings disappeared, and a single thought came right at him.

Thought: Hello, Ignika. I’ve been waiting for you.

Ignika’s mask pulsed, giving a brighter glow for just a second.

He can’t do this alone.

Bionicle: The Return - Chapter 7: Face of Death

Tyrant and his team of Vahki have been out for many weeks, searching for the Shadow Skrall, a team of rebellious Skrall that left when Stronius decided to join the Toa and Glatorian in peaceful co-existence. Now, they have reached the last place where they were spotted.

Tyrant: Rorzakh, can you sense the direction the Skrall are in?

One of the Rorzakh, a Vahki of earth, planted his staffs into the ground, and sent a psychic pulse into the earth. After a few seconds, he turned towards the setting sun.

Tyrant: West, huh? Very well, then. Let’s go.

Male: Tyrant.

Tyrant turned around to see that one of the Nuurahk was possessed. He then kneeled before it.

Tyrant: Teridax, it is an honor for you to communicate with us from such great distance.

Teridax: What is miles for you is only inches in the spiritual form of physics. How is your progress?

Tyrant: This is the last known location of the Skrall. However, the prints seem to be a bit faint. Even with their advanced eye sight, it will take a bit of time, a few hours, till we find their tracks.

Teridax: If I’m correct, then the Shadow Skrall should be nearby.

Tyrant: What makes you say that?

Teridax: The Skrall do not leave tracks lightly. They’re probably watching you right now.

Tyrant began scanning the terrain with his eyes, not moving his head. Suddenly, he noticed a moving piece of grass to the right.

Camouflage.

Tyrant: Three Nuurahk, capture that Skrall. Location, forty degrees to my right.

Three Nuurahk disappeared, going into hiding beneath the tall grass.

Teridax: I must go now. She’s calling me.

Tyrant: Do you trust her?

Teridax: I have yet to know. Like her name, it is unknown what she can and will do.

Suddenly, the Nuurakh began looking around, free from Teridax’s mental control.

Just as suddenly, the three Nuurakh that went for the Skrall came back, with a full, struggling bag in tow.

Tyrant: Open it.

They opened the bag, and dumped out a Skrall wearing grass, leaves and reads on his body.

Tyrant: How many are you?

Skrall: (Chuckle) You’ve been walking on us all this time.

Tyrant stared at him for a second, then picked him up by the neck.

Tyrant: What do you mean?!?

Skrall: Exactly that.

Suddenly, the land all over jumped up, exposing an army of Skrall.

********************************

Teridax: You called me.

Unknown: We found something that I think you’ll be interested in.

Teridax: Show me!

They went down a tunnel to an entry way, guarded by a team of Rorzakh.

Unknown: The Zadakh broke through this door. We were thinking that it might’ve contained some of your most powerful Rahkshi. But we found something else.

Inside, they found that the cavern was really an exit out of the giant into a cave. In the cave, there was a dead Glatorian, laying in front of an altar that held a mysterious mask.

Teridax: And this interests me, why?

Unknown: This.

They walked over to the side of the cavern, where the cave met the mech. The Unknown pointed at two bars of metal sticking out at the fault.

Teridax: And?

Unknown: This is the same kind of metal used on the armor of this mech.

Teridax: So? It could be from the mech.

Unknown: But it’s not. This metal is buried into the cave.

Teridax: Okay, now I’m interested.

Unknown: We also found these markings. The same kind of markings that your kind use.

They went to the back of the cave. There, Teridax’s shadow moved across the wall.

Teridax: This writing… it’s from a Great Being.

Unknown: A Great Being. Shall we destroy it?

Teridax: Though the Great Beings are indeed our enemies, they know more things than us. So if we read this…

Teridax paused. His shadow hovered over a spot for a few seconds, and then continued over the writing.

Unknown: What is it?

Teridax: This writing was written by a Great Being long gone. Apparently, this was a prison that held an… insane Being.

Unknown: Insane?

Teridax: Insane. During his time here, he was secretly creating a mask. A mask that would be the equal of the Ignika. A mask of Death.

A paused over another spot.

Teridax: Interesting. He named the mask Akingi, Ignika backwards. Cute.

Unknown: Fitting. Do you think this corpse was him?

Teridax: No. At the end of this, he says that he was going to be taken with the Great Beings off of Spherus Magna. Whoever this is, it wasn’t him.

The Unknown was looking at the corpse. She then walked over, and began inspecting it.

Unknown: It’s all here.

Teridax: Come again?

Unknown: This corpse is all here.

Teridax: What are you thinking?

Unknown: Couldn’t you just take it? You know, make it your own?

Teridax: I can try. But you need to revive it.

Unknown: One Rorzakh, please.

One of the Rorzakh hopped in. Suddenly, the Unknown grabbed it, and tore off its head. The guards outside the cavern gazed in, and quickly went back to their posts.

Teridax: I don’t think any of the others want to be next.

Unknown: Oh well. I only needed one anyway.

Teridax: Begin.

Teridax’s shadow covered the corpse, and the Unknown started attempting to revive the body by shocking it with the sparks from the Vahki’s neck.

************************************

Skrall: Now, originally I was going to walk through everybody and ask you to surrender, but I guess this is as good a way as any.

Tyrant: If you’re looking for weak losers, you’ve come to the wrong people.

Immediately, the Skrall moved in. However, the Vahki were ready. Kanoka disks flew out, freezing, shrinking, weakening, and teleporting many of the Skrall all over. Every Vahki used their staff abilities against the Skrall. And Tyson was tossing ten Skrall at a time. No one could touch him.

After ten minutes, over half the Skrall were either wounded or dead. However, the leader was still standing.

Tyrant: Had enough yet.

The leader stared at him for a few seconds. He then raised his fist, and all the Skrall gathered behind him.

Skrall: What do you want with us?

Tyrant: I must speak with your leader. We have a… proposition.

Skrall: Well, we do need a powerful force in order to get our revenge. Very well. But tread lightly. Even your Vahki wouldn’t stand against him.

Tyrant: And me?

But the Skrall were already on the move. Tyrant and the Vahki followed after them.

*********************

The Unknown was about to slam the Vahki down on the corpse again, when it suddenly grabbed her wrist. For a second, the Glatorian stared at her with kind, scared eyes. But immediately afterwards, the eyes grew cold, and he squeezed harder.

Unknown: Who are you?

Glatorian: Who do you think? Do you see my shadow anymore?

Unknown: Alright. Only Teridax would know that.

Teridax: What, did you think it was the Glatorian?

Unknown: Better safe than sorry. I did get to see his eyes, though.

Teridax: You’re looking at them right now.

Unknown: No, not like that. I saw his character.

Teridax: Reading a person’s character is an important trait during battle. Keep improving it.

Unknown: I will.

They then walked over to the mask. As they were doing so, the Unknown looked down at Teridax.

Unknown: So small.

Teridax: Not for long.

Teridax picked up the mask. It began pulsing as Teridax began lifting it to his head. Suddenly, it fused to his head, and he began his evolution into the Master of Death.

********************************

The Mask of Life has been sitting in the Temple of the Golden Armor, waiting for the time it would be needed again.

Suddenly, it felt a sudden wave of… cold? Fire? Force? No, something else. Something just as powerful.

But what? None of his creators had made anything this powerful. Its power matched his own.

It’s time. Toa Ignika must return. And now, more powerful than before.

Bionicle: The Return - Chapter 6: Teridax's Return

Gali: But how? How in the world did Teridax… I mean, Shadow Teridax, survive?

Vakama: This isn’t the only time Makuta have survived out of their physical forms. Teridax already has inhabited three different bodies, and has taken the form of shadow in many cases. It could be that when his body was once again destroyed, his essence remained.

Jaller: I remember when Takanuva had defeated Teridax, and then we found him in Mahri Nui, in control of a Maxilos robot. Then he again transferred his personality to the Great Spirit body. I don’t know much about spirits, but I guess he survived the impact with the moon.

Vakama: His whole essence is now shadow. It will be difficult to stop him. He may even be watching us now.

Takanuva: There is no way we can keep him out. But if he were here, I would know. No shadow is safe from light.

Vakama: Indeed. I have spent my time meditating by the fire in the Fire Temple, studying the shadows and the light. Wherever light could be seen, shadow is thrown away.

Mazeka: If only you spent less time exploring your inner self, and more in the physical world, you would’ve known that a long time ago.

Nokama: Have patience…

Mazeka: No! I am impatient with your slow minds. You sit and meditate for hours, waiting for someone who could very well never come back.

Jaller: Easy, Mazeka. Though I agree that the Turaga have spent too much time in their chambers, they have provided us with guidance for generations. They aren’t warriors, but they know more about ourselves then we do.

Mazeka: Hmph. Alright, but if they want my respect, they should start paying more attention to what is happening physically as much as they do spiritually.

*************************************

Unknown: Tyrant, how’s the Rahkshi program going?

Tyrant: It’s going well. But what’s the point? I’ve already told you, Rahkshi are no good without their Kraata.

Unknown: That’s my problem. Now, how about the Vahki.

Tyrant: About half of them are reactivated. Half of those are collecting more Rahkshi and Vahki, while the rest are searching the town for survivors.

Unknown: Did any escape?

Tyrant: I was just on my way to inform the Vahki to send ten squads of four to begin searching.

Unknown: Thank you. You may do so.

The Tyrant went away, oblivious to the eyes staring from the shadows.

Unknown: You have a way to activate the Rahkshi, right.

Teridax: Once I have a physical form, I will be able to create Kraata from my own essence. Then, we will send the Rahkshi swarm, and get our revenge.

Unknown: Indeed. Did you discover why the Dark Hunters refused my offer?

Teridax: No, except they know that we intend to destroy them anyway. But I did spot an unusual figure, by the name of Angonce.

Unknown: A Great Being?

Teridax: Though it is true that there was a Great Being by the name of Angonce, this one seemed more like a Glatorian. I don’t think that it is the same one.

Unknown: So what’s so unusual about him?

Teridax: He is the light in the darkness.

********************************

Angonce: Teridax has been here too often. You got any more torches?

Shadowed: No. If we plan on keeping Teridax out for the entire war, we need to keep the rest of the torches.

Angonce: Have the scouts found the Unknown.

Shadowed: Again, no. But they did find footprints. They should be bringing casts of the prints soon enough.

Angonce: How many sets are there?

Female: Two.

A team of Dark Hunters came in, ten of them carrying a huge cast. Walking ahead of them was a titanic, female Dark Hunter, about the same size as the Shadowed One.

Female Dark Hunter: And I’m afraid one of them is a bit more familiar then I like.

The Dark Hunters placed the cast down. The Shadowed One stared at the cast, then slammed his fist on the arm of the throne.

Shadowed: Tyrant. Get everyone ready. We move out tonight.

Angonce: What’s up?

Shadowed: Tyrant is a former Dark Hunter that constantly attempted to overthrow me. I had the Dark Hunters abandon him, but he escaped.

Angonce: And now he’s ready for revenge. Another factor in the equation.

******************************************

Now, the war is brewing. Unaware of their friends, the Dark Hunters, the Toa and Glatorian prepare the villages for war. Meanwhile, the Unknown, Tyrant, and Teridax begin searching for more “allies.” Already, the Tyrant prepares to go find the Shadow Skrall, a team of rebel Skrall that seek revenge for their defeat.

Do the Toa and Dark Hunters have what it takes to defeat the enemy? Or will Teridax rise and gain a physical form? Stay tuned for more, in BIONICLE: The Return.

Bionicle: The Return - Chapter 5: A Shadow

One of the Young Turaga, apprentices of the Turaga Metru, had gone to consult the Mask of Life, in hopes that it would finally reach out with its wisdom. But no words, or connection of any sort, came from the mask. Even Gali tried contacting Ignika, but for no response. Now, Gelu, Takanuva, Vakama, Berix, Jaller, Mazeka and Gresh were gathered in the Council Lobby.

Gelu: So, we must fend for ourselves.

Takanuva: And it seems that our newfound enemy is forming a team. Already, she has gathered a Dark Hunter, a team of rogue Bone Hunters, and a team of Bota Magna Vorox. But what they’re doing is a mystery.

Vakama paced across the Council Lobby, stroking his chin.

Vakama: My apprentice wasn’t able to contact the Ignika. And Mata Nui cannot give us the guidance we once had.

Berix: What about the Red Star? Can’t we contact them?

Nokama: We’ve made no discovery of a way to contact them. Unless you want to go up there. But I should inform you, the last time one of our own went up there, it was near suicidal.

There was a knock on the front door. When opened, they all focused on one thing in particular: the Mask of Shadows.

Jaller: Freeze! Who are you?

Mazeka: Wait! This is the light Teridax!

Jaller kept his Cordak blaster up.

Jaller: Just to be sure, if you do anything funny…

Teridax: I understand.

Vakama: What is it you seek, my friend?

Teridax: Only to warn you. I am at present unable to help you in this area, but I fear the war will spread throughout the entire planet.

Gelu: What makes you think that the threat is that big?

Teridax gazed across the lobby at everyone there. His eyes eventually rested on Takanuva.

Teridax: What keeps light from erasing shadow?

Takanuva thought for a time.

Takanuva: An obstruction in between.

Teridax: There is still an obstruction. A shadow is not yet gone.

Vakama: What is this shadow?

Teridax: One you’ve faced before.

********************************************************************

Tyrant and the Unknown were staring into an abyss. There was a ladder that went down, but it seemed to be miles deep.

Unknown: The army is down there?

Tyrant: After the “Final Battle,” the Toa, Glatorian, and their puny friends dumped both Rahkshi and Vahki into this pit. And about ten percent of the Bohrok were…

Unknown: I don’t know what you’re talking about. Be more specific.

Tyrant: *sigh* There are two different species of mechanical creatures, each of six kinds, that can aide you in this war. However, there is an equally dangerous species of mechanical creatures that are guarding this place.

Unknown: And where are we?

Tyrant: The Mouth of Teridax.

The Unknown looked up and around. Of cource. This is part of a humanoid structure that hosted billions of Matoran and Toa. But then…

She looked around, to see a village about fifty miles away.

Unknown: Won’t they notice?

Tyrant: If you succeed, by the time they notice, it will be too late. Now, come on, your army awaits.

The Unknown, Tyrant, and a few of their Bone Hunters climbed down. After ten minutes, the Unknown got tired of climbing down.

Unknown: Ah, let’s get this over with.

She jumped down, only to land about twenty feet down.

Tyrant: The bottom must be closer than we thought.

Tyrant then looked at the ladder. She then realized that the ladder was really moving quietly upward. It was so quiet, they didn’t even notice.

She then charged it, and pinned it. A few Bone Hunters bounced off her shoulders, while Tyrant hit his head on the ladder.

Tyrant: Ow, give me some warning, please. What are you doing down there?

Unknown: The ladder was moving up.

Tyrant: What? But… oh, never mind.

Suddenly, he and the remaining Bone Hunters flew down on the opposite side of the ladder, just barely touching the wall. When they were all down, the Unknown let go, and the ladder continued up.

Tyrant: Well, our trip up will be faster.

Female: Maybe.

Everyone drew their weapons, and turned around to find a Tahnok Va staring at them.

Tahnok: Or maybe your trip is over.

*****************************************************************

Vakama: What do you mean?

Teridax: A shadow is rising. It’s growing in strength, and size.

Gelu: We already known about the Unknown. Or do you mean the Shadowed One.

Teridax: Neither. It’s a different threat altogether.

Takanuva: Do you even know who it is?

Teridax: *sigh* No.

*********************************************************

The Unknown and her team had just fought through about two thousand Bohrok, and they were still coming. However, they had stopped going for melee combat, and were instead attacking from long range. Good thing the Bone Hunters were such skilled warriors.

They had barricaded themselves in a room filled with what Tyrant calls Vahki.

Unknown: Could you hurry up with that? We need those monsters active now.

Tyrant: Patience, these things aren’t your average computer, like your rocket. Besides, you can get out of here whenever you want.

Unknown: But I’d rather finish the Toa as quick as possible. And that won’t be possible without you lot.

Bone Hunter: They just took out two of us. Master, if your armor can withstand their fire, can you hold them off?

Unknown: I have no ranged weapons. And I can’t hold your puny Thornax launchers.

Tyrant: We’re going to have to fix that.

Unknown: After you’ve taken care of these things.

Tyrant: Alright!

Unknown: Why are you backing away from it?!?

Tyrant: It’s done.

The Vahki began moving. It then made strange clicking noices, and all the other Vahki activated. They then began charging the Bohrok, and the Bohrok retreated.

Tyrant: There. Thirty Vahki reactivated. A few thousand left.

Unknown: Good job, Tyrant.

After a few hours, running into resisting Bohrok, they had activated about half of the Vahki, who were now gathering the Rahkshi. The Bone Hunters had gone to check on the work, while Tyrant and the Unknown went in separate directions to search the place.

The Unknown was travelling down a hall in the 89^th floor, when she came upon a dark, empty hall. As she stared down it, she felt a chill run down her spine, but also a feeling, like someone was calling to her. She slowly walked into the hall.

**************************************************

Teridax: I must go now. Please, head my warning, and let me know when you find out who it is. I must go now.

Teridax reached his hand behind a pillar, and melted into the shadow.

Vakama: Call the rest of the council.

**********************************************************

The Unknown looked back and forth as she came upon each empty room. But then she came upon one with a dim, red glow. Curious, she walked in, unaware of the two eyes staring at her from the shadows.

Male: Hello, child.

***********************************************************

Vakama: The Teridax that Mazeka brought to this universe just paid us a visit. Apparently, we have another threat upon us. But he says that it is one that we’ve faced before.

Gali: It could be the Dark Hunters. They are growing an army, as we speak.

Jaller: Teridax made it clear that it is not them. Even so, he doesn’t know who it is.

Nokama: So who is it?

Vakama: Takanuva… what was it Teridax said about obstructions?

Takanuva: “There is still an obstruction. The shadow is not yet gone.”

Gaaki: Well, he is wearing the Mask of Shadows.

Vakama: But he controls literal shadows. He means figuratively. But who?

********************************************************

Unknown: Who are you?

Male: I am the cold. I am the stench. I am the whispers in the caves. I am the shadows on the wall. I am the hand of Death.

A figure suddenly appeared like vapor in the door way behind her.

Shadow: I am your nightmare.

The Unknown stared at the figure.

Unknown: You’re the figure from my dreams!

Shadow: I am.

Unknown: Well, it is a pleasure to finally meet you. But who are you?

The shadow chuckled.

*******************************************************

Vakama: What do we know about this… threat?

There were some whispering, but no one answered.

Vakama: It’s a shadow. That leaves the Dark Hunters, and the Makuta. Teridax directly said that it isn’t the Dark Hunters, so that leaves the Makuta.

Nokama: But we know for a fact that all the Makuta were killed by the other Teridax.

Vakama: Indeed. So, a shadow? A shadow of one of the Makuta? Of one of the most dangerous?

Jaller: And that is?

But Vakama had gone silent. Immediately, everyone knew who it was they were facing.

******************************************

Unknown: I demand: Who are you?!?

Shadow: Teridax.

Suddenly, the shadow grew to match her height.

Shadow: My name is… Teridax.

Bionicle: The Return - Chapter 4: Memories

Female: Trisa! Wait up, honey!

A little girl was running across a field on the planet of Orbala, near the Allied Countries’ command center. Calling out to her was her mother. The grass was a bright red, and the summer sun was up in the sky. Hidden in the grass were bright green and yellow flowers of many kinds.

Trisa’s father was in a meeting with the Representatives of every Allied country. Apparently one of the other nations is threatening nuclear war, whatever that is. Trisa’s mother stayed to watch over her as the meeting was in session, and they planned on going to the park afterwards.

Mother: Trisa, five more minutes.

Trisa: Yes, mother.

Trisa had been gathering her mother’s favorite flowers. She was planning on making the best bouquet that her mother has ever seen.

Fifteen flowers later, her mother called her back. But before she turned around, she noticed someone standing about thirty yards away. As she stared at him, he seemed to grow bigger in size. A shadow seemed to reach out to her. He beckoned to her, as if wanting her to come to him. But she felt as if a shadow had blocked out all of the sun’s light.

Mother: Trisa, come on now, time to go. Trisa? Trisa!

Again, the figure beckoned to her. Suddenly, the scene changed. Around her was a wasted land, decaying from radiation and erosion. There was no life to be seen, no breath heard but her own. Suddenly, the figure stepped out of the shadows, and slowly began to walk to her. She couldn’t explain it, but she suddenly felt as if a sword that had been frozen for years had pierced her chest. She couldn’t move, and the figure continued to step closer to her. And closer. And closer.

Suddenly, he reached out his hand and grabbed her heart.

***********************

Unknown: ARRRRRH!

She sat up as fast as she could, shaking the ground and crushing the trees next to her. She sat there, panting, and then stood up and walked out of the woods.

The dreams have been more frequent. She keeps on seeing what the past was like, but with a slight change: the Shadow.

She has no other way to describe it. It doesn’t seem to be Orbalan, or even made by the Great Beings. But its presence is indeed cold.

What is it? And what does it want?

***********************************

After Takanuva had left to go find Pohatu, Vakama told Tahu to lead a research party, with a militia of thirty Glatorian and Toa, to go study the crash site. After much gruesome traveling, they eventually made it, with no sign of the Unknown.

The crater was about a mile wide, and melted, torn, burnt metal was all over.

Tahu: Look at this! This thing must’ve been huge.

Gali: I don’t think I’ll consider anything huge until I see something bigger than the Titans.

Lesovikk: Mata Nui and Teridax sure were a sight to behold. But, I must agree with Tahu. Whatever this was, it was much bigger than us. Probably thousands of times bigger.

Suddenly a figure came up out of the wreck.

Hewkii: About time! What have you guys been doing, chasing Bohrok?!

Tahu: Worse.

Hewkii: Rahkshi?

Gali: You don’t want to know.

Hewkii stood there as the research crew moved in. Evidently, he couldn’t picture a worse threat then Rahkshi after so many years.

Tahu: Have you had any luck by yourself?

Hewkii: This alloy is not like anything I’ve ever seen before. It withstood every gravitational force I did on it, even a micro black hole. But it is so light weight, it’s like aluminum.

The research leader came up.

Researcher: He’s right. This material is not like anything on Spherus Magna. But, we did find an air tank.

Tahu: What kind of air?

Researcher: Same kind as what is here on Spherus Magna. However, our electric researcher, Toa Klahda, detected a mysterious energy reading. He had us pull back, so it doesn’t affect us, but he is absorbing it for a bit of research.

Tahu: Tell him to be careful.

The researcher went back to the wreckage. Hewkii looked at Tahu.

Hewkii: Whatever this threat is, are there more?

Tahu shook his head.

Tahu: Not as far as we know. Besides, I don’t think that is why this vehicle was so huge.

Hewkii: What do you think?

Tahu: I think… that it came from another world. One far away.

Hewkii: That’s absurd.

Tahu: The Glatorian used to think so. Then Mata Nui came, and proved them wrong.

Hewkii: But we came from here.

Tahu: And we travelled across the universes. Couldn’t we have passed another species?

Hewkii looked at the ground as he contemplated over Tahu’s words. He wouldn’t answer.

******************************************************************

Two Skrall were standing in front of a tunnel entrance in the side of a mountain, far away from the Toa. Inside, they could here explosions, and clanging echoed throughout the tunnels.

Suddenly, a sound was made that did not match. The crunch of stone… in front of them.

Skrall guard 1: Who’s there? Show yourself!

Suddenly, a large figure jumped down from above them, and unarmed them. Just as quickly, it jumped back, and stood staring at them.

Titan (female): Here I am.

Skrall guard 2: Who are you, and what do you want?

Titan: What I want is to meet your leader. Who I am… well, that is a good question. One which I am… unable to give to you. But, you may call me the Unknown.

One of the Skrall went inside, while the other stood watch over her. He knew he would be no match for her, and yet she stood there. She definitely had the strength and speed to kill him, maybe even a hundred Skrall. And that whip looks like it is strong enough to destroy anything.

Suddenly, the “whip” swung to the side. The Skrall froze in place, as his companion came back out.

Skrall guard 1: The Shadowed one will see you now.

As the Unknown walked in, the second Skrall couldn’t help but look at the tail.

****************************************************************************

Unknown: So, will you fight alongside me?

The Unknown had just offered the Shadowed One a chance to fight with her against the Toa, and declare war on the Great Beings. The Shadowed one was sitting on his throne, stroking his chin.

Shadowed One: We would need time to consider your offer. After all, we can’t just rush in to every offer we get. What’s in it for us?

Unknown: Spherus Magna.

Shadowed: A large reward. And a larger claim. Can you back it up?

The Unknown stood up, and took out her sword. All the Dark Hunters drew their weapons, but the Shadowed One waved them down. As they lowered their weapons, the Unknown swung her weapon through a Maxilos. Suddenly, its power died down, and a dark substances covered it from the chest to the rest of the body. What she failed to notice was that the Shadowed One clenched his hands hard when she did this.

Unknown: Well?

Shadowed: Impressive. But, as I said, we must think this over. Silencer, could you lead our guest outside to wait for our word.

A Dark Hunter came out, and beckoned her to follow him. The Shadowed One watched until the doors closed.

Shadowed: You’re right. She has come to destroy us.

A figure stepped out of the shadows.

Angonce: But not immediately. She doesn’t see you as a threat, as you are considered an enemy of the Toa. But it is my people that she is here for.

Shadowed: You Great Beings definitely got yourselves in a fix.

Angonce: What are you going to do?

Shadowed: You are now considered as our greatest friend. We won’t turn you in.

Angonce: So you’ll listen to me?

Shadowed: I never thought your stories of another world were real. I thought you were exaggerating, that the Orbalans were here, on Spherus Magna. I agreed with you that we must prepare for their coming. But this I did not expect. One lone warrior, with power greater than any Toa that ever existed.

Angonce: So?

Shadowed: Yes, we’ll do as you say. But we mustn’t show our true colors, yet. She’s too powerful.

Angonce: Understood.

Angonce then walked back to the shadows he was hiding in. The Shadowed one nodded, and the doors were opened again. The Unknown walked in, with Silencer behind her.

Unknown: Well?

Shadowed: I appreciate your offer, but I’m afraid we must decline. We have no… major fude with the Toa.

Unknown: But what about power? Conquest?

Shadowed: We don’t seek either of those. However, if you do well, we… might reconsider your offer.

Unknown: As you wish.

She then walked out of the cavern, and out of the mountain.

******************************************************************

The Unknown was a few miles away from the mountain when she looked back. She had a feeling that they knew she wouldn’t keep her side of the deal. But, she would deal with them later.

Male: So, I take it the meeting didn’t go well.

The Unknown drew her weapon, and stabbed, only to solidify a tied up Agori prisoner.

Male: Hey! That was my cook!

The Unknown looked to her left to see a figure trying to start a fire.

Male: A nice bit of Graalok, and now no one to cook it for me. Well, it’s burnt Graalok for dinner.

Unknown: And who might you be?

Male: People call me Tyrant.

Tyrant picked up a chunck of meat, and placed it over the fire.

Unknown: What do you want?

Tyrant smiled.

Tyrant: Why, revenge. The Shadowed One had my team try to kill me for attempting to take his place as leader. But, I escaped. Now, I ask you: You want an army?

The Unknown smiled a colder smile.

Unknown: You got one?

Tyrant: No, but I know where we can start.

The Unknown sat down next to him.

Unknown: Never had Graalok before. Can I have some?

Tyrant: The rest is behind that sand hill… master.