It was late evening by the time the travelers emerged from the underground road. Their new steeds showed no signs of being tired despite moving as fast as they could for the last hour. The Ussal crabs would trudge on steadfastly for as long as their riders wished.

The weather was calm with a golden sky nearing sunset, though there were heavy rain clouds on the horizon. Thick white mist shrouded the view of some snow-covered areas in the mountains to the north, bearing a promise of impending snowfall as well. A chilly breeze gave the Matoran respite from the dim and confined caverns.

The tunnel's exit was marked by a large carved rock sculpture displaying a Matoran's unmasked face. Similar to the entrance tunnel in the jungle, the sculpture's back bore tally marks noting the sighting of Rahi in the area. There seemed to be many today.

Passing by the road marker revealed an inscription on the front:
'To those who delve the depths: Well met and safe travel'



To the side of the road sat a domed hut serving as a watchman's shelter. The door was open but no one looked to be in.

The road went on for some hundred meters more before splitting. To the south it went gently downhill towards the distant coastline, to the north it led higher between the slopes of the mountains and out of sight, though surely it would go past the glacier as the Turaga had mentioned, and eventually lead to the mountain's peak.

Near the crossroads stood a motionless black figure. It was hard to notice at first, for it blended in with the sharp shadows cast by the road markers next to it, but given a few seconds to focus its silhouette was unmistakably that of a large bipedal being, bulky and hunched over, with an unnatural body shape that matched no known species.

It looked to the Matoran as if they wished to continue down this road, they may have to pass by it.

In the sky above, a lone bird of great size circled slowly.


What do you do?

---

Welcome to a new chapter of your journey!

* You have reached the surface after spending a day underground. It is now late evening, and there's bad weather on the horizon.
* Next to the road there is an empty hut where you may find shelter, though its inhabitant is nowhere to be seen.
* A being is waiting for you at the crossroads. Perhaps you have an inkling who they are already?

In reply to Game Master (msg # 1):

Lutorian pulled the Ussal Crab to a stop, peering at the figure ahead of this, attempting to discern what it was, "This does not bode well," He spoke softly to his companion.

Tameku also reined in his Ussal, squinting at the being ahead.

"Doesn't look like one of the Dark Hunters - or any species I'm familiar with", he muttered, "Do you think it could be ...? He did say he'd meet us outside and also mentioned he was looking for a better body."

"Um, hello?", Tameku ventured, loud enough for the strange being to hear.

As soon as they called out to it, the black figure turned its head to look in their direction. The shadow melted away into its surroundings, and a moment later the tall being appeared beside them, showing no signs of having moved its body at all.

"Well met," said the now familiar voice of the Makuta. He was looking down on the two Matoran with a face bearing a single red eye. "Don't be frightened. My spirit is freed and my form has changed, but I remain the same."

Changed was perhaps an understatement. Gone was the mining robot originally used as a vessel; only a few plates from its body and the lone eye on its head were still recognizable. The Makuta's new body appeared to be cobbled together from the bodies of many Rahi, a haphazard mix of parts where raw materials had been taken and integrated wherever they fit.

Though taller and clearly strengthened, this form was still a far cry from the titanic armor they had seen lying on the floor in the underground chamber several hours ago. The torso was far less bulky, and the limbs looked weaker. The head showed signs of unsettling Rahi fangs whenever the mouth moved, and the entire armor had already rusted a little at the seams.

"Hunting what I needed took longer than I had hoped, though it was well worth the time," the Makuta continued. "I arrived here only a few minutes ago."

"Have you decided what path you will take from here?"

Tameku couldn't help but recoil a bit from the strange appearance of the Makuta. He wished he'd at least wear a mask. Still, he tried not to let his uneasiness show.

"We're planning to catch up to the researchers heading to the Storm Temple to fulfill our mission", Tameku explained, "After that we are planning to visit the glacier village as the Turaga there could know a thing or two about the elemental artifacts and how to safely carry them. Then we'll have to decide what is best for Rangi Motu - the elements need to be calmed. Unfortunately the Dark Hunters already have one of the artifacts safely on their ship and I see no way in which we could realistically get it back. I was thinking that maybe we could head for one of the harbors of this island and alongside sending word of the status of the researchers send a message to call some Toa for help."

"But now that you're strengthened again you can at least rein in the storms, right?", Tameku asked hopefully, with a worried glance at the bad weather ahead.

"A good plan. Though bringing Toa from elsewhere may not be necessary, if you can fill the part. I wish you luck."

The Makuta gazed skywards. "... This storm will be rough. I shall see what I can do. My power has not yet fully awakened from its long slumber."

He looked from the rolling clouds to the circling bird high above, before turning towards the shoreline. "The artifact must not be allowed to leave. I will attempt to locate the Dark Hunter ship. Your people have already shown themselves capable of handling two of the thieves; if they bring their strength in numbers, I am sure they can at least make sure it stays landlocked."

"Good luck to you, too, then. Will you be able to tell us where the Dark Hunter ship is once you've located it?"

"By the way, I've told Turaga Zuhras to keep the passage leading to the Earth Artifact open for at least a little while, in case we'd have needed to return for it right away. If there's something of yours left down there you might be able to reclaim it if you're quick." Tameku hesitated, then continued: "But the main reason I'm telling you this is because maybe you can figure out something additional to secure the Earth artifact or maybe rein in its power enough to prevent it causing more earthquakes?"

"Also do you have any idea where the guard might have gone?", Tameku asked, pointing at the empty hut, "I hope the Dark Hunters didn't get to them."

The makuta’s new form unsettled Lutorian deeply, he had expected him to take control of a Rahi as a vessel, but this, felt twisted to the Matoran. He remained silent as Tameku and the Makuta conversed, fixated on the unnatural and unnerving movement of the amalgamation of Rahi in front of him.

The Makuta had for a moment seemed distant, distracted by his own inscrutable thoughts, but he reacted to the mention of the Earth Artifact with clear interest.

"The Turaga should have known I would be the only one who could keep this island safe perpetually," he said, with a hint of fury. "Opposing me was short-sighted. He seeks to lock the artifact away in what he thinks is my tomb, as if that will keep his troubles at bay. Let the black stone shake his spirit; I will retrieve it from the rubble. I have more immediate concerns. If I find the ship, you will know."

The tall being turned to leave, but suddenly contorted oddly for a moment before pulling on the face-plate of his new armor. The metal shifted as if soft and malleable, with the most crooked and excessive parts melting away to gather in the being's palm. When this matter settled and turned rigid once more, the Makuta grunted, clearly annoyed, and tossed the scraps away with a flick of his arm. They landed somewhere off to the side of the road.

"Look what they have reduced me to, he muttered offhandedly. "Scavenged parts that need to be broken in."

With that, the Makuta took the path leading south from the crossroads, heading for the ocean. If he knew anything of the guardsman, he didn't care to say.

---

* The Makuta is leaving, for better or worse.
* The great bird is circling far overhead.
* Right here: Crossroads, guard hut, decent lookout point and campsite.
* You still have your crab mounts in tip-top shape.

• North: Mountain road.
• South: To shoreline.
• West: Back to Parau Koro, through the tunnel.

What will you do?

Tameku watched the Makuta go, then looked up at the clouds on the horizon again before settling his gaze on the circling bird.

"Any idea what kind of Rahi that is?", he asked Lutorian.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 9):

Lutorian peered up at the bird, straining his eyes to try to identify it's shape.

GM roll what you'd feel right, my profession is Rahi expert and i have a rahi reasercher skill, but this Rahi is quite far away.

The Rahi was flying high, that was true, but it was nonetheless the unmistakable shape of a riding bird. It looked like its owner was slowly circling in search of something too. Lutorian knew flashing it with reflected sunlight would catch the attention of its rider. On the other hand, even on an open road it could be hard to spot a couple of travelers like themselves, meaning it would be easy enough to lay low and stay hidden by going a little bit off the beaten path.

---

07:22, Today: Game Master, on behalf of Lutorian, rolled 6 using 3d6, keeping the highest dice only ((2,5,6)) Result: "Yes, and" you know how to reach it or avoid it, should you feel like it.

"It's a Matoran wind-rider, I don't think it's the guard of this exit, Onu-matoran don't like sun-soaring. I can signal them down here if you wish." Lutorian explained quickly.

"Hm... we could potentially ask them if they've seen the archeologists, on the other hand, if the researchers are already in the mountains, that's probably unlikely. I don't think we should bother the rider unless we have a good reason to do so."

"Let me take a quick look into that guard's hut, maybe there's something there indicating where he's gone. If not we best continue on."

Tameku approached the entrance of the hut and threw a glance inside.

Inside the hut there is little of interest, though the shelves are stocked with written tablets recording travelers. On the table lies the most recent list, where you spot someone who's likely to be one of the Dark Hunters at the end: "Khymada, vortixx, with party."

Next to the door on the inside you find a few pieces of armor belonging to a Matoran. Odd that he would keep a spare face plate. Those are typically never replaced and can't really be repurposed into anything else useful either.

Tameku checked if the list also contained times or dates, as well as in which direction the last group went. He hoped it was towards Parau Koro and some time ago.

Tameku then gave the room a closer, yet still brief, survey, in the hopes of maybe detecting something that could give a hint at where the guard might have gone or if something happened to them.

Skills used: Observation
Tameku rolled 6 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 6,3.  Survey of the guardpost.

The passage was recorded this day, at a time when you had not yet arrived in the underground village. It appears this vortixx left Parau Koro before the conflict in the mine occurred.

You find nothing special in the hut, though you get the notion that this lack of anything notable may itself hold meaning. There are no weapons to be found, no tools for fitting or repairing armor, no Ussal steed to carry the guard back to Parau Koro in case of an emergency. In fact all the metal pieces look a bit rusted, meaning it must be old, or corroded by other means.

Yet records show someone was present here earlier.

"Hm... this is strange", Tameku muttered, "But we don't have the time for solving riddles at the moment. You ready to ride on, Lutorian?"

Lutorian
* If you decide it's time to move on, you may continue from a mountain pass approaching the glacier. Also choose a person to meet: Stranger, ally, enemy.
* Regardless of choice, I will also add an encounter roll for the journey.

In reply to Tameku (msg # 18):

“Yes, ever-quick” Lutorian said as he snapped out of a daze, he had been staring off in the direction the Makuta has left in “although I suppose Ussal Crabs aren’t very “ever-quick” are they?” He said poking fun of his tree speak.

Well if we’re goinf to pick might as well be a friend.

Time crawled on, and the dark clouds from the horizon crept ever closer to the shoreline. Heavy rainfall was visible above the ocean, and the breeze was picking up, but just as it seemed inevitable that the storm would begin in earnest, the skies appeared to split. Clouds swirled unnaturally and diverted their course away from the island, taking a wide path around it. The weather remained calm, even as the ocean frothed and thunder rumbled in the distance.

The road ahead was worn flat by constant travel and therefore easy to follow. The crabs trotted on, carrying the Matoran towards their destination.



In a valley at the foot of the glacier they spotted a hewed stone wall with an opening in the center serving as a gate to what lay in wait beyond. It was mostly a decorative structure, guiding wanderers to the temple grounds they had heard about. It was here, then, that the Matoran researchers had looked for the true purpose of the elemental artifacts.

To the north the valley was entirely covered in ice. One could see where the dirt path ended and the wide glacier began. A watchpost carrying a bright red flag was barely visible near the top of the first ridge.

***

Lutorian was the first to notice two beings walking side-by-side on the road in front of them. Tameku's keen eye quickly confirmed that they were a Po-Matoran and his beast of burden: a Mahi.

Thanks to their tireless Ussal they were quickly catching up, but before they could reach the traveler, Velike - always on guard - spotted a burrow beside the road which the stranger had not seen. There sat a currently calm but potentially dangerous creature: a Lightning Bug. If excited it would glow and zap its foe with electrical shocks. Sticking out of its burrow were several shiny metal objects, likely gathered for their conductivity. Something useful, perhaps?


What do you do?

---

Everyone
* The storm has split and is blowing past the island.
* The sun is hanging very low now, and it's getting dark. Night will come soon.
* A Po-Matoran stranger with his Mahi is traveling in the same direction as you.
* A Lightning Bug's burrow near the road contains several metal items which may be of value.

Lutorian
[Tracking]: Vortixx footprints mix with Matoran prints and pointed dots reminiscent of Nektann. They were headed for the ice.
[Wilderness survival]: No way unprepared Matoran could make the entire climb in one day.
[Rahi researcher]: With your mounts you likely have free reign of both the valley and the mountain slopes, and can take your sweet time exploring while still being able to catch up to them later.

Tameku
[Merchant]: The stranger is not transporting any wares. A pilgrim to the elemental temple, perhaps?
[Observation]: He does not appear to notice anything around him, including you.

Velike
[Guard]: The Rahi would likely be agitated if you approached its home, but like any defender it's unlikely to chase you far away from it.
[Survival skills]: Night will be especially cold in this region.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 21):

"Traveller! Be wary! It seems a Lightning worm has placed it's burrow alongside the road!" Velike called out to the Po-Matoran, one hand cupped against his mouth, and the other unsheathing his spear, and pointing it towards the burrow.

"It will not take kindly to your beast disturbing it, but fortunately it is not one commonly known to seek violence beyond that needed to protect of it's den!"
This message was last edited by the player at 20:25, Wed 06 May 2020.

The Po-Matoran started a little at Velike's cry. He turned to look at whoever was following him, then in the direction of the Rahi that was indicated.

"Oh, I see, I see," he said and drew the Mahi gently to the opposite side of the road so as to give a wide berth to the Lightning Bug. "Thank you, I was lost in thought and almost stepped right in it."

Now that the Po-Matoran was facing them, the trio could tell that he was wearing an ornate Kanohi Calix with a strong copper hue. It looked newly minted and contrasted with the rest of his body, which was traditional brown and sand yellow.

"I was not expecting strangers to join me in my lonesome walk. Are we here for the same purpose, perhaps?"

"Depends", Tameku replied, "Are you also heading for the temple?"

While approaching the Po-Matoran, Tameku tried to get a better look at whatever the Lightning Bug had in its burrow while keeping as much distance as possible to the Rahi.

Almost automatically he was also trying to size up the value and potential origin of the Matoran's mask.

Skills used: Observation
Tameku rolled 6 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 6,3.  Trying to catch a better glimpse into Lightning Bug burrow.

Skills used: Observation, Judging Craftsmanship, Merchant
Tameku rolled 3 using 4d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 3,2,2,3.  Sizing up the Po-Matoran's mask.

"I am. I have walked far to find my destiny. Do you seek yours as well?"

You get the impression he has spent the journey on two feet, for his Mahi does not look capable of carrying him.

Tameku
* You spot a coil of metal wire with a handful of widgets nested inside at the edge of the burrow. Half buried in the dirt is a technological device - a meter of some kind.
* The copper color marks it as one of the masks traditionally awarded to winners of Matoran games, but the added lines and patterns hint at greater importance than this. Its value: certainly higher than a regular mask, but realistically it would only sell as a collector's item.

This message was last edited by the GM at 12:25, Thu 07 May 2020.

"Isn't every step we take a step towards finding our destiny?", Tameku solemnly cited what he once heard a Turaga say, "But I fear it's not this particular goal alone that brings us here this time. We're actually in search of a few Matoran who we heard went to the temple. You didn't happen to see anyone else, did you?"

To Lutorian Tameku said: "That Lightning Bug's burrow looks interesting. Any idea how to get at the items in there without angering the inhabitant? I still have one of those jungle fruit the Gafna in the jungle found so irressistible...?"
This message was last edited by the player at 14:47, Thu 07 May 2020.

Skills used: Rahi expert, Rahi researcher
Lutorian rolled 3 using 3d6, keeping the highest dice only 2,3,2

"I'm not too familiar with this species, bug Rahi aren't food-picky, let me try" Lutorian responded to Tameku, quite frankly, he was excited for the opportunity to get zapped by it either way.

"You are wiser than most. Indeed, the temple is my destination, but the journey to get there deepens the purpose of the visit."

The Matoran cocked his head ever so slightly, appearing interested in Velike's appearance while still conversing with Tameku. "These pilgrims you speak of, are they friends of yours? One wore designs much like our armored companion here. I met with them only in passing. The Matoran avoided my gaze and did not speak. The Vortixx was quite rude. It was sadly clear I would not be having any stimulating spiritual discussions with them.


Lutorian
Given it's simple-minded nature, it should be possible to lure the bug away using pretty much any conductive metal object, but this means it will get close.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:24, Mon 11 May 2020.

"A Vortixx was with them!?", Tameku repeated, trading worried glances with his companions. "Our friends are all Matoran. A Vortixx accompanying them likely means trouble... From what we know the Vortixx in question might even be a Dark Hunter. Parau Koro recently had problems with some of those and we heard one of their group was a Vortixx who set out on their own."

"Were it only the Matoran and a Vortixx, or did they also have one of these four-legged robots with them? How was the Vortixx equipped? How long since they passed you? And they were also headed for the temple?"

The Po-Matoran shrugged slowly and answered in an uncertain tone: "We met on this path about two hours back. They must have already been at the temple, and were on their way back. If you did not meet they must have climbed the glacier - I believe that should have taken them just beyond the visible ridge by now."

"There was a robot with four legs, yes, faithfully following one of the Matoran around like my Mahi follows me. The Vortixx walked with a staff of some kind, and carried little else that I could see. There was a Ta- and Ga-Matoran who looked better armored, both with blades at their side."

He smiled in a friendly manner. "They were quiet and reserved, but no one were being led along by force, if that's what you are asking. And if they were truly hunters of darkness, there should only be light to find at the temple."
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:54, Mon 11 May 2020.

Tameku mulled this information over in his head for a moment.

"Would you reckon that Vortixx and her companions will still make it to the glacier village today?", Tameku asked the Po-Matoran, "And how safe is it to travel up to the village at night? Can Ussal handle that?

To Velike and Lutorian he said: "Despite what we've heard I'd like to take a look at that temple just in case. It's probably save to assume that that Vortixx and her companions - if they are indeed the researchers we're seeking - are heading for the glacier village and will spend the night there. So as long as we make it there before daybreak we shouldn't miss them."

The traveler shook his head. "That group won't make it before nightfall. Only a Ko-Matoran already familiar with the climb could manage that trip in the dark, given slippery paths and freezing wind. They should find shelter and make camp, then continue in the morning."

"I don't know about your Ussal. Riding them you could climb even the steepest ice wall without worry, but the sheer cold may still chill you to the bone. If you try, make sure you bring a source of heat, and find a pass where the wind is not howling through."

"Even better", Tameku said. "And how far is it to the temple still? Can we reach it before nightfall on our Ussal?"

In reply to Game Master (msg # 28):

"I..." Velike had begun to say, before pausing as a flare of... emotion of some kind flashed through his eyes and he asked, "Armour with designs like my own? A-are you certain? Did-did it perhaps look to have some  form of... reference to time on it? Something as simple as a circle of numbers as a design, or more complex like a piece of armour with a piece similar to a sun dial attached to it?" with a tone almost desperate sounding.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:20, Wed 13 May 2020.

The Po-Matoran with the odd mask bowed his head gently in response to Velike's inquiry. "I am certain, my friend. The armor bore the design of a sun dial upon the breastplate, with strange mechanical functions that I had never seen before today. No artisan in my tribe makes such designs, but I recognized their distinct style the moment I laid eyes upon you."

"Perhaps it is destiny that you two shall meet. If that is the case, there is no need to hurry, for Mata Nui will see to it that you cross paths when the time is right."

He turned his face towards Tameku again. "It should not be much further now. Your crab steeds could reach the temple grounds in minutes, I imagine. You may go ahead if you wish, I don't mind taking my time."


What will you do?

---

Velike
[Myth knowledge (time-based)]: You can confirm that the Matoran of whom he speaks is indeed a member of your lost tribe, or at least someone who has witnessed their designs in the past.

Tameku turned to his two companions. "Guess it's time for a vote then. I propose we go to the temple first and get a quick look around, then double back and set up our camp for the night near the bottom of the path leading up the glacier. That way we should be capable of catching up to the Vortixx and her companions without problem tomorrow. While the chance is slim, keep also in mind that the Matoran with the Vortixx might not be the ones we seek and they might still be at the temple."

"Anyone against that course of action?"

In reply to Game Master (msg # 35):

"Th-there's another survivor." Velike choked out, his usual stoic countenance practically shattering in the wake of sheer, joyful relief that lit across his face as the Po-Matoran confirmed his suspicions. The surprise and relief seemed to nearly bring him to collapse as he suddenly slumped atop his Ussal, barely catching himself with his free arm, while the grip on his spear from the other visibly slackened.

"I-I-y-yes. Yes of course. The mission must come first. I-I have no objections to your plan, Tameku." Velike replied as he realized Tameku had spoken, quickly attempting to recover from his display of emotion as he pushed himself upright, straightening his posture, and gave a quick shake of his head as he tried to set his expression back into its usual stoicness.
(Though with even just a quick look it would be clear he'd far from succeeded in steeling his emotions. From his eyes to the slight shuddering of his jaw, his expression was far more emotional than usual.)
This message was last edited by the player at 18:22, Thu 14 May 2020.

Lutorian had wandered off from the group, distracted by the lightning bug, he attempts to lure it away from its den by using the head of his grappling hook as bait and the rope attached to it to keep his distance, "just like a Muaka and a rope right?" he muttered to himself.

Velike
"Survivor?" The traveling Matoran reacted with curiosity. "Long-lost brethren, then. I'm sorry - if I had known, I would have asked them to look for you as well."


Lutorian
The Rahi became alerted to the metal, eyes glinting, while its antenna twitched for a moment before it leapt forwards, gliding on buzzing wings to land in front of Lutorian's hook. Once there it chittered to itself whilst running feeling legs over the object. Electric current appeared to flow freely at the contact points.

The lightning bug's burrow was left unguarded while it appreciated the new treasure.

---

You have an opening.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 39):

"Nay. Nay. There is no need for you to regret the past. Just to know that another from my island survived that beast's attack, much less that they are so close by, is more than enough, my friend." Velike replied, letting a relieved, thankful smile slip onto his face as he gave the Po-Matoran a grateful look.

"Besides, it's as you said, Destiny shall guide us to when Time has us meet again."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:10, Thu 21 May 2020.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 39):

Lutorian cautiously moves towards the burrow to investigate its contents.

Lutorian
You can easily pick up the metal wire and a fistful of widgets - 36 widgets, to be precise.

By brushing aside some dirt you are also able to retrieve the meter tool. This technological device has several visible features:
* On the left side, a scope attached by a retractable wire next to a semi-circular gauge. It is unlabeled.
* In the middle, a central compass dial spins and is currently pointing roughly in the direction of the road you are traveling on.
* Barometers along the right side display air pressure indicating weather, altitude, and depth.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 42):

Lutorian leaves behind the wire and the widgets, but takes the tool, "just need to borrow this little friend, hope you don't mind" he said to himself softly, then he scatters 5 widgets towards the bug in order to distract it and retake his grappling hook, "Here's your fair trade little friend" he said with a small smile.

(Lutorian is ready to move on to the temple)

"So, everyone ready to get going again?", Tameku asked his friends after a sideways glance in Lutorian's direction.

"We'll probably see each other again, soon", he told the Po-Matoran, "But the three of us need to hurry on. May Mata Nui keep you safe on your chosen path."

After saying goodbye to the traveler, Tameku, Lutorian, and Velike continued down the wide valley road at the foot of the mountain. Only a few minutes later, having already lost sight of what lay behind them past a slight incline, the Matoran followed a curve in the road towards a narrower pass.

Lutorian's new device had begun making a faint ticking noise, which grew more rapid the closer they got to the temple. The leftmost meter's needle shivered near the bottom of the scale.

Just as the sun vanished fully beneath the horizon, they arrived at their destination: The Temple of the Elements. In the pass stood a grand stone gate very much like the one they had gone through earlier, and beyond it lay the temple grounds.

A flat stone floor was laid out in the center, surrounding a traditional statue of Mata Nui, the Great Spirit. Furrows were laid into the stone floor, each line beginning at the statue and flowing to a different part of the temple or adjacent areas. The base of the statue was raised a foot off the ground and adorned with a ring depicting the symbols of the elements.

Atop the base of the statue stood several small figurines depicting various beings of different species. There was no ceiling, allowing a clear view of the night sky. High above the red star shone brightly.

Encircling this area was a stone wall which isolated the temple from its natural surroundings. Wide square pillars divided the floor into natural sections. Each pillar appeared to hold something of interest: carvings, display pieces, sconces, and perhaps more.

The holy grounds were built from smooth chiseled stone slabs and felt ancient, covered as they were in thin cracks and dry vines obscuring old carvings and murals from the earliest known times in Matoran history. A few had been recently brushed clean of dust and growths. At least one mural wall also had an alcove set into it. The back wall of the alcove was marked with the elemental symbol of ice.

Open archways served as doors through the wall to adjacent parts of the temple grounds. These areas weren't as large as the central area, but still looked to hold more of the same features.


You have arrived a the temple. What do you do?


Lutorian
Your meter is reacting to something in the area.
[Tracking]: Someone have clearly been here recently, and have cleaned the vines off a select few things only. Based on tracks in the dust, the figurines have been moved around.

Tameku
[Observation]: At least one pillar has a furrow running up its side to the top of the pillar, and at least one furrow passes through a door out of sight.

Velike
[Myth knowledge (time-based)]: The ring of symbols includes even the more uncommon ones - light, shadow, and time. All of the symbols look like ornamental designs, not the simplified ones generally used.

Tameku climbed down from his Ussal, appraising the architecture. "Maybe not quite as grand as the Great Temple in Metru Nui, but impressive nontheless. We should look around for any signs of people or recent activity."

"What's that ticking noise, Lutorian? Any idea what that device is trying to tell us?"

Tameku let his gaze wander across the carvings, murals and other items displayed in the temple, in case something might stick out to him in some way. He also strained his audio receptors to maybe make out sounds caused by activity somewhere else in the complex.

Skills used: Observation, Judging Craftsmanship
Tameku rolled 6 using 3d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 3,6,4.  Scanning stuff on display.

Skills used: -
Tameku rolled 2 using 1d6 with rolls of 2.  Listening.

One of the cleared murals showed Tameku three tall, bipedal beings with cloaks around them standing above six Matoran atop the shape of a mountain. Zig-zagging lightning was drawn from behind the three tall beings and down into each Matoran. Encircling this pictogram was another ring of elemental symbols.

Another nearby mural depicted a Matoran carrying an oval statuette with the simplified face of Mata Nui upon it. The Matoran had rays emanating like a halo from its mask. Upon closer inspection, many surfaces in the temple held similar statuettes, though they varied in style and craftsmanship, and just as many were of different designs.

One stood out from the rest: a large white totem of a Muaka resting upon its hind legs. It was easily visible in the dark thanks to its color, and laid sideways on the floor beneath the alcove bearing the symbol for ice.

In between the murals stood a slate with Matoran writing:

"United in duty, you fulfill your destiny. To those who carry out the Great Spirit's will, we bestow upon you our blessing."


Tameku
You find a mural referring to the temple's purpose, and a potentially special totem.

Between a stiff breeze and the intermittent sounds of various nocturnal birds, you are unable to make out any specific sounds.

Tameku looked for any clues on why the Muaka totem might be lying on the floor. At the same time, he racked his brains for if he had ever heard a legend that might fit the murals. He figured the stone the Matoran was holding could be a Toa Stone - he had heard of those, but never actually seen one - but otherwise...

"Hey Velike!", Tameku called over to the Ta-Matoran, "Any idea what exactly those murals might depict?"

Skills used: Observation
Tameku rolled 4 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 4,3.  Totem - Looking for clues.

Skills used: -
Tameku rolled 2 using 1d6 with rolls of 2.  Potential memory.



How large is the Muaka totem?
This message was last edited by the player at 16:12, Thu 28 May 2020.

The totem is about the size of a Matoran's head, same as the one from the shrine where you first landed.

[Observation]: Also like the one you've seen before, this one would fit neatly into a socket in the alcove it's laying in front of.

If any of these carvings are Toa Stones, you don't recognize them as such on sight.

Tameku examined the Muaka totem a moment longer, then hoisted it up and placed it back where it seemed to belong.

Fits perfectly.

You feel cold.

In reply to Tameku (msg # 48):

"Hmmm... Potentially. Give me a moment, I need to try and recall what stories my island... had... But what I do know is that this... ring here is carved in a very... ornamental fashion. Not only that but it also possess the elemental symbols of Light, Shadow, and even Time... They are not ones oft used, and to be in something like this? There is clearly a level of importance to this place." Velike replied, first indicating the symbols he was speaking of on the ring before turning his full concentration on the murals Tameku was speaking of.
Letting out an inquisitive hum as he attempted to recall what he could

Velike rolled 5 using 1d6 with rolls of 5. Recalling the stories/legends his island had collected from whatever washed up upon shore for any that might seem familiar to the mural

The reason for the specific arrangement of symbols eluded Velike, but he knew that Time was unique among the elements, for only it had an intrinsic connection to every other aspect of reality, stronger even than the already mythical Light and Shadow. The flow of water and wind, the growth of plants, the eon-long shifting of earth and rock... none of these would happen if Time stood still.

Due to its unique nature, the element of Time would normally be placed in the center of a display, if its symbol was included at all. Here Time was marked on the ring as if its placement was almost arbitrary, equal to all other elements.

Only the Great Beings - creators of all things - could possibly hold Time in their grasp to such an extent that they would consider it equal to all others. How old was this temple...?

"someone else has been here recently" Lutorian informed the group before his attention was pulled to the new device he had obtained, he used it to scan the room to see if anything changed, "do either of you guys know what this device is used for?"
This message was last edited by the player at 07:18, Tue 02 June 2020.

Lutorian passed the scope of the device over various features in the temple, and as he did so the gauge it was attached to reacted. The readings flickered, but on average they appeared as follows:

General area: 0-5%
Pointed at furrows or alcoves: 10%
Pointed at central statue: 15-20%
Pointed at White Muaka totem: 30%

All the while the compass pointed directly at the statue of Mata Nui in the center of the temple, though it jerked towards the Muaka totem when the Matoran stood close to it.

The barometers did not change for the most part, predicting stable weather. A slight dip in temperature was detected near the Muaka totem after Tameku placed it in its socket.

Tameku stepped back from the totem when the cold suddenly gripped him. After the first surprise had passed, he couldn't help but recall Turaga Lhevan's totem, which had also reacted to his touch.

"Do you think this totem might have been infused with elemental power by the Turaga of the Glacier Village?", Tameku asked no one in particular.

He looked around at the other alcoves in the temple, in case they held similar totems - or at least had room for ones.

Tameku also studied the furrows in the floor, counting them and searching for the place where the closest one ended. He had a feeling that there might be one for every element.

By following the furrows in the stone from the statue to the end, Tameku easily found the other marked spots. When he had finished counting, Tameku had found 16 slots. All the elements were accounted for, including Light and Shadow; the latter two were not on the list retrieved from the Dark Hunters in Parau Koro.

They were scattered at differing heights around the temple. A few of them were placed off in the smaller side rooms. Not every furrow ended in an alcove: at least one slot sat on the floor in a corner, and following the lines revealed that Air and Lightning must be on top of the pillars in the central area.

There was a notable lack of fitting totems.

A waist-high pillar bearing the mark of Time was located in a separate chamber directly behind the central statue. This room was otherwise featureless and did not have a furrow leading to it.
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:07, Wed 03 June 2020.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 53):
"This.. This is quite odd... Time has been placed as if it was considered an element merely... equal to all the rest..." Velike noted, a mixture of confusion, and interest lacing his tone as he continued to look over the symbols and ponder.

"Only the Great Beings themselves would see Time as equal to all the rest, and this is far too deliberate a carving to have been done by a mere fool who did not understand the elements, and their importance... How ancient must these grounds be to have such carvings?"

Velike's rumblings were all of a sudden interrupted by the cry of a mahi coming from the temple's entrance. "Mata nui! I have heard a lot of different rahi cry but the mahi sounds the worst of them!" The ta-matoran on top of the crab lamented. "I know that you don't register their awful sound anymore Poriko but I can't stand it" Oiroh said almost yelling to the po-matoran walking to his side "sorry I can be a little short-tempered some times" The blacksmith excused himself softening his tone of voice.
The two matoran,one on a ussal crab and one on foot with a mahi on his side entered the temple ruining the silence present beforehand.

"Mahi are wont to make noises, but if you are troubled by my companion I shall bind it outside the temple," Poriko replied patiently. The Po-Matoran nodded a short and polite greeting to the three others he had met before, then left to do as promised.

Tameku studied the new arrival. "Seems like this temple is getting a lot of visitors today", he remarked. "You don't happen to have seen a couple Matoran researchers around the area, do you?", he asked Oiroh. "Otherwise don't let our presence keep you from paying your respects. We're just going to search this place real quick and then be on our way again.

"Let's check the other parts of the temple grounds for any hints", Tameku told Lutorian and Velike - maybe look for discraded equipment, signs of a struggle or the remains of a campsite."

In reply to Tameku (msg # 61):

"I didn't see any researchers but I'm not here for worship either. I was sent here by..." the ta-matoran thought about the best way to tell the stranger about the light entity that told him to come to the temple "...a strange entity to meet up with you and your friends. The reason why is unknown to me" Oiroh hoped for the le-matoran to belive his strange but true tale.

Oiroh rolled 1 using 1d6 with rolls of 1.  Convincing Tameku .

out of the two rolls I have done after joining both were 1! That's incredible!

Tameku considered the Ta-Matoran's words. He had an inkling of who the "strange entity" could be, but didn't really see a reason for him to recruit more Matoran - unless they knew something of importance.

"Name's Tameku", Tameku introduced himself, "The 'Traveling Tradesman' - although I guess right now I'm not in business. You sure that you know nothing about any Researchers or Dark Hunters? Are you native to Rangi Motu?"

"My name is Oiroh, the blacksmith. I am in fact native to this island but I lived in a little hut facing the sea until a few days ago; I only know a small part of the island." Only a few days had past since Oiroh had left his little hut but he already felt a bit of nostalgia.
 "I saw only a couple of matoran while making my way towards east, one of those is Poriko" The blacksmith pointed at the Po-matoran outside the temple "but I have a feeling you already met him".
"Anyway, have you got any idea about what that voice/entity thing was since it told me to meet up with you and the others?" Oiroh asked Tameku. "If you don't it's fine; we'll figure it out"

Lutorian had paid little attention to the new guests entering the temple, until he had caught mention of an "entity" "Greetings fire-spitter!" Lutorian said holding a hand out to shake hands with this new arrival
"I'm Lutorian, You are called Oiroh correct? tell me, would you elaborate on what you meant by an "entity" just now?"

Poriko had finished tending to his Mahi, and entered the temple once more. He kept silent and marveled for some time at the place he had journeyed to find.

Eventually, when there was a moment for him to speak without interrupting the other travelers' conversation, the Po-Matoran voiced his thoughts. "Your earlier talk of Dark Hunters unnerved me," he said softly, "but hearing of this entity which guides new allies to you is reassuring, don't you think?"

"You are correct, that's my name" Oiroh said to Lutorian before starting to explain what happened to him "well... I'll try to explain the best I can. I was travelling towards east when I saw a big storm coming. I was going to take the sheltered path when I heard a voice that I didn't recognize." Oiroh paused to remember exactly what the voice said "You shouldn't travel alone, it is dangerous for someone with such potential, there are others like you. You should meet them at the temple. The island depends on it." The blacksmith said trying to imitate the whispering he hearď then with his normal voice he told the le-matoran what happend next "A few minutes after the voice disappeard I saw a beam of light coming from the ground and the clouds moved around the island leaving a clear sky."

"Hm... that certainly sounds like him", Tameku mused, "Though not to be rude, but you're a complete stranger to us, Oiroh, so I'd rather not say more just now. If you wish to join us, I won't complain, however. We can use all the help we can get, I daresay."

"Our quest is to find a couple researchers who've failed to notify their Turaga of their whereabouts for too long. We've discovered that they split up into three groups, one of those presumably having been here at the temple not long ago. Though our Po-Matoran friend here", Tameku nodded in Poriko's direction, "says that they headed to the village up on the glacier in the company of a Vortixx we think might be a Dark Hunter. We've run into some Dark Hunters already in Parau Koro. Far as we can tell, they are interested in the same elemental sites as the researchers, which is why the researchers might be in trouble."

"Currently, our plan is to scour the temple grounds for any potentially important clues on the researchers' plans and whereabouts, then head up the mountain as far as we can until it gets too dangerous to continue at night. That way, we should be able to catch up to the Vortixx and her companions tomorrow. That's all you need to know at the moment, I think."

"I understand. I won't ask any questions for now but I will still help you find those researchers" Oiroh paused "especially if I can ruin the plans of some dark hunters. Their last visit was... unpleasent." he said looking at the deep scratches and cuts on his forearms then he crossed his arms "Anyway, if that's the plan we should hurry it is getting really dark: In about an hour we won't be able to see anything " Oiroh said to Tameku while looking at the sky.

"Indeed" lutorian nodded, "it seems that we are being guided by the same forces to our destiny, we can leave now if Tameku also wishes, still I'm puzzled by the readings this tool is giving me, perhaps it's some sort of elemental energy?" Lutorian questioned while moving closer to examine the Muaka figure in detail.

Immediately, the meter's readings peaked again. If it was truly measuring elemental energy like Lutorian speculated, the totem held a lot of it.

In reply to Game Master (msg # 71):

Hello? anybody else here?

Lutorian looked up from his device, looking around the temple for the source of the voice "Looks like we got ourselves quite a gathering" he said to himself.

The evening stretched on into nighttime. In the dark sky above the stars shone oddly, for the swirling clouds still remained and only the eye of the storm centered directly above the island let any of their light through.

The sound of distant, primitive drumming echoed through the night. Soon chanting voices were heard as well.

Peering past the walls of the temple allowed everyone to spot the flickering torchlight of a group of Matoran marching where no road existed. Their colors were obscured in the poor light conditions, and so it was impossible to tell what tribe they belonged to. The group was coming through the brushwood deeper in the valley and would arrive shortly.


What do you do?



Tameku
[Observation]: The chant contains no words but invokes a somber feeling.

Lutorian, Velike
[Wilderness survival], [Survival]: Going so far off the road is not something most Matoran would do unless they were intimately familiar with the location.

Everyone
This event happens some time after your arrival. You don't have to interrupt any current conversations if you wish to finish them before dealing with the new situation. A suggestion would be dividing your post in half, using a divider or header text in the middle to separate 'early evening' and 'nighttime'.

In response to Kapeti & Lutorian:

Tameku considered staying quiet, lest he gave the group's position away to someone with potentially malicious intents, but he thought he recognized a Matoran voice and it seemed way too close for there to be time to hide, anyways.
"Who's there?", Tameku called in response. "Show yourself!"

I'll give Kapeti a week to react, otherwise I'll continue based on the last GM post, treating Kapeti as nonexistent until the player takes part in the game again.

"Be calm Tameku, I don't think our new guest poses a threat" Lutorian replied.

"We should be careful anyway" Oiroh said to Lutorian gripping his knife just in case the newcomer wasn't friendly

Still before nightfall

"Alright, enough talking", Tameku said, "I propose we methodically scour the entire temple grounds for anything that could be linked to the researchers and then pack up and double back so we get to the glacier village tomorrow in time. Let's split up, then meet again here once we've looked everywhere. If you find something, don't touch it, but call the others. It could be a hint, after all."

From the previous stuff I gathered that so far we haven't left the main part of the temple, so I want to search the rest before the next scene. Maybe each of us rolls for searching the temple grounds and then we'll see what - if anything - comes from it?

Skills used: Observation
Tameku rolled 3 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 3,1.  Scouring temple grounds.

"ok then" Oiroh agreed with Tameku"I'll look in the west side of the temple"

Oiroh rolled 2 using 1d6.  searching in the temple's west side.

Lutorian Silently nodded, and proceeded to further explore the temple grounds, making sure to keep an eye on anything of interest.

Tameku

Tameku looked over the temple grounds once more, paying attention to any details they may have overlooked earlier as he went. He soon discovered a mural on the outside of the temple wall, some distance from one of the gates. Like many others, this one was partially hidden by brushwood which had grown closer over the years. The matoran had to bring his lightstone closer to see.

The mural showed a large titan in silhouette on the side of a mountain, gazing towards its peak. On the opposite slope, a line of many smaller figures were also climbing the mountain. These ones were looking down at round shapes carried in their hands. Surrounding the mountaintop was another ring of elemental symbols, and inside it was the symbol of The Three Virtues.

By the time Tameku had located and uncovered this imagery, however, he heard the voices approaching in the distance. Soon the temple would be full of people...


You discover new information, but you may not have peace to search for more context.


Oiroh

The west side of the temple held little ground which hadn't already been threaded, and as a newcomer to the group Oiroh hadn't been told all the details of their search yet. The Ta-Matoran found himself coming up short and could not spot anything out of the ordinary.

Instead, as he went around the grounds Oiroh could at least acertain its safety as shelter from wandering Rahi and prying eyes alike. Indeed, if the group were to extinguish their lights, they would likely be impossible to spot. A prospect to consider, given the voices now audible in the distance beyond the walls. Someone would arrive shortly.


No new info, sorry. Time advances.


Lutorian

The temple had once been a gathering place for many people, and its walls were made to withstand both weather and Rahi alike. Outside the walls, on the other hand, there were plenty of tracks which showed the island's wildlife population was varied and plentiful.

And there, in the midst of all the prints, partially obscured in the night beneath a thin layer of twigs which matched no known Rahi's nesting style, was a patch of dirt where sweeping trails showed something had been recently buried...


[Tracking],[Rahi researcher]: When natural tracks are interrupted, the contrasting ground sticks out to someone with your skillset.

Im back, and should be able to play for a couple of weeks now

"where should I look?"

The temple grounds have a central statue with a ring of elemental symbols around it, many small side rooms holding carvings and murals, and alcoves with slots for something - likely elemental totems. The other matoran have covered the area fairly well, but there could always be some less obvious details that have been skipped over.

You could try rolling a general check for searching, and/or ask to look for something specific if you can think of anything.

There is also group of people currently approaching the temple in the night (you can hear their voices and see flickers of light).

In reply to Game Master (msg # 81):

"Looks like no one's home..." Lutorian mumbled to himself and then began to see if anything was buried there, at the very least it might give him some info on what kind of Rahi this was if nothing more than for his curiosity.

Lutorian

You dig out the recently covered hole until you hit a metal surface just a few centimeters down. Brushing aside the loose soil you find a Dark Hunter crest upon a shield that has been rendered useless from battle damage.

Beneath the shield is an unlocked rectangular box, and in the box lies a flare gun with two shots along with a message that was probably not meant for your eyes.

These Matoran know more than we thought. Big news, can't write it all down.
S: deliver the supplies and guard the ship. Everyone else: come to the mountain village.
Signal when the message has been recieved, and again when prepared.
- Khy

In reply to Game Master (msg # 85):

Lutorian stored took the flare gun and note and reburied the shield, "Are the Dark hunters planning an attack on the village?" he thought to himself.

"Found anything interesting?", Tameku asked once everyone had returned to their meeting point. "All I found where more murals, but no hint on the archeologists." He let his gaze wander around the main hall once more, this time more in frustration than in search.

Tameku frowned as they noticed the approaching Matoran. "This place is getting a lot of visitors today", he muttered more to himself than to the others.
"Poriko?", he called just loud enough to catch the Po-Matoran's attention. "Do you know of any big gathering supposed to take place here today?"


Assuming Poriko is still nearby, but not directly with our group.

Poriko looked up with a puzzled expression. "No, I have traveled alone ever since I left home," he replied, "and the natives I met did not speak of any gatherings. Who knows, perhaps they are here for the same reason as you? Apart from myself, I understand that every stranger who came here recently have sought the elements."

***

The group of strangers was drawing closer now, and when they emerged from the bushes at the edge of the wilderness they looked for a moment like they were bushes themselves. There were four, six, eight... perhaps a dozen in total.

The Matoran wore armor in shades of green and blue, colored by torchlight to occasionally look like a muddy brown. Their masks and armor were heavily tarnished with dirt and grime and scratches, and looked deliberately stuck with a smattering of leaves and twigs which obscured their appearance.

Every Matoran carried a torch in one hand and a weapon or tool carved from wood and stone in the other. They all had sacks woven from leaves slung over their shoulders.

A couple had drums, which they beat to sound a marching tune.

The apparent group leader held his torch high, and the drumming ceased. His eyes seemed dull and lifeless, but his head turned purposefully to survey the temple. The group had arrived outside the walls but had not laid eyes upon those within it yet.


What do you do?
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:39, Thu 27 Aug 2020.

"I'm not entirely sure if I like the looks of this", Tameku told his companions, keeping his voice low. "And in any case, we've spent enough time here already. We still need to get up to the glacier village if we want to catch up with the Dark Hunters and - presumably - the archeologists."

"I say we sneak out of here and get going."

In reply to Tameku (msg # 89):

"Agreed, let's get out of their way, I found important information I'll share on the way." Lutorian replied to Tameku

"I don't think that it's safe to continue Oiroh said to the others. "It's to dark and if we use something to light up the path we will be spotted by wild rahi""I saw a spot where we can hide until the morning and if we extinguish our lights we won't be seen by those matoran"

Tameku shook his head. "I would be too noisy getting our Ussals out of sight - if we even have time for that. And who knows if these people will only stay here for the night? We'll make camp once we're halfway up the mountain. Our Ussals should have no trouble finding their way in the dark.
"And I'm fairly certain that no Rahi would attack a group of grown Ussal. Or at least I hope so. We're close enough to Parau Koro still that the local Rahi might even be familiar with what Ussal riders can do if provoked."

It is feasible to sneak out. Ussal crabs make some noise but are no worse than the crowd outside unless you go at full sprint.

Wild Rahi may or may not appear. I will roll an encounter as usual, but I can reveal that this road has little in the way of danger. The wilderness is more dangerous but not terribly so in this area.

Oiroh is right in assuming that light would draw a lot of attention.

"Tameku is correct, Ussals are hardy creatures and will have no trouble in the dark, we are also more than capable of deterring any hostile Rahi" Lutorian replied.

"I agree with Lutorian, our ussals should have no problem" kāpeti agreed

"Let's get going, then", Tameku urged. "Are you going to come, too, Poriko? We'll have to travel fast, but I think we could accompany you until you find a suitable campsite nearby. Only if you wish, of course."

Inside the temple

Poriko gave the temple grounds a longing look while he contemplated the suggestion.

"I would have liked to stay a bit, after traveling so far to see this place," he said, "but I do not know these natives and would not betray our presence to them, if you find it inadvisable to do so."

Finally, the Po-Matoran nodded and tugged his Mahi's leash to have it come closer. "I will follow your lead."

***

The ussal crabs made some noise as they skittered out of the temple away from the group of strangers, but the soft ground muffled the tick-tick-tick sound of their footsteps, and the murmur from the crowd drowned out the rest. No one would be looking for a group of Matoran in this place, anyway, for they had their own agenda in mind.


A bit further down the road

It didn't take long for the Matoran to get far enough away from the temple that it would be impossible to spot them in the darkness.

The ride was uneventful, but thankfully swift. There were no more travelers out at night, and no roaming Rahi - all asleep, one could guess.

Eventually the group arrived at the crossroads between the valley and mountain paths. To the north laid the foot of the glacier, and beyond its climb the ice cold village where the Dark Hunters had surely gone.

The road continued westwards towards the guard post and tunnel to the underground Parau Koro.


What is your plan?

---

Encounter roll result: Boon! Quick travel. You leave the temple behind, traveling back along the road from which you came with some new allies in tow.

Lutorian
As you leave the temple, the gauges on the device you carry rapidly drop back to zero.

"We made good progress", Tameku commented as the group reached the crossroads. "I think we can rest here a moment."

He turned to Lutorian: "You said you wanted to share something with us?"

Do we have an estimate how long it is until dawn?

In reply to Tameku (msg # 98):

"Yes" Lutorian responded as he dismounted his Ussal, "Buried in the temple I found a message from the dark hunters, it seems they are planning something in the Ice Village, but they won't be getting far without it," the green matoran said handing Tameku the note, "or their flair gun," he said spinning it around his finger.

"Signal when the message has been received, and again when prepared", Tameku read the last sentence aloud.

He pondered it for a moment.

"We could fake these signals in order to scramble the Dark Hunters' communication even more", Tameku mused. "Right now it seems like they expect reinforcements up on the glacier. If they wrongly assume these might be under way, it could lead to them acting in ways they actually can't afford... which might be of advantage to us."

"What do you think?", he asked his companions.


Is Poriko still with us?

"But what if that is a signal for an attack? we wouldn't want to send the wrong message by mistake."

Yes, Poriko is still with you, with his Mahi (goat) in tow. Since his pilgrimage is complete, he may follow your group, or you may part ways if you wish.

"I don't think that's a good idea, whatever their plan is, it'll draw them towards the village and they'll realize somethings wrong, if we keep them waiting we can stall out their plans for a short time." Lutorian replied

Yes, I agree. I think we should continue on and warn the village. we might even be able to barter off the note...
This message was last edited by the player at 23:23, Thu 15 Oct 2020.

Tameku scratched his mask. "We can only fake the signal from here if we'd ever want to. It appearing too far away from the temple would make them suspicious. But there is also merit to what you are saying. While hopefully we've temporarily gotten rid off Amthrin/Schemer, Frostbite and Disruptor, there's still this Steltian and maybe others around. They must know that some of their number headed up top the glacier village..."

"Alright then, let's head on. Poriko - I'd recommend taking shelter in Parau Koro for a few days. I doubt the Dark Hunters will revisit it anytime soon, but even if they do, the locals will be prepared. Alternatively, as far as we know, the Iron Fortress is not on their hit list just now either."

Poriko nodded. "The desert is far away still. I may as well go beneath the earth, and seek a new purpose as a messenger. I will inform the Turaga there of the Dark Hunters' plan.

He cast a gaze up towards the top of the glacier.

"Sunrise is near," he said. You can see the sky brightening beyond the mountain. The view will be great today, I think. Best of luck to you!

---

You have seen the Great Temple, discovered a Dark Hunter plot, met a new ally, and embarked towards a new location.
It's been a while, so Everyone: Earn 4 XP. As usual you may spend it now, or keep it for later.

2 points: Buy a new skill relevant to something you did recently.
3 points: Add 1 HP to one of your Aspects.
4 points: Add 1 Defense to one of your Aspects. You may not exceed 4 defense in any single Aspect.

---

The glacier rises before you just as the morning sunlight arrives. What will your route be?

• The easy climb. You expend no resources but are at risk of meeting wild Rahi.
• The steep climb. Spend 2 Physical HP but reach the next stage of the glacier without danger.
  
  You can tell there will be roughly 3 stages of the climb.

This message was last edited by the GM at 18:00, Tue 27 Oct 2020.

I say we take the smoother climb, it would be easier on us and our ussals, and we should be able to defend ourselves if trouble arises.

"Hard to judge whether the steep climb might not be faster, though", Tameku said. "No doubt the terrain will be more difficult the farther up we go. Making good time now might allow us to proceed more carefully later when we need to."

Would the steep climb be faster than the easy climb?

Also gonna spend some XP - if my notes are correct, I have 10 XP to spend at this point.
Gonna invest 3 into 1 Physical HP, 3 into 1 Social HP and 2 into the new skill "appraising art" based on how Tameku saw a lot of artwork in the temple and should now be more familiar with Rangi Motu art.

Which leaves me with 2 unspent XP I'll keep for now.

Is that fine?
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 15:39, Thu 29 Oct 2020.

One is a guaranteed safe passage at the cost of physical effort. The other is 'free' but has an element of random chance.

The steep climb will be a bit quicker, even more so if it avoids meeting Rahi on the other path. On the other hand, Kapeti may be right in thinking you should preserve your strength.


Tameku: Your HP changes and new skill noted, and approved.

"We should take the easier climb, even if a rahi attacks us we should be able to defeat it. The climb seems also pretty long so we should save our ussals' energys for the rest of it"

for now I won't spend any XP, also I'm finally writing down Oiroh's full backstory so there should be less inconsistencies with my characters actions

I might have changed something in my character sheet, but I'm not 100% sure. if not, I haven't spent anything. I too will try to document Kāpeti's backstory for you all, but basic concept is that he is a local trader who goes between villages selling goods from around the island. his ussal crab normally pulls a cart with said goods before the dark hunters stole it.

EDIT: I did change one thing, I now have 6hp in combat and 3xp left over. did I do that correctly?
This message was last edited by the player at 20:30, Tue 03 Nov 2020.

"I agree, the Rahi in this area wouldn't pose much of a threat to a band of Matoran." Lutorian spoke out with confidence

"Then are we decided?" Kāpeti asked the group

"Yes, let's not waste any more time", Tameku agreed.

Then on we go!

While the morning sun crested the summit of the mountain above, the traveling band of matoran made steady progress past the glacier's initial slope. The natural path gradually led them higher and closer to a steeper ice wall which provided climbers with natural shelter from the wind. Were they to try a shorter but more arduous climb, this wall would be the way to go.

Thanks to the bright weather and low altitude, the air felt fresh and invigorating. Following the path around a bend up the peaks meant crossing into the mountain's shadow, however, and this place was beginning to feel quite cold.

The hill around the bend stretched on for several hundred meters, past the ice wall and rising to one of the smaller peaks where a lone Ko-Matoran outpost waited.

Not very far past the bend on this slope, on the border between sunlight and shadow, a small cavern became visible. Inside a trio of Ice Vermin were stirring from their sleep. The Rahi hissed at the approaching ussal crabs and burst from their snowy burrow, charging in to chase away the group!


What will you do?


You advance up the glacier, putting some good distance behind you. Encounter check result (safe road): Small Rahi.
A pack of 3 Ice Vermin have appeared! They are a bit smaller than Ussal and possess claws and a rhotuka launcher.

Seeing the incoming Rahi Lutorian quickly repositioned his Ussal to the front of the group "careful" he called out "Let me get a look at them"

Lutorian rolled 4 using 3d6, keeping the highest dice only ((1,4,4))
Skills used: Rahi researcher, Rahi expert

Lutorian
These rahi have an aggressive fight-or-flight instinct, especially when their den is threatened. Individuals may fly into a frenzy when struck.

As the temperatures dropped, Tameku put on the thick cloak he had bought in Parau Koro.

---

"Let's just ride past them!", Tameku shouted to the others, "Maybe they'll let off once we're away from their burrow!" He urged his own Ussal on to go faster, while he himself lay down flat on its back to offer a smaller target for the Ice Vermins' Rhotuka.

"yes, let us push onwards!" Kāpeti agreed, while also laying down on his ussal

Tameku and Kapeti attempted to steer clear of the hissing rodents, but the three vermin saw the motion as encroaching on their territory, and chased them across the ice and snow at incredible speed. It leaped at the ussal rider and scratched wildly with their small claws.

Before it could do much more it tumbled off the back of both rider and crab and fell into the snow. The rahi didn't seem willing to chase them any further, but they were now positioned between the other matoran and the road they wished to take.

What will you do?

quote:

08:50, Today: Game Master rolled 2 using 1d2.  Pick target, Tameku even/Kapeti odd.
08:51, Today: Game Master, for the NPC Ice Vermin, rolled 6 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 4,6.  Leap attack. (Skills: Swift action).

Tameku
This attack deals 4 damage and strikes Combat defense, so you may choose:
* Lose 3 Combat HP, OR lose 1 Combat HP, while your ussal crab loses 2 HP.

You are still mounted and clear to get away.

Kapeti
The vermin chose Tameku as their target this time. You are also clear to get away.

Tameku tried his best to avoid the Ice Vermin's attack, even if that meant exposing his Ussal more to the attack. He hoped its shell would keep it from being harmed too much.


I pick option 2: 1 damage to Tameku, 2 to the Ussal

Once the Ice Vermin let off, Tameku stopped his Ussal and peered back at the others still on the path. "Didn't go as well as I expected", he admitted to them, rubbing at his scratches and jealously looking over at the unharmed Kapeti, "But if you all go at once you might make it over with only minor damage, too."

Leaving the others to it and seeing himself out of harm's way, Tameku took a look at the scratches his Ussal suffered to see how much harm the Ice Vermin had done.

Skills used: Observation
Tameku rolled 4 using 2d6, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 4,3.  Inspecting Ussal's wounds.

Kāpeti and his ussal jumped back and observed as the ice vermin chased Tameku. "what if we distract them with a kanoka and run past as they chase after it?" he asked the group.

In reply to Kapeti (msg # 123):

"That may aggravate them more, especially if we hit one. Here, take this." Lutorian said while gently tossing Kapeti a powerless Kanoka disk, "You can use it as a shield, just block them as  they leap at you, and your Ussal's shell will keep it safe enough"

With that Lutorian urged his Ussal onward to move past the den, holding a Kanoka up ready to shield himself if the Ice vermin tried to attack.

Oiroh hated the cold, he hated a lot of things: the dark hunters, mahi, and people who don't pay were some of them, and now, other than the cold there were some creatures attacking them. Maybe if he hates the cold they hate fire? He took out his blowtorch and asked to the other matoran "Do y'all think they like fire?"

While the pack was busy with his fellow Matoran, Lutorian's charge carried him past the opening to their den without incident. As soon as he tried to pass them on the way towards Tameku and Kapeti, however, one of the vermin leapt straight at him!

The Rahi slammed into the shield, and although Lutorian was spared its sharped claws, he still felt the force of its impact. The ice vermin tumbled into the snow, and swiftly retreated closer to the den it had come from.

The two that had attacked were visibly agitated and trembled with anticipation. They may soon frenzy.


Lutorian

quote:

10:19, Today: Game Master, for the NPC Ice Vermin, rolled 4 using 2d6-2, keeping the highest dice only with rolls of 6,1.  Leap attack, blocked by disk shield. (Skills: Swift action).

This attack deals 2 damage and strikes Combat Defense, therefore:
* Lose 1 Combat HP.

Tameku
Your ussal is tough - it should be able to take a few more hits yet.

Oiroh
The rahi would definitely shy away from being burned, even if a source of heat is otherwise welcome in this frozen place.

Noting the agitated ice vermin Kāpeti warns Orioh "if we start a fire they might panic and attack us instead of backing away." "lets see if we can trap them somehow so we can get away without being attacked."