Watch Tower: 2005
A huge, floating watch tower, which orbits earth, was to be the new, hidden base of the Justice League. With new beginnings, and the league having gone public, it came time for a discussion this group had been meaning to have ever since this summer began
A certain kid had caught their attention soon after their smartest minds deduced that him and a multitude of suddenly appearing aliens were one in the same. They had wanted to act before now, but a long-time member advised them to observe his actions with minimal involvement.
Only on this day did he believe they could make an informed decision about his future. It helped that this individual could share his memories with another, long standing member of the Justice League. These memories were of things they couldn't witness.
Now, that member who vouched for this kid was arriving through the boom tube as the voice announced him. "Recognized: Professor Paradox 08."
Professor Paradox has fair skin, grey eyes, and black hair. His attire consists of a white lab coat over a white shirt with a brown vest and black tie, black pants, and black shoes. He also wore goggles with green lenses around his neck. He was looking at his watch.
"You're late." A stern voice nearby stated.
Paradox looked up to see a tall, white male with a dark and imposing figure. He wore a dark gray costume with the symbol of a bat spread over the chest, black trunks, gloves, boots, and a black cape with a unique pattern at the end.
"Ah, dreadfully sorry Batman, but I believe you will find that I am right on time." He showed his watch. "It is often hard to be late." He closed the watch. "If I were you, I'd suggest having support look over the tower's systems."
"That is something we'll need to look into; however, the tower is new Paradox." Batman started walking. "I suggest you get your times right before we address the current matter at hand."
"You don't say." Paradox had a look at the tower. "I see now, and here I thought we were to discuss a different matter regarding Benjamin. Regardless, I am always prepared Batman." He followed the capped crusader. "Not to worry."
"Every time you say that I am never relieved." Batman stated firmly. "Considering we are deciding on a rather divisive topic, you'll need to understand my reservations about that kid."
"I understand you perfectly old friend." Paradox nodded. "I also know you may not see reason in the motion I put forth, but in time you will understand as many in there will today."
"We'll see." Batman stated.
The pair walked along the rather spacious hallways and into a meeting room where 9 other heroes were already seated. The other 6 of the founding 8 heroes and their more recent 3 members.
There was Superman. A tall, muscular male with vivid blue eyes and short black hair with a curl over his forehead. He wears a blue uniform with his famous red-and-yellow "S" shield on his chest, red trunks, a yellow belt, red boots, and a red cape.
Wonder Woman. A noticeably tall and fair-skinned woman with straight waist-length black hair, blue eyes, and broad shoulders. She wore a strapless red bustier held up by a brace of gold resembling two W's.
Flash who has short blond hair and green eyes. He wore a full-body suit that is all red but has two small yellow lightning bolts across the waist and wrists. He also has the yellow lightning bolt logo on his chest and boots.
Green Lantern who is a male with short brown hair. He wears a dark green domino mask and a green and black costume like all Green Lanterns. The torso and shoulders are green, while the legs, arms, and armpits are black. The Green Lantern Corps symbol is on his chest.
Aquaman who resembles a tall, muscular male with short blond hair, a blond beard, and aqua blue eyes. He wears an orange scale-mail tunic and dark green leggings. At his waist is a gold belt that is clasped with a stylized letter "A" which has a built-in communicator.
Martian Manhunter who is a tall, green-skinned humanoid. His head is completely bald, and his face is oddly proportioned with heavy brows, thick lips, and red eyes. His costume is primarily black with red accents, a large red belt, and x-shaped straps across his chest.
Green Arrow who has blond hair, blue eyes, a blond mustache, and beard. He wears a dark green shirt with a hood underneath a long light green vest with three dark green oval-shaped fasteners, black pants, and green boots.
Hawkman who's most distinguishing features are the giant wings on his back and his heavy armor. He wears a black cuirass with a hawk logo in a red circle in the middle. His belt, spaulders, greaves, and gauntlets are golden.
Hawkwoman who has the same giant wings on her back. She dons a golden breastplate, leaving the top of her torso bare, and a black skirt with dark red plating. Her arms were wrapped in black and dark red cloth with extra padding around the shoulders.
"With Batman and Professor Paradox here, our agenda is clear." Aquaman spoke up. "What's at stake cannot be underestimated."
"The decision we reach today has been engraved in our minds ever since Professor Paradox brought him to our attention." Superman stated. "Our decision will have an impact for years to come."
"What we do with him will determine how much trust the world will put in the Justice League." Wonder Woman added.
"Since we are here now, everyone should take their seats." Batman stated.
"Ever since this summer began, there has been a young boy acting as a hero. Whereas many would have taken the object bestowed upon him and used it for malicious intent, Benjamin Kirby Tennison has proven time and time again that he has the heart of a hero." Paradox informed.
An image of a ten-year old kid with shaggy brown hair, green eyes, and pale skin appeared for everyone to see. He wore a black-striped, white shirt with short sleeves, military green cargo pants, and black and white sneakers. The Omnitrix on his left wrist.
"There has been many times where he has misused potentially the greatest weapon in the universe." Batman retorted. "Many times, where it was used for personal gain."
"Quite true Batman, but can you say that any kid wouldn't have done what young Ben has with his watch?" Paradox questioned. "Your own youngsters have certainly made mistakes of their own, yet all of you have not given up on them.
I am not here to claim he is perfect, but no one really is. Even those of us weren't perfect starting out. Each of you has seen his growth which only scratches the surface since we could not observe him all the time.
"I must agree with the professor." Hal spoke up. "Each of us made mistakes and we had to grow into our roles as heroes. Then, some of us found young ones to train, and they must grow as well. What's so different about this kid?"
"The fact that he has potentially the most dangerous object in the universe is a big one for me." Green Arrow stated. "That watch on his wrist isn't some fancy toy."
"It's definitely not a toy." Wonder Woman stated. "As we've been shown, that watch gives Ben the potential for great evil and great good. I think we should put him under a mentor as Paradox suggested."
"I move we remove the watch from his ownership and contain it." Batman stated. "It is too risky to leave with him despite all he may have done with it."
"The same could have and still can be said for me Bruise." Superman stated. "You seem to forget that Paradox has revealed more to us than just what Ben could be. He's shown our own potentials if one thing in our past had been different."
"That is true." Hawkwoman stated. "This boy is no different from us. We could leave him to fate alone or remove that watch; however, giving him a mentor is by far the best choice in my opinion."
"One which is still an uncertain choice." Batman retorted. "There are no guarantees."
"Just as there are still no guarantee with any of us." Paradox stated. "Time is not set in stone. One event can go in a certain direction, and anyone of us can become the threat ourselves. Benjamin is no different. What matters now is that we give him the chance each of us have had."
"We must also keep in mind that this choice affects more than just Ben." Martian Manhunter declared. "His cousin is magically gifted and depending on what we decide to do with him, her future is changed as well."
"Unlike Benjamin, this young girls' powers are harder to suppress." Paradox looked at Batman. "Tell me, what will you do with her. If Benjamin is stripped of that watch, Gwendolen will not take kindly to it. She would not trust us."
"Regardless of our choice here, we have already decided to entrust her own growth to Kent Nelson." Batman stated. "If she does not want to train her magic with him, then that will be her choice. Regardless, I still move that we take that watch from Tennyson."
"I move we entrust his hero training to the only man I see fit to do it." Paradox stated. "Hal Jordan. As a Green Lantern, he's the most qualified."
"That's exactly why I'm having trouble buying into this." Green Arrow stated. "Hal's been a little too eager to take the boy under his wing while you have a soft spot for him despite never meeting the kid. The potential danger makes it so I can't approve of this."
"I think this debate has gone on long enough." Hawkman spoke up. "At this time, we're just going around in circles, so a decision must be made. I suggest we now vote on it and abide by a clear majority ruling. If it is one or two votes apart, we adjourn and try again later."
"I suppose we have debated this long enough." Paradox nodded. "Oh, very well. What do you say Batman? One vote to decide it all. No hard feelings no matter who comes out on top."
Batman crossed his arms. "I will accept whatever the ruling of this vote may be."
"Before voting commences, I just want to say one thing." Hal stated getting everyone attention. "That kid right there has faced more than most youngsters ever would under us. He's stopped aliens and human threats.
The kid's got huge potential, and I'd hate for it to be squandered because some of us just couldn't see it. That is why I implore that each of you think on what we've seen, heard, and what's been said today before making your choice."
His fellow leaguers shared looks.
"We shall consider everything carefully Hal." Hawkman stated. "With that final piece stated, I believe it is time we vote."
Ever member, one by one, made their choice on this topic and a conclusion was reached with a majority of 8-3.
"The votes have been tallied, and it is decided that not only will Ben be keeping his watch, but he'll also be placed under Green Lantern as his student." Superman stated.
"Just make sure you let the boy know this is nothing personal." Wonder Woman stated.
"Don't worry, I've seen the kid in action like the rest of you." Hal smiled. "I already like his style, so leave it to me. I'll make sure he takes it as well as possible. I'll even swing by to pick up Kent. Might as well let the girl meet her potential mentor as well."
Batman said nothing as he took his leave, but internally he was already preparing for the worst. Just because he would respect this decision, didn't mean he would leave it at that. It just meant a lot more work on his end.
Bellwood: Morning…
Hal Jordan, now wearing jeans, a white, short sleeved shirt, and leather bomber jacket, was walking through a recovering Bellwood with a long-time friend and retired hero, Kent Nelson. The city itself was clearly in mid repair.
As for Kent, he is a tall male with blue eyes and grayed hair. He appeared to be well-kept for a man of his age though he did move with the aid of a walking stick. He wore a black suit and tie over a white, collared shirt.
"Quite the spot of trouble that seemed to happen here, huh Hal?" Kent asked curiously.
"This is actually the work of one of Ben's enemies." Hal informed as this was the last event they observed before their meeting. "Given the stories we've heard of Vilgax, it was a rather impressive showing from Ben."
"Looks to have been one tough fight." Kent nodded. "Was the girl there as well?"
"As were Ben's father and grandfather." Hal nodded. "Not to worry as we have our way to reconceal his identity."
"Naturally." Kent stated. "Shall we?"
"Let's go see our potential wards." Hal agreed before they split up.
Bellwood: RV Parking Lot
Given that their home was currently being repaired, Ben, his mom, and father were currently staying with Max in his RV. It wasn't ideal, but Ben had grown to love it over the summer. Since things were out in the open, his parents were accepting of it as well.
Ben was currently returning to the RV, after his first day back to school, and it had been better than expected… even with Gwen now attending his school. It was all because Dr. Amino decided to attack which got him out of class. Ben loved being a hero.
The young boy finally made it to the Rust Bucket where he saw his father sitting at a picnic table going over the plans to repair the city's gas line while his mother had just come out with a tray containing a glass of lemonade.
"Hey guys." Ben stated. "I'm back from school."
"Hey kiddo, how did it go?" Sandra asked.
"Pretty good." Ben stated with a smile. "One of my enemies decided to attack, but Gwen and I were able to handle it."
"Another one of your enemies attacked?" Carl asked. "Hopefully, they didn't necessitate anymore destruction of the city. It was cool what happened with the gas line, but I'm only now realizing how much work it'll be getting everything down their repaired."
"Nah, don't worry about it." Ben waved it off. "Dr. Animo is no big deal compared to Vilgax."
"Even if Ben had to destroy something, I'm sure you'd have it up and running in no time." Max stated as he came on out. "Still, wish I'd known. I'd have loved to fight him with you kids like back in the summer."
"Quite the interesting tale you're weaving there." Hal walked on over to them and had overheard the group. "Vilgax and Animo in a short span of time, huh? From what I hear, you got a lot of stories like that."
Carl and Sandra had stood and pulled Ben back while Max came to stand in front of them. While Ben's secret was an open topic, the fact that his guy they've never seen before knew about this put them on guard.
"I don't know who you are, but I'm hoping you'll explain yourself." Max stated.
"My apologies." Hal smiled. "The name's Hal Jordan." He crossed his arms and made sure the ring on his finger was visible. "You may very well know who I work for. After all, you've worked with my group before."
Max looked at the ring and nodded. "I believe I have." He looked back to his family. "It's alright guys. He doesn't mean us any harm."
"That may be, but why is this guy interested in Ben?" Carl asked.
"I believe explanations are in order." Hal stated. "Is there somewhere more private we can talk? Trust me for this is a conversation we need to have since your son's future is on the line."
"Everyone, get into the RV." Max stated. "We're taking a drive."
"Even him?" Sandra asked still suspicious. "I don't know if I like this."
"Don't worry because he'll ride with me up front." Max walked towards the RV. "Just trust me for now. If someone with that ring says they need to talk, it's best to listen."
Ben still had no idea what was going on, but upon looking at this guy, he didn't think there was anything wrong with him. Though, he had thought Phil was alright until he revealed his true colors. It was probably best to reserve judgement until they heard the guy out.
Gwen's Home
Kent stared at the average looking home, but he could tell by the light touches of 'The Spark", as the Anodites called it, in the air that someone magically gifted lived her. He just hoped he could convince the young girl's parents of how valuable his training could be. Kent knocked.
He waited as a man and his wife answered. The man wore glasses and has thin brown hair. He wore a smart polo shirt with a burgundy sweatshirt covering it and tan trousers. The woman had red hair, dark blue eyes, black eyebrows, and thick eyelashes.
She has her mid-length hair combed back. She wears a white blouse with a green vest and a dark grey skirt with high-heeled shoes of the same color. She has golden earrings and a necklace with a golden buckle.
"Can we help you?" The woman asked.
"I believe you can." Kent smiled. "My name is Kent Nelson, and I am aware of who you two are, Frank and Natalie Tennyson."
The couple shared a look before Frank looked at Nelson suspiciously. "How do you know our names Mr. Nelson?"
"I am aware of more than that Mr. Tennyson." Kent stated. "I will cut to the chase. I am not one myself, but I do know that you and your daughter share lineage with an Anodite. I also know you are aware your daughter has what they call 'The Spark', and I am here to offer my aid."
"Aid how?" Frank asked.
"Frank, I don't like what he's saying." Natalie stated. "Any mention of that woman's race is never good."
"I understand your apprehension ma'am." Kent stated. "I have nothing against the Anodites save their methods. I am here to offer your daughter training which should keep her closer to home. I am also a well-off man who would gladly support whatever dreams your daughter may have."
"I'm still not sure about him, but I do want Gwen to be happy." Natalie shook her head and sighed. "I always hoped our daughter would take more after my family, but I won't deprive her of an opportunity. Especially one better than Verdona's. Frank, maybe we should listen to him."
"Honestly, if Gwen wanted to go with grandmother, I don't think we could stop Verdona. Then, there's no telling if we'd ever see our daughter again." Frank nodded. "Mr. Nelson, would you come in and tell us more?"
Kent smiled. "I would love to."
Forest Outside of Bellwood
Max had driven the family and Hal to a secluded clearing within the forest where they could talk freely. Once there, the pair walked back to the other members of the Tennyson family to find them all sitting at the booth.
"Alright, we should be alone out here." Max stated.
"Good, then you can tell us what you want with our son." Carl stated.
"I think it's better if I show you what I want." Hal held up the hand with the ring and was cloaked in a green light as his hero suit appeared around him. "Hey there, I'm Hal Jordan. Though, you may better know me as earth's Green Lantern."
Carl and Sandra were speechless while Max stood there unfazed.
"No way!" Ben jumped to his feet. "You're the Green Lantern! Dude, I'm such a huge fan of you and the Justice League. This is awesome. Am I being recruited into the Justice League?"
"There's potential for that, but first I got to tell you something." Hal got down on one knee and nodded to the watch. "That thing on your wrist has a few of our members concerned about you."
Ben held up his watch knowing it was more than alright to talk about it now. "You mean my Omnitrix?" Hal nodded. "All I've done is help people since I got it."
"No one's denying that, but we've had our eyes on you. While you have done great things, you've also made mistakes." Hal stated. "One of our core members turned our attention onto you and has been fighting to make the others see you deserve to continue being a hero."
Ben may not be the smartest guy, but he was smart enough to realize that the Justice League must have met to discuss his watch. If one of them were here, it meant they'd reached a conclusion.
"Are you guys going to come after it?" Ben pulled his watch back. "Well, I'm not about to give this up, Yeah, I made some mistakes, but it doesn't…"
"Whoa kid, chill." Hal held up his hands. "If we were going to take that watch, we wouldn't underestimate you by sending one guy. Oh no, this is the exact opposite. I'm here because the league put what to do with you to a vote.
We decided it was best to bring you into the world of heroes with me as your mentor. Provided your parents allow it, I'll teach you everything I know, help you with the watch, as best I can, and you may get the chance to join the League one day."
"Really?" Ben asked both skeptical and excited.
"No lies here kid." Hal stated. "I was one of the heroes who voted for you. I'm happy to bring you into the fold, and I've been looking for someone to teach even if our powers aren't the same. While you would need to spend a lot of time with me, I wouldn't keep you from your family."
He then looked to the others. "Additionally, the member who brought him to our attention is well off himself. If you all agree to let me have him most of the time, we'd provide for him fully. In the end, we aren't in the business of snatching kids, so it comes down to you."
"Considering the dangers that are out there, it may be for the best." Carl looked at his wife. "I know this may not be the life we imagined for Ben, but we both saw him in action. I think being a hero is what he was meant to do."
"I think my son is onto something Sandra." Max chimed in. "I checked throughout the underside of Bellwood and couldn't find a trace of Vilgax. He could be gone or still out there. Even without him, there are people after Ben. At least with them, he'd get training."
"I don't want to admit it, but I think you two might be right." Sandra sighed before looking at Hal. "If we agree to this, you'll need to make sure Ben's eating right and well taken care of. Not to mention, I will expect reports on his schooling.
"No problem, ma'am." Hal stated. "I'll make sure he eats his greens. Additionally, his report cards reflect much of my own in elementary before I got more serious." He chuckled. "I'm positive I can get his grades up to snuff."
"I'll make sure to be on my best behavior and give whatever school I'm sent to my best effort." Ben added.
"Alright, I give my consent." Sandra stated. "After all, stopping Ben from improving isn't going to protect him."
Carl nodded. "You already have mine."
"I think it'll do Ben some real good." Max added.
"Yes!" Ben smiled. "You guys are the best!" He hugged all his family before turning to Hal. "How soon can we begin?"
"Easy kid. There's one last thing you got to commit to before we even think of beginning your training." Hal stated. "It's fine that your family knows who you are, but the rest of the town's memories got to be erased, and you need a costume outside of your alien forms."
"Really?" Ben asked.
"I'm being honest here. Family and allies can know, but a hero's identity is important." Hal stated. "Trust me in that this is important. Knowing this, what do you say?"
"If I agree to this, then everyone will forget about my identity. In return my family can still know, and I get to work with heroes like Green Lantern. I even have the potential to be a member of the Justice League." Ben smiled. "I'll accept!"
"Glad to hear it. We'll workshop costume and hero name later." Hal stood and changed back to his civilian clothes. "For now, let's get to know each other a little better. While they're still your family, and we'll certainly visit them, you'll need to live with me for quite a few years."
This was the greatest day of Ben's life.
Gwen's Home
Gwen opened the door to her home and entered. "Mom! Dad! I'm back from the library!" She walked to the living room only to stop upon noticing Kent. "Oh, I didn't know you were entertaining someone."
"It's fine Gwen." Frank stated. "Mr. Nelson actually came to talk to us about you."
Natalie added, "He knows about magic and wants to teach you."
"You know magic?" Gwen wasn't skeptical about that, but she was observing this man to see if he were like Hex or Charmcaster. "You wish to teach me?"
Kent stood and approached Gwen with a kind smile. "That is correct Gwendolyn. My full name is Kent Nelson." He held up his cane and casted a golden shield around them. "I know a great deal about magic, and I would like to be your teacher."
Gwen looked around at the shield in shock. "No way."
Kent dispelled the shield. "I've been discussing it with your parents, and while I by no means wish to take you away from them, I would like for you to come stay with me for extended periods of time. I will also help fund anything you may wish to do."
Frank nodded. "I think this is an opportunity of a life time."
"We want you to do whatever would make you happy." Natalie added.
"Why would you do this for me?" Gwen asked. "What's in it for you?"
"There is much we cannot discuss in front of your parents, but what I can say is that I can sense your potential. It would be a shame if that potential were to be squandered, so please allow me to help you with your life as one magic user to another." Kent requested.
"I'm not sure sir." Gwen shook her head. "I never expected something like this happening. Would it be possible to have some time to think about it?"
"Of course, there is no rush." Kent held out a business card. "Contact me if you wish to learn more about the arcane arts. I'll even contact you later to fill you in on what I could not now."
Gwen took the card.
"Good day Tennysons." Kent took his leave and Gwen stared at the card.
Outside of Bellwood, Later…
Kent eventually made his way over to Hal who was leaning against the sign welcoming people to Bellwood. "So, how did it go with the girl, Kent?"
"She needs some time, but I believe she'll come around." Kent nodded. "Her potential is strong, and she'll make a fine Heroine. What about you?"
"Kid's in all the way." Hal gave the old man a thumb's up. "Meeting him in person made me see he's just the type of kid I want to mentor, and I can't wait to actually start training him."
The pair walked off together feeling rather good about their new prospects.
Pretty much, the sky's the limit here. Now, Ben 10's original series has wrapped up by the beginning of this story, so nothing there can be altered. Hey, there are soon to be four seasons of Young Justice, Alien Force, Ultimate Alien, and Omniverse to play around with. So, feel free to suggest anything you want to see.
For instance, I could skip to the beginning of Young Justice's or do a few chapters with Ben & Gwen under mentors. Heck, at this point, the team that forms doesn't even have to consists of all the canon members it did. If you want to see another hero, tell me. That's only the tip of the iceberg as I could just make this story how I want it, but hey I figured it I might as well listen to you guys.