BEN 10: RISING OF THE SHIELD HERO
CHAPTER 2: JUDGED
Thank you everyone for your wonderful reviews and thanks for reading. Now I'll be quick here.
1. About Ben 10 characters appearing in this story. To answer this question… Highly Unlikely. Not in this story, but maybe in its sequel. Mainly because of the unknown character (OC that was mentioned in the previous chapter).
2. ID Mask Function of the Omnitrix. I have never heard of disguising function in Omnitrix but you see, the Omnitrix has thousands of functions other than storing DNA. Notably, an ID Mask is technology level 7. Ben can transform into one of his alien form (I am guessing aliens has to be humanoid to get a human form.) but you see, Ben has a habit of forgetting Omnitrix's functions. That explains why Ben didn't use ID Mask in Chapter 1.
3. The Shield absorbing Ben's Alien Powers. Here I'd like to explain why the Status indicator couldn't analyze the Omnitrix. The Omnitrix is a collection of vast data… for every detail of a million aliens. Not to mention, DNA itself is a complicated subject. So a million DNAs?
I considered two separate features about the Shield absorbing Ben's aliens. The first one is… the Shield transforming into a suitable form for every alien Ben turns into. For example, Ben transforms into Four Arms and Four Arms will get a shield that is in a Tetramand Traditional style. But I have a difficult time when I try to visualize liquid aliens like Upgrade and Goop with their shields.
The Shield of Alien Powers. This makes many new shields. Considerable but if this feature has to be added, I cannot write about every single shield.
4. Ben performing a prank for the trial. First, I hope Paradox could foretell or warn Ben about this part, but unfortunately, he didn't. No spoiler, LMAO. Though I intend to go a different storyline, I will have Ben encounter the Trial. This part played a huge part in turning Naofumi's personality.
5. I forgot a very important fact. About Omnitrix translating function. The universal translator makes the user understand what the other (foreign) people say by translating what he/she actually means to say (from the brain language) to the user's language (or possibly translating to what the User can understand). Its function can also let the user understand writings too. Thanks for the reminder.
Before Ben and the young men went to bed, they were gathered for dinner at the diner where they were also served some drinks and snacks. Speaking of drinks, Ben had been wanting to sip on some smoothie the whole time, and that smoothie tastes he had the urge to drink were all weird. Ben has a weird taste with smoothies. Just a joke, sir Ben, don't kill me.
Japanese guys were like a group of high school boys to Ben as the three sat at a table together and discussed their interests. Ben himself sat at a table next to them. Ben noticed the sun outside the window had already set.
"We three are the Japanese. Are you from the US? Your Japanese is quite good. Perhaps you lived in Japan?"
Er... The Omnitrix had been translating him all that time so they must be hearing fluent Japanese in their brain. Ben was shaken but he had already prepared for this.
"No, I'm not. It's just that I took some Japanese language classes. I am not from Japan. I am from Bellwood, US. And my name is Ben Tennyson, maybe you know me."
Speaking of which, the three youths didn't know it was Ben Tennyson while he was already the infamous hero universe-wide. Maybe they didn't recognize him?
And why did he lie about learning Japanese? If they knew him, they would also have some knowledge about the omnitrix.
"Are you a celebrity?"
"Never heard of you. What do you do?"
The reaction from Itsuki and Ren was unexpected for Ben. But... he had to find out.
"Ben Tennyson. The wielder of Omnitrix and the Hero –"
Ben looked at the three heroes and he realized something. He was from another universe. So... These guys could be from different universes, too.
"Er, sorry. So you won't know me."
"Huh? Are you sprouting non-sense? What's an Omnitrix?"
Itsuki asked as Ren stared at Ben. This guy sure has some screw-loose.
"Look, back in my homeworld I was a hero–"
Wait, should I tell them? Everyone knows who I am in my universe. Almost everyone. They haven't found out I have alien powers. It doesn't hurt to keep some secrets, ha.
Ben cut his speech mid-sentence and continued, changing to a different subject after taking a deep breath.
" – er sorry. I am talking about video game stuff. You see, I really like Sumo Slammers."
"Speaking of games, doesn't this world setting and all this stuff look like some online games?" said Motoyasu as the conversation finally turned into a game discussion forum.
"Yes, I know some game worlds similar to this whole thing."
Ben went silent. He was sure Sumo Slammers games weren't anything like this world while the other three had games of their own in their mind, that was similar to this world basics.
"This is totally Emerald Online, you see."
"What's that? Never even heard of that one."
"Just how ignorant can you guys be? It's such a famous title too."
"What's Emerald Online? I know games like Odin Online and Fantasy Moon Online, aren't these pretty popular too?!"
"What are those? This is the first time I've heard of them."
"Eh?"
"Eh?"
"If I may interject, everyone. This world isn't a net game, but more like a console game!"
Ben chuckled as he watched three heroes find trouble understanding each other. Should I tell them? Should I tell them? HA!
"That's wrong, bro. This is a VRMMO, right?"
VRMMO huh? An impressive thing to say. His world must be more advanced than others'. But come to think of it… Ben was holding onto a device that is tech level 20.
"Hah? Well, for instance, isn't this world similar to games where you click and use a controller to operate?"
Confused, Motoyasu tilted his head with a dumbfounded expression during our conversation.
"Click? Controller? What kind of retro games are you referring to? Don't people usually mean VRMMO when they say 'net game' these days?"
"VRMMO? As in Virtual Reality MMO? What kind of sci-fi world setting are you trying to create? Are you daydreaming here?"
"HUH!?"
Come to think of it, this Ren guy was the first to notice their "Status" magic. Ben guessed Ren's world is more advanced than the other two's.
He gave off the impression of someone who was accustomed to this.
"Well then… gentlemen, I'd like to ask each of you to name a game from your world which bears the closest resemblance to this one."
Itsuki requested with his hand slightly raised. Motoyasu followed his lead.
"Brave Star Online."
"Emerald Online."
After a long argument, Ben finally shared his knowledge.
"I think... We are from different universes. Like alternate timelines, you see."
Ben chuckled. This much hint didn't do the job.
"Wait, does that mean... Guys,..."
"Hold on for a minute, let's reorganize our information," Motoyasu said while putting a hand on his forehead as he tried to calm us down. "Hey. Tell me what you know about the situation with VRMMO, will you?"
"It's common where I live." answered Ren.
"Itsuki, and you, Ben. What about you guys?"
"If I recall correctly, it only exists in Sci-fi."
"No. Never heard it exists." Ben replied, though I don't know if Azmuth can make one. Possible that Aliens have already created such a thing.
Just for reference, VRMMO involved a technology where one's brain waves were analyzed and deconstructed into data, which allows that person to dive into another world produced by a computer. (A/N: Only light novel thing. Since an MMO game can possibly play with a normal VR console…) Such an impressive creation! I'm gonna request Azmuth to add such a function to Omnitrix.
"Let's try asking a common question. What's the name of the current Prime Minister?"
"Hai hai."
Everyone nodded. "Let's say it together."
Ben held in his urge to laugh. I already told them that they are from different worlds. Man…
He stared at the view outside of the window as the three youths yelled their Prime Master names. The three different names came out. That much is expected. How stubborn…
"Apparently, it seems that we all came from different Japans."
"Looks that way. You guys definitely didn't come from same Japan as me."
"This means there's another Japan for each distinctive world."
Ben turned back to them and laughed. "I told ya so. Not just that. You all came from different eras, too. Like, Ren's world seems to be technically more advanced than the others."
"Yeah, yeah. I thought you were stupid. But turn out to be a genius."
A sarcastic tone from Itsuki but Ben ignored it.
Sleepy today. Without my favorite drinks and food, the day sucks and is impossible to be energetic. Should I go to sleep early?
Ben quietly yawned. He would appreciate it if Professor Paradox brought some smoothies to him.
With the three heroes. Their last experiences back in their world were all tragedies and murder incidents, and all of them were possibly killed.
Well, for Motoyasu – "For me, it was because I had too many girlfriends."
Ben didn't know how to react.
"Yeah yeah, that totally was the case."
This guy seemed like the annoying big brother type who gave off a booty-chasing image.
"And after doing a bit of this and that…"
"Did you get stabbed for two-timing or three-timing?"
Ren asked with a straight face. An insensitive thing to say, but it was what Ben would've asked if Ren didn't.
Motoyasu's eyes blinked with surprise before he gave a small nod.
"Man… Girls are really scary, aren't they?"
"So what's about you? I feel like your situation will be totally different from us."
The group's attention turned on to Ben but Ben just shrugged.
"Er… how to put it… I visited Japan just before I was summoned here –"
" GODDAMN So you are also related to Japan?!" Itsuki exclaimed.
Not exactly but if you count my Japanese Ex-girlfriend, it's a YES. I'm not gonna talk about my love life so… gotta set it up.
"Well, yes. Anyway, I found this book called "The Four Cardinal Weapons" and while I was reading it, the book suddenly glowed and sucked me in."
Silence took over for a moment.
"So you didn't die? Maybe because you are American."
"As expected of an American."
Itsuki and Motoyasu said sarcastically. Ben tried to laugh it off.
Being an American has nothing to do with it, guys. Anyway –
And so everyone discussed game statistics and tips and tricks. Ben only knew about fighting and fighting thus he silently listened in most parts. But he occasionally joined the conversation when they discuss damage and defense.
Now back to the present.
The King called the Four Cardinal Heroes to the Throne Room again and there they see many people in the armor of all kinds.
"As promised yesterday, I have recruited companions who will accompany you on your journey. Apparently, everyone gathered has already decided which hero they wish to follow."
The crowd of adventurers split into groups as each of them moves to join the hero's party. To the surprise of the three heroes, Hero of the Shield, Ben Tennyson, doesn't get any members. Ben himself didn't choose anyone, but the outcome was unexpected even for him. Ben has already decided to reject whoever joins him since he has to transform so has to avoid witnesses.
Itsuki and Ren got 5 and 3 party members respectively, while Motoyasu is surrounded by four girls.
"We-well. Dear me, I would never have thought such a situation could occur."
"There's quite a difference in charisma amongst them."
Ben looks up at the King and his advisors with a smile on his face. It widens their eyes. Why is he…
Seeing the situation, one of the King's advisors approaches the King and whispers something. After that, ...
"Seems like some rumors about sir Shield Hero are swirling in the city. They suggest the Shield Hero is cocky and inconsiderate of this world. I think that's the point why you don't have any party members."
Ben shrugs and looks away from the King. I didn't expect this. But…
"It's OK. I planned to turn down whoever wants to join me, even before they made their choice. It just makes it easier for me this way."
The three heroes are surprised. How will this kid survive with a SHIELD as his weapon and without companion? No way… This confuses them but the King has a different reaction. He frowned at Ben.
"Don't be so high of yourself, kid. You only have a shield and what are you thinking? Huh?" Motoyasu commented.
"Yeah, you better have some party members... If not, I don't think you can survive.
"Your opinions are suicidal…" Ren and Itsuki did no less.
That moment, Ren notices a portion of a square green-black hourglass symbol on one of Ben's wrists as Ben folds and crosses his arms.
"Ah, Sir Hero, I'd like to accompany the Shield Hero instead."
A voice gets Ben's attention. A voice of a girl. It came from the Motoyasu's group.
"Is there anyone else that wishes to fall under Sir Tennyson's protection?" asks the King. When no one showed any sign of joining, the King lets out a sigh.
"So, there is no one else. Unfortunately, Sir Tennyson, it appears you will need to scout for additional talent yourself. But fret not, for I shall be giving you a bonus on your monthly war fund which will soon be distributed."
"Hold on, I said I don't need any companion. Why do I not have a say in this?"
Ben and the King play eye-wrestling for some seconds. Indeed… Ben's reaction is unexpected for the King, too. The two players… who don't know what the opponent thinks.
"Sir Shield Hero, I want to…"
Ben was startled by a soft feminine voice… apparently coming from right behind him.
He then turns in the direction where the voice comes from and sees a young girl, though she looks older than himself. She has red hair, a pretty face and... some curves... Oh sh... He doesn't want to feel like a pervert. Her green eyes… slightly different from Ben's. But... anyway...
Taking a glance at the girl, Ben narrows his eyes.
What is this strange feeling I am getting around her? She is pretty... But she gives off a... Not-so-innocent aura. Her face, ... Her body... She must have some experience in using her gifts...
As Ben is a veteran in the hero business where he has to kick the butts of evil people, he has quite a skill in judging other people. This girl... she is smiling... but inside the meaning of her smile is not as genuine as an average person thinks. Appearance can be deceiving …
And what? He recalls Professor's forewarning about people in this world.
"Er... It's OK. I'm good. You see, I've been... Working things out on my own for quite a while. So... thanks. Just choose whoever's team you want to join. You don't need to pay a mind to me."
What if she is a persistent type? Alright, Ben, I have considered some possible situations and I also thought about how to reject... properly.
But the girl invades his personal space and persuades him –
"Sir hero, please. I really want to join –"
"Sorry, I am... You see, I am fairly capable on my own. I have more experience than the other guys. And I prefer doing things alone. I don't need someone... to hold me back."
He finally says the words. Hopefully, she has to hate me! For a person with a precious secret, being alone is a reward. No smoothies, no chili fries, no party member.
"What a jerk!"
"Huh?"
Ben stares at her as her attitude dramatically changes in a second. Her facial expression is tensed up! The King also seems to be interested in the situation.
"I am offering you a GOLDEN opportunity while no one gives an f to you. You are a JERK. You know!"
With some heavy steps on the floor, the red-haired beauty walks back to the spear hero and joins his party after all. Ben was immediately abandoned speechless, while the King glared at him, witnessing how miserable he looked.
Ben actually lost nothing though it became quite a scene. He shrugs as his fellow heroes glance at him thinking he is stupid.
Ren... On the other hand, he is thinking... about the hourglass symbol he saw. And it must be somehow related to the HERO thing Ben said the previous night.
"So this is it. Now you all need to separate paths and explore some areas. Brave Ones, you need to improve yourselves and upgrade your skills and levels in preparation for the next wave on time!"
So then the four cardinal heroes leave the palace and go on different paths.
Ben is alone. He walks in the streets and roads, his eyes wandering to and fro... thinking if there is any smoothie in this world. People usually don't pay attention to him as they have their own business.
It was when Ben glimpsed the unfairness of this world. He asks locals about what he witnessed. Slavery... while human slavery is illegal, HUMANS enslave the animal-human hybrid people, mostly called DEMI-HUMANS. It is legal, much to his surprise. What's wrong with these people? Demi-humans are also intelligent, aren't they?
As Ben has encountered several aliens of every shape and size in his years of heroic jobs, he is very OK with a sentient being, that looks scary, disgusting, or ugly to average people. If you say every UGLY thing is a monster, then he is a monster, too. Yes, he is a monster of several shapes and every size with a ton of terrifying powers.
Demi-humans... most of them look human. Yes, more or fewer parts of their bodies. And they possess beautiful features of animals... some are furry, some have pretty ears above their heads... Look, those demi-human girls would be the men's fantasy. Ben never thought of an alien as his life partner though. Maybe there was once he thought about one alien girl.
Damn... Should I do something? Will it... Will anything I do change the flow of this timeline? No, no, Professor Paradox guaranteed that this time involves me as a hero. So anything I do should not affect the time flow.
Alright... Ben finally determines to do something. But at a later time. He can't go set free all of them since he doesn't know where to let them live. And humans can be persistent... They might search for the demi-humans he set free to the end of the world.
And he doesn't know enough about this world, yet.
Let's explore the town, anyway.
In a valley, a certain brown-hair kid holds his left hand up near his chest and rolls up the sleeve. There sits a watch on his wrist. As Benjamin taps a button, the faceplate comes up and slides down to a side and so the core has a circular top surface and green circuits.
"Let's see. Which one can help me... Alright!"
After a few seconds, a hooded bluish moth creature with transparent... and yes, the invisible body who also turns intangible before phasing through the building beside him. The shield transforms itself into the shape of a snow flake with blue stripes on it, and in a second after transformation, the shield shrinks into a palm size. It appears in the place of Ben but no one witnesses it.
"BIG CHILL…"
Except for a certain individual with black attire and a shadow-like aura.
"This gotta be interesting. I have to report to the Queen."
The now invisible necrofriggian wanders in the streets while floating above the ground. All this time, he has been trying to memories the places throughout the city.
A shop for menswear where? No, I don't think they will separate menswear and womenswear in this medieval age… Wait what if they do? Hmm, so conflicting! I slept with my jacket on, last night. Need to get some spare clothes seriously.
So what about armor and equipment? Ben seems to not care… because he's never played adventure fantasy games? But it is not necessary… if you think about it more carefully.
It is when Ben finds out about the Portable Map feature that is together with the Status indicator.
So I wasted a lot of time wandering in the city… for nothing? The necrofriggian facepalms and flies towards the downtown.
He finds a strange building. At first glance, it is a church? Yes, it is, but a little more to it. Three symbols, huh? A Spear, a Sword, and a Bow. Wait… Where's the Shield?
This confuses Ben. First, he doesn't understand why the weapons made to fight and kill each other are symbols of religion. Then, why are there only three of the legendary four weapons?
Well, the shield isn't a weapon, that explains it.
Ben is trying to be positive here, but he feels this strange aura around the church. Alright, I am sneaking inside. He decides to go inside the building so he turns himself intangible and flies high, into the upper wall of the building.
The inside of the church is normal… while he isn't a religious type, he can see these all people have strong beliefs in their gods. But… their gods mean the three heroes… that excludes the hero of the Shield. Ben doesn't understand why the shield hero is excluded… in fact, shields are meant to protect oneself and others. Shields defend their masters.
Perhaps the people of this world are aggressive and also go on the offensive, huh? This is not pretty if I guess it right, man. Seriously I hope my theories are wrong.
Big Chill enters an innermost hall and sees a large hourglass. Man, it's huge! Some kind of magical sand is flowing down from the upper part into the lower body. Ben comprehends it is not his average sand.
This must be the Hourglass that Aultcray told us about. Whoever built this must be really–
Suddenly, the necrofriggian hears a conversation between two nuns. He didn't want to eavesdrop on them… but when he noticed it, he had already done it!
"You heard about Shield Devil?"
"What about that scum?"
"The rumors say nobody joined his party. And they say that his personality is totally evil and the royalty has found out that he has to be planning something… not genuine."
Wait, wait, hold on. I just got summoned to this world yesterday and they are already spreading conspiracies like… Wait, what the heck is SHIELD DEVIL? They haven't even seen my transformation.
Big Chill frowns at the nuns as he floats in the air near them, though they are unaware of him.
The King… did Aultcray do it? He sure seems to hold grudges but… the King of a nation… can't possibly…
"The pope also is preparing to counter the Shield Devil. Regardless, the Queen seems to be caring about the Devil, huh?"
"Yes, maybe she is a devil worshipper… like those Demi-human scums…"
If Ben weren't a hero, these two would be frozen at the very beginning. Crap… Big Chill stretches out his wings, and rises, feeling utterly disgusted at their exchange.
"Sh… don't run your mouth like that. What if royal guards hear you?"
Ben doesn't care anymore. He flies out of the building through the roof and goes back to the market area.
Shield Devil, huh? What's happening here? And they said about Demi-humans worshipping the Shield Hero… things are becoming interesting, confusing, and disgusting. Alright, I better upgrade my levels as well. What threat will come to me, I don't know. I know nothing about this world. Better brace myself!
Ben had a plan to save money to buy off every demi-human slaves in the country and free them. But… what if humans capture and torture them again? If he does it, he will make it successful. No failure is allowed… when it's concerned with lives.
Or… can he buy off the whole country with the money he gains from selling Diamondhead crystals? Sorry, Economics. He's gonna turn this nation's currency upside down.
I gotta buy some armor and usable equipment…
In a valley away from crowds, Big Chill stands on the ground invisible, and turns back to human form.
The human big chill… sorry. Ben walks towards where the armor shop exists at a slow pace… with a ton of things to think about on his plate. Ben looks around and feels sad whenever he sees someone enslaved, and hurt… he can't help it. How is he gonna change the world? And how is he gonna save EVERYone? He remembers the WAVES that Aultcray said. Well… the job isn't easy, hmm…
One bald guy pays a mind to Ben while he is spacing out and literally goes past the equipment shop. It was no other than the armor shopkeeper… Mr. Bald.
"Oh Hi, Mr. Bald…"
" Oh yea… you see. I have a name and it's Erhard. Come on inside the weapon and armor shop… you need to strengthen your defense if you're gonna go on adventures, kid."
Erhard noticed the Shield attached to Ben's arm but he thought it was perfectly normal and regards Ben as a normal adventurer rookie. Ben was in no condition to think of any more complex matter therefore slowly follows Mr. Bald into the shop.
"You already have a shield so what kind of weapon do you want? I have spears, bows, and swords."
"I need a gun. Better if you can get me a proto-tool."
Ben replies with a depressed tone.
Erhard stretches the back of his head and for a short moment, doesn't know how to respond.
"Uh,... I don't know what you mean. But like I said, I have spears, bows and swords, and also shields. And armor."
Well, I should forge a weapon on my own, using the intelligence of Grey Matter and Brainstorm, maybe Jury Rigg. Also armor. I can create the best armor using crystals of Diamondhead. And which alien needs an armor, anyway?
Whatever.
"Er… can I… see some of them? Please show me the best you have."
He shakes off the awful feeling and walks behind the bald guy as Mr. Bald tries to show Ben his best products.
"This looks… durable. Haha…"
He tries to forget everything in this while. But then…
He lifts up a sword from the rack, and immediately, electricity flows out of nowhere into his hand and the weapon. As frightened, he lets it go down in response.
"What THE HELL?! YOUR THING SHOCKS ME!"
Erhard, again, stretches the back of his head, with a confused look in his eyes.
"To be honest, I don't think this sword has an electrifying magic spell. See –"
As talking, he holds up the same sword Ben touched, without a harm.
" – unless you have an electric magic spell and you try to trick me." Erhard continues.
"You trying to SHOCK ME– Er… well, forget it."
"Hold on. Didn't you just try to trick me?"
"No, I don't. I don't even know what magic is. Well, I know what magic is because my cousin does magic but not the same kind of magic as the one you say."
Erhard looks into Ben's eyes before he detects sincerity in them. He goes in silence as he thinks why Ben was shocked when he got his hands on the sword. Er… that is it.
"Perhaps your class it is. Your class must be SHIELD uers and when you use other weapon, you get shocked. Well, even I don't get it."
My class? Uh… since I am wielding a shield… then… I can't use any other weapon, can I?
"Show me your shield."
Ben doesn't say anything back and brings his shield up to the table as Erhard walks behind the desk and searches for something. Then he looks up with a lens in his hand.
"Shall I?"
Ben shrugs. His eyes widen as he sees a crystal ball embedded in the shield. He never noticed it, probably because he didn't pay attention to his shield.
"What is that thing?"
"A core? Please wait, I will… investigate it."
After a moment, Erhard looks up at Ben with a confused look.
"Your shield just looks like as a small shield but… it is somewhat mysterious. I can't tell."
"It never comes off, you see. But I can place it on other part of my body. I can throw it away and I reappear somehow…"
"Really mysterious. Wait, you are one of the Four Cardinal Heroes?"
"Er… yes."
At first, Erhard acts surprised but then he is calmed down.
"Uh… let's move on to the armor thing."
And then after Ben has paid for an armor set and put it inside the shield inventory, he walks into a valley, where no one can see him, and transforms into Big Chill before turning invisible and flying off.
Inventory thingy should be familiar with MMO gamers. But for a realistic view, it can be defined as a magic bag. A magic bag where you can stuff things into it, and it wil differentiate them according to their type or usability. Ben found out about this feature yesterday when the King said to the heroes to check their magic status.
In a forest outside the capital, a sword-playing Ren can be seen slaying monsters… well, monsters but small. They are like orange balloons floating in the air. Since… their biology can't be explained properly… let's just suppose they live on mana.
"YAH!"
Ren is no swordsman, if you say professional. At this very first level of 1, he is even more helpless than a rookie. Regardless, he is gradually getting used to his sacred weapon and familiar with its swipes and attacks. The sword is heavy… but sometimes, it's light. At least it is a proper weapon, if you think about the shield kid who is wielding TWO non-weapons.
Amongst the leaves and the branches and the vines, he witnesses an interesting view. He moves forward to watch it clearly and tries to not make a sound. After he has come out of the forest, he sees a grassland. The sun is still up, and he sees a familiar brown-haired weirdo with a green jacket. Ren chuckled. He isn't wearing any armor. This guy… But then his jaw drops.
The weird forementioned is shooting green laser from his very eyes.
Oh sh… what the hell is he? He is… Super-duper-Man?
Ren is surprised but he tries to keep his breath under control and slowly slips to behind a tree and looks at Ben blasting the orange ballon monsters with his vision lasers.
This guy… as I thought… he is no average man. Wait, come to think of it, didn't he say he had more experience than us, back at the castle?
Ren doesn't understand how a human can shoot laser from his eyes, though he has played such moves in VRMMO games.
"Oh yes, ID Mask is cool."
Ben feels nostalgic as he shoots neuroshock blasts from his eyes. In fact he had transformed into an aerophibian a while ago and activated the ID Mask function of the Omnitrix.
It reminds him of Ultimate Ben, an alternate version of his future self, who can use Alien Powers without transforming. When it seems very convenient, it changes the nature of human body, becoming an evolved Homo sapiens. In Ben 10,000's case, the Ultimatrix malfunctioned and leaked its million DNAs into Ben's body, making him a walking ALIEN DNA collection. A Omnitrix Dial on his body acts as a suppressor to highlight a single Alien DNA and fuse it with Ben's body so he doesn't need to transform further, though there will be changes to his humane appearances. (A/N: this part is my, author's, theory. I didn't have a chance to explain this in Author's note before.)
Ben jumps into the air as he stretches his arms to the sides, and then rises several meters into the sky while blasting green neuroshocks into the bunch of orange monsters.
Ren is utterly surprised! He is silently staring as Ben flies into the sky and then descends on to the ground, a number of green laser blasts are shot up at intervals, but very precisely: not a single one missing the small targets like aforementioned monsters.
He… Is he a wizard? A witch? A monster? A super-duper-man?
Ren doesn't have an answer except the fact that Ben is surprisingly more powerful than him and other heroes. Maybe it's a gift… an adjustment to those without attack power like the hero of the Shield?
After all the monsters are defeated, a cheerful and energetic Ben Tennyson flies off into the sky unaware of his two observers, one being Ren and the other – a humanoid shadowy figure.
"I must report to Queen as soon as possible!"
She whispers and enters the depths of the forest.
"Er… it was refreshing. Let's see… Oh… I got promoted to level 3, aha!"
Tennyson says cheerfully as he flies and looks at the his status at the same time. A world without his fans and anyone who knows him, is relaxing. I should do this once in a while, hah!
The ID Mask effect wears off and Ben moves his hand towards his chest.
"OK, Jetray, your job is done here. BIG CHILL–"
Ben is now a hooded moth-like alien with bluish skin. He turns invisible and intangible before he enters the inn he has to stay for night.
"Shield class is for losers. It is utterly useless, except for defense."
Ben blinks his eyes as he says nothing back but listens to what other heroes comment about his shield.
"And your attack power is only 1, right? Dude, you seriously need someone who can protect you and fight for you."
Ren, who has seen Ben's WIZARD abilities, says nothing but agrees with the statement "SHIELD class is useless." But what does he have in his tow. This world might be different. This isn't a game, this is reality. Reality is… different from games, right?
Ren looks over Ben – who looks stupid like a fool and opens his mouth wide as he knows nothing Itsuki and Motoyasu lectures.
"Don't be stubborn and quickly find a party member. Look, you can't survive out there. Can you even defeat a ballon guy?"
Itsuki's advice is right, Ren thinks. But it's not a fact. But Ren also doesn't know if anyone here other than Ben, can throw out green blasts. What if they all are keeping him in the dark while they gain awesome super powers?
Ren is conflicted. He stares at the backs of Itsuki and Motoyasu and the stupid-looking smile of Ben. Should I tell them? That… Ben can fly and shoot lasers from his eyes? Well, if Ben refuses the fact and the others don't believe me, it is pointless and I will be left stupid.
So finally Ren finally decides to keep it to himself before drinking the whole mug of some liquid he isn't supposed to drink at his age logically back in his homeworld. He is already dead, isn't he? After letting out some hiccups, he silently goes upstairs and enters the room reserved for him.
Ben, as he was in a face-to-face position with Ren, indeed noticed him acting somewhat weird… something's up but he can't tell what it is exactly.
As so, the two heroes are in a miserable tie.
Naofumi feels utterly stupid.
He blushes looking at his reflection in the mirror. He puts on his white jacket as he has planned to meet with someone soon enough. He doesn't want to get there late, and the timetable of Japanese people are extremely strict. He doesn't want to waste some time of his important someone.
Weeks ago, when he went to a library to read some light novel after he ran out of books, he grabbed a book out of the stall and brought it to a nearest table and read it.
And after some pages into the book, a foreign kid appeared out of nowhere and robbed the book of Naofumi, and disappeared into the book before Naofumi could do anything.
WTH! He wanted to scream! He just had to have some brain problems. But as the book fell on to the floor, the librarian lady teleported towards him with a paper fan in her hand. She hit him hard with that paper fan and yelled at him for his disrespect for the book.
Naofumi had to apologize for minutes. The lady seems to care specifically for this book.
But he didn't question her.
Flashback ends as his smartphone rings and a name appears on his screen.
"Raphtalia"
It is the nickname that his lover used in a fiction writing website. But somehow, he is familiar and adores that name.
Raphtalia… he doesn't call it out usually… since he is worried that he might make a strange accent…
Raphtalia person is the same librarian lady he met that day.
Fate? Or some catalyst certainly affected his life.
He doesn't want to find out anymore, though.
Naofumi takes a glance at the screen and picks up the phone.
"Hello, yuusha-sama."
Back with Ben. No word comes out of between his lips but he is debating with himself. No sound in his room, the window is opened and the moonlight is welcome. He feels refreshed. Transforming into aliens usually took a toll on his body… but not anymore.
Er… sleeping in newly bought clothes… comfortable. Ben has many things to think of before he finally falls asleep.
I think I should relax myself.
My old clothes and money, and all the possession are inside the inventory. Way to go, Ben!
Again, a new day, Ben's eyes opens as the sunlight invades his vision, which he blocks using his palms. The morning has come, but Ben feels quite cold. Oh… the campfire must run out last night.
He rises quickly and lets out a yawn while looking around and analyzing the environment.
Then he washes his face. Normally he wants to take a bath, but, well, some interesting thing will occur today and Ben is feeling it.
He is hesitant to take a bath… well he finds quite a reason which isn't reasonable.
Eventually he gives in to the icy cold water and jumps into the bath with the clothes on.
Then maybe he will change them. He doesn't really pay a mind to washing or drying them since he has a couple of superpowers which will play handy with chores.
And let's skip some time here.
The throne room in the castle has quite a crowd. Some nobles are gathered and there is the King with hostile look on his face, and recently summoned heroes.
And there is a certain red-haired girl with litres of tears flowing on her face that is hidden behind the Spear Hero's back.
The Spear Hero, who's extremely soft and brainless, when comes to women, is at his limits. He wants to explode anytime… especially when that JERK enters the room.
He heard that the guard had already gone to bring him a while ago but nothing is heard till now.
Ren has an unreadable look on his pretty face. He is… being indecisive. Itsuki has trust issues. The problem is that he trusts rather easily. He considers this as a video game storyline so he doesn't really care. Next things next, and first things first, you know.
Ren, on the other hand, has a difficult time to accept the situation or refuse it. Either way has pros and cons and he surely doesn't want to walk the road of thorns.
The big doors opens wide before a group of guards enters. Seeing them bring nothing, Kitamura Motoyasu snaps and grabs the collar of the nearest guard with the spear whirling around. The guard is trembled but he can't do anything back.
"You see the girl, she is crying. She is hurt, and you couldn't accomplish a simple task. DON'T SAY YOU CAN'T CATCH A SINGLE KID!"
Motoyasu yells at the guards, and Itsuki approached them.
"We need to bring justice on him for the sake of the victim. To do so, you guards have to do that much. You–"
"What's up with all this ruckus, guys?"
Itsuki's heroic speech is interrupted by a familiar voice. They all look up at the source of voice.
Their favorite Benjamin Kirby Tennyson has his body hanging upside down from the ceiling as he stands on it. He crosses his arms and smirks, much to the disgust of the King and his fellow heroes. The red-haired beauty grits her teeth as she glares at him with much hate. He honestly doesn't know why the girl hates him, but he doesn't care. He isn't a therapist after all.
"You! You rapist!"
Tennyson yawns as he listens to Motoyasu's accusation.
"Er… excuse me. What did I miss here?"
The spear hero points his index finger in the direction of Ben who is upside-down under the ceiling.
"You! You raped poor Malty! You are–"
"Who is Malty? Why is Malty? Where is Malty?"
Ben sarcastically says as he literally walks on the lower surface of the ceiling… in case it has a upper surface.
All this time, Ren is surprised at how Ben suddenly appeared… but he has seen Ben fly… so this much should be easy for Ben… that Ren believes.
Unknownst to them, the TRUE legs of the Shield Hero are sticky with spider-web like substance. It attaches Ben to the ceiling… er… scientifically approved.
Itsuki enters the pathetic situation of Motoyasu, intending to bring TRUE justice. It was one-sided however.
"Here is the lady, who is the victim of the sexual abuse crime you committed last night. Her name is Malty. OK?"
He sounds confident and lawyer-y but… at the end of the day, he doesn't know how to handle a rape victim.
Ben wears a smile and narrows his eyes looking at the girl whom the Bow Hero pointed. Oh… actually four eyes… maybe six eyes, choose by yourselves, sorry.
"So she's Malty, huh? You have my interest, you make all this exciting. I didn't know you would do it yesterday. Hah!"
He has to hold in the urge to make monkey-like sounds so that he can keep his cool. His sense of humor is a bit… uncontrollable.
And my man, Ben is speaking like a villain. Oh Alien X.
"You JERK!"
Malty responds with a hostile tone, which Ben doesn't care. He turns and glares at the King, who he thinks 100 percent sure that this old man has a relation with the Malty girl. It isn't like it matters to him but… being a detective is cool, you know.
"And why do I care about someone who calls me a jerk?"
The King frowns at Ben. Their eyes meet each other but he has nothing to fight back the kid. His confidence, and his abilities… and his nature. The Shield Devil has finally taken his mask off. Splendid! Yeah, but I am still losing to him.
"Well anyway –" ignoring the hostile glares of everyone else, Ben continues.
"Let's move on with the trial. Come on. Where's the proof? Where's my lawyer? Where's the criminal? Or the accused? Oh I am the accused. Come on, do it, Or you all gather here because you want some bananas from the castle? Banana wine?"
"Why do we need proof when Malty herself opened up to us regardless of her embarrassment and disgrace? You JERK!" Motoyasu yells glaring daggers at Ben. Itsuki takes some steps forward before speaking.
"Yes, as he says. The victim is right here, why do we need more proof? And…"
The KIng stood up.
"ENOUGH! You shield devil, come down, and accept the punishment. Since you are one of–"
"Punishment for what? I don't steal any banana from Your Majesty and I don't really eat banana."
The King's looks are tensed up.
"Well, the nature of the SHIELD DEVIL is much expected. I have known since the very beginning you got before me."
"Known what? Shield Devil my ass, or your ass. Whatever, I couldn't care less about that stuff. Or maybe you can explain there are only three symbolis, the sword, the spear and the bow at the Church. Or maybe you can explain why the HOLY nuns hate me. Or–"
"ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! Guards! Get him."
Easy for him to say. How to get there? The Shield Devil is literally hanging on the ceiling which is at least 20 feet above the floor. The guards look at each other.
"I am not a therapist but if you need to discuss your anger issues, I will live up to your expectations, ha!"
Looking at the pathetic guards, Ben jumps down the ceiling and floats in the air, at least 15 feet above floor. The panicked nobles and the guards stare at him in fear while the Heroes, the King and Malty glared at him in disgust. Ren is an exception.
So what happened to the guards when they went to catch him?
At the middle of the night, Ben was woken up by a knock… no a series of knocks. Thankfully, the door was locked.
"GHOSTFREAK…"
An entity, that existed between living and death, phased through the door to see what was happening in the halls, activating invisibility.
Ghostfreak saw the red-haired girl, whom he encountered earlier today, and this particular girl requested him to accept her.
He has only one eye, but his vision is… well, good in the dark.
He quietly activated recording function of the Omnitrix… with master-control.
Malty knocked the door several times, but no responses came back to her. With a disappointed look, she backed up from the door and walked in the halls.
What's that? Surely that look wasn't pleasant… the ghostly entity followed her… and… saw her meet the guards.
"He didn't respond. It doesn't matter, you can just break the door or something to get him."
"Of course, Ma'am."
"Now… I will go to the Motoyasu's room. You guys…. Prepare firmly, OK?"
"We won't disappoint you, Ma'am."
After seeing that, Ben didn't follow her anymore. Whatever will be, will be.
Hold on! I saw a great camping place in the forest. Maybe I should camp there!
So that happened.
Ben showed the recording to the audience.
The King has anger issues. Ben knew that. After the proof, an undeniable one at that, that old man, Aultcray, just becomes more furious.
And the nobles. They can't believe what they saw but they have to.
The heroes… Itsuki was full of doubts so he took some steps back from the court. Justice… can be tricky at times, you know.
Ren… How the heck did this guy do this? I don't know what to say anymore.
Motoyasu is silent but his anger is rolling up insides. Maybe explode later.
Malty? She looks fine. Except she is as furious as the King and tries to act pathetic as she asks Motoyasu for help, saying she fears the Shield Devil.
It is the moment of Chaos.
It is the time of utter non-sense.
The view is…. The court's favorite Ben Tennyson is 15 feet above the ground, floating. The rest are looking up at him, with the meanings of their own.
And a cocky smirk from Ben is added.
Chapter (2) ends here. Any reviews are welcome, and I still improvement. And I will consider to answer the questions when the next chapter is up.
Thanks for reading, everyone.
Christopher Paradox Chronos, the Time-Keeper.