Ben 10 Omniverse: A New Hope
Chapter III - The Mage of Bellwood
Space - Vulcan's Orbit - Detrovite System
A dark, red, scorching planet can be seen in the distance, with it's two moons in parallel orbit. Vulcan, home world of the Detrovites, a volcanic industrial land, rich in rare minerals, and notoriously known as the center of all contraband.
Many space stations and interplanetary docks spread out above the planet's atmosphere, as countless ships flew by in orderly fashion. One particular shuttle drifted away from the traffic line, heading towards a nearby trading station.
The black and white shaded ship landed at one of the docks, anchoring itself on the platform. The ship's hatch opened up, lowering a ladder.
An ominous, cloaked figure, walked amongst the crowds of different species roaming the merchant sector. The cloaked alien slid in between two of the industrial shop stands, and heads into a dark alleyway, away from the chaos. He removes his hood, unveiling themselves to be Psyphon, as he looks back in disgust at the mess he had to go through to get there. He stepped deeper into the alleyway, disappearing into the shadows.
"Gentlemen." Psyphon's voice could be heard in the transition.
Space Station - Hideout - Vulcan's Orbit.
We find ourselves in a large, hidden, poorly lit room, with a big window, where Vulcan's atmosphere could be seen at full display, creating an eerily lit, reddish ambience in the room.
This room is crowded with Vulkanus' minions, the pickaxe aliens. At the far end of it, near the window, Inspector 13, Vulkanus himself, and an insect-like being, could be seen sitting down on a large, C shaped, grey, taydenite table. Vulkanus was sat at the middle, in a throne, for his size, while the others sat in regular chairs. Psyphon was standing in front of them.
Psyphon: "I've gathered you all here for a business proposal that will benefit us all, equally. I seek to build an Empire, one that will oppose those that have been established for eons, one that will put my former 'master', Vilgax, to shame... I know and assure you that with our skill sets and resources united, in time, we could achieve such ambition." He informed the reason they were summoned. The candidates stared at him, expecting more information.
Inspector 13: "I am an independent operator. I require more information in order to understand why my aid in the formation of this 'organization' would benefit my business."
Vulkanus: "Yea, what makes you think we'd be interested. I'm more than comfortable on my own. I don't share my assets unless the offer is good, so you better start sounding convincing." He stated, wishing that they didn't gather in vain.
Alien: "Speak for yourselves, I am already sufficiently established and content with my factories back on Baltopia." the alien that resembled a mix between a roach and a mantis in it's appearance spoke up.
Psyphon was already losing the interest of his potential associates, but he knew how to gain back their attention. It was time to speak examples of the equal benefits of his plan.
He stepped towards the former server of Techadon - "Inspector 13, former Weapons Master of Techadon, you have been in the business of arms dealing for nearly 2 years, completely alone. So far you have only managed to make business in the Solus System, stationed on Earth. I can offer you my own technological expertise, and through collaboration, we can further push your reach to other systems, and exponentially grow your business. Matter of fact, I did not come here empty handed, I am sending you a sheet of schematics for various prototypes, right about... now..." He typed in on his wrist-pad, sending draft status plans to the Inspector, as his communicator lit up.
Inspector 13 quickly scanned through the list of schematics and distributional plans. Psyphon offered a lucrative proposal, surprisingly catching the arms dealer's attention.
Psyphon then walked towards Vulkanus - "Vulkanus, you are the wealthiest being in seven star systems, specializing in the extraction and trade of minerals, whether common, rare, or unclassified. Most notably, you have taydenite mining facilities that grant you an inconceivable gross income. Your net worth continues to grow, as long as production remains uninterrupted, which if I recall, it has been interrupted before..." He stated, catching the Detrovite's attention.
Psyphon: "Here's my proposal: If you were to fund our cause, in return, we can upgrade your means of operations, providing your workers with far more advanced machinery, defences, and security, nothing you could find on the market. This will amplify the rate and efficiency of your excavations, for a better trade of course, we don't require any of your services, just your investments to us, in return for our service."
Vulkanus went from sporting a serious frown to showing a slight grin. "Oh I do like the sound of that." He exclaimed, siding more with Psyphon on the idea.
Psyphon went to the unknown alien - "And of course, Gal'demix, expert cybernetics manufacturer, talented designer of robotic schematics, owner of nine level five droid factories, covering different products and services. You, like our friend here, were also once a servant of Techadon, you decided to go independent, and you're now very well off with your business."
Gal'demix: "Yes, like I said, I am more than satisfied with what I've got, why would I be interested in this plot?" He questioned defiantly.
Psyphon: "Your schematics, combined with Inspector 13's detailed quality of work, and my innovation, we could design an army the likes of which the galaxy has never seen before, completely obedient, with no need to waste credits on feeding, care, or housing; a means to completely cheat the system. With three methods of funding backing production, you aren't risking anything. Your work will be seen, feared, and rejoiced, throughout the cosmos. You already tackle security droids in your line of work, and I know you have designed weapons that have been banned by the Plumbers themselves-" He got interrupted by Gal'demix.
Gal'demix: "I must interrupt you on that notion. You say I have nothing to risk? You've essentially stated that you intend to go to war. You think you can go up against the Incurseans? The Tetramands? The High Breed? You think you can surpass Techadon in influence? Not to mention, the countless other war lords trying to out class each other, like Vilgax. You think you'll achieve that, just with us? Blashtīorka. Drop those deadly dreams and wake up, Psyphon..."
Psyphon: "I know that we can, and I assure you that I am not a fool. I am aware of the risks, and that this takes time, planning, and an excruciating amount of development from the ground up. We must work from the shadows. Like I said, with our resources, and our areas of expertise, we can, and will rule the galaxy! Starting off by establishing our alliance and plan of attack. My friends, this is a one time opportunity..." He stated, waiting for them to agree.
A moment of silence filled the room, only the sounds of pipes and air vents could be heard, as the participants thought on their decision.
Vulkanus: "Count me in, I felt like getting into investments anyways."
Inspector 13: "I am interested in the ideas you possess, I agree on joining your cause, until further notice. I wish to see your technical prowess in action, in terms of business and weapons schematics."
Psyphon: "And we will get to that very soon."
They all turned to look at Gal'demix, who had remained quiet since the last time he spoke.
Gal'demix: "Unfortunately, I remain unconvinced. I am out. I cannot risk my business, and I owe my respects to Techadon, despite my desertion. I will not share my assets to outsiders, for such a treacherous cause. I came here assuming it would be an appropriate business deal, not some 'galactic conquest' fantasy. Good harvest to you all, I wish you luck on your... Objective." He got up calmly and left the room.
Psyphon got a bit more serious in his expression, staring at the closed door from which the alien had exited. He went to sit on the chair that Gal'demix was seated on before he left, looking at his two new partners.
Psyphon: "Gal'demix would have been a big centerpiece to our cause, his reluctance to join is a setback, but a minor one. We will deal with that later on. For now, let's get straight to business..."
Vulkanus: "Yea, about that, before we get into the, uh, details. We have to talk the obvious problem we'll face, especially if we plan covering ground on Earth."
Psyphon: "Ah yes, I know, Tennyson... Him and his new sorceress friend had just recently foiled my attempts to gather up muscle in Undertown. This is why we need to play this out 'underground', only for now, as we gather up enough assets. We'll need a few fallmen, luckily, my old crew can be of help on that. Tennyson will be a landmine we will have to avoid at the moment."
Inspector 13: "Most agreed, this Juvenile Homosapien has been an element of loss on my previous operations. It is as if it always knows when to strike."
Vulkanus: "You ain't kidding, that boy used to always obliterate my plans. I've tried to eliminate Tennyson myself before, but I failed each time, he's someone you just can't get rid of. He's probably somewhere out there, ruining someone's day, right at this very moment..." He claimed, afraid of a mere adolescent.
Earth - Bellwood - Mr. Smoothies - Afternoon
Ben Tennyson was with Kai. They were out on what he deemed a 'date'. Ben was burying himself on chili fries, while he hold his smoothie in one hand. Kai was a bit disgusted towards his eating 'etiquette' or specifically, the lack of it.
Ben spoke whilst eating - "Wow- these will never get old." He burped.
Intro Theme Song Starts.
Intro Theme Song Ends.
Ben had just finished eating. He took sips from his smoothie; Kai was sitting next to him, drinking her own smoothie as well, but she hadn't finished her chili fries entirely. Ben turned his eyes to look at her, he saw the opportunity to get close to her and went to hold her hand.
He got to her hand, holding it for a few seconds, showing affection, but to his disappointment, Kai did not return the gesture, instead, she moved her hand away slightly. Still drinking her smoothie, she raised an eyebrow and glared at Ben. She then stopped drinking and put the smoothie down.
Kai: "Ben. You have to stop doing whatever it is you're trying to do." She said with a serious and uncomfortable look on her face, looking at him directly.
Ben: "Huh, what, stop what, what do you mean?" He acted dumb, despite his real dumbness.
Kai: "You know what I'm talking about, stop trying to 'make a move' on me, I already told you I'm not interested in- Please, don't tell me you think this is a date."
Ben: "I mean, wasn't last time a date too?" he joked, hiding his embarrassment.
Kai widened her eyes, and got more stern towards Ben. He wasn't taking her seriously, as usual, well, does he really take anything seriously nowadays?
Kai: "Ben, no! each time you call me, you never say 'Hey let's go on a date' you say 'Hey let's go hangout' those are two completely different things, and I think you know exactly what you're doing! You know that if you even mentioned the word 'date', I would have said no! Ugh! Ever since that 'Spanner' guy kept bringing up that 'we were gonna end up together', you've been obsessing over that time traveling nonsense."
Ben: "No! It's not like that- well, that's not... it's uh... ok you got me, yea." He gave up, not even attempting to find an excuse for his intentions.
Kai: "That's not cool Ben, I already told you I don't want to date you, or anyone, not right now. Either way, how would you expect that to work? I'm moving out to Egypt next week." She reminded Ben of the complications, and her thoughts. Ben was simply fidgeting around with his hands.
She continued adding - "I see you as a friend, a very annoying one at best. No offense, but, your cute alien transformations aren't enough to cut out as boyfriend material, just saying." She spoke harshly.
Ben: "Wait, but, what's wrong with me? What's 'boyfriend material' to you then? I'm getting mixed signals here."
Kai: "Well then, let me make it clear... If I were to date anyone, I'd date a man." She stated nonchalantly.
Ben went blank for a second, then blinked a few times in confusion "Woah now, hold your horses, what's that supposed to mean!?" He asked, feeling very offended.
Kai: "Ben, you're just... too childish, you're immature. Aren't you like, going to be eighteen this year? yet you don't take anything seriously, and you're just... Living in the moment while everyone else around you evolves."
Ben: "Oh, I've evolved." He stated while raising his arm, displaying the Omnitrix, pointing at it, with a slight smirk on his face.
Kai: "Huh? Updating your Omnitrix is not- Ah! You see? this is exactly what I mean, do you think this is a joke?" She paused for a moment, looking at him, while Ben shrugged, upset. "What I meant by evolving, is to grow up, Ben, you as a person, like for example: what do you want to do in your future? Study? Work? Hobbies? You know, go get a job, get a house, any goals at all? Anything other than waiting to send the next big baddie to the hospital?" She started to lower the harshness in her words, and began to speak in a neutral tone so as to not grab the attention of bystanders.
However, in Ben's mind, he realized he hadn't thought about that before, he had been living in a loop these past years, where he was so focused on the hero stuff, he completely forgot to develop his own normal personal life.
Ben: "Well, ok you have a point, but you're wrong on one thing, I already have a job, I'm a Plumber, remember? Full time Super Hero. They provide me with knowledge and experience I won't find in any other school or place. So what exactly is wrong with my lifestyle? Miss life coach all the sudden."
Kai: "Oh, so you want me to go there? Two words, comfort zone. Plumber or not, you're a spoiled brat, you get the extra benefits of never having to clock in at their headquarters, because you're 'the mighty wielder of the Omnitrix'. You don't even have to pay for things like the rest of us, like rent, because you still live with your parents, and get spoon fed by the space cops to keep you in check. You don't do any actual down-to-earth work, and that one time with Mr. Baumann doesn't count, Ben." She pointed at him, poking him. Ben was slowly sinking in his mind hearing what was said to him.
- "You just go ride around with Rook, punch a few nasty faces, save the day, go drink smoothies, then you go home, play sumo slammers for hours, go sleep, rinse and repeat the next day, that's it, that's your life, Tennyson, your words, not mine. How long do you think that's gonna last?" She kept on pushing as a wake up call.
Ben stood silent, he was starting to get very mad, he was getting hit hard right now with some very unfair criticism, after all the times he's saved the Universe? It was only last week since he saved it, again! What was this tomb raiding jerk talking about?!
But he quickly realized he had no real excuse to be mad, he couldn't argue back, It didn't even matter if it was her saying these things, she was right. This had nothing to do with his heroism, matter of fact, his heroism was yet another excuse to not work on himself. Selflessness had it's complications.
He has never considered what he would study. Despite having the honorary degree that was given to him at Friedkin University, it was just an excuse to not go to college. He cheated the system through his status, again. However, Ben realized that everyone he knew did something more than just their gimmick, they pursued new things in life, they worked harder, continued studying, developed projects, worked on their goals, all while he had no idea what he would actually do in his adult life, besides what he's already been doing since the day he got the Omnitrix.
Ben truly was living in the moment, day to day, simply waiting for the next big villain to 'punch away'. His newest most used transformation: being a vegetable in front of a television. He really let himself go, he got lazy, arrogant, and became a clown, even his own Grandpa started becoming annoyed of his behavior this year.
Ben: "You're... Absolutely right." His angered mood was retreated, as he ultimately agreed with everything Kai had brought up. He even stopped having his arms folded.
Kai was very, very surprised he agreed with her, for once he put his ego to the side. Ben wasn't done talking yet.
Ben: "But I still think you're completely disregarding the actual mountain of responsibilities I have on my shoulders. I have one of the most powerful devices ever created, latched on my wrist, all while everyone counts on me to do the right thing. I have saved the Universe, heck, the Multiverse, numerous times! I'm with the Plumbers because I have to, I even finished high school early because of that." Ben gave a fair point, but once again, as some sort of habit, he was using his hero's status as a means to avoid the main discussion.
Kai was now listening to him, with her arms folded, waiting for him to finish his very predictable defense, except for what was said right after, which was unexpected.
He continued - "Listen, I've experienced things people our age should never experience, you have no idea, zero, of the things I go through on the daily when I'm not making quips or 'punching a bad guy unto a hospital' as you say. So excuse me if I'm forced to act like a clown to deal with that stuff, Kai..." For once, Ben Tennyson was finally speaking in a serious manner. The scary thing was, he no longer seemed mad or upset, he was just serious.
Kai: "Ben... I know all of that, I'm not disregarding any of the great things you've done for this world, I'm only trying to make you aware of the little things. You're everyone's hero, but you need to be your own person, that watch can't be the only thing that makes you... well, you. Right now you're just... one dimensional, and that's not, well, it's not attractive. Oh and don't even tell me you don't have time for other things, when your cousin is working and studying two majors at once, plus, she was still doing 'hero' stuff with you awhile back AND she's like, a wizard. A person can and should be more than just one thing. I'm telling you this as your friend." She said to him, very kindly, surprisingly a very out of character moment.
Ben looked down for a second, in doubt, lost in thought. He then looked at Kai.
Kai: "I'm sorry Ben, I know it's not my place to talk to you about this, especially this way, but I saw the opportunity to bring it up, and I took it, I'm not the only one that thinks this either, just the only one with the pants to bring it up apparently." She put her hand on Ben's shoulder to comfort him, seeing as she was very harsh and blunt on her approach.
Ben: "No, it's ok actually. Thanks Kai, I really needed to hear that. I've been handed out so many things in life, and I've been pretty arrogant, I admit that. But for everything else you said, I'm definitely going to give that a lot of thought. I'm willing work on that."
Kai smiled at Ben, she was glad that he took everything well, and will consider her words.
Ben: "But uh, yeah. Thanks."
Kai: "Don't mention it kiddo."
Ben: "Ok, don't call me that though."
Kai: "Whatever you say kiddo."
Ben: "Stop."
Kai: "Will do... kiddo."
Kai was laughing at him getting annoyed at the term.
They both got up to trash the food remains and walked together while leaving Mr. Smoothies. They decided to continue to hangout around Bellwood before Kai left for good to continue her archeological work and studies in Egypt.
Ben: "Hey, uhm, I'm sorry for being so awkward and trying to force things between us, and all that stuff. I know it made you uncomfortable, and I don't want to mess up our friendship. I just took that whole time travel stuff that's happened a little too seriously... I went all Romeo because of it." He awkwardly apologized, scratching the back of his head.
Kai: "A little?" She teased him.
He clearly got obsessed, thinking that version of his future self was an absolute, to the point he 'tried to secure it' with her.
Ben: "Ok, definitely not a little." He agreed in embarrassment.
Kai: "Ah don't worry Ben, I understand, I can't help it if I'm so irresistible." She elbowed Ben while joking narcissistically. She continued - "No offense to you though, despite everything I said, you're still a great guy, can't deny the facts. Just let the future take it's course so it happens on it's own, don't force it, cause that's just creepier than any of your uglier aliens."
Ben: "All my aliens are ugly, what're you talking about?"
Kai: "Not Ben-Wolf! He's a good boy!"
Ben: "For the hundred time, it's Blitzwolfer."
Kai: "Blitzwolfer, Ben-Wolf, Doggy Dude, Scoob, whatever you call him, he's the best! The cutest! I could just eat him up!"
Ben: "And you say I'm obsessive..."
They both continued hanging out, talking, walking away together through town. This conversation helped Ben understand that his future was never set in stone, it is only shaped as it goes. He now had to work on his present image more than anything, rather than to just wait on things to happen. Tomorrow is forged in the now.
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Break Time - Reader's Checkpoint
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Undertown - Bellwood - Day
Liam and Bug-Lite, two of Psyphon's previous gang members were running away from something, through the crowded merchant streets of Undertown.
Liam: "cluck cluck, get out of the way!" He yelled out, pushing people, shoving them, as he ran alongside his colleague. They were both holding stolen goods, but doing a miserable job as some of the items fell off whilst they ran. "Where's the bikes?! cluck!"
Bug-Lite: "I don't know! just keep running, she's coming!"
From above, Charmcaster flew to them using her Mana propulsion. She went for a kick dive and got to Liam. A powerful kick sends the chicken-like alien to the ground, all the stolen goods sent flying forward to the floor. Bug-Lite simply kept running, but he dropped his amount of stolen items to be able to escape, managing to get away.
Liam: "Run Bug! Run! Baaaahk!" He screamed laying flat on the ground while a masked and hooded Charmcaster stood on top.
Hope immediately put the mana infused cuffs on Liam, and gave the tip to the Plumbers, on her communicator.
"Oh my God it's her! It's The Mage!" One of Undertown's merchants shouted in excitement, catching the attention of both clients and neighboring businesses. A few aliens began to gather around the masked vigilante in appreciation, applauding.
Hope: "The what now?" She said out loud in confusion.
A little alien walked up to her, bearing a gift. It was a fancy bracelet.
Pakmar: "Hello! Pakmar is very, very happy, you saved my products, here Mage! It is not much, but Pakmar's shop will be in your debt! Bracelet for you!" He gave the bracelet to Charmcaster.
The merchants slowly stopped applauding, and quickly went back to business "Go Mage!" one of them yelled out.
Hope: "Oh, wow, thank you, Mr. Pakmar, you shouldn't have." She put on the bracelet to show back appreciation.
Pakmar: "Nonsense! This is first time Pakmar's shop is saved without it being completely destroyed! You do better job than that Ben Tennyson freak!" He yelled out. Making Hope laugh, she couldn't believe 'The' Ben Tennyson was as sloppy as this little guy stated.
Hope: "Well, I best be going, there's more trouble in the surface. Stay safe Pakmar!" She said whilst beginning to fly away.
Pakmar: "You too miss! And remember, fifty percent off discount on Pakmar shop for you, forever!" He yelled out while retrieving his scattered products. Watching her fly, leaving Undertown.
Through the Week - Sequence - 6 Days
Various news casts on Bellwood talk about the latest hit news. Crime has decreased significantly since the arrival of the new 'vigilante'.
"People are calling her 'The Mage of Bellwood' due to her seemingly magical powers and fantasy oriented outfit."
A news reporter stated.
"She's an angel, it's about time there was a hero out here for the ones on the ground."
One citizen stated, being interviewed.
"This guy drags me into a corner while I went for a walk late at night, I know I was about to get mugged, lord have mercy, I knew I was gonna get mugged, but from outta nowhere, The Mage comes out, she got her hands glowing and went all mystical up on that dude, and she just uppercuts him, cuffs him, and I was safe and sound, she a good one!"
An elderly citizen stated on camera.
"Just another freak with super powers here to attract more chaos on this city, guess they started wearing costumes now instead of t-shirts and hoodies, I don't even know why I still live here at this point."
The critic commented, displeased.
We see security footage of "The Mage" stopping a weapons trafficking deal at the docks. Various gang members armed, she glides in, interrupting the deal. Some were fast enough to open fire at her, but she quickly conjured up a shield, and blasted them with mana projectiles, hitting one of the trucks, blowing up in the process of the crossfire.
Moving amongst the shadows, taking out the thugs that remained in the area, one by one, grabbing them from above with mana tendrils, tying them all up. She looks at the security camera before leaving.
The news report zooms in on her from the footage, showcasing her face, but it was hidden away behind her cloth mask and hood, only her eyes of horus make up being visible.
"No one knows who she is, or where she came from, but we know her intentions, and to that on behalf of all Bellwood, we say, keep up the good work, Mage."
One reporter stated.
We see Ben and Rook pulling up on the Proto-truck in various locations in Undertown, solely to pick up criminals that have been apprehended by "The Mage", Hope's new public identity. Ben began to get annoyed at the lack of action, this woman was stealing all the fun, but he couldn't help himself from becoming a fan of this mystery lady. It was near impossible to run into her, he'd only manage to team up with her again one time in Undertown, but she vanished after they stopped Fistrick together:
"Humungousaur!" Ben yells out after transforming, immediately punching Fistrick's Mech Suit. Holding him against the walls of his hideout.
This time around, the brutish criminal was scamming and supplying the elderly of different alien species to buy an "energy drink that would make you feel younger" but instead it gave them heart attacks. The side effect wasn't done on purpose, but scamming the elderly was already an all time new low, even for him.
Fistrick: "Watch the paint bro! I'm still paying for this!" He yelled out.
Ben: "That's a lot of debt to be paying through jail time!" As he said this, Charmcaster hopped on his tail, ran up his back - ran along his arm, and got to Fistrick's Mech Suit, breaking into it after blasting it, beating up Fistrick from the inside of the mechanical suit, and sending him flying out of the contraption.
He landed beside Humungousaur - "Not cool... Bro..." He exclaimed before passing out. Charmcaster hopped out of the machine, Ben turned back to normal, smiling at her. Even though Hope was wearing a mask, through her eyes, Ben could tell she was smiling back at him too.
She went to put cuffs on Fistrick. Ben tried to talk to her while she cuffed the thug. "Don't worry, I'll call for backup. Thanks for the assist Mage." He looked at the other members of Fistrick's gang that were all tied up.
Ben: "Hey, you wanna maybe, I don't know, go get some smoothies, lunch, anything, get to know-" He turned around to realize she wasn't there anymore. "Or not, you know, I respect that..." He got a little upset. One of Fistrick's goons talked - "That was smooth, bro." He said sarcastically. Ben just looked at him annoyed.
Tennyson went to walk away but noticed he almost stepped on something. Hope left behind a little glowing, purple, mana infused stone, in the shape of a heart, with the symbol of the Omnitrix engraved on it. Ben picked it up and was both amazed and surprised. He blushed a little, smiling at the little gift she left him.
After Fistrick's arrest, the media was attempting to interview the Chief of Bellwood P.D. - "Chief! Chief! What are your thoughts regarding The Mage's influence on the lowering rates of crime in Bellwood?" Many reporters ran towards the Police Chief.
Chief: "Vigilantism is illegal, that is all I am saying on the matter." He said walking away from the camera, but the news crew followed.
Reporter: "Then when are you going to prosecute Ben Tennyson for his vigilantism before he became an official member of the Plumbers? Ever going to address all the damage he's committed in the past, through 'saving the day'." One of many reporters kept poking for a reaction.
The Chief refused to answer the reporter's question, as he entered the station. Closing the door on their face, as other cops pushed them back.
A door to a poorly lit hallway blows open as purple dust covers the area. Hope enters the hallway in a rush, coming out from the cloud of mana particles, running down the hall, as criminals ran equally towards her. She lit up her fists using magic itself as gloves, which enhanced her melee capabilities. One criminal went to punch her, but she grabbed his arm, following and using his very motion to redirect his punch unto himself, then she hit him directly on his gut.
She did a wall run, kicking the next guy, while at the same time throwing a mana projectile at the last thug behind him, knocking them both out. One last big gang member came in, he was built like a tank. He charged and managed to grab her. Hope tried hitting him in his face, but it was no use. The goliath ran to the window and threw her out of it, shattering the glass. Hope immediately went flying out, but she grabbed a pipe outside by the window, and redirected her body, swinging to the window right next to the one she was just thrown out of, breaking it completely. she got back in the building.
She stands still in front of the remaining opponent, that towered her even at a distance. Hope wiped shards of glass off of her, and raised her fists - "Let's try that again, big guy." - The large criminal let's out a scream and charges once again towards her, this time, Hope evades him and uses her leg to make him trip. He falls face flat to the floor, and before he could get up, he gets head slammed by Hope, unto the floor, knocking him out, probably losing some teeth as well.
Hope opens up a locked room inside the sketchy building, she opens the door, it was pitch black. She uses her hand to spark up a purple light orb, using magic, to reveal people inside, people who had been missing for a long time, weakened, hungry, and malnourished. She saved them.
"If it wasn't for her, we'd all been... I don't know, whatever they would have done to us. I can't imagine where I'd be; It's- it's been so long, and I get to go back home to my family thanks to her..."
One of the people who were held captive stated to the reporter, crying.
Quick flashes and scenes of Hope fighting off more crime were shown in montage. This past week since her debut, had been a nonstop marathon of doing what the police themselves hadn't been able to do in years. She took down Mob Bosses, Criminal Organizations, and many illegal operations, forcing them to retreat out of town. Bellwood was finally a safe place to roam about again. Whether it was Downtown or Undertown, low lives and scum beware, they were in for a magic trick.
"No devastation to public or private property, no explosions, no theatrics! no one got hurt except the ones that deserved it, absolutely professional, unlike that menace, Ben Tennyson! This is the birth of a new era, the age of competent, real, justice. This is Will Harangue signing out, remember to like and subscribe."
The once human journalist stated on camera, while having trouble getting used to his alien tentacle hands, holding documents. He had gone so low in his career, he was sitting in his house in front of a green screen, in his underwear, but wearing the upper attire of a suit, making online 'journalism'.
A screen is put on pause, a finger on a phone's screen drags the video's bar to rewind to a segment where an image of 'The Mage' is shown on the broadcast. Ben is inside his car, on his house's driveway, staring at the picture of The Mage, in her getup, maybe for a bit too long. Her eyes were visible, and a portion of her silver hair, through the hood of her outfit.
He was completely googly-eyed. Realizing he was being weird, taking too long, so he put down the phone and drove his car to his grandpa's coverup shop.
Bellwood - Max's Plumbing - Afternoon
Ben parks his car in front of the shop. Rook waits for him in the entrance. He gets out of his car.
Rook: "Are you ready to test the new teleporter?" He immediately asked before Ben got to him, smiling.
Ben: "You bet I am. I actually wanna see what they did with this place." He replied, walking towards Rook. They fist bumped.
Rook: "The shop has it's underground elevator restored, but it will only send us to a single room." He answered while they walked inside the shop, it was now empty, vacant, made to look out of business and run-down.
They both went inside the bathroom. "You may have the honors." Rook gestured Ben to flush the toilet, he did. They were now heading down, underground, as the elevator slid down the tunnel.
Instead of finding themselves in the former Plumber Headquarters that used to reside here, they arrived at an isolated room, where a single Plumber agent sat at a desk, and two Security Droids put on guard duty. The room was white, filled with metal walls, with a few green highlights. In the end of the room, there was a big, round machine attached to the wall, it looked like a ring.
Plumber Agent: "Welcome! Magister Blonko, Tennyson, ready to go up to headquarters?"
Ben: "Heck yeah!" He said, excited.
The Plumber Agent pressed a button on the desk and called Plumber HQ. "Blukic, Driba, start up the gateway." - "Copy that, gateway starting up." - "Did you tell them about the side effects-" - "What side effects?" The conversation between the two Galvans was cut.
The Gateway started up, a blue plasma filled in and expanded inside the ring's circular structure. It was a miniature Galvan Star Gate. Ben opened his eyes in awe, smiling. Rook began to walk to the portal, Ben followed. "See you on the other side partner." Rook said to Ben, as he went through the portal, disappearing. Ben waited a second, taking a look at the machine up close, then shyly crossing the portal.
Plumber Headquarters - Earth's Orbit - Space
Plumber HQ was more active than it ever was before, with a new batch of rookies roaming around, and three Magister's now stationed on Earth. Many ships were docked in on the station, some working as extensions to the base itself. There was even an academy section now, Plumbers were able to be trained on Earth.
Through the groups of agents, we could see Magister Patelliday talking to new recruits. Max Tennyson was up in the higher floors, on the computer. All agents looked busy, some stationed on desks, some speaking to each other as they walked to their quarters, and some attending to their duties. Earth was more defended than it ever was before. To Ben's disappointed, this meant less interesting world ending events to put to a stop.
Ben and Rook walked through the portal. Blukic and Driba awaited them in their little hovering chairs. The Galvans were shocked at the sight of Ben and Rook. "Uh, that ain't right." Blukic said.
Rook's entire fur coat, throughout his body, was spiked up, making him look exaggeratedly fluffy due to some sort of static side effect. Making him look like a stuffed animal.
Ben's hair was also completely sprung upwards, like a porcupine. He looked to his side, immediately seeing Rook's current state. Ben blew up in laughter, to the point he let out his first weasel laugh. He put his hands to his stomach and pointed at Rook. The recently appointed Magister was not amused. Ben took a photo of him with his phone and showed it to him.
Ben: "Oh no- pfft- hahahahaha! What the heck happened- Ahahaha! I can't- I can't stop!" He continued to laugh.
Rook took out his communicator and took a photo of Ben. He then flipped it and showed Ben how he looked, smirking, hiding his laughter.
Ben: "woah- what?! No!" He said while desperately trying to fix his hair, but it wouldn't go down at all.
Molly Gunther walks by, with her hair also spiked up. She had a serious expression on her face, clearly unimpressed with the teleporter. "Get used to it, I've been like this for the past sixteen minutes."
Rook: "Splendid..." He said accepting the circumstances.
20 Minutes Later
After having greeted Max, and reporting on the Week's work, Ben and Rook were in their office, working on some cases, one of them being the unconcluded Psyphon case. Ben looked out the window and noticed a massive, brown painted ship docked in on the east wing.
Ben: "Hey, Is that cargo ship one of ours?"
Rook: "Partly, yes." He continued writing logs.
Ben: "What's it doing?" He kept looking for conversation.
Rook: "I actually cannot tell you, Ben."
Ben: "Huh?" He got confused, was this the first time Rook was giving him the 'It's classified' treatment?
Rook: "It is part of a classified operation. We cannot talk about it. In time you will be informed." He explained, acting emotionless.
Ben: "Oh ok, gotcha." He understood. He began fidgeting with his pen. Rook became distracted by the noise, he looked at him once - twice - "Ben..." Rook sighed.
Ben stopped fidgeting and began writing logs and searching up relevant information on the Extranet.
Ben: "Hey Rook, I wanted to ask you something, or well, more like, tell you." He waited for him to reply.
Rook: "I am all ears partner." He replied whilst typing.
Ben: "You told me you work out, train, and do a lot of 'disciplinary' practices throughout the week to stay in shape, and to fight."
Rook: "Yes." He responded, still typing.
Ben: "I wanted to ask if you could coach me, or if I could join you on some of those things."
Rook: "Sure- wait, what?" He stopped typing.
Ben: "I've been doing a lot of thinking dude, and I wanna start getting in shape, healthy, do more things, improve myself, and learn new stuff y'know, what better way to start than with a friend."
Rook stared at him, almost as if he was in pure shock, fear even.
Ben: "I also want to stop taking advantage of my, uh, privileges, I want to work like any other Plumber would, I want to start clocking in, wear the uniform. I don't want special benefits, treatments, nada, I want to start putting in the work, and earn money off of it to go to college." He said with joy in his voice.
-work work work work work-
-discipline discipline discipline-
-college college college college college-
His words echoed in slow motion inside Rook's mind. He could not comprehend what was happening, what kind of twisted Muroid scheme was this?
Rook: "Who are you?! What have you done with Ben?!" He yelled out aggressively, bringing out his proto-tool, aiming at him, taking cover behind his desk.
Ben got jump-scared by the sudden shouting coming from Rook. He too was taking cover in his desk - "What?! What's wrong?! What did I say?!"
Rook rolled across the office, and sounded an emergency alarm by pulling a hidden lever.
The alarms went off. Everyone in the entire headquarters went into a frenzy trying to find out what was the situation. Rook shot his proto-tool and caught Ben inside a large net. Ben was screaming both in panic and confusion.
15 Minutes Later
Blukic and Driba: "Well, it's Ben alright" - "The scan tells us there's nothing wrong with him." - "No mind control." - "No magic." - "No signs of dementia either, yet." They both informed back to back.
Grandpa Max: "So you actually really meant everything you said to Rook? Even on going to college?"
Ben: "Of course, I wanna do it."
Grandpa Max: "Why? What're you going to study?" He interrogated.
Ben: "I uh, haven't gotten to that part yet, but I wanna do it because I don't want to be stuck in a loophole, grandpa, I wanna start going out there in the world, open up to new things. My friend Kai talked to me about some things that made me think a lot, and I've realized I've been acting like a spoiled kid this year, and I don't wanna be that anymore, I wanna know what it's like to work hard for things for a change." He claimed, as Max listened, being proud with his grandson.
Grandpa Max: "Son, I understand. You have no idea how happy I am to hear that. I'm proud that you're developing that mindset. Just know that I'll always support you no matter what. Whenever it is you decide what you'll do for college, let me know, and most importantly, let your parents know. As for work, we'll get you arranged to be a proper Plumber Agent soon, besides, you've already gone through the training."
They both continued talking about the details of Ben being an actual, normal agent, with all his special treatment being revoked. Rook entered the lab. Max informed him that Ben was alright and actually meant what he said. No mind control here.
Rook: "You are serious? You want me to coach you?!" He was very excited.
Ben: "Yes, that's what I said before you went all Invasion of the Body Snatchers on me."
Rook: "I apologize." - Ben shrugged it off. - "I must ask, are you doing this to impress Miss Green?" He asked to see whether or not Ben was doing this genuinely, in spite, or to impress another female.
Ben blushed a little in embarrassment, but he explained: "Actually, no, I mean, she's the one that made me rethink a lot of things, but it's definitely not for her, I uh, I gave up on that."
Rook: "It was about time you gave up on Kai Green." He stated, showing relief.
Ben: "Dude, what. What do you mean?"
Rook: "Oh, Uh, it is nothing, I believe I spoke too much." He regretted.
Ben: "Nah man, now you gotta tell me." Ben folded his arms waiting for his best friend's context.
Rook: "If you insist. It is because no one can stand the both of you when you are 5 feet in proximity of each other. You are both so incompatible that your very friendship is comprised of arguing, fighting, bickering, and the occasional showcase of 'bipolar behavior' as earthlings call it. You make Earth's romance soap operas seem realistic-" Rook was straight up roasting Ben's crush on Kai.
Ben: "Ok ok! I get it, you don't have to be such a hater... I mean, hate to admit, you're not entirely wrong there." He started laughing.
Rook: "Also, tomorrow morning, we start your training, 4:30AM."
Ben: "Oh boy... Yea... Can't wait..." He thought to himself, what the heck did he just get himself into?
Blukic and Driba were arguing in the background while Rook and Ben left the lab, heading back to their office.
Blukic and Driba: "I'm telling you, the solution is in the insulation. The Insulator is causing the friction on the Gateway's exterior modulator." - "No I am very sure that it is actually the quantum components that are causing the static shock upon re-entry" - "Driba, I will make my own teleporter solely in spite of your nonsense." - "Do it, do it, go ahead, I'll see you teleport yourself to Jupiter!" - "I'll teleport you back to middle school so you can properly learn quantum mechanics again!" They continued arguing.
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Break Time - Reader's Checkpoint
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Legerdomain - Hope's Garden
Hope's floating chunk of land was blooming with flora of all sorts, trees, flowers, and other consumable plants. A garden amidst a surreal wasteland. Her little cabin house sitting peacefully. Behind her cabin, in the middle of the field, she had a little pond, and it looked like a naturally formed rock formation walled around it, with scriptures allover the surface.
The sorceress laid in front of the pond. She wasn't wearing her new normal outfit, instead she sported a grey poncho, decorated in scriptures.
Sounds of crickets could be heard, and the water falling from the rock offered tranquility. Charmcaster was meditating. She breath in, and breath out.
The echoes of various vibrations across Legerdomain could be sensed. Magic, Mana, this multidimensional force of energy was a powerful frequency level, and those who'd come to understand it, could tap into it. It was not just used for power trips, fancy fights, or general violence; It could be used for healing, conjuration, meditation, and so much more that revolved around the well being of oneself and others. Hope was beginning to learn and understand this. Mana could even aid in the creation of life itself.
The figure of a person could be seen sitting on top of a nearby rock, behind Charmcaster, legs crossed, as if meditating as well. They made a sipping sound, drinking something that they had just conjured. Hope opened her eyes. Without having the need to turn around, she knew who it was.
Hope: "I was beginning to wonder when you'd finally visit me." She said somewhat sarcastically.
This person is revealed to be Gwendolyn. She was drinking tea. Hope turned around. She didn't know if to be wary or delighted to see her.
Gwendolyn: "Tea?" She offered.
Hope: "Sure." The sorceress accepted the offer, as Gwen got up and sat in front of her, giving her a cup of tea. Hope took her cup, they were both facing each other, sitting in the grass. Gwen looked at Hope's outfit and decided to replicate it for herself, manifesting a red poncho on her, curiously with a different set of scriptures on it.
Gwendolyn continued drinking tea, looking around. "You've got such a beautiful little home, Hope." She complimented, but Hope cut the small talk.
Hope: "Gwendolyn... Have you come here to take me away again?"
Gwendolyn: "No. Not at all." She finished drinking.
Hope: "When did you figure out I was gone? From the bag I mean."
Gwendolyn: "Literally the moment you got zapped away to that awful game show. I'm still questioning why you participated on that till like, the third round, you know you could have just teleported away, right?" Gwendolyn explained and joked, Hope simply rolled her eyes.
Hope: "Ok, then why didn't you come look for me? I just don't understand that."
Gwendolyn: "The day you got transported away from uh 'containment', I was already going to release you, but since you got set free by that- thing? I don't even know what that guy is, an alien? I mean, he literally bypassed my spell- Anywho, I thought I'd give you one last little test and see if you actually changed, and took Dr. Borges seriously, so I turned a blind eye." She served herself a little more tea.
Hope just looked at her, smiling. She began to drink tea too, waiting on Gwen to continue.
Gwendolyn: "I've seen what you've done. You've singlehandedly made Bellwood the safest place in the country, and I am so, so, so happy to see that you've been doing great, you have self control, preventing yourself from power tripping, I know that's not easy at all, you must be feeling-" She got interrupted.
Hope interrupted her little speech with a hug. Gwendolyn was both surprised and confused.
Hope: "Thank you, Gwen... Thank you for helping me; caring about me when no one else did, even after everything..." She hugged her tight, especially due to how lonely she had felt the past few weeks.
Gwen hugged her back - "Aw, don't tell me you've grown soft too." She joked.
An Hour Later - Hope's Cabin - Legerdomain
Gwendolyn and Hope had spent the last hour catching up, talking. Hope showed her around the little Cabin and her collection of artifacts. They were bonding. They conversed on Hope's crime fighting ventures as of late, how she was struggling holding back her true power, and her very lust for said power, but soon enough, conversation became less serious, they were joking around, Gwendolyn started gossiping about Friedkin University, her upcoming finals. Hope even started sharing spells Gwen never knew about, and vice versa.
At one point, Gwen made fun of Hope's secret alias given to her by the public, "The Mage", but Hope pointed out as a comeback, that her alias was literally "Lucky Girl" making them both corny. They went back to more serious topics, talking about the past, perplexed at how things have changed after a lifetime of rivalry. On Gwen's mind, it's not often you become friends with the person who sold off your soul, leaving behind your corpse. Followed by another awkward conversation where Hope apologizes for everything, again.
The hour passes, they decided to rest at the porch, in the two rocking chairs. Gwendolyn was randomly casting bubbles out of her hand, something Charmcaster taught her a few minutes before, they both watched the pink shaded bubbles fly away.
Gwendolyn: "You gotta teach me more spells Hope, this is fun."
Hope: "Sure, right after you admit I'm better at magic than you."
Gwendolyn: "Sure, whatever."
They were in silence for a few minutes, enjoying the view of Ledgerdomain in front of them, as a flock of strange bird like magical creatures flew by.
Hope: "I've never had this before in my life Gwen." She said, lost in thought.
Gwendolyn: "Hm?" She got caught off guard.
Hope: "I've never had someone I could call a friend, someone who would accept me, even with all my flaws. You've helped me see what I couldn't about myself." They both smiled at each other.
Gwendolyn: "Excuse me while I celebrate the fact that you just called me your friend."
Hope laughed a little. She had been changing a lot thanks to her. Goes to show what desperation, addiction, and loneliness, does to a person, remove these and you'll find the individual to be utterly converted.
Gwendolyn: "Truly one of the most 'charming' moments of all time." She joked.
Hope: "Oh you did not just say that." She almost laughed solely at how bad that was.
Gwendolyn: "Hey, I was 'hopeful' it would be funny." She kept going.
Hope: "Ah, ok, well, try again 'Gwen' you're actually funny."
Gwendolyn casted bubbles at Hope's face. They continued in silence again. Meditating. Gwen quickly broke the silence after maybe two minutes.
Gwendolyn: "We should team up."
Hope: "Huh?"
Gwendolyn: "I said, we should team up. 'Lucky Girl and The Mage' magical crime fighting duo." She said in a mystical tone. "Besides we can continue to hangout that way, and learn new spells.
Hope: "Oh please, you mean you'll learn new spells, everything that you know, you got it off my own book."
Gwendolyn: "Boohoo, superiority complex. For realsies, let's team up."
Hope: "Alright, it sounds like a good idea. You'll be the sidekick I've been needing."
Gwendolyn: "Sidekick?! I've been doing this longer than you have!"
Hope: "Oh you're right, it's so sad that I'm so much better at it" she teased Gwen through their friendly rivalry.
Gwendolyn: "Nah ah, no sidekick stuff, we'll be partners."
Hope: "Two pieces of a whole unit, sounds feasible."
Gwen casted bubbles again at Charmcaster, she got a bit annoyed and popped them, waving her hand around. She was slightly amused by the annoyance though.
Hope: "I gotta say though, I don't want to do this stuff forever, it was just to get myself detoxed from the power craze, and it's... Somewhat working. I have no idea what I could do out there other than what I am now."
Gwen took the opportunity to steer Hope down a better path, and would suggest something to her that she hoped would ultimately redeem her.
Gwendolyn: "Someone with your power, I know what they could- should do."
Hope: "I'm flattered by all the praise, but do tell, what do you have in mind?"
Gwendolyn: "Well, there's something you could do that's far more impactful. Something I've wanted to do, that I can't, but you can." She got Hope's full attention. "You know I'm half Anodite, so I'm basically made out of Mana, I can't be a full on healer, or do too much conjuration without being drained out, because I mostly drain my own mana, rather than drawing from what's around me, but you, you manipulate all the mana around you, you bend it to your will, but too much of it absorbed into you makes you-" She stopped for a second realizing something.
Hope continued to listen, seeing where this was going, it was also satisfying to hear Gwen basically say she was weaker than her, for old times sake.
Gwendolyn: "You've been using and casting mana wrong, Hope."
Hope: "I'm sorry, what?" She didn't know if to feel offended or admit it.
Gwendolyn: "Back when we were kids, y'know, the good old days when you were trying to kill me, you used to almost entirely rely on your bag to cast spells and bend mana. I remember when we met again years later, you were rarely ever using your bag, you were manipulating mana In ways only my kind could, but you couldn't withstand that method, that's what made you slowly turn crazy, that's what messed up your head!"
Hope: "Mhm, I know what you're going to say. I need an artifact to help me channel mana, something that allows me to not have to absorb all of it myself."
Gwendolyn: "You knew all this time? Then why put in the extra effort, why continue to do what you're doing now without channeling artifacts?"
Hope remained silent, but she replied hesitantly - "I- I'll confess, I still have a craving for that power, Gwen. Even if I'm holding back when fighting crime, that little use of mana being absorbed unto me through each cast, it satisfies that urge temporarily. It's not a driving force for what I do, but it's a part of it, I'm not completely free yet..."
Gwen was a bit disappointed that despite Charmcaster was doing something for the greater good, part of her intention was still fueled by addiction, she was simply getting her fix.
Hope: "That's the reason I stopped using my bag so much along the years, I was becoming addicted to mana absorption, but it wasn't until I used dark magic that I completely lost myself."
Gwendolyn: "Alright then, no more playing Scarlet Witch sister! not until you've forged your channeling artifacts. It will help you use your true power without going coocoo again, and you can stop pretending to be a ninja with it too." Hope looked at her, annoyed for calling her a ninja. - "Also, we got sidetracked, I was telling you the idea of what you could do besides your whole wizard ninja gimmick."
Hope: "Could you stop calling me a ninja..." Gwen ignored her.
Gwendolyn: "My point is, with absorption artifacts, you'll be able to channel your true potential, you'll be able to use schools of magic that I can't, because of my limitations. For example, you can use mana to heal others or even amplify their abilities, you can conjure up unimaginable things, and you're pretty dang good at that already, I remember that castle you made. Hope, you can live up to the names that were given to you, you're Charmcaster. Your real name is literally Hope! you could change so many people's lives, cure them. Don't you agree?" She suggested.
Hope was lost in thought, after listening to Gwen's idea. She had been so selfish throughout the years, using her magic for chaos and villainy with the excuse that it was to 'save Legerdomain'. This was her real shot at redemption, using her power for the opposite of what she's done her entire life. Fighting criminals at an attempt to learn to hold back her powers wasn't gonna drive her anywhere, it would just be a loop, that didn't make her a hero. She didn't want to be a hero, she now wanted to truly become what her father intended, she wanted to be Hope, The Charmcaster.
Hope: "Let's do it."
Earth - Somewhere In The Desert - Inspector 13's Facility
We find ourselves in a Techadon inspired weapons manufacturing facility, but with Psyphon's little design twist done to it. Psyphon was developing something in the core computer, while Inspector 13 looked around the facility.
Inspector 13: "Psyphon, I cannot compute any form in which I can express gratitude. This facility will grant more efficiency than my previous covert mobile base of operations."
Psyphon: "We're only getting started my friend. Already sold our first batch of schematics, we'll be shipping today. Later on we'll design weapons and defenses for Vulkanus, but right now, I must show you the main event..." Psyphon signaled him to come close.
Inspector 13 came close to the desk, as Psyphon moved the monitor so that it'd be visible to his colleagues direction.
Inspector 13: "Astonishing..." He stared at the monitor emotionless, but somehow at awe with Psyphon's technological prowess.
Psyphon: "I'll allow you to add in your own few takes, but from what I gather off of your reaction, it's already perfect... This is our army, our legacy, our iron fist... The galaxy will be ours..." He started laughing maniacally. Immediately the facility began to operate, all schematics beginning to be designed and forged, including the mystery blueprint, the seeds of their future army...
Credits Start Rolling
Credits End