Tales of The Cosmic War EXE Vol: The Secret War Beyond Good and Evil!

by Darth Necron

Five years after Ben Auro saved the universe from Chaos Zannacross Necron he is still helping try to guide the people to a better place alongside his lover Lacus Raystar. However they must reunite with their friends Mario,Cloud Strife, and others as everything they work for is threatened to unravel at the hands of the reality-destroying Incursion at the hands of the Beyonder!

41. Chapter 241: The Audacity of True Hope

Chapter 241: The Audacity of the Light of Hope.

Despite just how massive a turn of events had unfolded for Ben, Lacus, and the rest those outside the battle zone were still mostly oblivious to what had just unfolded. Even Sara, Rip, and the rest who stayed back on the Wave-Rider and the Tri-Edge were unaware of what transpired.

For Rassilon did not bother to do anything to the ships still parked in Reiokyu since the Grand Priest saw little point going after the Enji's allies after the entire universe would have been restructured.

Thus, the woman with the title of White Canary spent most of the time filling out reports, and contacting her mother to let her know she survived.

With no contact from Trunks or the Enji she was getting more and more bored, to the point where after checking reports for a hour the blond woman moaned." Oh come on Rip, who knows how long getting the ultimate bad guy slaying tool ready is going to take? Just let me go to the bar or something!"

"Not till we know the situation Miss Lance." Rip uttered sternly." This is not business as usual, the fate of all reality hangs in the balance. That's why I can't give you the usual wiggle-room to goof off when being distracted for a moment could be all the time needed to lose everything."

"Fine fine drill in how super important it is to be bored already but c'mon lets be serious there is little we can really do at this point right? It's up to if Lacus and her savior boyfriend can keep up their superhero winning streak right?"

"Its true Ben and Lacus will be doing the majority of the work but don't assume we have no role to play. If things take a sour turn it's up to us to bail them out to keep hope alive."

"Now who's assuming to much eh Rip? Really think we can do much? Sigh, what's it even looking like out their Gideon?"

The ship's AI quickly formed in front of her before her answer was," We are not authorized to scan all of heaven Miss Lance, but sensors have detected many disturbances in both the mortal realm and heaven. It seems the Beyonder is reaching out more and more for structural weaknesses."

"The guy just can't take no for a answer eh Gideon? Well the A team did not have their A gear before but hopefully they got all they need to get the job done so you know, everything does not blow up and all. Seriously you can't just make a call or something."

"I do detect a massive spike in power in the upper levels of heaven Miss Lance." Gideon responded."

"So that's are girl's full power eh? Well glad it worked. Seemed like we don't have much time for error and all."

Rip was about to respond when an alarm went out. He saw the report before he turned pale." Looks like there is even less time then we assumed. Get ready to mobilize, it seems there is a situation unfolding right now."

"Oh? What world did the Beyonder attack eh? The Capital?"

"You misunderstand…the attack unfolded here in heaven. And what's worst, the hostiles seem to be the Master of Master and some of the God's of Destruction along with their overseers."

Sarah saw how tense Rip looked before she raised an eyebrow." This your attempt at a joke Hunter? Cause…it's not that funny. Seriously I thought the Master's of Masters was the one who Ben and Lacus have been working with this whole time? Does this mean the Beyonder manage to swap them with his Chrono Phantasma clones when no one was looking?"

As the Wave-Rider finished analyzing the new data it was receiving Gideon 's eyes glowed." Based on the data we are now getting from the Time Patrol Network it seems that by all accounts Iger Rassilon and the God's of Destruction and angels that sided with them are not copies of the Beyonder, but acting for their own reasons. Though the data is still incomplete so there is a possibility for another explanation."

The blond haired woman looked at the data herself before she took a deep breath."So…what does this all mean?"

"It means Miss Lance…that either the most revered of heaven's ranks were compromised without even Cosmos being able to notice, or that we were all betrayed by people that were supposed to be the best of the best. Sara, no matter what the outcome is it will shake heaven to the core."

Sara thought about how Lacus was talking about the plans she had to make the universe better before she giggled dryly." Well Raystar, things keep piling up on yah and your boyfriend eh? I did think that the whole Homeostasis Matrix thing was giving Brave New World creepy vibes but hey angels loved it so what did I know?

Still, guess it's another set up on an even bigger scale. Lacus, I seen you care, but do you and Ben care enough to act on your own without having anyone's ideas to back you? Guess we will find out. Well, first let's see if anyone will live long enough to find out eh? Let's fly Gideon."

"Wait Sarah we need to have a destination first!"

"Just go to where the Enji are!"

"It's not that simple if they are in one of heaven's restricted areas!"

"Hey I thought we could go to where ever there is trouble? No time for protocol in a crises!"

"There is always time for protocol in a crises! And that goes double for when its anything related to the private dwelling of God!"

"Alright chill Rip! Ugh, Nate's not as sharp but at least he's not a stiff you know? Whatever, even if she's the queen of all light Cosmos is a gal so she would understand. Anyway let's do this!"

Lacus's new friend got the ship ready and contacted TX to make sure the Tri-Edge was ready as well. As the Time Patrol agent prepared to take off little did she realized just how much things had escalated.

---

But at the moment Ben, Lacus, and the others were taking in just how much their current situation had indeed escalated, as they took in that The One Above All, the being above Cosmos and Zannacross had suddenly appeared to beckon to Ben.

The hero's allies all took in what their friend said before Doug looked at the pillar of golden energy before he looked at Ben again and raised an eyebrow." Hold the phone here bro. Your saying you just got a call from God? Like, not all the fakers and not Cosmos but the legit guy on top of everything?"

"That's right Doug." Ben uttered tensely." Kind of hard to forget the voice of God eh? I mean, he took many shapes when we met, right after we stopped Zannacross once and for all but I remember this one."

Cloud took a deep breath before he grasped his blade tightly." I don't doubt you Ben, but how do we know it's not the Beyonder trying to trick us again?"

As the others looked at each other with tension the golden pillar grew lighter." I understand you are in a tense state of mind after what just unfolded Cloud Strife. But I assure you that I'm not here to fight. If I wanted to kill you it would have happened already."

As the spiky haired man looked at his comrades tensely Ezan cleared his throat before walking forward." True as that may be, I think I can safely say I'm not the only one here wondering why you waited till now, and even waited till the universe was destroyed once to reveal yourself and intervene."

The golden light only got stronger before the voice responded with," Despite how the many who take my name in vain give off the impression that I am a attention seeker Ezan I prefer not to micromanage in the affairs of existence. Only a handful in all of existence have knowingly talked to me directly, including Cosmos, and Iger Rassilon. One of those few people, has just died at your hand.

The one who has served as my orator has given you information. For the sake of the continual design of the universe I desire to converse with you personally about how you…misinterpreted that knowledge."

Ben gulped as he thought of how his ideas for the Homeostasis's Axiom Matrix may have turned out to be horribly wrong before he looked at Lacus." You, you want to talk about it? Alone?"

"I assure you my child, its only to talk. However, it's a discussion for you alone . Leave your sword here, you will not need it. Now come before me Ben, I have been patient enough."

Ben grasped the Divine Nova tightly before he sighed and handed it to Lacus. He saw his girlfriend's worry before he tried to pass off a confident grin." Ah well, guess it would not be much point of it anyway for this."

Goku saw Lacus take Ben's blade before he raised an eyebrow." Oh come on man don't have a defeatist outlook like that! You never know till you push yourself! This is what I been waiting a thousand life times for! So you're the REAL god above King Kai, the Supreme Kai, Beerus, Whis, Cosmos and all the others right? C'mon just give me one, GUH!"

In an instant a force collided into Goku that hit him before he even realized it. Those around him heard a brief moan before the Saiyan got smashed out of the Crack of Time like a massive hand had flicked a bug. As Goku left the dimension the light got brighter still." Friends of Goku…when the Saiyan awakens…make it clear to him that God does not engage in a fist fight. The amount of good deeds is still enough to grant him mercy, but if he refuses to learn…actions will have to be taken."

Gohan, Piccolo, and the others all cringed before giving various apologizes and swiftly flying off to try and catch the Z-Fighter. Kira saw how casually Goku was flicked off before he glanced at the pillar of light with curiosity." So, this is the power of the One Above All…a being more advanced then Cosmos and Zannacross? Fascinating…so very fascinating."

The son of Master Myers slowly started to fly to the pillar of divine light. But just as he tried to expand his senses he felt an invisible tug, before he felt a overwhelming pressure slam him into the crystal below.

As he landed with a thud the light got brighter still." Your only still alive because you did enough good deeds to be granted some mercy Kira Myers. But remember this well, some answers will never be given.

Unlike Zannacross my totality is to absolute for you to even attempt to interface with, for Zannacross only partly merged with me because it was my design to allow him to do so. Remember your place well if you wish to keep existing."

Kira realized just how much power was paralyzing his entire body and just managed to chuckle bitterly." Most…impressive. Guh."

The man who was just recently appointed God of Destruction was knocked unconscious from the pressure bearing down on him.

As Ben and the others looked at him to make sure it was not a illusion a flash of red light appeared near them before Spiritus, Hellboy and some of the other wards of Hell flew out.

The demon with the large fist saw Kira was unconscious before he cracked his neck." Thought you could get away you sneaky bastard? Thought we would not notice you prick? I take my job seriously damn it!"

Spiritus saw the Enji looking at him before he sighed." Enji, my apologizes that your troubles multiplied. It seemed the God's of Destruction plotted more than we expected. I'm truly sorry for failing my duty, but I assure you Kira Myers will not be allowed to proceed with any more deception.

For all of his power, we have an absolute seal on his heart. Even for all of his power, even if he became a God of Destruction, he cannot undue the seal that was placed in the very core of his soul. We were blindsided by this betrayal, but we will make sure the situation will not get worst.

Kira Myers's days of rebelling against god is over."

Myers saw his son looked like he was indeed unconscious before he gave a wary sigh."

Its ok, for now that God of Destruction's cruel ploy worked to are advantage and helped this situation end relatively peacefully."

Before the leader of the Enji could add more the golden pillar of light got even bigger." That is correct Rodimus Myers, and that's why before things get " unpeaceful" I strongly desire to chat with Ben Auro before that happens. Now, it would please me if you would come now before anyone else gets impulsive."

Cloud saw Hellboy and the others begin to put restraints on Kira before the Enji Captain patted Ben on the back." Don't dilly dally Ben we got this."

"Thanks Cloud Sensei. Alright, see you guys soon."

With another look to make sure everyone was alright Ben took off to the golden stairs. After making sure they were stable Ben slowly climbed up them. After quickly getting to the top of the stairs.

Ben felt himself being carried away to the metaphysical as the light engulfed him.

The Enji felt like he was going through a tunnel before he suddenly found himself in a wide area that looked like a dark void brightened by its glowing floor with thousands of white pillars scattered around the place.

The brown haired man saw a couch and a table in the middle of the room before a young voice broke the silence." It seems we meet again Ben Auro. Though I was hoping we would met at a much later point of time, as we both know life does not always go to plan."

Ben was shocked at the sudden new voice and looked around to see it came from below. He then saw a very short and small being with a rather large oval-shaped head.

He primarily has sky blue skin, except for two sections from his ears to the middle of each eye on both sides of his head, which are purple. He had small round eyes, and small rounded grey "ears".

His main attire was a magenta and yellow lined coat, with yellow pants and magenta shoes. He wears a black and white shirt underneath, with the kanji for "all" (全) on the front.

Ben saw the short alien creature walk forward before he raised an eyebrow."Oh, are you, some child who's also visiting God?"

"No, I am God Ben."

The One Above All wryly responded." You forget I have no true form? This is one of my more casual forms."

"Oh that's right. Sorry was caught off guard. Did not expect God to,"

"What, you think god has to conform to one shape that meets your expectations?"

Ben saw that the Supreme Being was staring blankly at him before he chuckled anxiously." Oh but of course, God looks differently to billions of people, what we think something is, rarely ends up matching are expectations."

The short divine being was blank for a few seconds before he laughed and clapped his hands together." Good you figured that out at least! This was going to take a while if I had to spell everything out for you.

If I just snap my fingers to have you understand everything I wish you to, then it would seem that was not far off with what you intended to do to everyone with your Homeostasis's Axiom Matrix Connection eh?"

Ben felt stress rack across his body as he realized more on why the One Above All was talking to him, and felt like he was being addressed by the principle at school for making a mistake, only with the stakes risen vastly.

The Enji did not have his clothing restored when then Supreme Kai of Time reversed all that the Master's of Master's did to him so as he stood completely naked in front of God he lowered his head in shame." Ah right, that. No duh you saw that when you see everything eh? Sorry about that. I thought, I thought that the plan Iger Rassilon had given me was your plan as well. I mean Cosmos was on board with it so I thought."

"You thought that God had written his will in stone, and had handed you a Decalogue to have everything set out for you? Its true Cosmos agreed with the corrupted idea that the first angel proposed, but to be perfectly honest, Cosmos wishes for the best but she does not always know what's best.

For her compassion can blind her to reality at times.

I have Cosmos be the public face of god because she is what everyone wants god to be, a being of endless holy love and compassion.

But while that may be what so many want as their ideal ultimate supreme being, as of late I'm starting to wonder if its folly to spoil people so much. After all, we all been seeing the consequences of giving people what they want and not what they need yes?

For even if she is mankind's ultimate desire, their wish is not in sync with how nature is. For nature can be loving, and also cold, random, yet vital.

You remember when we last met that I said this long war between good and evil, this battle to define the meaning and purpose of life, and the true desire of those that live truly was put to the ultimate test yes?

I meant what I said back then Ben, but I concede I may have given the impression that that meant that everything had been decided. As you might have gathered, that's not the case."

Ben thought about everything that had transpired since Beerus appeared before him in Deep Space Nine before he took a deep breath." The thoughts come across my head the past day. Still, I do have to know.

Why did you not intervene when the Beyonder was about to destroy all of existence with the Incursion ritual? I mean, before time reversed, all dimensions where collapsing! If it went through even you would have died right?"

"Perhaps…but the fact we are having this conversation means that something happened yes?"

Ben was about to retort before he thought for a moment and rubbed his head." True. So wait, does that mean you did act, vie Whis and Vados acting? But, does that mean you knew of their treachery from the start and let it happened?"

The One Above All chuckled before sitting on the couch and looking up." Ben, over the past few years you begun to realize that the burdens of kings and all true leaders requires more than the average person.

Well, even with cosmic senses you could only take a little bit of true understanding but trust me when I say that the tasks of the true God are even more complex.

A king can't make everyone happy all the time to rule effectively, and I hope after the past few years that you grasped that to make everyone in existence happy at the same time has a very, very high rate of instability, for as long as people are different, what makes them happy will differ as well.

As being part of everything of course I knew to an extent that Iger Rassilon and his conspirators were using the Beyonder to their own ends.

But I did not stop them for the same reason I did not stop the Beyonder or for the reason I did not instantly smite any evil being in the history of existence.

Because to do so would be to erase part of myself. And even the worst of me, is still part of me.

You remember when we last talked, and I informed you that Cosmos, Zannacross, and I are all the same being, that we are all the aspects of god's mind?

That we are all parts of the inner psyche of god? As a recap Zannacross is the Id, the essence that seeks self-fulfillment over all other obligations and thus, the evil of divine consciousness.

By being the embodiment of destruction he is also the embodiment of darkness and death.

Cosmos is my light, compassionate half, and is the Ego or realty principle of the Holy Trinity, and is the balance between the pure logical subconscious deity I am, and the pure ego that Zannacross is.

She is the consciousness awareness of what the actions of desire are, and is the beacon of common sense, goodness, and what many people refer to as the ideal existence.

Because of this she is the one that is best suited to be the beacon of guidance to the angels and all in heaven and thus she is the one who many perceive as the Ethereal Queen of light that governs all as a loving god.

I on the other hand, the Supreme Being, am neither good nor evil, I follow pure logic to precept things in a unbiased way as possible.

I am the subconscious of god, and the true face of reality, along with many other titles. I am everything and yet nothing at the same time for I am the true desire of life itself.

I remain withdrawn from existence because my true power is all existence, and thus losing control would bring about utter chaos.

With that recap out of the way, the Beyonder would be the "super-ego". For humans, the Super-Ego reflects the internalization of cultural rules, mainly taught by parents applying their guidance and influence.

The super-ego aims for perfection. It forms the organized part of the personality structure, mainly but not entirely unconscious, that includes the individual's ego ideals, spiritual goals, and the psychic agency (commonly called "conscience") that criticizes and prohibits their drives, fantasies, feelings, and actions.

The super-ego's demands often oppose the id's, so the ego sometimes has a hard time in reconciling the two.

The Beyonder would not fit all the terms that the " super-ego" would fit for humans, but you could see it as subconscious desire, the repressed feelings of the universe itself. Like how a mortal can have repressed suicidal thoughts but still want to live overall, the Beyonder could be an impulse for oblivion."

Ben saw the short "Omni-King" look melancholy before he tried to not look to disturbed." Your saying, the Beyonder was your way of seeking universal suicide? Why, why would you want that just when we were ushering in a era of near universal peace?"

The Supreme Being got right up to Ben and gave him a hard look before he crossed his arms." To be honest, because if the path was already that of a lifeless state then to a extent, total oblivion seemed like the same outcome, albeit a quicker path."

Ben was about to respond before he realized how foolish it would be to ask God if he was sure before he looked at his hands and cleared his throat.

As the Enji struggled to think of the best way to respond the Supreme Being just laughed." Let me guess, you want to know why you were told the plan if it was one I hated so utterly? My reasons differ from both Cosmos and Rassilon on that.

Rassilon merely gave you a plan to occupy the Enji to make it easier for the Beyonder to act unnoticed.

Cosmos knew it was a plan with flaws but after so many times humanity regressed she wanted to have faith that the good would outweigh the bad and that the universe would at last reach a utopia.

I don't fault her, it's in her nature to hope for the best. For me, I was curious about the answer both you, and the people of the universe would take. Ben…its true Rassilon was the one who gave you the general idea, and that you consulted various others about the plan. Still...you were the one who pushed for this more then Lacus or the rest of the Enji.

You were the one who wanted it to work, to push life to a lasting peace so that what you accomplished would never unravel, so you would never have to lose what you worked for. But I hope by now your realizing that things being " Happily Ever After" only applies to fairy tails, for the only way for that to remain true in reality would be for everything to end at that moment.

Ben, you may have saw it as peace, but did you think once in the past year or so that some might have seen a life with no future as hell? Is that not why you were planning to have everyone's mind be made to subdued?"

Ben knew much depended on his answer and as he thought over what he been working on with Lacus, James, and all the others over the past few years, remembered what he thought was sincere advice from the Master of Masters, and then had vivid images of how passionate Doug opposed the plan before he grasped his arm anxiously." I, to be honest I don't even know anymore. I, just wanted to bring true change, to bring real peace and not have society relapse like it did after what happened with Seiya and his friends.

Even if it was more aggressive, I wanted to take a risk to prevent people from making the same mistakes they always make! I wanted to do my job as a hero right, and save as many people as possible, even if it's from themselves! That's, that's not wrong is it?"

Ben held his breath as the One Above All looked at him carefully before the divine being closed his eyes." I know you were given a very difficult task Ben. And I know your heart may have been misguided but was in the right place, for the most part. That's why I'm going to give you a gift. The gift of clarity."

The leader of the Justice Force saw the father of Cosmos, Zannacross, and all of existence wave his hand before a golden star shaped hand sized crystal appeared out of the ground. As it floated right in front of Ben's face the adult male eyed it curiously." What, what does this do?"

"Like I said, it will give you clarity. You allowed yourself to think that your vision, shared or otherwise, would guide the universe to paradise. For all your efforts I think it's fair that you are allowed to see what the outcome of your untainted vision would be to the universe. Be forewarned, the truth in this instance will not set you free. I did not show you this instantly because as you suspect, it won't match your expectations."

Ben saw the crystal was glowing before he took a deep breath and put his hand on the glowing ticket. The nanosecond he touched it, his surroundings changed to pure white. Losing its validity, countless eons of actuality vanished in the blink of an eye, replaced by ego-driven desire and direction.

A new plane of existence slowly gelled in front of Ben's eyes. As the light faded he saw himself on a stone tower and saw he seemed to be on a world with orange and black sky's.

He saw grey towers were around him, and noticed the towers had statues. Ben's eyes widened as he realized they were statues of Lacus. Before he could look closer he saw people were climbing a walked to the edge of the building to see where they were talking, and froze with horror as he saw that they were casually walking off a balcony.

Ben ran to try and prepare to save them, only to see that many were already on the ground, and casually getting up. Ben saw that even as others landed on the ground and broke bone.

They twitched for a few moments before light from near by crystals shined over them and they got healed a few moments later before getting up to go into a tower with a giant crystal, dozens were frozen like in hibernation.

The brown haired man saw that every single person looked like a humanoid silhouette of fluctuating, abstract matter with blank faces and open mouths.

As he saw everyone walk to another tower, and saw that this tower was glowing with grey energy, and that the tower was littered with people resting in pods.

He looked around and saw that the entire city was like this before he grasped his fist as it vibrated with anger." What, what kind of insane joke is this?"

"This Ben Auro, is the state of the universe...after its transfiguration to your soul."

Ben saw The Supreme Being walk up to him before he took a deep breath to keep calm." With all due respect One Above All…I promise you this is not at all what I want!"

"I did not say it's what you want Ben Auro. This universe is not a reflection of what you consciously want. The subconscious is an essential factor in creativity. Be it for good or ill, its influence cannot be denied.

It's not about what you wanted or desired. It's about who you truly are. Gazing to see yourself, one's true self only rarely gets a happy response.

The truth is that without anyone's desires or wills to act as a counterbalance your soul, while in tune with the light enough on its own, your unconscious will would shape existence in an endless cycle of suppression and stagnation, a existence were all that stand out is repressed for harmony, for unity.

It brings peace, at the cost of individuality. But that means the cost of anything new, of anything feeling different, leading to a state where life and death turn into the same."

Ben took in all that he was just told before he thought of all of his thoughts over the years and fell to his knees." So your saying, this is my fate? If I go on, the universe will become this lifeless place, even worst then something like the Borg or the Flood would have done to the universe? Is, is it better if I."

"Don't come to any rash conclusions Ben." The Supreme Being uttered as all around them reverted to the previous room in an instant." This is only a possible future based off the current shape of your soul, and after all that's transpired I thought it was vital that you gain clarity to get a better understanding of what's important.

This future I showed you is indeed a possible future, but if you change your desire, the odds of another future could be greater, and one of the more enjoyable aspects of life is chance, of possibility, of unpredictability, of change. Do you see now, why a existence without change is only just barely different then total oblivion?"

"I, I get what you mean. At least I think I know what you mean. I was worried about what would happen if we went too far with the Homeostasis's Axiom Matrix, and now I got a rather strong idea on what could happen.

But now, now I'm just full of even more doubts. I know I don't know more then you, but from what I and the others seen, the reason we resorted to such extreme lengths is because in the end, every hero in history's previous attempts ultimately failed.

I was tasked with guiding the universe to a better tomorrow and I did not want to do that by becoming a villain and forsaking everything we fought for. But it's just, if people forget so easily, if so many are prone to just not bother to see what's a fact and what's fiction and mindlessly go for whatever sounds best to them…how else are people going to change?

So many in society seem desperate to reach a better world, and there is a risk of so many people just giving up on hope for things to change and break down into the politics of eternity.

Were tribes at the center of a cyclical story of victim-hood. Time is no longer a line into the future, but a circle that endlessly returns the same threats from the past. It is concerned with the past, but in a self-absorbed way, free of any real concerns with facts.

Its mood is a longing for past moments that never really happened during epochs that were, in fact, disastrous. Eternity politicians bring the past as a vast misty courtyard if illegible monuments to tribal victim-hood, all of them equally distant from the present, all of them equally accessible for manipulation.

With how easily people give in to fear and greed how else do you take measure to avoid society being dragged down by the lazy arrogance of the masses?

Every reference to the past seems to involve an attack by some external enemy upon the purity of the nation.

That obsession, that fear and greed that drives so many even when things are as good as it can get destroys everything and taking care of that seems like the only way to bring about true peace!

Please, if you know the real way to reach paradise then please tell me!"

The One Above All saw how desperate Ben looked before he took a deep breath."Once again, this boils down to the point of view that you approach this. Ben, the perfection you, Cosmos and the others wish for, is practically unreasonable for the universe as a whole.

As Rassilon stated, to turn the mortal realm into heaven would take away the meaning from both.

It's true that the majority of people desire paradise, but what many fail to grasp, is that paradise does not have meaning if there is nothing to give it value, context.

In other words, bliss is only a state if you have something to compare it against. If people are born in to bliss, they have nothing to compared it to, nothing to value it more.

People would not know the value of heaven if everything was heaven.

The blunt truth is that I disagree with Cosmos on what's the ideal state of existence. People wish for the ultimate being to only be compassionate and virtuousness, but that's not the natural state of existence. And sometimes kindness and be a negative factor, sometimes harshness, even harshness to the lengths of suffering and deaths of millions, of entire societies is a part of nature, is part of how things change and evolve, a different kind of "Life-stream" if you will.

For a universe of total harmony is also mostly a lifeless universe where this kind of Life-Stream would stop flowing due to stagnation.

I did not want the will of Chaos Zannacross Necron to dominate all existence, but that does not mean I want Cosmos's will, for the light to dominate either. Not to the extent that no shadows exist at all.

Do you remember how I said that perfection is just another perception caused by mortals like good and evil? As much value as there is to strive to be the best that one can be, perfection as a state only truly lasts when time no longer moves forward."

"But what are you saying?" Ben uttered tensely." That it's pointless to try and improve things? That it's impossible for things to get better now?"

"It's not impossible for things to improve, but it's impossible for things to remain perfect forever without ending life itself. You know the saying the tighter one grasps their fist to hold on to something the faster it slips away? Your attempt to ensure you would never loose what you fought for just hastened how fast it would slip away in one shape or another.

The greatest flaw that has driven so many angels like Zamasu, Fortuna, Bhunivelze and the Fal'Cie, and all the others to madness is the desire to return existence to Eden. To return to utopia is to return when existence, when the entire universe was a singular state.

That's why their have been so many who attempted to bring about utopia, from the Maltusians that became the Green Lanterns of the Guardians of the Universe who were so frustrated with mortals endless errors that they created the" Third Army" to turn all into one " harmonious" life-form.

From the Ur-Didact of the Forerunner race attempting to "bring order" to life by using his Composer machine to " remove" flaws, and countless others were obsessed with the past, to simplify biodiversity in existence so that only one race would exist, who were reacting to the action of their own creators, the Precursors, who after realizing their creations were rebelling against them to take the" Mantel" to guide the universe, went into suspended animation or became molecular dust that was meant to eventually regenerate into their past forms before over millions of years, the dust became defective, failing to reconstitute the Precursors and instead inducing madness and mutations in lifeforms that came in contact with it to become the Flood, to also turn all life into a single state.

From them, to the Inhumans who tried to make the entire universe be just like them with their Terrigen Bomb, so many think that the path to paradise is to make all like them, by any means necessary.

Its all the way back to humans on Earth Prime. Just one of the most brutal examples was when a group of humans called the Germans, under the organization the National Socialist German Workers' Party, or the Nazi's judged other groups such as ones called Jews as inferior parasites and tried to wipe them out with what would be called the Holocaust to make their nation " great again".

All for the sake of "Perfection", and every single act was a sin despite how they deluded themselves.

One of the biggest sins is to use the name of God in vain, yet so many act like its only possible for them to be the voice of God, and time and again their delusions crash down on them.

As much as some refuse to accept it till their dying breath, I'm not just the god of one group Ben, I'm god of all existence, even the sinners. After all, nature has both good and evil aspects to it.

Even if you had other intentions, even you wanted to see that only one or two kinds of personality types were left with freedom in your "Brave New World" Ben. Let me make it clear, I don't want the universe to be a stagnant lifeless one. I don't want it populated solely by demons or angels.

I don't want an end to the story of life, but a never-ending story of constant change, one that's mostly harmonic, but with value to that life. Do you understand?"

Ben looked at his hands and thought of not just his dreams of a better world, but the hopes of Lacus, Cloud, James, Master Myers, Cosmos, King Atem, and so many he had talked to in the past few years before he sighed." Well, can't deny that a life where nothing changes does sound more like Anti-Life.

Still, what am I supposed to tell all the people that want so badly for paradise? You know more than anyone how many people can't stand reality, how many people drown themselves in drugs, alcohol, and other things because life is unbearable. They try and run away from reality again and again, to the point,

The Supreme Being cleared his throat before retorting with a blunt," You don't have to give your speech to me like I'm another planetary senator to impress Ben. Being God I do know everything and all. No one is more aware of man's sin then me"

"Oh right, sorry, old habits die hard and all. It's just, what would you think would be best to say to people? I'm just having…a hard time figuring out how people being told progress, the time that would evolve tomorrow itself to utopia is hopeless. I, don't think it will go over real well."

"Ben, is saving someone in the present pointless if they suffer later?"

"No, not at all. It's just, you guys all gave me the task of being the ultimate hero. If it's impossible for everyone to be united in utopia without forcing one group or another are you saying my job's not over?"

"Don't you see Ben? I'm saying that if all goes to plan your job will never truly be over. Its relatively easy when it's just one goal to strive for.

But it's much harder when there is no one answer, when things will never end eh? But if you were serious about being the ultimate hero then that's your foreseeable future.

For even if things go perfectly, in time things will change. Maybe not today, maybe not next year, maybe not the next decade and if you're lucky maybe not the next century or millennia but one day things will change, and if the universe still exists then one day the Lylat Kingdom will fall like all other governments.

Some will be in a worst position because of this, and some will gain from this, that's the circle of life. But change is the only way that different groups gain power without becoming the same group. Some will be happier during this and some will be less happy, but that's how life is.

Not all will be happy at the same time, but if things change at some point some will be happy, and that's more fair then only one group forcing only their tribe to be happy. Ben, tell me, in your life was the happiest moments you felt grand ideas, or personal interactions?"

Ben thought of all the good times he had with his family like Max, his Mother, his Grandfather, and more, and how happy he was when at last Lacus returned his love before he grinned." Well, you got me there. I mean, ideas are what inspire but moments are what last I, huh?"

As Ben looked down for a moment, when he looked back up he saw that the One Above all had suddenly changed, taking the shape of a golden man with planets and stars swirling around his body. Despite his cosmic look, the shape resembled that of Ben's mother's father, Albus Abraham.

The newly transformed divine being just smiled as he stroked his new beard." Its true ideas inspired Ben, but for all the ideas your grandfather gave you, it was his love and wisdom that you cherished most yes?

I know it's a "cheap" shot to take your grandfather's shape but I hope it helps drive my point across. Big ideas have their place, but as you seen with Kira Myers, Xemnas, Sigma, Ganondorf, Sephiroth, Weil Zabi and so many others, and even yourself, if the big idea becomes so big that it pushes everything away it causes people to lose, perspective.

For most it's not the big ultimate act, but the small things, the constant little things of kindness that stick to people. That's why, if you truly care about being the ultimate hero Ben, then you should not devote everything to one grand idea, but helping people one step at a time to help all cultures be the best they can be without trampling over each other. It may be even more difficult a task then you thought you had a few years ago, but if your will to be a hero was sincere then that's what your fate. Knowing all of this, are you up to the task?"

Ben thought over all he just learned, before he took a deep breath." To be honest it's a lot to think about. But I do know that, no matter what I can't let the Beyonder destroy everything we worked for, or he will make all of existence be chained to his will forever!"

The One Above all looked at Ben for a moment before he chuckled and patted Ben on his right shoulder." Fair enough, you are only human after all. Well, if you have any other confusion over what we been discussing let me know. Otherwise, the fate of the universe still has to be decided yes?"

"Got that right." Ben uttered wryly." Well, I'm just going to go on a limb and guess you're not just going to take out the Beyonder with a super god beam right now eh? Still, it is possible for us to win right?"

The Supreme Being looked up before he swerved around." You have the means yes. The Beyonder has the same power as Zannacross, and his chaotic mind makes him even more of a threat. However, that chaotic nature can also be a weakness. For all of his power, remember what he lacks and victory will be within your grasp."

Ben took in what he was told and nodded." Thanks. Well, I guess there is a ton of questions I would want to ask you but, know your busy being God and all."

"I assure you I'm quite the multitasker. Still, even slowing down time, the Beyonder won't wait for long. But if things go right then we will have time to talk about things later on. Just don't forget what we talked about Ben."

"I won't, thank you so much for this rare privilege. I promise I won't let it go to waste."

Ben struggled to figure out if he should bow or kneel before the One Above All laughed and patted Ben on the shoulder." I do hope you were not spacing out this time. Well, I know did not but don't worry too much, chosen or not you still are only human after all. Just remember both your limitations and the limitations of humanity. Now, go through here to return to your friends."

Ben saw the golden man snap his fingers before a golden portal appeared in front of him. The Enji gave God a grateful nod before he took a deep breath." All right, time to see if I really know what I'm doing."

"Heh, just remember Ben." The One Above all threw out spiritedly." Most of the time when you're doing something right it looks like you're not doing anything at all. Now go my son, go continue to define what a hero truly is in both the best and worst of times."

Ben gave the One Above All a thumbs up before he went through the door. As the portal of light faded the One Above All just sighed." Ben, we will see if you truly listened soon enough. At the very least, this direct chat should make him aware enough of his actions to open some more possibilities.

But as always, humans can have trouble embracing the truth at times. Ben, you grown far physically, time to see how far you can mature emotionally as well."

Despite being at the heart of the universe, it was only as quick as going through a hallway in his house before he saw Lacus, Doug, and the others talking before they saw him.

Lacus at once went to his side to grasp his arm." Your back!"

Ben squeezed his lover's hand tightly before he smirked." Seems like it. Sorry, was I gone long?"

"Only for ten minutes or so but it's just, worried if it was the Beyonder pretending to be God or not."

"Don't worry, it was the one true God Lacus. We just talked about a few things and then he showed me a vision."

Lacus eyed Ben carefully before she cleared her throat." What kind of vision darling? I, hope it's not the type that drives a guy crazy as he tries so hard to prevent it that he goes full super-villain."

Ben chuckled before he hugged Lacus tightly." No worries, I'm not going to go back to being Darth Idious or anything out of fear of it or anything sweetheart. Just, gave me an idea on what's a better way to deal with things."

Ezan eyed Ben carefully before he looked around to unsuccessfully find any trace of the One Above All." That's all well and good but did he say anything about are current situation Auro? Did he give you a power that could take down the Beyonder?"

Ben saw everyone looking at him with anticipation before he took a deep breath." He did not give me a new anti Beyonder sword or anything Ezan. But he did lighten the way to victory. It, still is going to be the hardest battle we, if not the entire universes going to face since Zannacross. But, I know we can pull it off!"

Doug saw the confidence in Ben's eyes and just cracked his neck." Well, glad your looking more confident then when this whole gig started bro. Still man, he seriously made that big dramatic entrance just to tell you that?"

Ben thought over the vision he saw before he sighed."Sorry forgot to say we talked about Rassilon and the God of Destruction's betrayal. You know, about the nature of good and evil and all that."

"You really needed a one on one chat with God just to know things are not black and white eh buddy? Tsc, guess you needed the number one top dog to spell it out so you took it seriously eh? It's cool, if it was all to get rid of any last trace of desire to go through with your soft fascist ideas then works for me. Still, that being said, what now?"

As Ben tried to figure out the best answer the Supreme Kai of Time sighed." Now, is time to save the universe heroes. As devastating as turn of a events as this may be for heaven, the Beyonder's not going to just wait and let us have a proper discussion about all this."

Cloud took a long sigh before he made sure his First Sword was ready." That's right, you were saying the Beyonder was trying to take out the core of time right? Sounds as serious as when Zannacross tried to merge with the Axis of Time. So, guess that means out of the frying pan and into the fire right?"

"I'm grateful for your resolve Cloud Strife but don't get into battle mode just yet. True, the Beyonder is trying to take over the Time Nest, but it takes time to take over time. Should be enough time for you all to regroup and be at your best."

Zero saw how chipper Chronoa looked before raising an eyebrow." I'm not about to think I know more about time then you Supreme Kai. But still, it really a good idea to let the mother of all mavericks get any chance of taking over time?"

"No Zero, but it's also not the best idea to have a showdown with a deranged deity without being the best we can be right? You guys need proper time to rest and as many allies as possible to pull this off and all."

Ben thought about how much had happened in the span of a day before he sighed." That's right, King Atem and the rest of the government should know what's happened so we can figure out the best way to respond."

Doug cracked his neck before he leaned forward." Don't you mean everyone should know what's happening, not just the elite Ben? The common man's been left in the dark long enough dude, its time everyone knows what's at stake so they can deal with things their own way."

James saw Doug was getting riled up before he readjusted his glasses." We have to think practically about this Doug, and think of the best way to handle this that will allow us to mobilize in the most efficient way possible. We have to know just what are assists are."

Omnimon and some of the other Royal Knights flew over before the elite celestial warrior gave Ben a wary look."As you already gathered Enji, the margin for error was already small, but now it's small enough that it could only be seen in the micro-verse.

The God's of Destruction were to be a key asset, and without that we are at a disadvantage. In addition we don't know how much Iger Rassilon helped the Beyonder."

Hiryuumon saw Ben looking anxious before he grinned and went over to his partner." Don't worry boss! We beat Zannacross just fine without the God's of Destruction so we should be able to beat the Beyonder to right?"

Ben saw the Digimon's enthusiasm and smirked before petting the dragon." We will have to pick up the slack but your right Hiryuumon. We will overcome this no matter how twisted a battle this gets! In the end, we can't let the angels just solve things for us. We have to fight are own battles to decide are own fate!"

As everyone looked more confident Lacus kissed Ben on the cheek as she embraced him." I knew even this would not keep you down for long love. Well, guess we better say are good buys and return home so everyone can prepare properly. Hope it's not too much trouble to, wait, oh no!

The Tri-Edge and the Wave-Rider have been in Central Dogma this whole time right? That whole place was more or less Rassilon's home right? What if he took everyone hostage or killed them purely out of spite?"

As Ben and the others looked at her with dread Chronoa winked." No worries, Rassilon, Belmond, Whis, and all the others seemed like they too focused on betting everything on killing you guys and remaking reality then and there to bother with the small stuff. Besides, think I trained my Time Patrol agents to be sloppy? Hell nah girl!"

The short pink woman waved her hand before a large portal appeared in front of her, and the Wave-Rider and the Tri-Edge flew out. Sara was already waiting on her ship's boarding blank before she saw how damaged the area looked and whistled." Damn, I figured anything involving turncoat senior angels would be messy but does look like you guys were just a breath's away from breaking the universe! Guess a battle at this level really is a battle between gods."

Lacus saw Sara looking her way before she casually flicked her ponytail behind her." Maybe Miss Lance but it's just another day in the work of a super hero right? No matter how crazy it gets we will take it and fight back, that's all there is to it."

The White Canary saw how confident Lacus looked before she chuckled." Heh, based on what I saw you handle personally in Battle-World girl, guess nothing will shake you now eh?"

"Course not, cause I can't afford to be shaken up now. That's why, seems like its time to go back home to calm everyone down and make are stand. Well, I'd ask if anyone forgot anything but the only new stuff we got are the Divine Mugen Nova and the Golden Imperia Crystal and they are both with me. So, unless anyone left anything at the Paradiso Pallet we should get going eh guys?"

Myers looked deep in thought as he saw the angels start to put a seal over Kira. As the leader of the Enji looked at his unconscious son, the overseer of hell who now had powers of a God of Destruction he gave a wary sigh." Agreed Lacus, we have much to think about, and to prepare for."

Max saw how troubled the older man looked before he chuckled."Master Myers...don't worry about Kira. Making sure he's under control's just become my new hobby till I'm damn sure he's not going to pose a problem.

I know there is a ton of stuff to think about Grand Master, hell I wish we had time for a man to man beer but time is not on our side. Got to get the job done before you can think about how it went down and all right?"

Ben saw his cousins swagger and tried to repress his emotions before he threw out a melancholy smirk."Max, looks like it's good bye again. Sorry most of our time catching up was either arguing or fighting for are lives."

"Ah don't go all emotional on me Ben, that's how family reunions usually work eh? Seriously, do the job right and we will meet again man. Heh, we might meet sooner than you think.

With how high the stakes they might be giving one day passes to the living by the truckload to even the odds. Whatever happens Ben, just keep a sharp eye and do things with pride."

"You got it Max, I promise."

Doug went over before he grinned at the older man." Don't worry, I'll make sure Ben does not forget what pride is Max. Just, thanks for reminding me what it is to."

Max saw Aqua give a bitter wave before he cracked his neck." No problem bro. Just remember what I told you so I don't have to give you a very forceful reminder you hear?"

"Don't worry man, I got the message loud and clear. It, helps when someone tells me it in my tongue yah know?"

"Course I do, because I was a stubborn bastard myself and wanted to make sure no one else died because of it eh?"

"Thanks Max. To be honest I wish I had a brother like you growing up over the piece of trash I did get as a older bro. Its like were two peas in a pod and,"

"Doug buddy, I'm flattered but save the mushy stuff for Aqua where the sappy stuff belongs. Heh, focus on the family you could have yah hear man?"

"Loud and clear man."

Before Ben could add anything more the Tri-Edge flew right in front of Max before "Donnie" opened a channel." Master Bruder, it's a pleasure to see you in person and not just a hologram after all these years."

"Heh, well I'll be. " Max retorted dryly." Your still hanging around eh TX? Figured Ben would have scrapped you for a newer model that suited his tastes more."

"He's all but tried to reformat me sir, and insists on calling me the very undignified name of "Donny"."

"Heh, just can't give up your childhood hero's eh Ben? Sorry man, my cousin's the captain of the Tri-Edge now so he has the right. I'd love to go over all the new data you have but time's a wasting."

"Understood sir, bitterly. That being said, the Tri-Edge is ready for return to the mortal dimension. Also I took the liberty of readying your spare wardrobe since it seems your last battle resulted in your last one's destruction."

Ben winced as his nakedness was brought attention to before he positioned the Divine Nova carefully." Yah…thanks. Sorry about that, the last battle was so hectic and things just moved so fast."

"Tehe…don't worry about it Ben." Lacus responded playfully before she kissed him." Things happen that are out of are control and we just have to deal with it right? With all that's at stake can't dwell on the little things like, oh? Oh right, I have to get something I left on the Wave-Rider real quick.

Don't worry, it will just be a moment. Um…Sarah can you help me retrieve Bienfu? Just, need to have a quick chat to lay down the law."

"Heh, no problem their gal." Sarah answered playfully." Got to show the men who's boss eh? This way."

Lacus gave Ben a playful wave before following Sarah into the Wave-Rider, leaving the leader of the Justice Force to raise eyebrow in confusion before he saw some of the others looking at him before he winced and hurried into the Tri-Edge.

Ezan saw Ben nearly trip as he entered the ship before he sighed." Just when I thought I gaining the Rinnegan and all of my recent training would at last get me to close the gap between me and Auro, circumstances lead to him regaining his full power.

Well, using magic to turn someone feeble is not my style, but his battles with Goku and Iger Rassilon prove even at his full power he's not invincible. I'll have to take more intense measures but I will even the odds yet my rival."

Vegeta was one of the ones that stayed behind as Gohan went after Goku, and at the moment he heard Ben's rival musing before he chuckled." So you're the rival of the chosen one eh boy? Well, trust me I know about climbing damn tall mountains so to speak."

Ezan saw the former Prince of all Saiyans looking at him with amusement, and remembered seeing his face attached to Madara when they fought in Battle-World before he cleared his throat." Your King Vegeta yes? It's been a honor fighting alongside such legendary warriors.

Oh, you mean your rivalry with Goku? I admit, it's a story that's still told to warriors today. I can't help but be curious the state of the rivalry millions of years later."

"Heh, you could sum it up the current state of rivalry is a symbiotic one. Out of all that lived only a quarter of those who lived since the history of existence still have their individuality and have not reincarnated.

Me, Kakarot, are children and close friends all chose to keep improving, till the end of existence. I admit, I never thought when I and Nappa saw that low class idiot that he would be the man most of my life would soon revolve so much on.

Yet eh made a fool of me, shattered my pride and forced me to retreat. He stole the glory of becoming Super Saiyan from me and even robbed me of my vengeance when he beat Frieza."

Trunks cleared his throat before going over to his dad." Um, remember I'm the one that killed Frieza dad? At least the first time?"

"That only happened because Kakarot changed history son!" Vegeta snapped out. He saw Ezan looking at him before he cleared his throat." Yes but the point is that seeing a "commoner" jump ahead of me so much infuriated me, to the point where I let that damn goat wizard take over my mind just so I could try and close the gap with my rival. What you just said amused me boy because it reminded me of when I thought I at last closed the gap, even at the price of my soul.

Then Kakarot made a total fool of me when he revealed he had another damn Super Saiyan transformation he was holding out on just for fun! Its, still a sour point to talk about but the others just don't get how important pride is to a true warrior! Its, what their existence revolves around."

Ezan thought about how he was when he first met Ben before he chuckled." I can understand. When I first met Ben I thought his entire existence was a joke, an insult to my pride as a super elite.

I was, quite determined to show him that his destiny was a fluke, but he held his own and managed to surprise me. It, may have let me to make dishonorable decisions. But, before I could get to consumed I realized I had to put aside my pride for the sake of the primary objective, to save the universe. That's how my stance on Auro changed, more or less."

Vegeta laughed at the sliver haired man's stoic response before he crossed his arms." Duty before personal pride eh boy? At times I wondered what would happen if Frieza did not destroy our planet.

Would I have become as strong as I was now or be hampered by a more luxurious life? Ugh, if I became like my brother I think I would have preferred to have just been killed by Frieza or Beerus or something.

I did wonder, if Goku and I would have been forced to fight alongside each other in such a timeline. Tsc, but wondering seldom does anything but kill time, all I knew is that because of his drive Kakarot surpassed me, and I was hell bent on closing that gap.

While those like Gohan let peace distract them I never relented on pushing myself past my limit. I was overjoyed when I at last pushed myself hard enough to reach Super Saiyan God and at last after over a decade was once more truly equal with Kakarot.

Of course, he surpassed me again when he unlocked that damn Ultra Instinct but with how much I gained I was not going to let a little set back stop me. But, then something changed.

Even though Kakarot had beaten Jiren and truly was seen as the strongest in the universe, he started to become more unhappy then me. True there were still some stronger than us like Whis and the Grand Priest, but I, we all started to notice he was getting more upset about not having anything left to surpass.

That's why he did such asinine things like let Frieza run wild, not caring when he did things like throw that Neo-Broly clone at us. He became, detached from reality.

When I directly asked him if he realized what Frieza would do and he only responded by saying they would just clean up the mess with the Dragon Balls after they fought I knew, things had to change.

That's why, I did not protest when they erased Goku's memories with the Dragon Balls, and even was willing to hold back my power after that so Goku did not remember.

It, was embarrassing at times to lose to scum like that Super 17 but, I managed to even things out when I gained Super Saiyan Four. At the very end of Kakarot's time in the living, we were equals.

Then it was back and forth all the million years we been dead but it's different when your dead. The point is, even if I seldom surpassed Kakarot in raw strength, I realized I had surpassed him in other ways as a warrior.

Physical power can fluctuate over the years, especially with a living body. However even if he had the superior fighter instinct, there were other ways to counteract that. All that sappy friendship stuff makes me want to puke, but, a general does need his forces.

The point is Ezan Zeon, take it from someone who was driven by a rivalry enough to push him across time. Fixating on one point is a good way to bang your head on a wall, but if you find other ways to overcome your rival, it does not feel too bad either.

When I died Kakarot was still overall stronger than me, but I was fulfilled in many other ways and was proud to do my part to keeping the Saiyan race alive despite being brought to near extinction at Frieza's hands.

Ezan, I see you have the eyes of a true warrior in you. Remember what a warrior's pride truly means and you should be a fun opponent for when it's your turn to join me on this side for good."

The sliver haired man had a burst of memories of how his step father, Ansem, Madara, Squall, and others all gave their thoughts on what it meant to be a true elite warrior. He then remembered Madara's last moments, the moments Sephiroth had before he Cloud and the others killed him for good, and some of the others he eliminated before he nodded." Thank you Vegeta.

It's my intent to live my life as a true warrior to the very end. I plan to keep my eyes focused so I don't stray from the path of dawn."

Aeris then giggled before she gave her boyfriend a friendly jab." Just don't have your eyes to fixated or you might trip dear! Ah don't worry, I'll make sure you don't trip long as you don't look past me."

"I think it's quite impossible to not see your light Aeris."

"Aw, those lessons with Zidane are paying off!" The Cetra giggled before she kissed Ben's rival. Vegeta saw this and chuckled." It takes an even stronger woman to anchor a true warrior Enji Knight. But if you can find a good match, it's a stronger power then any Super Saiyan form. Alright then, time to make sure the others found Kakarot and that the bastard's not even more brain damaged.

Go on and do your hero thing, just do it right so you don't mess things up for me, I was about to challenge Kakarot for are billionth match and this time I figured out how to beat him, Ultra Instinct be dammed!"

"Heh, mission accepted Vegeta." Ezan retorted ruefully. The two rivals shook hands before Ezan and Aeris went to the Tri-Edge. James saw the angels start to depart before he looked over all of his equipment to make sure it endured the battle.

He was relieved to see his gear was still intact, and as he strolled through the data he took on the recent fights in the corner of his eye he saw the last message his wife gave him before his eyes softened." Only a year ago I'd never think that I'd rush to leave where all the information in the universe is. But still, as tempting as it is to take a search through Central Dogma and see all that the Master of Masters had researched.

But, to be honest the most important data I want to look over is the status of Katie and the child. I, have been so busy that I have not had time to update her since this whole operation started."

Doug was near James when the red haired man blurted this out, and it caused the martial artist to chuckle." So you were not just making things up about having a kid to try and mess with me when we were fighting dude? Heh, if it's for real then how close is it till your kid pops out? Don't tell me she's due right as we are fighting."

James saw Doug had his usual half-lopped smile before he sighed." As long as her pregnancy is not effected by another cosmic glitch, we still have a few months to go. If…if your free at the time you're invited to the party of course."

"Heh, I'll make sure my schedule is clear that week James, for real." Doug threw out brazenly." I guess I don't give the impression, but I do take kids seriously. Maybe it's because my own folks did such a crappy job on it, but I always tried to do what I could for my cousins growing up, try and make sure they did not feel as neglected as I felt at times.

Well, the cousins on my dad's side that are still alive swear I did not suck at it. Heh, I know your kid will be set for life in most things but I'm more than willing to be fun uncle Fitter for parties, if that's ok."

James realized how serious Doug was being before he smiled." Of course its ok Doug. I, have to apologize for my part in the communications breakdown the past few years. I admit, I was displeased with hearing all of reports of you causing chaos. I thought you were just being stubborn, a rebel without a cause.

But, I was too into making the Homeostasis's Axiom Matrix project work to try and reach out more than a few token calls. I suppose, like Ben, Lacus, Master Myers and the others I let my fears of all are hard work being undone slowly creep up to me till it was all just data to me.

I wanted so badly to at last put an end to the discrimination that plagued Magneto and so many others like my uncle throughout history, that in my desire to end discrimination I realized I was falling into the same mindset.

Worst, I was unconsciously discriminating myself, to try and repress all with a line of thought I was starting to more and more think as a "toxic behavior". I still wish you were less difficult about some of the things, but I am ashamed for all the information I had I made such a glaring over-site."

Doug saw the remorse on his teammates face before he chuckled and patted the red haired man on the back."Don't be too hard on yourself four-eyes, you, Ben, and the others were all being trolled by backstabbing senior angels and all.

Still, even with all that wisdom and power its mighty easy to get bias stuck in your noggin if you refuse to think it's even their eh?

Hell, not like I'm free of it with how much I hated all kinds of elites over the years just for thinking they were readying to screw me over when my back was turned.

And, like with Ben I admit I was not answering the calls you guys did make because I was hell bent on proving I could do my own thing without being anyone's "puppet".

Heh, that sure as hell blew up in my face eh? Seriously though, I'm mad you guys could not see yourselves running in the same direction as all the jackasses we took out but, I get why you all got so worked up at proving you were not frauds.

I get it now how much pressure Ben and Lacus really are under to deliver, and I get the Enji wanted to prove they were not going to buck things like the Jedi, the Power Rangers, the Green Lanterns, and all the other groups that dropped the ball with evil one way or another.

It's just…for all your intentions, if you're leaving the little guy out of the loop it sure as hell seems like your just expecting him to roll over like a dog rather than treating him as an equal.

And I hoped after all you seen James you know how it feels when a man is told he's not worthy of being treated on equal terms."

James chuckled before he pat Doug on his right shoulder." I admit, like Ben and Master Myers…seeing how so many people on so many worlds seemed to forget what they just went to.

They learned nothing, and elected people that were just as deceptive as Weil Zabi solely because they wanted to take no effort to think things or work by themselves and just gravitate to whoever tells them what they wanted to hear.

After seeing how many people were obvious between what was real and what was "fake news", after seeing how quick people were to shun responsibility, I concede I was pushed to thinking that maybe it was for the best if some people were removed from the decision process, forever. Between that and society itself risking to regress the answer seemed obvious."

"Heh, you, Ben and a lot of the others got that freaked out just because a few well, dozen to hundred blowhards got elected because people were lazy eh? This is why I don't follow the news, just ticks me off. I mean, I guess I understand that when you're in charge if your trying to do the job right you can't just tune out what's going on.

It is easier when you keep things simple, but after the last few days I'm man enough to know trying too hard to make things simple seems to just make it worst. That being said, like I said before you guys are trying too hard to keep the momentum we all got after winning the war.

Nothing stays the same forever man. Sometimes you have to let go and let the tide come crashing in yah hear? The cold hard truth is that without cheating things, most people are lazy and selfish. They don't see the bigger picture and despite what most say only care about how they can feel good in the next moment.

All you so called genius and intellectuals keep getting pissed off at how "Stupid people" that refuse to see things your way ruin things and demand they act how you want. But despite all that brainpower most of the time you don't bother to accept that this is just how they act, but instead of using those brains to reach out to how we are going to act you just decide your to good to even bother stooping to are level and just try and make us obey like we are cattle.

Even if people are hurt and all that, the more you hold it back the bigger the fall and all that."

James took a moment to collect his thoughts before he looked at the window. As he saw the Tri-Edge takeoff he sighed." I get what you're saying Doug, truly. But while life is all about cycles, it's all about how strong the cycle is.

I understand now we were pushing too far in one direction, but despite how Rassilon mislead us, the fear Ben has of the " Spiral Nemesis" of passion getting out of control is very real. It's happened in the past Doug.

It happened after Kylo Ren's original death when the First Order broke the New Galactic Republic only to collapse into anarchy, it happened after Seiya sealed Zannacross and Serenity was unable to get people to change.

It happened after major civilizations like the Blue Nitro, the Forerunners and others collapsed. The politics of Eternity can be very real Doug, and it can be a living hell for all but those on top of the hill who have to go through with it."

"James, I know you guys are more on top on history then me so I'll take your word on it. But like I said, it sucks but that's life so people just got to deal with it."

"Maybe Doug, but you don't get it. Not everyone can deal with it. I seen it Doug, I seen when societies collapse so much that they regress. It's not just a minor hassle Doug, people die.

Fighters like you can adapt but for people who are only able to have a place in existence when its modern…when things regress to a less civilized manner some people no longer have any place but oblivion.

We take it for granted Doug but you notice how you don't see many types like how Ben use to be in low level worlds? That's because, with rare exceptions, unless they are rich they don't have much of a life in those worlds.

In a world of low advancement without magic were physical strength and maybe marketing are the only things of value when your not part of the elite, without that, in many cases such people are doomed to suffer in the shadows spending their entire life in mockery.

Even in worlds like Hyrule which are run fairly, people who are not top of the food chain to speak physically or are part of the noble or religious elite, with few exceptions like the top merchants and doctors, have their lives revolve around suffering in the shadows, desperate to get what ever crumb they could get to survive.

It's this life of never ending misery that feeds tyrants, cultist, and every demon from Zannacross below. To remove this would seem to remove a great amount of suffering from the universe."

Doug saw James was earnest before he laughed and cracked his neck." That so eh man? Heh, in ways this all comes down to geeks vs jocks over who gets to say how things go, brains vs brawn and all that.

Look man, I'm not saying you're wrong, just that you again only are listening to your echo chamber. You know I have been getting around myself with my traveling the last few years. I been around Corneria and all the other big capital planets to worlds that still somehow are not part of the Lylat Kingdom yet. In those "underdeveloped" worlds I found some "refugees" from the elite worlds.

They were just fine living a simple life. Fact is they helped the locals make sure they did not get the attention of the Enji or others. Sure, was one or two that were trying to be the top dog on a small world and scam the locals. However there were some who were legit down on getting away from all the big stuff, and just living a simple life."

"That's all fair for those who make that choice Doug. But not everyone gets to choose the hand life deals them. And when fate gives you a bad hand, it can make more than a few people bitter."

"Hey I was not finished dude. Some people crash landed on these low level worlds and had other plans. And sure I can see if say, a Gundam pilot or any other tech guy or gal crashes on some medieval world and is robbed of all that they were good with could be feeling incomplete. But you know what? If they don't die, they deal. Maybe some don't live long enough to get to that point but, some do.

The main issue James, is that sometimes people have to be pushed to deal with what they don't want so they can find themselves, sometimes life just has to roll on, warts and all so they can be what they truly are. Some may not make it, but that's life."

James eyed Doug carefully before he sighed." Doug, no offense but from a certain point of view your idea is not that far off from the Homeostasis's Axiom Matrix. It would just have fate or luck decide things instead."

"Heh, if you put it that way then yah maybe you can link some things dude. But don't you get what's different? It's not anyone's call but lucks! Maybe that would make it God's call but after what we seen that might just be luck at this point anyway.

The point is, it would be fair! No one to blame but yourself. Not to go all postal again dude, but sometimes I don't think you guys realized how important it is when a choice is a man's own and not something someone else gave him.

Maybe it won't solve everything, but no matter how good things are what's the point if you're not even aware that it's your life and not the big hive mind's."

"I'll admit the last few years I may have lost focus on the importance of some aspects of life." James uttered wearily." I been so focused on trying to evolve things, I forgot if some people would be able to appreciate the improvements when it was done.

I admit, ever since Katie got pregnant, I been thinking primarily on the best world for my child. I, just did not want to see my child go through the same experiences that Magento, my great uncle Yhwach, bitter experiences that drove them down such hateful lonely paths."

"That's all well and good man. But I have to know something. Was the plan to use this Homeostasis's stuff on your own kid to keep them along? Were you going to use it so that your own kid, so that everyone's kids obeyed their parents like they were nothing more than a droid?"

James saw that Doug's eyes were not hostile before he sighed." I, I did not think about that Doug to be honest. I know that at one point Ben joked that parents will be thanking us all over the universe when they solve all their childhood raising problems, that it would put an end to so much parenting issues."

James saw Doug's eyes instantly flare up before he cleared his throat." Before you cast judgment, you should know this was directly after a survey we had with parents about how they wish they could have help raising children in one of the many surveys we have taken to get feedback.

Doug, the raw truth is that millions of people across the universe would not have minded if they had a way to make raising their kids easier, and jumped for the chance for something that would allow children to understand their parents more."

Doug grasped his fist tightly before he took a deep breath." Bro's always has a half and half shot at his jokes falling flat eh? I hope it was only that, because even if that's how many people gave their thumbs up to it, they are all just sucky parents if they want their kids to just be their freaking puppet! C'mon man, you know how Ezan and all the others were treated and you want to give every parent the chance to be like that?"

"I assure you Doug, it was not supposed to be like that! It, was just a way to help make it easier for everyone."

"Parenting is not supposed to be easy dude!" Doug spat back passionately." Nothing pissed me off more than rich and poor bastards alike finding ways to get out of properly raising their kids, because I knew how it felt when they half-assed it! Your kid's not just a damn piece of clay, it's not supposed to be easy because nothing that's worth a damn is easy and a kid's supposed to be worth something!

Not like I think a child should be spoiled rotten either, we all seen how much a pain in the ass punks that are raised like that are. It has to be a balance, and if that's too hard then well you should not be doing it in the first place! Yah, I know that life's not all about what's planned but still, if you raise people who spend their life on autopilot how the hell are they able to handle things once a bump appears on the road huh?"

James thought over what Doug said before he looked uneasy." Your right that, much of this was all under the assumption that there would never be another conflict again. The Beyonder proved otherwise, and showed how fragile this belief was. Damn it, I, I just wanted to create a better future for my child, not deprive them of it."

As Doug paused after seeing the passion in James's eyes the two men heard a chuckle before Cloud walked up to get in between his two squad mates." To tell the truth I was starting to worry you guys were starting to lose sight of things James.

But, I know what you're getting at when it comes to being a parent. I wanted to make sure Tiffany did not ever have to suffer at the hands of those like Sephiroth or the Shinra higher ups ever again.

You will know when you see your kid the first time James, the parent instincts just kick right in. That being said, now that you calmed down a bit I know part of where you're coming from to Doug.

The Jenova cells in me rewrote my identity, for a time I thought I was Zach and all that. I know part of it was my own desire to rewrite my past to sweep away my pain, but it was because those in power took my life away from me that I went that far in the first place.

I know you, Ben and the others had your heart in the right place but I can see where Doug's coming from. The thing is, you both have good and bad points, and only by putting them together can common ground be found and all that jazz."

Doug chuckled before he patted Cloud on the shoulder." Never said I knew all the answers Strife, just knew what sounded like bull and pipe dreams to me. I'd be happy to work with others long as I'm asked to the table."

"James chuckled before he offered his hand." Well, despite the massive setback of most of our plan being an enemy deception I'm not willing to give up entirely. I still think we can make things better for everyone, just need to truly reach out to as many as possible. I hope you can help us with that so we can get a true compromise to the best path forward Doug."

The martial artist grinned before he shook James's hand." Hell yah man. Its best when no one gets all they want, cause at least you know it was equal and fair. Since Cosmos has not even figured it out no doubt its one hell of a thing to pull off.

Personally, like they say, even the best plans go to hell so you just got to keep things together one step at a time. And, oh?"

Doug noticed Aqua and Axel walking by before he tensed up. He saw Aqua glance at him awkwardly before he cleared his throat and looked at his teammates." Ah well, speaking of that sorry to cut it short guys but have to clean up some of my own mess if you know what I mean."

James saw Aqua before he nodded." Sure, go for it Doug." As Cloud nodded Doug swerved around before going over to the blue haired woman." Hey their Aqua, how yeah holding up?"

Aqua paused for a moment before she answered with a nonchalant," Oh, as good as can be after going through a day when some of the oldest angels turned out to be traitors and everything and your entire beliefs are flipped upside down and all."

"Haha yah…just one of those days when everything hits the fan? Ton of stuff to think about."

"Heh, that's for damn sure." Axel threw out casually." Man if Isa saw what happened today he would."

The former Dark Enji saw Doug and Aqua were looking at each other before he sighed." Ah well I have that " We need to talk one on one look" memorized down pat. Better not blow it Fitter, I'll be around if I sense Aqua's being pressured you hear?"

"I get it man. I promise, I want to move on from that part as much as I can, trying to do that right now."

Axel saw Aqua nod before he sighed and walked off. Doug saw they were near one of the Tri-Edge's guest rooms before he chuckled." Good thing Ben's made his ship into a mini hotel eh? Mind if we chat in private?"

"What, you want to avoid breaking down and sobbing in front of the guys?" Aqua teased in response." Well, I guess I don't want people to interrupt it so sure."

The blue haired woman followed Doug into the room and as the door closed Aqua saw Doug looked anxious before she crossed her arms." This the part where you apologize for being a asshole? I can forgive some of how you acted because I assume one way or another the Beyonder was screwing with you.

But what I can't just hand-wave is you keeping such a big secret from me! I mean what the hell is this about you wanting a child Doug? That kind of relationship stuff is kind of important!"

Doug rubbed the back of his head before he chucked uneasily." You miss hearing the part where it was a deeply repressed desire girl? Hell even I did not fully believe in it, sure as hell was not going to add fuel to all the fire when we were still in a rocky state, when I was not sure if anything was going to work out."

"Damn it Doug." Aqua threw out bitterly." Part of why I was getting distant was that I was worried you had no desire to move things seriously! This…this changes things a bit."

"C'mon Aqua, don't just act like it was all me. I was not getting any vibes you wanted any kids either."

"Well I mean, not, right now but, someday…maybe. I mean, that girl, I was supposed to be the mother right?"

"Heh, hell if I know Aqua it was just a wish." The member of Squad 7 saw Aqua's eyes looking hurt, and then remembered what Axel said before he sighed." But, would be nice if you were in the edge of that photo Aqua.

Look, like I said before, after the last few years of feeling like a man with no place in society, was feeling more and more like no kid would want me as a dad. That's why, at times I felt I'd have to be in a whole new damn universe to have some pride."

Aqua saw the anguish in Doug's eyes before she grasped his hand softly." Idiot, we both seen far worst fathers then you Doug! Even with all of this craziness in the past year, I still seen people that would be far more unfit to be parents then you.

I know, you have a bitter history with your family, and I'm so sorry I could not figure out how much pain you were in after what happened to your family. But we seen Ben and so many of the others defy their family legacy! You really think you could not defy fate to?"

Doug saw the determination in Aqua's eyes before he snickered." Well you know, those guys seemed to get chosen to get the happy endings and all that, even super soldier Ezan."

Aqua grasped Doug firmly as she winked." Seriously Doug? You were able to catch up to them despite not being chosen by anyone! Well, I mean yah it was because the Beyonder gave you power to make you one of his Dimensional General stooges but still, in one of those glass half full things proved you had the will power to keep your identity right? For how much of a pain in the ass you been, you proved you won't just roll over for anyone. And, I can respect that, long as you don't dare think I'm just going to be treated like some blindly obedient doll."

"I never wanted you to be that Aqua." Doug muttered remorsefully." If I gave off that impression then honest to god I regret that more than anything. After seeing how my mom put up with one piece of crap after another I would not wish that on anyone, even if it is me!

If our relationship ever turned into something like how Brad and Lacus had then Aqua, even if I take it back now you can kill me because I'm already dead. I know I should have been better after all I went through with Gouken and the Enji but damn it, was ok during the war when there was something to focus on. But when it was peaceful, nothing to think about but small jobs, and what I did not have."

Aqua grasped Doug's hand warmly before she responded with a somber," Damn it Doug, if you just talked like we are talking now we could have avoided a lot of pain! They have groups for this, why did you never even try to talk it out with counseling?"

"Because it's not the Fitter way Aqua, did not need people thinking I was weak when guys and gals that had it worst could shrug it off. Look, guys like Cloud, Axel, Vincent and a ton of others may have had it worst but, my pride was the one thing I had that stood out, even if it only made sense to me.

Even guys I got along with like Yuri and Zidane who also did not have it easy, they still had a core clarity about who they were that I could not pull off as easily. Heh, I know he's the most hated bastard in the universe but at times I thought the only ones I could identify with were guys like Brad who were already dead.

Don't get me wrong, dude was as much as a dick as a guy can be a dick, but part of the reason I was able to con him into thinking I was on his side right around the Enji Budokai is that at some level I could see him eye to eye that sometimes rules and ethics and honor and all that society stuff are all just thing the elite make up to feel good about themselves.

When you only have one choice to get out of the hole you're in, nine out of ten times you don't give a damn what it takes to get out of it, if you live then just maybe you will feel guilty about what it took to get out.

I admit, I knew Ben and most of the others would not feel like talking about Brad, and at times when I was drunk the last few years I got so drunk I felt like I was talking to Brad alongside the table, that we were discussing how society was screwing over guys like me in this fancy new world."

"Doug, Axel spent most of his life serving Xemnas, staining his heart with darkness planning to do horrible things to the universe. You did not think you could even talk to him about stuff like this and that you could only talk to the memory of a psychopath like Brad?"

"Heh, I reckon I broken my record for how many shots I downed for it to even get to that point. And your right about Axel, but it's just, at least he had a purpose, he was being strung along by Xemnas, I was just strung along by my own anger. I felt that meant, I did not have the right to talk it over with guys and gals like, like."

Aqua saw the guilt in Doug's eyes before she sighed and got closer to him." Like me? Doug, I'm no saint. It was because of my weakness during the war that Kira's brother Shin died.

Despite everything going on, I let my feelings for Max override what was important, and in that moment of weakness it kicked off the path that lead Kira and Xehamaru 's to the dark side, and ultimately lead to Max's death. Don't you see Doug? If I was stronger I,"

Doug grasped Aqua's hand before he could finish to cut her off with a strong," Whoa now, don't you dare think that was on you Aqua! Kira and Xehamaru made their own choice to be demented pricks yah hear?

As for Max, it was Brad who killed him, not you. Your only human, you can only do what you can. That's why, you sure you want to keep getting in my mess? No offense Aqua, but I saw the way you looked at Max. I, you sure you're not."

Aqua suddenly put her hand over his mouth before she rolled her eyes." Just, shut up before you say something stupid Doug. Of course I still care for Max, but he is dead, and as much as I care for him I'm not willing to die to be with him.

I would not have been so hurt by how you been the past years if I did not care about you Doug! I want this to work out, and that's why if we get past the Beyonder do you promise you still want to work things out?"

Doug saw how serious Aqua looked before he nodded." If I did not burn all my bridges after nearly breaking the universe, then I would not mind trying to work things out. Don't think I'm just going to roll over and become a parrot that just spits out what everyone wants me to say though. That's not me."

"That's what I love about you Doug." Aqua responded sweetly." And as long as you don't turn into something that mauls everything around you, that will be fine with me."

She then kissed Doug passionately, and the two held the kiss for nearly a minute. When the kiss broke Doug flashed another half-lopped smile." Damn that felt good. Aqua, I'm not as mushy as Ben or some of the others but I swear I'll try and treat you right. Heh, don't want Max to come down to slash my nuts off and all. Seriously, I'll do what I can to make that vision I had come true one day."

"Heh, just one step at a time Doug. Just curious, you have any plans for what to do after this mess?"

"Well after punching my" Dark" half's lame mask through his skull don't know. Mostly man up and apologize to the decent people I pissed off in my bad moods. To be honest, I had a few ideas about what's been pissing me off the most.

I admit, I might need a chance of pace, a new start to change things. I know a lot of people just make excuses to keep starting over and over, but I feel like breaking with the past, in a non-hostile way might be good. It, might not be what you or Axel had planned at all."

"Maybe, but life never goes according to plan for long eh? As long as I'm with you, the real you, I'll be happy Doug."

"Thanks babe." Doug spat back warmly." It does feel good to not feel like everyone's gunning for me. You know what girl? I know I'm on thin ice and all but it would be nice to do what we have not done in a long damn time."

"Heh, what, you mean right here on Ben's ship?"

"Why not? Not his bed or anything. Got to strike while the iron's hot eh?"

Aqua giggled before she slowly undid the straps to her top." Well, I guess it does take time to travel between dimensions and worlds and all that. What the hell, when time's short got to make things count right? You better be master of your domain Doug."

Aqua was about to jump at the member of Squad 7 before suddenly the Tri-Edge made a calming beeping sound and the intercom turned on." Attention all passengers, the Tri-Edge will be descending to Corneria soon. Please refine from doing anything like using the lavatory, eating or anything else that can make a mess as we land as I did just go through cleaning protocols."

Doug saw Aqua hesitate before he moaned." Oh come on! Seriously?"

"I guess with how much is at stake the angels are making sure we don't waste time."

Aqua threw out innocently, causing Doug to spit on the ground." I swear Ben's getting back on me for kicking his ass earlier. Whatever, not about to get caught like its high school."

"Don't worry, we will get the chance to make up for it, just be ready." Aqua threw out sultry before she kissed Doug. The man who trained by Gouken checked outside the window to make sure Ben was not pulling a prank on him.

But sure enough thanks to the angels giving assistance the Tri-Edge and the Wave-Rider were already descending into Corneria 's atmosphere.

While Ben and his group were in heaven Ansem, the other Enji and both their old and new allies left Riza Maxia to take the Chrono Phantasma back to Corneria to meet Atem and the others to have a personal briefing about all that's transpired.

Thus, as Ben prepared for landing he not only saw that the Neo-Highwind, the Great Fox, the Benatar, and all of the Gundam's flying around he saw not only King Atem and Ansem waiting for him, but those like Velvet, the rest of the Enji Masters, and most of the Chrono Phantasma like Luke Skywalker, Lilac, the Jojo's and their allies, the Gourmet Hunters, Ruby and her group, Noctis and his own group, the Persona users, Ryūko and some of the others.

Ben saw that the Nudist Sol, the Millennium Falcon, and some of the Rouge Squadron ships were docked before the newly dressed Enji grinned." Glad King Atem and the others are giving are new friends a warm reception. With how things are, we need to trust as much as we can afford to. Alright, let's see were things stand."

Ben and the rest quickly left, and as they stepped into the landing platform the leader of the Justice Force went to say hello, only to notice King Atem and the others looking at a building to the right. The Enji tensed up as he rushed over to them." King Atem, everyone, what's wrong!? The, the Beyonder is not attacking is he?"

The ruler of the Lylat Kingdom paused before he looked at Ben with worry." Hello Ben, sorry your welcome's not proper. Its hopefully not the Beyonder. Its, just that we were alert that a young woman is in the process of trying to commit suicide."

Lacus ran up to Atem as she looked at him with dread." That's horrible! What's going on?"

"Far as we know she's not being influence by magic or otherwise manipulated and this does not seem to be blackmail. We know she's, Elle Mel Marta. Her step brother was Ludger Will Kresnik. As your aware, he's now among the deceased thanks to the Beyonder. When Elle found out it seems she pretended to take it well, only to now be in the process of attempting suicide.

They are currently in the process of negotiating with her but she brought her brother's plasma pistol with her and is threatening to shoot herself if anyone tries to stop her. She already lost her parents in the war, Luger was all the family she had left."

Lacus looked at where the rescue craft where in the distance a young woman was at the edge of a building with a gun to her head. She put her hands together before reacting with a sorrowful," The past day has already seen enough sorrow, we have to help her! Between all of us I'm sure we can get to her in time."

Ezan eyed the girl before he grasped his hand." I should be able to switch her gun out using the Rinnegan, I'll secure her."

Ben saw Elle in the distance, and then glanced at Ezan as he thought over what he and the One Above All talked about. " I'm sure you can Ezan, but we don't want to just stop her physically but save her. I'll reach out to her."

Atem saw Ben looked determined before he looked uneasy." Are you sure Ben? With all that's at stake you don't have to do this. We can leave this to are rescue crew, even mister Parker volunteered to reach out to her to make sure he could still reach out to " Modern" people."

"I'm sure Spiderman does your majesty, but its ok. Even with all that's going on, the number one hero can't just focus on the top problem, but all the problems that are in front of him, and the people need to know that."

Doug saw the determination in Ben's eyes before he cracked his neck." I get you want to show you care for the little guy man, but with how one sided your focus has been, if your rusty it could blow up big time."

"Heh, think I'm too out of touch to reach out to a girl in trouble Doug? Well, if I am then be on standby in case I mess up, but I have to try, I owe it to this girl for not being able to save her brother."

Doug sighed and nodded before Ben flew into the air. At the moment Elle was inches from jumping before she whimpered." Daddy, I'll see you soon. At last it's going to be over."

She was on the verge of jumping off before Ben suddenly flash stepped in front of her." Don't say it's going to be over when things should just be started miss. After all, I don't think your family wants to reunite with you like this."

Elle staggered back as she saw Ben was above her before she blinked." You, you're Ben Auro? Your the real Savior?"

"Yup, the one and only." Ben responded with a playful grin." Your Elle yes? Elle Mel Marta? I see your having a bad time, but I hope we could talk for a bit. I understand you been going through a lot lately, and,"

"Stay away!" Elle snapped out suddenly." Don't you dare touch me! That's what you want huh? Get me all starstruck and grab me when my guard's down and take me down by force huh? Because you can…because your stronger than me, stronger than anyone!

Because you know I can't stop you! I'm not stronger then you, but even if your faster than me if I get pushed the wrong way a button will go off and I'll stop my own heart! Your no hero to me, if you were the great hero everyone said you are then why is my brother dead?"

Ben looked at her with remorse before he sighed." I'm truly sorry for that Elle. I, I thought the bad guys were gone, but there were still some left and they got to Luger and others before I knew what was going on. Trust me when I say I feel horrible about letting such injustice go on and I want to do all I can to make it right."

"Is that true? Then if you really care you will respect what I want and I'm not just a photo opt to you?"

"Yes, that's true."

"Then…then I want your word, I want you to swear on your life that you won't take me down by force! If I jump, if I choose to jump, it's because it's my choice, and I don't want anyone to stop me! If you do, then we can talk."

Ben closed his eyes for a moment before he nodded." I give you my word, I won't stop you. I won't take you down against your will."

James eyed Ben carefully before he checked his gear's cymatic scan ." Ben…what are you doing? Her Psyco-Pass is erratic, now is no time to be indecisive."

Lacus saw Ben's eyes before she flicker her hair out of her eyes." Its ok James, Ben's just making her feel like she can trust him."

Ben then sat next to Elle, and the girl saw Ben looked friendly before she grasped herself tightly." My brother was all that I had left, and now I can't even bury him! Luger wanted me to do well at this fancy school in the capital, but everyone messes with me because I did not grow up in the same school as them! Is this all my life is going to be? Cleaning up after snobs who look down on me?"

Ben nodded as he looked up." School can be quite the drag eh? Is, that the same school Lacus went to? They can be rather snobbish over there. It cannot be fair but you got to,"

"Your right, it's not fair!" Elle screamed out bitterly." None of its fair and don't you dare tell me otherwise! It's not fair that all of these jerks get everything they want while I have to suffer all alone!"

Ben paused again before he went to pat Elle on the head, saw how rattled she looked and retracted his hand before he grasped it tightly." I won't lie to you Elle, society does come off as rather damn unfair at times. Good honest people suffer needlessly, while crooked scum get away with one thing after another with a slick speech and a few bribes.

Hero's that give everything to help people loser everything, while greedy scum that do nothing but rip everyone off for their own gains get a peaceful death. Trust me, life, life can sure as hell cannot be fair at times. But, it's not unfair either. It just…is."

Elle eyed Ben for a moment before she frowned."That's what you call inspiration? You really do suck at speeches hero!"

"I know it's not the most cheerful thing to hear, but it is the truth. Your right that we all come out of school thinking we will change the world, and size are dreams. Sometimes we do, I was lucky enough to make my dreams reality. But, I seen enough to know that sometimes we don't get that lucky break. Sometimes, life, fate, god, whatever screws you over.

And when that happens you can't think about your dreams, just doing what you can, helping one person, getting one thing done to not feel like a total failure at life. All I know…is that I had to try, no matter how things felt hopeless at times. Because after all that's what life is right? We try…we push against the darkness. Just a little we,"

Elle saw how passionate Ben looked before she sighed." Hey savior I know you care and all but, can we just, not talk about this anymore? I, I been crying all day, my head hurts, now I just,"

Ben saw Elle looked conflicted and smiled." That's fine, you rest, just let me know when you want to talk."

The girl nodded before she looked down, saw how many were looking up before she grasped herself tightly." I know the capital planet of the universe would be big but its just, its so many people."

"It is, and I grew up here. Years ago, I saw those streets littered with dead bodies during the war when the planet was invaded. But, some people jumped out of despair, just like you. You, you really want to be splattered on the ground like them?"

Elle tensed up before she sniffled." I…I don't know. I feel like I don't anything anymore. Without Luger, I'm lost. I have no one who cares if I'm alive or not"

Ben paused for a moment before he cleared his throat."I, have a suggestion. A relative of mine took her own life once. She was terminally ill, and did not have the funds to afford to have her illness treated with either magic or advanced tech. Every day was agony to her, she decided without any doubt she would never be happy again. And so, she checked out early so to speak.

I, understood, sort of. I did not agree with it but I understood that she felt like she had no other option. If you truly feel that way Elle, I won't stop you. But if you think there is a chance, no matter how small, that you can fine happy days again then please, take my hand so we can get down.

I know I failed you and all the others out their like you, but please, give me a chance to make it better for you and the rest of the universe, so that your family won't have even more to be sad about."

Elle looked conflicted, and looked like she was about to jump off before she sobbed and went to Ben.

As he grasped her she sobbed out," It, it just hurts so much and I don't know what to do! I'm not rich and I don't have any real talent either, I don't see any place where I'll belong, like I don't belong anywhere!"

"I understand, despite how it seems now there was a time where I thought I did not belong anywhere, that no one wanted me either. But you just got to hang in there. It gets rough at times, and I'd be lying if it always works out like a fairy tale for everyone. But, if you don't try to have the courage to make your dreams become reality there will never even be a chance.

No matter how hard I try I and the other Enji can't make everything better in an instant. That's why I'm going to need you to trust me to give me time, maybe more time to make it right.

It may take longer then we all thought it was going to take, but I swear on all the honor I have on everything I have dear that I will make it right for you and all the others who suffered wrongly. I will make things better for the innocent like you."

Elle paused, before she sniffled a bit and looked up to realize the Divine Mugen Nova attached to Ben's back." Your sword, it looks bigger than it did in the pictures."

"Heh, yah, I need to go all out to take on the bad guys. No matter how devious they get, I'll never let any of their sins go unpunished!"

"Well…I guess I want to stick around to see if your lying so I can call you out on being a big fat phony. Fine, I'll trust you again mister hero, but if you're lying I'll never let you get away with it!"

"Fine, it's a deal."

Ben took Elle's hand before he flew her back to the others. Master Chief and the officers he was overhearing ran over before the Spartan saluted Ben." Thanks for the help Savior, things are already tense as it is."

Prompto was one of the many of the new arrivals who was watching Ben before the native from Insomnia grinned and took out his camera." Was not sure before with all those crazy ideas but this Auro guy does seem to have been a hero long enough to know how to pull off a good photo op because this is just dynamite!"

Noctis saw his longtime friend eagerly take pictures before he saw Ben giving Elle a smile and smirked." Glad the guy has some kingly instincts after all."

As people in the area clapped Velvet saw that Elle looked calm before she sighed." Well, at the very least he looks more in touch with his humanity then Artorius was. Well…we will see."

Doug saw how Elle looked and chuckled." Well, at least your humanity's not as gone as I thought Ben. After all, no matter how much power or knowledge you have, despite how much we worship god we sure as hell can't relate to god.

After all, god, gods , whatever, they all watch everything from above, whenever they intervene it just means a pain in the ass for the common folk.

Most of the time they don't bleed or cry or laugh or love like us, they don't share are struggle.

Cause even if things are not perfect for us we struggle, we fight, we fall, and the best of us never give up. Cause no matter the odds, we fight to make are mark till the last!"

Ben gave Doug a nod and then walked over to Atem before he bowed." Sorry for the delay your Majesty, but a hero can't decide when he's on the job right? Elle will be ok, she just needs support after what she's been through."

"Of course Ben." The man with the Millennium Puzzle answered somberly." Miss Elle, I'm sorry we could not save your parents or brother but I'll do what I can to make sure you're not abandoned."

Gaius walked up before the king of Auj Oule grasped his fist." Luger and Julis were both honorable men, I'll do what I can to honor the will of my people."

Elle raised an eyebrow before responding with a shrewd." So you will help me even if it means say, getting me a unicorn?"

As Gaius paused Atem chuckled." Well you know the Anthea Academy does have a zoology class that involves a session on Unicorns imported from Equestria where you can help raise them. If you do well there and earn your license you just might just be able to own one day."

"Seriously?"

Ben gave Elle a thumbs up in response." Hey being in the capital of the universe has its perks eh?"

"That's awesome! I'm going to call her Twilight Pie!"

Jude, Gaius and some of the others helped Elle off the platform before Atem saw she was gone, and sighed." Let's just hope the universe will be around for Miss Elle to have a chance to realize her dream. Ben, everyone, I know you all have had a long day but I'm afraid we have little time to rest.

We are all still confused around here after you went up to heaven. I see you managed to retrieve the Divine Mugen Nova and the Golden Imperia Crystal, and without releasing Zannacross to boot. That's indeed very good but we are all disturbed by the rumors that the Beyonder had an agent helping him in Heaven. I, can't help but notice those God's of Destruction are not with you. Was, the traitor that Beerus chap? He, did seem rather rude."

Ben reflected somberly at all that transpired in the past few hours before he sighed." Sadly you been hearing right, but its worst then you think. Firstly, Beerus, despite his bad temper ending up being one of the good ones.

However, some of the God's of Destruction and their attendants did end up being traitors that were willing to use the Beyonder to rebel against both light and darkness at once. The one who lead this treachery, was Iger Rassilon."

Atem blinked, before his eyes widened with dread." Wait, the Master of Masters, the one who proposed the Homeostasis's Axiom Matrix connection? This, must be some mistake. He, was one of the ones who gave my father advice on how to bring about the Lylat Kingdom! Why would he want to aide Zannacross all this time?"

"Like I said, he and the others were not fighting for Zannacross, not even really for the Beyonder. They wanted to denounced everyone and everything and shatter reality so that it could be remade to their own whims."

"Ben, I know you had a long day but are you sure he was not another Chrono Phantasma like Luger, Julius, Harrison Wells, and well, all are new guests?"

As the leader of the Justice Force struggled to think of the right way to respond Gabriel Celeste flew down with some of the other angels and gave a grim sigh." Trust me King Atem, we all wish this was any other possibility. However, while it's up to debate if the Beyonder somehow reached out to Iger Rassilon and influenced him in some way, we know for sure that it was no clone but the real first angel.

It's clear his viewpoint changed after Zannacross was defeated, and his exalted position allowed himself to be immune from what would have normally detected such threats."

King Atem looked at Ansem and the other members of the Lylat Subcommittee, Zelda, Doctor Light, Squall's father and the president of Esthar, Luguna Lore, Dendi, leader of the people of New Namek, Lilandra Nerammani, Majestrix of the Shi'ar Empire, and the Emperor of the nation of Malkuth from the world of Aldrunt and Jade's close friend, Peony Upala Malkuth IX .

As he saw the group of exalted leaders all react with various forms of shock Atem cleared his throat." My…god. How long was he plotting to betray us?"

As the angels and Enji all gave uneasy looks Doug sighed before he cracked his neck and walked up." Don't know for sure your majesty, but the gist of it is that the big plan you all were working on for the past few years was all just a con to him to get you all distracted while he broke the universe.

Now's not the time or place for anyone to say I told you so, but I'll just say you all really need to think things over since everything you hinge your bets on for the future being good times during out to be a sham."

Doug saw all the looks he was getting and just nodded before backing off before Atem saw how uneasy Ben, Lacus, James, and Master Myers looked before he cleared his throat." What, what about Cosmos? She, she was not,"

"She was as blindsided by this treachery as we all were." Gabriel answered grimly." She was already weakened greatly after putting so much energy into a failed attack on the Beyonder, Rassilon 's sneak attack weakened her even more.

She's recovering but, she's been in a private talk with the One Above All about errors in her judgment. She, won't be around to talk for a while. To be frank, there might be a greater "renovation" to heaven then the first time Zannacross was sealed. To say that moral is at a low point now is an understatement."

Atem saw how tense the angel looked before he grasped the Millennium Puzzle tightly." I feel that it won't be the only realm going through renovations in their thinking with all of this. More than a few things I thought were absolute are now in doubt."

Myers nodded before the leader of the Enji Knights sighed." To have everything you believed in start to crack just when you thought things were at last working out as you hoped is, not the best for one's health old friend. To have the foundation of all your hopes topple shakes one to the core."

Atem was silent for a moment before he gave the Enji Master a confident look. " Hope can be hard to hang on to at times my friend, at times it may be illogical to have hope. But we can't give up on it, we must cling to the audacity of hope to have a future. For its in hope that the best of us is found.

Having the audacity to believe despite all the evidence to the country that we could restore a sense of community to a universe turn by conflict; the gall to believe that despite personal setbacks, despite what hopes end up to be mirages, that we still have some control, and therefore responsibility over our own fate.

It's that audacity, I hope, that join us as one people.

I always hoped that it's this audacity is the pervasive sprit of hope that ties us all together.

No matter what happens, we must not give up on the light of hope or all is lost."

Those around him, including many of the Enji clapped in response and even Doug found himself being inspired enough to give a few claps. Myers grasped his sword tightly before he looked a bit more resolute." Your right Atem, if we give up then all hope is lost. That's why we got to do what we can. Well, I can't stop worrying about Kira but I'll just focus on what we can do."

"Wait, you saw Kira? I thought he was bound to the deepest layer of hell?"

"He i, was…but a clown faced God of Destruction broke him out of hell as part of the coup and gave him additional power to try and turn the tables. But he made a extreme error in judgment assuming Kira would kneel before him.

Thankfully Kira was secured before he could try and unleash his revenge. Even dead and chained in hell, he still could be a threat. But that being said, the Beyonder is the crises we must focus on."

"Fair enough, just how much time do we have?"

Gabriel looked at the Enji before he smirked." We have some time at least. The Beyonder is trying to attack time itself, but that well, takes time. While it was not a total victory, thanks to the efforts of the Enji the Beyonder's plans were set back a bit. At the very least we have time to regroup and plan this carefully."

Ben went up before he crossed his arms." I'll be happy to add all I know. Nothing game changing but, every little bit," Ben paused before he let a yawn out. As everyone looked at him he winced." Sorry, guess it's been over a day since I slept.

I meant we did eat at heaven but, then things got really messed up. I'm still adjusting to everything, but, I know others have gone through worst, so I'll stick with it to do whatever it takes to get the job done."

Myers saw the wary but determined look on Ben's face, and also saw the worry Lacus had on her own before he smirked. " We all know your resolve Ben, but no need to push yourself to the breaking point when you don't have to.

You all who went through Battle-World should rest while we still can. We will call you if a crises unfolds but, rest while you can."

Lacus saw Ben looking unsure before she winked." Could be some good time to squeeze in some shuteye, and catch up on stuff while we still have the chance if you know what I mean eh Ben?"

Ben saw his lover flash her eyes before he smirked." Well, if there is nothing to do right at the moment, might as well get to things we might not get to later right? I'm game if you are Lacus."

"Oh I'm definitely game dear. Got to take care of things while we have a chance right?"

Ben and Lacus went to kiss each other before an older female voice cut in with," Quite right dear, like catching up with your family!"

Lacus cringed as she swerved around to see her mother running in her direction, with her father, her younger sister Sarah and KOS-MOS coming up from behind. Lacus hardly had time to turn around before her mother hugged her tightly." Oh my baby! I was frazzled enough with you being out all across the universe but I nearly had a stroke when I heard you were in another dimension fighting some new crazy villain!"

Lacus responded with a uneasy chuckle as she patted her mother on the head." Sorry to worry you mom but you know…stuff happens right? It's been a crazy day but, I'm ok. Ben and the others kept me safe as always, and in return I made sure everyone was safe in return."

Erich walked over to Lacus and gave her a proud smile." From what I heard you done well Lacus, I'm proud of you."

"Thanks dad. I'll be happy to tell you all about it, just got to take care of a few things first."

"Oh come now dear." Jane pouted out." What can be more important than catching up with your family? I don't know what time it is where you just were but its dinner time hear Lacus, and we have not had a family dinner in ages! Unless it's this nasty Beyonder attacking again anything else can wait!"

Lacus giggled uneasily as she slowly pulled away from her mother's grip." Come on now mom, I know it's a while but be fair to Ben. I'm sure he's worried about his family to."

Before Jane could respond Lacus saw her younger sister giggle." Oh come on Lacus, forgot how much mom plans things out? As soon as we knew what was going on she and dad called Ben's parents to keep them in the loop. We planned to have a "stress" dinner together but now everyone's here. Ah, their she is!"

Ben swerved around and saw a squad of soldiers walk up, in the center of the soldiers was a women in her sixties with curly hair and dressed modestly. She may not have gotten most people's attention at a glance, if not for that she was Ben's mother. The wielder of the Divine Mugen Nova looked shocked as his mother smiled at him before he stepped back." Mom, you made it to?"

"Of course sweetie. I mean, since all the new luxuries we got from are new income I'm able to get around a lot faster. I was worried when I heard all of this new fighting was going on but I knew you would be ok, after all you saved the universe before right? Dear, I know you must be awfully tired after a busy day of death defying stunts but it's been so long, I love if we could have dinner while there is still time."

Ben paused before he smiled in response." Of course mom, I'm sorry it took so long. Well, long as the King and the rest don't need anything guess I'm good to go now."

"Great, Jane had a new restaurant she, oh? Silly me almost forgot your father but he will be right here, he was kind enough to get me a drink. Heh, it's nice that he thinks to get me a drink first instead of just getting himself coffee for himself. We have been a lot more well…harmonious ever since he's been getting the treatments. Over hear dear!"

Doug saw Ben stiffen and winced as he saw a man approach behind the soldiers. He was more than a little overweight and nearly bald with a comb over and in a grey business suit, Ben's father.

Auro senior walked up looking out of breath, but excited as he grasped a drink in his hand." Theirs my boy! Sorry for being late son, your mother was thirsty so was getting something for her."

Ben saw Doug and a few of the others giving him a look before he winced and reacted with a uneasy chuckle." Its ok dad, I know your just trying to be a good husband."

"Just doing what a man…should." Ben's dad responded with hesitation. He saw all of Ben's friends looking at him before he smirked." Oh damn the gang's all here eh? My boy knows how to make those bonds eh? Thanks for helping my boy do his job, it's a damn important one."

Doug saw Ben's father shake a few of the hero's around his's hand before he cleared his throat." Yo Jack, how's it been? Glad you lost some weight since we last talked man."

Doug saw the older man look at him for a moment before Ben's father grinned." Damn Doug, what happened to your hair? Your balder then me!"

"Oh right, eh, just some work related hazard. Eh, it will grow back."

"Heh, I remember when I could be that carefree about hair. Eh sorry to pry, know you're doing good work."

Doug saw how focused the older man looked before he glanced at Ben."So Jack, how are all those things we talked about way back? Still being a pain in the ass?"

Ben's dad's face looked blank for a moment before he just laughed."Oh, I was not thinking clearly back then. I have it great really, I'm the dad of the chosen hero and don't have anything really to complain about, just enjoying life."

Doug eyed Ben's dad carefully before he sighed." That so? Tsc…real sorry you been sick Jack, hope your son can help you get you better soon. You are going to fix it right Ben? Put things back how they were?"

As Ben, and many of the others in the area tensed up Ben's mom just raised a eyebrow. "What are you talking about Doug? My husband's been the best he's been since well, since we got married. He's been losing weight for the first time in a long while! It's all thanks to the help Ben got him, I'm so proud of the good work he's been doing for everyone."

Doug took a deep breath before he reacted with a composed," Not like I know your husband better then you, but I seen enough to know when things look good short term just to head for a crash. That's why, you're going to make things right eh bro? After all, it's what Max wanted eh?"

Ben looked at his dad, his mother, then Doug, then the King, then Master Myers, then briefly to Hiryuumon and Kirby eating a pony shaped twilight sparkle flavored cookie, then back to his father. Memories of all the times he and his dad got into arguments flashed across his mind, then how his dad had been since he was the first one tested under the Homeostasis's Axiom Matrix, then all that he found out with his talks with Rassilon and the One Above All before he looked down and grasped his fist tightly." I will make things right Doug. But first, I, I have to know for sure the right way to pull it off. Mom, Mister Raystar, everyone. Is it alright if I just take care of a few things before dinner? With all that's going on, would feel a lot better if I took care of it so I did not have to worry about it while we caught up."

Ben's mom saw the conflict in her son's eyes and smiled."Well I am hungry but, if it's important no big deal."

The leader of the Justice Force's father just paused for a few seconds before he shrugged."If you say it's important then sure son, just tell us the plan."

Ben went to smile, before he paused and turned around."Thanks, should only take a hour, two tops. Then, as long as things are stable we can catch up all night."

Doug raised an eyebrow before he grit his teeth." What's this all about Ben? You gave your word to Max damn it!"

"I will make things right Doug, I swear. I, I just have to think on the best way to do it. Lacus, could you please come with me?"

Lacus saw her boyfriend looked conflicted before she responded with a sweet smile." Of course Ben. Don't worry…we will get through this together."

Ben's smile widened before he went to grasp her hand tightly." Thanks Lacus, you're the best. Moz, Hiryuumon, alright if you guys keep my parents and Lacus's family busy while me and Lacus take care of things?"

Hiryuumon saw the conflict in Ben's eyes before he nodded." You got it boss. Just do what you need to do."

"Don't worry Kupo!" Moz threw out chipperly." With all the stories I have they won't even notice your gone!"

"Thanks. Everyone, I'll see you soon."

As Ben hugged his mother Jane raised an eyebrow." Seriously? Don't you think your being a bit rude after just coming back?"

Lacus shrugged as she turned to Ben." It's been a long day mother, this job can be quite stressful you know."

"Oh my dear, even after all this you still forget to carry the Raystar poise? I know you been through a lot but if I were in your role I,"

Erich cleared his throat to cut his wife off before he turned to his middle child." Its ok Lacus, a true noble has to put duty before pleasure and you're as noble as they come. A later dinner is fine, just please call if anything delays you further."

"Of course, thanks dad."

Ben and Lacus hugged their family before taking off, as Ben's mom saw Hiryuumon walk up to her she smiled." Its great to see you again Hiryuumon. Hope the bad guys did not hit you to hard dear."

"Eh, I been through worst Miss's Auro. Finding out in my past life I was a traitor to the guy who last had the boss's job and seeing how painfully I died hurt the most though."

"Wait what? That, that sounds horrible!"

"Yah, but thankfully Lacus made sure it did not hurt to much!"

"I'm glad for that, she really is wonderful."

As Ben's mom talked to the Digimon Doug saw Ben's father just blinking for a few moments before he followed, causing the member of Squad 7 to grit his teeth more." The hell dude? This is not making things right this is,"

James quickly put his hand on Doug's shoulder before whispering," It's not that simple Doug. Acting instantiations might cause Jack Auro to go through mental trauma. I assure you we will do Ben's father right, but Ben's right to think about the best way to do it properly, it's not something to rush."

Doug was about to say something till he realized he was getting a transmission, and realized it was from none other than Gouken before he winced." Seriously? I thought the bastard was not traveling anymore? Tsc, well, if he came all this way, and I have time to legit kill, might as well get it over with.

All right, I'm sure as hell not going to make this worst but damn it, you guys better just man up and make things right already. Yo Jojo's, as a apologize for slugging you all before how about I take you to drinks as I get you guys to meet a coot you might gel with?"

With a deep breath Doug calmed down and tried to make amends with some of his allies, and quickly tried to avoid looking at the still angry Kale. As the Enji slowly moved about Ben saw them from above before Lacus flew up to him." Ben, what is it? I can tell something's bothering you."

The brown haired man grasped Lacus's hand tightly before he looked in the distance." Is it alright if we talk somewhere more private? I know, it's been a while but is it alright if we go to my old house in Transford Town? Just, feels right for the moment."

"Feeling major nostalgic are we hun? Sure. Heh, I'll race you there!"

Lacus had her aura flare up and Ben smirked before he did the same. Using most of their power, it took them only a few minutes to fly across the capital planet and land in the town were Ben grew up. While Ben's parents moved into a much larger house near where Lacus's family lived after the extra money they got after the war, they kept their previous apartment so Ben's mother could give tours to keep herself busy.

As Ben landed and saw Lacus was already waiting with her arms crossed he gave a sheepish grin." Heh, I think with all your new power you got faster than me Lacus."

"Even so Ben." Lacus threw out playfully," I never figured I would be able to get to your home faster than you. Well, at least we can get this funk out of the way before things heat up again.

Seriously though, what's wrong Ben? I mean, I guess between the Beyonder, The Master of Master's betrayal, all that's happened with Doug and more theirs a lot to be upset about but please, tell me."

"I will, I just wanted to talk where we could be alone."

"Well, I don't sense anyone in the apartment aside from a Pikachu so shawl we go before someone sees us?"

"Of course, after you my lady."

Ben used his old key to open the door to the apartment and held the door for Lacus before she smirked and followed him in. It had been years since Ben saw his childhood home and saw that while his mom had made sure it did not fall apart too much, most of the cracks were still there, causing the hero to smirk." After all this time, the place feels even smaller."

"Ah come on Ben, it's just in your head." Lacus retorted as she went over to Ben's room and sat down on the bed." Trust me, I know how personal drama can grow in our head after all. Seriously though, what's bothering you Ben?"

Lacus beamed her eyes widely with kindness at her lover, causing him to ease up a bit." Thanks Lacus. Your right, it's a lot of things at once. Most of all, its, facing the truth about the Homeostasis's Axiom Matrix.

How Rassilon was using us, and now I'm so upset because I don't know what's right anymore. The last time I felt this upset Lacus, was when I was not sure how to help you."

The brown haired woman was silent for a moment before she smiled, and leaned over to hug him. As they embraced she felt Ben brush across her shirt armor and smirked." I understand Ben, I'm upset to. But hey, at least this time we have each other right? Heh, and now you have theses right?"

Ben saw his girlfriend giggle before she casually took off her shirt. As she quickly leaned back and quickly let her bra drop her breast she let Ben have a good look at her chest before he smirked." That's for sure, I feel a little lighter already. Still, I don't mean to trivialize how you feel, don't think you have to put on a show just to make me feel better."

"I'm touched even now you want to treat me right Ben, but if I enjoy making you feel happy it's not really putting on a show right? Besides, honestly I been stressed for most of the day that it feels good to air out you know? What, you so bored of my body already that you would rather not have me get naked?"

"Hell no. Heh, well if you want to feel comfortable then sure go right ahead."

Lacus winked and kissed Ben before slowly peeling one article of clothing at a time. She laid back naked for a bit to take a sigh of relief before she got up to Ben to hug him tightly." First of all, think it's time to fill me in on your one on one chat with God? I gather that he wanted to talk to you alone for a reason, but unless he said that you would turn to salt if you told anyone, I really would like to know just what happened. I mean, it's clear it freaked you out."

"Yah…you got me Lacus. It was not just a friendly chat, he wanted to make clear he disagreed with Cosmos on the direction of the universe. In some ways, the Beyonder is all the One Above All indirectly reacting to how the universe was heading, a way of suicide to a stagnant existence."

Lacus widened her eyes in shock before lowering her head." He, he really did not mince words eh?"

"No, he was rather blunt that to him an existence where nothing changes, even if it's one of perfect harmony, is the same as total oblivion, so it would have been the same to him. What's worst though, is he showed me a vision, a vison of the future that would happen if I saw the Homeostasis's Axiom Matrix plan to its fullest extent.

The, the outcome of the Anti-Spiral plan would result in everyone in the universe being lifeless beings. It was, peaceful, but lifeless, I think I was as blank faced zombie as well."

Lacus eyed Ben carefully before she took a deep breath." What, what was I in the vision?"

"No idea. All I saw was statues of you. To be fair, I did not see anyone, everyone looked the same. I guess that was the point, total peace came at the cost of total conformity, the total lack of any individuality."

"But, that's not fair!" Lacus cried out passionately." The whole point of this was to enhance society so that everyone's individuality would be enhanced, not repress everyone to some sort of drone like what Sigma and the others tried to do!"

"I know, but, the Supreme Being said it was the result of my subconscious behaviors regardless of what I consciously wanted. I mean, it shook me to the core, and I doubt God would want a one on one talk just to lie to me."

"That would seem unlikely. Still, don't let the vision freak you out to much ok? I mean, take it seriously but, don't let it drive you mad like those guys like Anakin Skywalker ok?"

"Heh, I did not realize you had the story of Darth Vader memorized sweat-heart."

"Well how could I not when you talked about it so much in the past few years as one of your research projects on how societies fell apart eh? Its fine, it gave me a few ideas on what to look out for and all.

Look Ben, I'm just saying that just like with how we learned the future the Beyonder was going to cause, now that we learned of the future are plans caused, we can change the future."

"Sure, but how do we stop it? In the right way I mean? Do, we just give up and let things just, go with the flow? Let things go in however people want, even if it leads back to war? I, I don't want to be a liar to people like Elle, but I don't want that vision to come true either!

It's just, when I saw my dad again just now, I know Doug wanted me to feel guilty for what I did to my dad but, I admit, I was horrified if that image I saw was indeed the future, but I had to struggle to feel bad about how my dad's changed. After all, my mom's been happier, everyone's been happier.

Even my dad's been happier since he's not just stewing around in bitter thoughts most of the day because the truth was, no one felt bad that the person he was changed, no one would prefer the person he was to who he is now.

Is it right to just accept endless frustration because its their will to refuse to change? If people don't change, and only have a negative effect on everyone, is it right that everyone else has to suffer just because it's how they are?"

Lacus saw Ben look upset before she leaned back to look up."I, I don't know Ben. I'm, not going to assume I'm god and have all the answers. I, admit for the most part, I was just wanting to stick to the path to show I was worthy of redemption. I, trusted you, and you trusted Rassilon and so we just had to have faith.

But he lied to us, so now, now I'm hardly as confident about it as I was before. But Ben, I think we forgot how important it can be when a person changes on their own. After all, it tore you up inside but unlike Brad, you never forced me to change right?"

Ben saw the explain look in his lover's eyes before he suddenly felt ashamed." Of course Lacus. I, I cared for you to much. I mean, it was different then. I mean, it, it's complicated but it was different because."

Lacus suddenly put her hands on Ben's lips before she winked." Because you cared a lot more about me then your father eh Ben? Its ok, I guess I am just a little more attractive than your dad. Still, despite how it tore you up inside you never forced me to leave Brad, you had faith in me.

And, despite it nearly killing you I was able to break away from Brad just at the last second because I realized what was important to me. If you just forced me to "submit", then it would not be much different then Brad now would it? Doug keeps refusing to see all the details, but I can see where he comes from to."

"I do to Lacus." Ben responded wearily." I admit, I'm happy I got that girl to want to live, but I realized it's so much easier when the person your reaching out to is someone you want to save. Its, a lot easier to win over a girl that's just down on her luck then a grumpy old man that just wants his ideals validated. But, I guess a good hero is not supposed to pick who they save and all."

"Yah…it can be a drag but it's part of the job." Lacus answered sheepishly." That's what makes doing the job right hard. Knowing when someone needs help even if they don't want it, giving someone to much help to the point that your being exploited , it's a harder balance then getting the right outfit for prom. But hey, at the very least it seems like it's hard for most people right?"

"Maybe, but the ultimate hero is supposed to figure it out I guess." Ben answered tensely as he squeezed Lacus tightly." I'll admit that I was already getting frustrated before Rassilon presented to us an answer, and now we are back to square one.

I know the answer to ultimate peace should not be easy but, the One Above All basically said to just accept nothing lasts forever and to just react one step at a time.

I mean…James, King Atem, Master Myers, and just about every great thinker in the universe put together everything we could think of, and even with all of history at are side, we are just going in cycles.

People won't get along unless they are secure enough to feel safe, but it's those differences that cause fear and mistrust in the first place. Is, it really hopeless?"

Lacus thought for a moment before she realized something and grasped her crystal necklace tightly." I don't think its hopeless Ben, it's just an even thinner line then we allowed ourselves to assume.

After looking over what Velvet and the others went through on her world at the hands of Artorius, I understand why she was afraid we were going to cause something like the Ceremony of Suppression.

I don't think, everything we did was wrong, but we got to make sure we never erase or repress emotions itself. Emotions, are what make life well…life after all right? I think we both know that repression emotions far too long can cause one kind of eruption or another. Heh, I think I know how to make my point. We, we been so busy I have not told you the most, risky thing I did in Battle-World."

Ben saw Lacus blush before he raised a eyebrow." Huh? Wait you mean something even riskier then having to merge with the Blue Eyes White Dragon again? Also, wait, is she…with us now?"

"Tehe…don't worry Ben, the way I utilize her as a Persona is different than how it was before so, it gives me more control over it. No, that's not the thing I meant. Its, kind of embarrassing but, at the same time I don't regret it. Though, I am glad to much has been going on for the others to talk about it. I, I really did not want you to hear some, altered version of the story."

"Wait what? Did, you get try and seduce the,"

"Ew, hell no! I did not lower myself to that, though I did lower myself in other ways that many would still find as a tad, shameful depending on their values. Ugh, I think its best if I just show you, thankfully I got it before he could spread the recording."

Lacus dived for her pants and quickly retrieved a small camera sphere. Ben was curious as she fumbled around with its settings till soon a hologram projection popped up, and it showed back when Lacus was fighting Caulifla, naked.

As Ben saw his girlfriend get tackled by Kale his jaw dropped." Lacus this is, your, what happened? Did, the Beyonder or his minions destroy your clothing or something?"

"Not, quite." Lacus muttered as she blushed." See this was a very weird world and, long story short a sect of the people had living outfits made of things called Life-Fibers and when someone destroyed the Goku uniforms, the outfits powered by semi parasitic lifeforms called Life-Fibers, they ended up naked.

We did not want to just charge right in while we were not sure of the enemies strength so I pretended to pose as one of their own as I entered the tournament."

"Wait, there was a tournament in another tournament?"

"Yah, it was a very,very odd day. So yah I entered the Tartarus tower, but I found out the outfit they gave me was made of Life-Fibers so, to make sure I was not suddenly screwed over by the enemy I just, decided it was overall safer to just, rip it all off."

"I mean well, if you thought that was the best way to handle it, and you're ok then, seems to have worked right? Heh, good thing the Beyonder's understands so little of humanity that he did not make a big deal out of it right?"

"Yah, we had enough to worry about eh? I guess, I could have handled it some other way, but I went through of it because I felt so repressed the past few years that I leapt at the chance to run wild.

Don't think it's about you or anything, I just mean, I feel like the past few years I was trying so hard to put a false face of perfection to the universe to not risk offending anyone that, I jumped at the chance to cut loose and run wild with the real me, even if it was to people in a different reality entirely.

I, know it's easy to see the wrong way, that's why I wanted to tell you before anyone else just in case, and wanted you to see this, for your eyes only, to hold on to this. I, wanted you to keep this so you could always have something to remember this side of me, just in case after so much time, you ever forget."

Ben saw Lacus looked worried before he saw the hologram reporting, and how confidently she looked while fighting Kale before he smiled and hugged Lacus tightly."

I don't know how the rest of time will be my love, but with how I feel now, I don't see myself ever forgetting how much I love you. You think I would have been turned off by this? Honestly, your just even more badass to me now Lacus.

Still, you really, felt that wound up the past few years? It's been exhausting for me to, the vacations we get just seem to keep the pressure off just a bit. But, I'm so sorry you feel this way Lacus. Now, I feel even worse since we are back to square one. I, knew I was risking it a lot but, I just want to create a society where the people that hurt you, people like Brad would just be history."

Lacus saw how sad Ben looked before she hugged Ben tightly."And that's sweat of you Ben, but please, please don't get to fixated about it.

It's one thing to make sure a person like Brad never runs wild again, but making the world, turning the whole universe to where passion is history just seems so, sad to me. I mean, what kind of peace would be worth a place where no one could feel the love we feel right?"

"That really would be horrible. I'm seeing more and more how the vision the One Above All showed me could have happened if I did not open my eyes to were things were heading. I'm so sorry Lacus, sorry for ever getting close to."

"You don't have to apologize to me Ben. I should have seen things clearly, but again I tried to let someone else do the thinking. But, my eyes are open, and thankfully I got woke to my mistake before things got out of control this time, or at least, more out of control. I know, even if indirectly you felt pressured because of me, and I'm so sorry.

Don't worry Ben, it's not too late, we can make it work. After all, we have all the time there is to figure things out right eh? Well I mean, long as we can keep the Beyonder from shattering everything."

Ben saw the confidence in the women he love's eyes before he suddenly kissed her passionately." Lacus, thank you so much. Sorry to gush but you really are so wonderful. I just, I remember how you wanted to run away from your duty before and now you're ready to head right on into it with guns blazing and well, everything."

Lacus giggled again before she tackled Ben down playfully." Oh I don't know if it's that amazing, I just grew or matured I guess? Guess I can feel more confident since I know I have an amazing guy that has my back? Maybe a guy who can miss things at times, but someone I love with all my heart.

I'll never let you become like Darth Vader and all the others who lost their way cause I'm sure as hell not going to be passive about something like that, I'll slap you through a planet if that's what it will take to get you back on track."

"No matter what, if I ever lose my way, do whatever it takes. For now, we have to make sure the Beyonder does not make everyone lose their way, and their lives! We were able to get are personal dreams to come true but, still have ways to go."

Lacus looked around the room before she sprouted a grin of mischief." Speaking of dreams coming true dear, I happen to remember all the times you lamented you never had someone to bring home to bed in high school. Well, it's not high school anymore, but still, since we have the time want to cross another thing off the list?"

Ben saw Lacus press her body right up to her and grinned." Well if you're in the mood I sure as hell am. We still have a hour, though I was worried about getting the best part of the night done with early."

"Out of the way?" Lacus threw out playfully." C'mon Ben, if your strong enough to fight at the level of divine beings, your strong enough to last more than round with your lover eh? C'mon, this round can be without clones, then later tonight, if we have time, we can try some exotic things later on. I think I got some more ideas after what I went through."

"Oh this is going to be good. Heh, long as you don't mind talking to your mother if we end up a tad late to dinner."

"Oh don't worry, with all that's going on now I don't really care. She will just get a new necklace or something the next day if her ego's that bruised. Now come on, let's see how flexible you are after Rassilon messed with you. I think I'll, oh? You see something wrong?"

Ben chuckled uneasy as he leaned over." Oh its just. That Sayian Kale, she really punched you in the chest eh?"

"Ah yah that, yah she punched me in the boob alright."

"Sorry about that. Are you ok?"

"Heh, how about find out yourself eh?"

"If you insist, get ready!"

Ben eagerly got ready to unleash all of his passion at Lacus to desperately try and not think of all the troubles he had to deal with for a moment. But little did he and Lacus know that his biggest threat was preparing to crash down on him, and the very universe faster than he thought.

---

Because just after he and Lacus left Jane instantly went to her transport in a huff without bothering to talk to any of the Enji.

Lacus's mother saw her fly off before she flicked her hair back." The nerve of that child, talking smack to her mother in front of everyone. I know she's been through a lot but she still does not understand how a noble woman must have pose at all times or the masses will jump at them like the vultures they are.

Ugh, if only I was the one chosen by god. Lacus did not want it anyway. Still, that's life. Your dream is to become the idol of the universe, only for fate to make you watch your child go through with that. Tsc, mother was not kidding about parents living through their children.

Even if Lacus will always shine the most, at least I'll make sure I never look dull in front of her. Now, better get to making sure the dinner is as fabulous as ever. Oh, is that a new perfume?"

Jane saw a bottle of purple colored perfume ." Hump, they put out a new model already? Guess with the war done everyone does have more time on their hands."

"If you want it miss then go right ahead and take it." A woman with blond hair in a green and yellow uniform threw out playfully." It's a free sample of are

Rabum Jo Swan fragrance! For the mother of Lacus Raystar and one of the great noble families of the universe, you have every right to come off with the scent of divine mastery!"

"Heh, your right dear. Thanks for being an employer with such keen senses. Drat, this attire's lacking in pockets. Oh Jack? Be a dear and take my new bottle for me? I'm taking on a bit more on the way back."

Ben's dad walked over as Jane sprayed herself with the perfume and paused before he nodded." Sure Jane, happy to help. A little hungry but that will just make me hungrier for your cooking right?"

"Quite right dear. Oh I am so pleased with your makeover."

Ben's dad just winced again before he nodded. Suddenly another woman came over with a bag of donuts." Oh you look hungry sir. Please take one of are free samples of are new "Beyond Paradise" flavored Donut!"

"An entire Donut? Well, it's been a while but if I am doing extra work, should make up for it. Long as it's free, should not get everyone to get all emotional."

Jack looked around before quickly scarfing down the purple colored donut. Ben's father's eye twitched for a moment before he muttered," That's right, I'm the man of the family, I know what's what no matter how many times they all give me crap!"

Ben's father saw Jane looking at him impatiently before they took off with Lacus's father. As the two left the two sells woman both grasped their heads before they both shrugged and went off.

As they did another woman looked at them from one of the skyscrapers to the right, and it happened to be the Black Swan Towa, with a cloak concealing her face.

The blue skinned woman saw the two salesmen look dazed before she smirked." Good, the pawns pulled it off. Heh, then again since the two woman were my puppets of course they performed perfectly.

You Enji thought you have a grasp on the brilliance of Rabum Alal, but you still fail to understand the brilliance of the one true supreme being! For how much your all consumed with dread, as long as we choose to not reveal ourselves your powerless to detect us as we move between your noses!

Those God's of Destruction and their precious" First" angel dared to think they could outwit the master and use him like a common demon, but in the end they just proved even the most senior beings of the light could be corrupted when tempted with the right desire, and be cogs in the great wheel.

And, if even the most sanity could be corrupted, the normal weak-willed humans are putty in the hands of are lord. And this putty will be the foundation for the Incursion, and the damnation of all who dared defied fate!

Yes, such bitter personal seeds will be ripe with despair. Can't you imagine it? A garden of evil blooming with rage and pain? So beautiful Mira."

A taller being in a purple cloak, the inorganic Dimensional Nihilo General that Ben fought before Superboy Prime walked up and just glanced at Ben's father with his enhanced sight." Corrupting this feeble human is what will allow me to redeem myself for not being active as the Enji escaped Battle-World? Their power levels are nothing abnormal. If anything else he has even less energy then the normal human"

"Man Mira you really are a one trick pony eh?"

Elphelt Valentine giggled out, also concealed in her own purple cloak." He may be as weak as human's get but it does not matter because of his emotional link with your target, Ben Auro.

Same goes with the woman and her emotional bound with Lacus Raystar. With heaven in shambles over their senior members betrayal, there influence is weak.

So we are going to take those nearest to Cosmos's, and use them to rip open just how much of a failure the precious couple of light's lives are. These erosive emotional links, will be the chains that bring down this entire fraudulent existence!

And from their it will be a domino effect, causing everything the people of the universe believes in, before the universe itself collapses!"

Towa giggled darkly before she looked up at the sky." Yes, theses heathens should enjoy the night, because it's the last sunset of the universe, it's the advent of the Incursion!"

"And I tell you what gals, for how much these heroes have been pain in our asses its only fair they pay the proper price am I right?"

The three saw the Chaotic Comedian casually stroll up to them, before the masked being glanced in the direction of the Enji before his eyes narrowed." Now that I'm not chained down by my " other half's doubts, its time all theses chumps get one nasty as hell punchline to their joke of a life!

Thought you could just call a time out to the game losers? Like hell, for stalling how things should be, for delaying the natural order, you all just got to suffer even more! That's right, every thing you care about is going to be broken, and when every damn thing you suckers cared about breaks, when your entire precious universe falls apart, the last thing your going to see is me laughing at you, me proving what is the true joke as everyone sees what is the true winner, once and for all!

Authors Notes: I Know I had the One Above All appear before but as a reminder he's loosely based on a mix of the Source from DC comics and the deity that is above all other deities in the Marvel verse with a bit of " Chuck" from Supernatural and "Truth" from Full Metal Alchemist Brotherhood. While he took Zeno's shape from Dragon Ball Super it was only one of his many forms because I want to cling to the hope that the god of all god's does not have the mind set of a demented child.

The image Ben saw was that he was the Anti-Spiral King, the antagonists of Gurren Lugan, and it was a vision that was a mix of that villian's bleak madness, and a even in the Infinity Revelation comic, where Thanos and Adam Warlock both by chance remake all of the universe only to find that it did not reflect their desires but the nature of their personalities, seeing the nature of your true self can be a pain to say the least.

Since it was mostly emotional moments that's just about it, hope it was not a waste but wanted to get some good emotional exchanges before things heated up, so hope you liked how things unfolded to leave a review because things are without a doubt heating up next time in

Chapter 242: Skyfall from Distortions Sorrow!