Tales of the Cosmic Wars Vol 2: A Star's Twilight

by Darth Necron

The second volume of the tale of Ben Auro as he joins with hero's like Mario, Sonic, Link, Samus Aran, Megaman X, Master Chief, Cloud and more to defeat the many groups of evil that threaten the cosmos. The more Ben fights, the more he faces the horrors of war, from the likes of Bowser, Ganondorf, Sephiroth, Sigma, Xemnas and more, to the darkness within. Character guide added!

14. C 69: Tense Clash Over The Holy Iris

Clash over the bounty of the Radiant Iris, Unwanted Truth!

Last time in Tales of the Cosmic Wars it seemed that Max's sudden return had all ready began to change Ben's fortune. With Max being one of the few Enji being able to stand up to Kira's will the Titan's commander for once showed some leniency and let Ben and Hiryuumon return home to go to his Grandmother's funeral, although that might just be because he found himself trying to cover up his little secret about his and Dist's use of Salvation solders.

But in any case Ben found that his luck was even better then he thought, because now that he was home he could fulfill his promise to Lacus after all and make her birthday party!

After dealing with his family affairs, including the depressing memorial to his kind but unmemorable Grandmother and dealing with another rant from his demanding father Ben was all set to begin his special mission, Operation win over Lacus! Although Max had to take care of personal affairs of his own first Ben remembered the place since he went there once when it was Lacus 's summer home, and not her real home.

Using his magic energy he and Moz are able to arrive on time, and after dealing with a really defensive guard in the form of the female fatal android Lacus 's sister Shion created called KOS-MOS Ben was able to make it at last. Once in their Ben found that it really was mostly a family affair. Besides for Brad and his "classy" group no other Enji were there.

The only ones else Ben knew were other family members and friends of her family and various old friend of her and her sisters. Despite Brad being has hostile as ever to Ben even he could not rile Ben now, especially when he saw how beautiful she looked in her dress. Ben was happy that Lacus seemed glad he made it, and was even happier when Max made his stylish entrance! Max was as charming as ever, and even Brad could not just mouth of in the front of Max's charm, well at least once Max showed he could match Brad's grip!

Yes, if seemed like Ben might just have a shot at reaching his dream of receiving Lacus 's love, but sadly for him evil never takes breaks! With Larxene dishing out Lacus, s secret to Xemnas the leader of the Organization has taken an interest the Blue Eyes White Dragon sealed with in her, and has demanded that she be brought before him! The magical card shark Luxord was the one who offered to get the job done. And when arrived at the planet he hired many bounty hunters to assist him in the task. Mercenaries ranging from the foolish Greedo to the crazy reengaged pilots the Frost Brothers agreed to be part of the Dark Enji 's plan.

However, the most dangerous hunter was none other than the mysterious Janus! Even though he seems to fight for no side it seems Luxord is paying him enough to go through with the plan! Will this turn of events turn Lacus's nice party in to a panicked rumble? It's time to find out so let's get started!

Are chapter started still in Lacus's mansion home. After cutting the cake, which was quite delicious after a bit it was at last time for Lacus to open her presents as the music plays in the background, and ironically enough it's one of the songs the Gundam Seed Lacus sang" Realize" though it's just irony.

It was on a big round table and all the guests were gathering around. Lacus sees everyone looking at her and says," Oh, do we really have to make this into a spectacle? "Lacus's mother Jane then says," Oh don't be silly Lacus. Everyone came here to honor you today. It would be rude not to honor their good will. After all, with all you can do you mean to tell me it's too much effort to open a few gifts? "

Lacus smiled nervously in response." Of course not mother, don't worry of course I will do it. Wow, there are a lot of big ones this year, thank you everyone! Let's see, I guess I will start with this one."

As she went to open one Brad was besides her and smirked." Heh, of course they brought you great gifts doll! Anything less would be a sign of being idiots! Come on now, let's see what kind of stuff we, I mean you got! "

Ben looked on from the side and saw her start to open one, and she saw it was a fancy necklace. As she thanked her aunt for getting it Moz nudged his long time pal., So Ben, do you think she will like your present Kupo? I mean, you made that years ago, and it was after she left.

It is nice but her tastes might have changed by now. "Ben looks nervous and says," Of course she will like it Moz, I mean she always likes theses kind of things, and I worked really hard on it. Err, I hope she likes it, otherwise it's going to be awkward to say the least. "

Just as Ben sighed, he heard someone cut in with a coy chuckle." By the way cuz, just what kind of gift did you get Lacus anyway? "Ben is shocked and turns around to see Max causally eating some cake and says," Oh hey Max, what took you so long? "

Max just swallowed his desert and shrugged." Sorry, I had a little, reaction to the punch here. Err, it's been a while since I got to dine in any place fancy, so I forgot I react violently to anything with oranges. But enough about gross things. Just what did you get her Ben? You did remember what I told you when I said that a man's gift to a girl can represent his character right? "

" Haha, I remember that. That's why instead of just pooling all the money and buying something that looks shinny like I did with Lisa, I got something, deep from the heart. If you must know my gift to Lacus is, huh? She is on to mine all ready?"

Ben was sweating bullets as he saw Lacus saw the gift with Ben's name on it and she smiled broadly." Aw, you did not have to get me a gift Ben. But its sweet you went the effort even with all you have to do! "

Brad saw it and snorted out," Ha, oh this is going to be a laugh. Look at the shape of this thing; what kind of freaky jewelry did you get her? Seems like you don't have a clue about how to shop for a lady. "

Lacus eyeballed Brad and cleared her throat." Oh, don't be like that Brad we don't even know what it is yet. Well, let's do something about that. Let's see, oh? What the, this is? "

As Lacus opened the present she was shocked when she sees what it is. As Ben turns to see Lacus 's reaction he sees his present being held by her, and his gift was revealed to be a giant panting, of what appeared to be a panting of an angel, and the women looked a lot like Lacus.

Brad blinked a few moments before blurting out," What the hell is this!? "

Lacus was more shocked than anything and muttered," Ben, this panting is amazing. Who made it? "

Ben says," Well, I made it. Remember when in school my art teacher said I was ok in it? I guess it was a side hobby of mine. This thing was what I worked on little by little over High school. I guess it was ok, it won a prize at the school. "

Lacus saw how anxious her childhood friend looked and just smiled wider." Its, wonderful. Who did you base it on? The women, looks like me. "

Ben let out an uneasy chuckle before he tugged his collar?" Oh really? I was just using my thoughts. I did not see you for a while so it would be hard to make it about you. Well…I did think about what I thought would be the pretty's women. If you think she resembles you, then it would not be so far of since you're just as gorgeous as her."

Lacus was speechless as Sara looked at the picture and says," Oh wow! This is better than those self-portraits we had! That's so sweet of you to give Lacus such a present! "

Brad sees Lacus eyes be happy and at once glares at Ben before saying," So what's this supposed to mean? You're trying to be a big shot with your little trick? Trying to one up the main man? You been to so few parties that you never learned that all non boyfriend guys are just supposed to give cash loser! "

Lacus started to sweat with worry as she cleared her throat." Oh Brad, no need to act that way, just giving a nice gift is nothing to get excited for. "

Ben then cut in with a restrained," She is right Brad, you're reacting like an idiot over a harmless panting of an angel."

Brad then grabbed the panting before his eye twitched." You think I don't see what you're up to? I tell you what, I know ever since that Lisa chick turned traitor and left you cold your eyes are back on my girl. But tough because she is mine! Piff, look in here, in this panting I see a knight bowing to the angle, is that supposed to, be you? Let me get it through your head, Lacus Raystar is my girl now, and forever! "

In a rage he was about to punch the panting, but in a flash Max held him back. Brad swerved around to look at Max like a wild beast before Ben's cousin casually smirked" Hey man, don't you think you're overreacting? Quit acting so postal. If you have a good relationship with your girlfriend, you won't be so paranoid. After all trust is the basis for a good relationship."

Brad just stared at Max and snorted out," So what now you're a badass in love to? "Lacus then grabs Brad's arm and says," He is right Brad, you don't have to be so worked up. "Brad just gets annoyed and says," All right already! Forget this, where are the heavy drinks? "

With this Brad stomped away, and Ben breathed out a sigh of relief before Lacus looked at Ben and smiles before saying" Don't worry Ben, I love your present and I am not as insecure as Brad. Thank you very much. "

Ben smiled with relief before he nodded." You're welcome Lacus, I know you have been going through a lot so I wanted to make sure this day was special to you. "

Just before the brown-haired woman could respond, her mother picked up the painting and cleared her throat.," Thank you for the thoughtful gift Ben, I am sure we will find room to put it up some place that does not have a painting yet, like the closet. Come now Lacus there are still gifts to wrap. "

Ben saw his childhood friend looked happy and took a deep breath. Whew, glad that did not blow up on my face.

He saw Max give him a thumbs up, but before he could say anything Erich walked up to the center." Hello everyone. I just got word from are entertainer, it seems his group will be delayed just a bit do to a breakdown of some sort. Don't worry, we still have plenty of other ventures to last till they arrive. Ah, why I do believe are butler is a professional Card dealer for those that enjoy card games. "

Max responded with a coy," Card games huh? It's been a while since I schooled some chumps in Triple Triad, Terra Master, Dual Monsters and the like. "

Brad had returned with a drink in his hand and smirked at hearing this and cracked his neck." Oh really? Well, how about an old fashion game of poker? I would love to see if the "living legend" is the badass of a master poker face on top of everything else. "

Max's grin widened before he made a beckoning gesture with his right hand." Find by me if you want to lose your money. Hey Ben you want in on this? "

The younger of the two cousins winced before letting out an uneasy chuckle." That's ok, I prefer not to be on the losing end of any game that involves money. "

Brad's eyes widened before he snorted." Guess I beat some sense into yah about challenging an alpha after all eh Benny boy? Glad you're not wasting time since I'm going to score all kinds of big wins tonight! All right who feels lucky? "

As Brad and Max headed over to the table, Brad 's gang and a few other men of different ages that were Lacus 's relatives and family friends headed to the left table, but Ben had no internist in those kind of card games and instead went to see if he knew anyone else here.

As the card game kicked off, it soon became clear that it was becoming more of a test of wills between Brad and Max and the others were just spectators. As the game's tension heated up more than the match between James Bound and that Le Chiffre villain from Casino Royal the other players soon found them self's with no choice but to fold their hands.

As all the chips, and cash were now up for grabs Brad and Max were looking at each other to try and see who will crack first. Brad then spat out," Heh, I got to admit. For someone who shares' Benny boy's blood you're pretty sharp. I see why he kept making such a big deal out of you. "

Max paused before shrugging." Well, I guess he and I were so close that some confused us for brothers. And since I did practically singe handily taught the kid the basics of combat, I guess that has something to do with him seeing me as a mentor. Oh well, I don't mind spreading the love. "

"Ha, your pretty smooth all right I'll give you that. Too bad your cousin can't seem to pick up on how to be anything more than a suck up or a chump.

" Heh, I know Ben might not be the smoothest guy and can be naïve or foolish at times. But the kid's heart is in the right place. He just, has a harder time with social times then most guys. But even so, I know my cousin more than anyone. And he is no chump. "

Brad paused before he spat on the ground." Well, you and he are cousins so I'll let it slide that you would say something so asinine. However man, I think we all know who is the man. After all, only the smoothest guy can charm the hottest babe. An'it I right Lacus? "

Lacus, who was just walking by heard this and as if on instinct responded with," Of course you are Brad. Um, what are we talking about? "

" See? My lady knows the answer automatically by now. That shows who knows how to get respect! And what you know I have the hand to prove it!"

He then laid down a hand full of aces before his grin widened even more." Sure as hell seems that no one's lucky forever, huh?"

He sees Max grin and says," That's true, and that's why when the time comes he has to take his loss like a man. So, let's see how you take yours!"

He then laid down a Royal Flush to Brad's horror. After blinking for a few moments to ensure the cards were real, he put the money down on the table, causing Max to nod." Glad to see you live up to your words. "

"Meh, that's chump change anyway. I still have the real treasure. "

Lacus saw Brad lost and went up to him and says," Oh, sorry you lost Brad. Don't worry, whenever there is a fall there is always the raise right after. "

Brad's smirk returned and put his arm around her while saying" Ah, you're always full of the smart stuff Lacus." Max eye the two for only a second before closing said eyes." I see what you mean. But me and Ben are also winners. No matter what is thrown at us, we keep pushing till are dreams are in are grasp, right Ben? "

Ben, who just happened to randomly walk by as he talks to Shion hears this and says," What, did you say something? Sorry, I was hearing Shion talk about how she created Kos-Mos. "

Max just sighs and says," Damn it Ben, remember what I told you about being the life of the party? That can' happen if you're not paying attention when people are talking to you. "

" Err, sorry. It's just that I remembered why I am not a fan of theses party's much, after a while of talking to everyone the things to do run out and they get dull. "

Lacus giggles from this and says," Hehe, I see you're the same as Brad in that regard. Although, I don't blame you. I am not a huge fan of these kind of events myself. Sigh, theses formal dresses are so annoying to keep on, and they are so stiff and uncomfortable to walk around in. "

Hearing this hear older sister laughed before responding with," Ah, I see some thing's never change. No matter how old you get you can't stand dressing up can you Lacus? Well, at least it's better than it use to be. Why, I remember in the summer after going to events you would come home so hot and annoyed you would just throw everything of you and just longue around here or walk to the lake with nothing on."

Hearing this Ben and Max try to retain their composer as Lacus's face turns red. Brad then says," Damn Girl, you never told me you played that way! And all this time I thought you were such a prude. "

Lacus then laughs nervously and says," Hahah, oh don't be silly Brad. Shion is just being silly; of course I would never do such things hahah. "

"Oh, really Lacus? Then what was just last month when you did the same sort of thing while riding on your pet Chocobo, Choco? Come on Lacus admit it you're a secret nu, AH! "

With this Lacus fake smiles and wraps her arm around her sister while saying," Oh sis you always do make up the most interesting stories when your drunk can forget what's real and what's a dream! However, you might want to stop before you give Brad, Ben, and everyone a really big wrong impression! Here, let's go say high to our own cousins! Be right back Brad. "

With this she drags out her sister in a flash and the boys just look at each other. CJ who was a card player just whistled." Well, looks like things are getting a lot more interesting you, Guh! "

At once Brad punches him in the gut before snarling out," I reckon you shut the hell up CJ. All right, now I need another drink, a harder one. Get up! "

With this Brad got up and once more grumbled of and his pack followed their alpha dog.

Ben stares at him and says," Bah, all this time and I can't figure out how Lacus can want to be with such an idiot. "

Max saw Ben's dismay and snickered." Well, it's true his ego is his biggest talent. But you must know an important thing about girls Ben. Even the biggest losers can con a woman with confidence. To pick up the maiden of your dreams Ben, you have to show them that you believe in yourself! Ah, at least that's my idea. Let's see, man time is just flying by, at least it's a sigh of a party. "

He then stood up and looked outside. Ben noticed his cousin looked concerned before he raised an eyebrow." What's wrong Max? Are you going some were later? "

Max looked at Ben for a few moments and patted him on the shoulder. "Nah, I am just going to leave to put my little bonus in a safer place. Hey Ben?"

"What is it Max? Are you ok? "

"Heh, don't worry about me. Just watch out for yourself. It's a long night ahead; you still have plenty of chances to blow your shot! Ha, don't go and make your teacher look bad. I'll be back. "

With this Max saluted Ben before he took up the cash Brad and the others reluctantly left behind and walked of. As he did Ben rubbed his head." That's odd, Max looked anxious or something. Ah it's most likely the food again. Heh, as cool as he is, even he has some weaknesses. Eh, where did Moz fly off to? "

Ben then looked around the room, after a while he finds himself up on the balcony of sorts. He found Moz, who was looking quite, worried. Ben walked up to his moogle friend and cleared his throat." What's wrong Moz? You look like you're hiding from someone. "

Moz responded with a on edge," I am Kupo! From Sara and her friends! Quick Ben, please hide me! "

"Ah, looks like you became quite the popular white flying creature! No need to be shy from the ladies Moz. "

Moz flew in front of him and gulped." But you don't understand! They are going to, AH it's them! "

Moz flew behind Ben, but as the duo turned around instead of Sara, he saw Lacus step out. Looking startled, Lacus saw Ben and raised an eyebrow." Oh, hello Ben. Is something wrong? "

"Not at all, just apparently hiding Moz from some would be fan girls. "

Lacus giggled at hearing this," Ah that would be Sara. She always did love to cuddle moogle's. So, is it ok if I get a breath of fresh air? "

"Of course, it's your party after all. "

Lacus smiled and looked at the setting sun. "Sorry to dash of before, I just wanted Shion to stop spreading those rumors. I mean, last thing I want is for people to have the wrong impression on me. Really now, as if I do those kinds of things."

Ben laughed nervously and shrugged as he thought for a bit. Well, there was that time, when we were both ten. I remember Lacus got me to go to a party that her family was having at her house. Eh, I think it was some political thing. Whatever it was we both got bored. Lacus somehow got me to sneak outside with her and I remember her dragging me in to the forest. It was a hot summer day, and Lacus was wearing a fancy dress.

Err, Shion might be a right, because I recall that on the way to the water fall, she get complaining on how hot she was and how heavy her dress was. And then when she got to the water fall, she just asked me if she wanted to swim with her and took everything of her before just diving in. Sure we were too young to have the kind of feelings I have now but…still. I…

Before he could go on he saw Lacus look at him curiously and took a deep breath he kept thinking.

Lacus, I don't know how you act now, but you were defiantly carefree back then. I mean, not many girls would not care about being naked in front of a boy, even if he was a friend, and we were ten, before all that stuff happens. Ah, but I knew that kind of thing was not the kind of thing people think a normal. Heh, good thing it's one of the few things I managed not to tell anyone after this long, not even Moz.

He then cleared his throat before he let out an easy-going smirk." Oh, don't feel too embarrassed Lacus. Everyone knows older sisters love to humiliate their younger ones. And, as long as it's just one sisters' word against the others no one will take it seriously. "

Lacus then turned to Ben and winked before saying," Thanks Ben, your right. And, thanks for not adding anything to the fire."

"But of course. I would never do anything to embarrasses you."

Lacus paused before she reddened." Oh Ben, I can always count on you. I guess even Commandant Kira's training could not change that. "

"Heh, neither Kira or anyone else will be able to change who I am. "

Lacus smiled before looking into the clouds, and twirling her hair." So…are you having a fun time at the party?"

"Of course. It may not be at a theme park but I still rate this party a nine out of ten. And the only one that got a ten was your last party! "

"Heheh, I am glad you are enjoying it. I was annoyed mother wanted to make such a scene for my birthday. But I suppose it's nice to see so many people again. I must say the biggest surprise was seeing Max after all these years. When did he arrive? "

"Oh in the usual Max flare, in the middle of a mission he makes a dramatic entrance and gives the Zeon attack fleet a lesson in why he is called the "White Lighting". Even Kira seems to have respect for him. Still, I am glad he returned. I was beginning to worry he really did get killed as unlikely as that is. "

" Hehe, well I am glad to see that's not the case. It's good to see him again, he is as lively as always. It seems everyone has already talked to him, "Ben then laughs and says," Heh, that's one way of saying it. Yup, not only is Max a genius fighter, but he is also a great people person. In fact, he always did seem to be great in just about everything.

Heh, I guess that might have been a factor in why I looked up to him so much. When we were growing up we did all kinds of things, and the bound we have I suppose is as close as one between brothers. He always managed to look out for me, and I always made it one of my goals to be just like him. "

Lacus paused before she looked amused." Just like him? But you can't be just like Max silly. You're Ben Auro, and he is Max Bruder. "

Ben paused before he let out an uneasy chuckle." Well, I don't mean exactly like him. I just mean, I wanted to be as cool as him. Max, he has that charisma about him, he could get almost anyone to like him. As for me, well, it's not like I am anti sociable, but I do admit I have trouble reaching out or something like that.

I don't know, I guess I just have a hard time connecting with others. I guess that's why Max and guys like him are the popular ones. It's not hard to see why though when even my dad won't stop complain that I should be more friendly like him. "

Lacus paused before she let out an uneasy giggle." Well, to be honest it would not hurt to have some of your cousin's bravo. "

She saw Ben look ashamed of himself so she patted Ben on the shoulder." Don't feel bad Ben. Everyone excels at different tasks. It's true your cousin is, a very charming person, but you have your strengths to Ben, don't ever doubt that. After knowing you for so long, even with your quirks you're still a great guy. I always admired how no matter the situation, you never gave up. And you have come so far. "

Ben gave her the thumps up and shrugged." That's because no matter what the situation, I will never give up on my dreams. It's the only way to make my dreams of a better future come true. "

Lacus looked up before she grasped the guardrail tightly." The future, the future is full of uneasiness. This war, and all the fiends that hide in the darkness. I, sometimes I wonder if I am strong enough to confront their vile wrath. "

"Of course you are strong enough Lacus. Your one of the strongest people I know. It's because I had you as a friend, that I was able to make it. And I will do whatever it takes to make sure you make it to. "

"Oh Ben…thanks. So, are you bored? Brad did say he was going to take me out for his own party later. But um, he was kind of upset losing to Max and might need to calm down first. You want to go swimming in the meantime? "

Ben's eyes beamed up before he walked forward. " In your pool? That sounds fun; do you still have the water slides? "

"Heh, wait till you see the new one dad had installed! Here, I'll go ask for spare bathing suits. Oh? Hold on, first it looks like the people dad hired for a performance finally showed up. "

She pointed to the center of the hall where she and Ben see her father leading a man in. This man was dressed like a casino dealer and had a fancy hat on his head.

Ben thought he looked funny but thinks the odd clowns fallowing him are even odder, though the six-woman aides were catching his attention with their pose.

He then glanced at Lacus and raised an eyebrow." Um, who did your father hire again, the circus? "

Lacus looks puzzled and says," I was not really paying attention. Well, might as well make mother happy and watch. Shaw we? "

She motioned to go downwards before she, Ben, and Moz went back to the center hall just as everyone was gathering around.

The man got in the center and the lights dimmed before he smirked." Ladies and gentlemen, tonight you will find yourselves with an eye-opening performance! Ah yes, none of you will leave here tonight the same person. Now then, I do believe I am here to honor the wonderful Lacus Raystar of the noble Raystar family, yes? Shaw the stunning lady please come up? "

Lacus looked over to Ben and shrugged. "Well, this should be fun. "

She then walks up and the man smiles while saying," Ah that's a good girl. Now, let me go to the first trick! "

As he did fancy hand motions, Ben looked at his helpers and narrowed his eyes." The woman helpers are…good at what they do, but the male helpers are not doing much, just waving around. Their outfit, it looks like something I seen before. Grey, that's odd they almost look like the Nobody's the Dark Enji, use. Hey, this is starting to seem more than a little fishy. "

He then saw the man had magic energy come around him, before the nervous Lacus asked the man," Um sir? What trick are you going to do again? "

The man narrowed his eyes before responding with," Why quite the grand trick. I shawl transport you from here, to my Superior. And once you, maiden with the heart of the White Dragon, help us achieve our goals, and help us ascend to the powers of god! Now, before any changes of heart, time to play the cards!"

The man swiftly threw off his hat, and revealed he was Luxord. He then threw many cards in to the air, and with his magic energy they enlarged to human size and begin to surround Lacus.

She at once summons her sword but it seemed the dark Enji asked her to step on that spot because magic chains break out of the ground to grab her.

As his outfit was transforming into the dark coat his group all spread out across the room. As they did Her mother looked at her father and tugged his sleeve." Dear, what kind of show did you pay for again? This hardly looks appropriate. "

Her husband grit his teeth before retorting with a sharp," This is not the man I hired! "

Ben then took out his Star Sword and grasped his fist tightly." No, it's not. That outfit I can spot a mile away, it's another member of Organization XIII! What do you think you're up to? "

Luxord summoned a deck of cards and started shuffling them." Ah if it's not Ben Auro. Just the other day you seemed to fend off are powerful Phantom of Chaos. A task not many can say they can have pulled off. Why, I would like to see how you would fare against my games, but I do have a deadline to meet. Another time then Star Warrior. "

You think you can just waltz in and warp Lacus to your base? Forget it! "

Ben cried out furiously as he charged at the new enemy. He saw the cards begin to close in on Lacus and he flash stepped in front of one and slashed it in half.

He in a second the chains holding Lacus down but the magic energy on them bounced him back.

Luxord them wagged his finger at the wielder of the Star Sword." Really now, you think I would fold so easy? I know you're powerful, but you cannot stop me. "

Ben just powered up in response while glaring at the man in black. "Your card tricks are not going to cut it against me"

Jane saw Ben's tension and shirked out, "Do something! Don't let them take away my darling! "

"Don't worry. "Ben answered calmly." I won't let some clown ruin this party. "

Luxord then shuffled his deck and snickered out," My, how adamant you are. But it matters not for this fine lady no longer will be seeing you, she belongs to our leader now. "

Just as he laughed and summoned more cards, he heard a large stomp; then turned around to see an angry Brad Fowltror glaring at him. With his four pals looking as annoyed as he was, the large man threw his bottle in to the wall and spat on the ground." You got that right you pathetic looking clown! But you're not really right, because she belongs to me! You're another one of those guys, like that masked freak! I am sick of seeing you guys make me look bad! Ill teach you to try to take my girl in MY turf! Your face is going to be cemented into the ground! "

Luxord looked annoyed and cleared his throat." I see, you're the one Larxene said had the hulking temper. Just lovely, but I don't play your games. "

The Slate took out his knives and hissed out" Yo freak! Time you learn who you are dealing with! No one gets away with dissing the Brad!"

Luxord then snapped his fingers and his alleys turn in to their true forms, Gambler nobodies. At the same time a dozen identical looking humanoid juggernauts with bulging muscles, sectionalized skin, and a green glow radiates from the joins in their skin marched up. Brad saw all of the men had the same red mohawks and snickered as they got closer." You think you can overwhelm the main man with discount Juggernaut rip offs?" Oh, please I can break your little friends with my pinky! You really think your boys can match mine, let alone the all-powerful force of the real " Unstoppable Juggernaut!"

"Maybe…but there is more then one kind of power…right ladies?"

Brad and his four pals saw Tayna, Christina, Tina, Juli and Jun, and Blue Mary all strut up before Blue Mary made a beckoning gesture at the men in front of her." C'mon boys, don't you want to play with us instead of getting all messed up?"

Jerid paused before he cleared his throat." Man…you babes are hot alright. Hey how about we have fun after this?"

Brad eyed the woman around him, and saw Lacus was glancing at him before he snickered." You dissing me punk? The main man already has a queen, if you think third rate whores for hire are enough to get me to back down then your asking for getting your smug face in! Don't just stand their morons your making me look bad! You can "party" when we take out the trash ok?"

His crew saw Brad was getting annoyed and got back into fighting stances before CJwound his fist up." Sorry babes but you picked the wrong side yah know?"

Blue Mary saw the large black man run at her before she smirked. She climbed over her opponent for a head scissor, then slammed CJ to the ground, with rose petals bursting out around them.

As the same time Juli and Jun unleashed their Death Cross Dance on the Slate, while Christine unleashed her Jakei-Taiho, Zenpo-Tenshin grabble move on Jerid, and Tayna hit Mondo with her Human Canon Drill move. As Brad saw Tina head for him he merely clapped his hands and unleashed a shockwave that blew her out of the window before he grinned." Don't matter how pretty your mooks are, they are to weak to make me flinch sucka!"

"Maybe not in a head-to-head fight. But let's see how tough you are when you are a card! "

He points his hand and his Nobody minions' hands started to glow. Brad just snickered." Bah, I don't have time to waste on listing to you bore me."

Brad, but as Ben saw how confidant Luxord looked he winced." I don't like the looks of this, guys duck! "

He then saw the Gambler fire a blast at him but he was ready and deflected it in to the ceiling with his celestial blade. However, Brad's four pals were not fast enough and they all got hit.

However what shocked Ben and everyone the most was that instead of any damage a flash broke out, and moments later, Ben saw the four have been turned in to giant dices and cards with their faces.

Brad was dumbfounded at this as he blinked a bit." What the hell did you do to my boys!? Damn it CJ you spiked the punch to hard!"

Luxord snickered before waving his hand." Oh, this is no byproduct of a drunken mind brute. Simple, I used magic to turn them in to forms that will cause less commotion. Now, let's add another card to the deck. "

Ben then says," This guy, he has plenty of odd magic tricks up his sleeve. Hey Brad! You can't be careless against this guy got it? "

Brad glared at the member of Squad 7 looking like a beast ready to pounce." Don't give me advice Auro, Ill handle this like a man not a Star Wuss!"

"Brad, do you want to repeat your "Stunning "performance against Xehamaru or not? " The taller man recalled just how bad that went and bitterly nodded his head. "

All right shut up already I got it! Just don't be dump enough to get in the way of my fist Benny Boy! "

Ben nodded before he braced himself." Well, at least he is not that stupid. All right Luxord, I am brining your games to an end right now! "

The foe just sighed and snapped his fingers. This caused the large cards to spin around him again! "So you want to play with me? Fool, I will make you wish Larxene killed you. "

Ben could not help but have the memories of his date's insults flash by his mind before his anger surged." Larxene, I'll show you scum to think you can mess with me!"

Just as he was about to charge, Lacus cried out," Be careful Ben, Brad! This guy is up to something! I, can almost break free, just a little more. "

This caused Luxord to turn his head." Oh really? Well, your power is grand indeed."

He snapped his fingers before more Jack 4's rolled in and fired white glowing chains at Lacus. The moment the chains hit her she yelled in pain and glowed, causing Luxord to smirk." Ah the Mishima Zaibatsu will have to get a bonus, I guess Heihachi Mishima 's problems with the devil gene that lead to the GENOCELL chains were useful to us after all, even if its not quite the same target.

But just in case it is not a perfect match, since I can't afford my plans to be derailed I will just have to hurry up and make sure there are no more out bursts from you! "

The member of Organization XIII's magic energy poured out and the cards surrounding Lacus.

Ben and Brad both tried to destroy the magic cards, but the Nobodies fired blasts at them to stop them in their tracks. Despite their efforts it was too late, and Lacus was trapped in a card, with the label queen of hearts on it.

This caused her mother to scream in horror." Oh no! Look what they did to my darling! Shion! Where is KOS-MOS and Canaan? Get them overhear and rescue her at once! "

Ben then had the Star Sword glow with even more light." Don't worry Miss Raystar, I will never let him get away! "

Luxord then had more enlarged glowing cards break out of him and spin around rapidly." You think your able to play my game? Let's see, evens or odds, how many parts shawl I slice you in to? "

He then waved his hand, and flung all the cards at Ben. However, the Enji was ready and charged at them all in a flash, before landing through the attacks on the other side unharmed.

He then got in to fighting stance as the cards fell to pieces. Yet as Luxord saw this he merely shrugged." Ah, you play the game quite well. No wonder you are a special case. However, there are many ways to win the game."

Brad's patience had run out at this point as he bellowed out." Hey, don't turn your back to me loser! "

Luxord looks back at Brad and grins before saying," Oh I did not forget about you, in fact I did not forget about anyone in here! If Ben Auro won't accept his hand. Then maybe the rest of you will! "

With that Luxord's magic energy got fiercer and more cards burst out of the ground, in fact there were enough to cover the ceiling.

Ben saw them all circle around everyone around the room. And he started to catch on to Luxord 's plan and grit his teeth. "Hey! These people are harmless to you, keep them out of it! "

"Tsc, but that's all the fun! Let's see, you can stop me, but then face the burden of the deaths of all of these guests! Your choice hero! "

He waved his hand down before all the cards started to rain down. Ben thought fast and gulped." Damn him, this must work! Now, Multi Shadow Clones! "

Using his magic energy to quicken his casting time, Ben at once had several copies of himself jump out of him. At once they all got in front of as many people as possible before the real Ben jumped up in front of Lacus 's parents and Sara.

Then in unison he used his magic power to cast an energy barrier around him and the others, and his clones did so as well. This caused there shields to link, and successfully shielded everyone from the onslaught of attacks.

Seeing this Ben breathed a sigh of relief." Whew, just made it. "

Sara looked around before she giggled tensely." Nice going Ben! I knew you could do it!"

Luxord sighed in annoyed at this but mocking clapped in response." Bravo, your craftier than the reports say. However, you still lose Ben Auro. For you see while you may have saved them, it's high time I take my reward and depart. Good day! "

He floated up to the card holding Lacus and opened a portal of darkness. Ben dashed to stop him only for his Nobody's to block his path! He at once slashes the two to charge at him in half while yelling out," Blast it, get out of my way! "

"It's no use Enji Knight. You may be crafty, but not enough to out play me. And now I, oh please don't think you can touch me buffoon! "

Luxord did not even turn around as he flash stepped away to the right just before a charging Brad was about to bring his fist down, before Brad went on to smash the stairway.

Luxord looked down at Brad and narrowed his eyes." You think the likes of me can be hurt by your barbaric simple-minded assault? Your nothing but a brute on the low end of the Enji! "

This got Brad furious enough to turn red, so mad that the ground started begins to shake. "You better shut it before I stuff your lame cards down your god damn throat! I am getting really tired of guys like you mocking me! Xehamaru may have got away with it, but no way some lame guy attacking with cards is going to cut it! Time to show you what your silly card games amount to in the face of absolute force asshole!"

Brad started to unleash a massive amount of power, so much that it caused the ground to crack underneath him. Ben sees Brad begin to pump up as his muscles expand and he gets much larger! Soon enough Brad once more looked the same size as the likes of Broly and the Hulk. When he finished his power up, he looked at Luxord and flexed his muscles. This did not impress the dark Enji, and just caused Luxord to roll his eyes." Oh please, you can power up as much as you like you oversized baboon. However, no matter how hard a punch you throw your fists will never touch me! "

Brad then pounded his fists together and roared out," Oh I can't wait to make you eat those words! Time you learn the lesson of what happens to those that make the main man angry! "

He then charges at Luxord, only for the Gambler Nobodies and Jack 4 robots to get in front of their master.

They all fired beams to try and turn Brad in to a dice or blast him back, but Brad just jumped high into the air, and came slamming down with his arms ready. The foes attempted to get out of the way in time, but they were not fast enough. Brad comes slamming down with a punch of such force that it shattered the one greeting the fist in an instant, and blew the rest of them away with its shock wave.

Seeing this, Ben then swept some dust out of his eyes and coughed." As reckless as Brad is, at least his power is being used for something productive for once. "

Luxord glanced at his smashed minions and snickered." Nice show, but I am far nimbler than my servants. You still are playing a fools gambit. "

Brad then started to charge again while roaring out," You think your better than me? I'll show you who's the dumbass before this is done! "

With this Brad took a leap and went to smash Luxord moving so fast he was a blur. Yet Luxord saw this and slipped into a giant card behind him just as Brad reached him.

The large fighter smashed the card with one blow, but Luxord reappeared out of a different card flying around the room.

Seeing this Brad had veins form on his head." Quit fighting like a wuss and fight like a man! "

"I am fighting like a man, a successful one. Face it, my magic is far beyond anything a fool like you can muster. Nothing will stop my play from winning so you might as well act sportsmen like and, what the? No! "

Suddenly, he sensed a great power coming his way and turned around to see Ben charging at him with his sword.

The villain sidesteps just in time to avoid being impaled, but even so Ben managed to slash his target with his energy infused blade around the stomach.

This causes pain to the dark man, and he glared at Ben before saying, "I see you're not one to pass on an opening. "

Ben eyed Lacus carefully before retorting with," When people I care about are in danger I won't let anything stop me! Give it up Luxord. Between me and Brad you should realize that no matter how powerful your magic is you're not going be able to win. Heh, and Max is not even here because if he was here, you would have no chance! "

Luxord saw Brad walking up behind him and tugged his collar." I see, the odds are against me. Ha, but your foolish to think I did not plan this outcome. You may have gotten rid of my personal vanguard, but that's why I hired a second string! "

Ben was confused as he saw more Jack 4 robots being led by Fulgore barge in from the windows before he tensed up." What, more henchmen? A bunch of exotic battle droids are not going to be, huh? What the, that noise? Everyone get down! "

The people near Ben hear him and do so just as an explosion blast apart the doorway to the hall! From the smoke comes out the reptile like Bossk steps out of the hole he made with the other bounty hunter Dengar behind him.

Bossk looked at all the people and licked his lips." Finally! After blasting through all those lame security guards and drones I see some people that look classy! Well, look at you Luxord! Looks like you need our help getting the job down after all! And, with all the rich people here looks like we can manage a bonus! "

Luxord looked at his hired help and sighed." Just don't screw up or you will get nothing, and that is if you fools leave here alive in the first place! "

Ben saw them load their powerful blaster rifles and grasped his fist tightly." Bounty Hunters? You hired those scum bags to help you? Bah, adding a few hired guns is not going to change anything. "

Erich heard this and winced." Ah, so that's why the security had not showed up. I suppose Canaan and Kos-Mos are dealing with the blasts I have been hearing out side. "

Bossk eyed Lacus's father and narrowed his eyes." So, you're the archduke Erich Raystar, the father of are pretty target huh? I know a few crime lords that would not mine having you dead! Might as well aim for maximum profit so I'll be set for life by the hutts! "

With that he took out a missile launcher out of his back and fired it right at Erich. However, Ben got right in front of him and used his magic energy to hold the missile in midair and directed it back at its sender.

As Bossk dodged his own shot he saw Ben flash step right in front of him with a cold look." You think I am going to let you hired thugs win? Think again! "

He then kicks the shocked Bossk hard, and the impact was strong enough to fling him in to Dengar and send them both through a wall.

Seeing this, Brad looked at Luxord and snorted out," Man your lame, hiring weaklings like that? You really think such losers are going to be any help against me!? Yah right, now back to clobbering your face in. So, get ready to, huh? ""

He feels a bolt of pain and turns around to see that the freak Zuckless laugh as he blasted Brad several times with a rapid-fire blaster rifle. However, the bounty hunter was horrified to see Brad turn around unharmed, the only thing that did was make him madder before the hulkish man cracked his neck." You think you can hurt me? I'll show you what power is dumbass! "

The odd-looking humanoid saw Brad charge up energy in his hand and made a break for it by jumping out the window. However, as Brad saw him run away he just jumped up and kicked his red energy blast like a soccer ball to hit the hunter dead on and cause an explosion that took care of him.

Lacus's boyfriend heard his target's death scream and just laughed." Ha, that will teach them who they are dealing with. Now for you! "

He then turned again to glare at Luxord and charges red energy orbs in both of his hands." It does not matter how many losers are thrown at be, ill crush all of you! Now, time to shut you up for good! "

He then expanded the two balls of power in his hand and threw them both at the dark Enji. However, Luxord just summoned two large cards in front of them to suck in the blasts, and then have to more cards to the side of Brad fire them back.

As Brad was hit with his own blasts he got even angrier. "The only thing your tricks are doing is making me smash you harder! You're only delaying the inevitable jackass, nothing is going to stop me from smashing your face through your chest! "

"You are such a grotesque brute. And you're ruining the mood of the game. Now, time for you die! "

With this Luxord used his magic to throw a bunch of dice that enlarged around Brad, before they all blew up! As Brad was consumed by a large explosion Luxord waved his hand before Fulgore flew up and fired its own Devastation Beam to make the explosion get even bigger before he laughed." Heh, you Enji are so foolish to put your lives on the line for such little payment in return. At least when I play the game I always make sure I have no chance of losing! Huh, this power? Oh no! "

He turned up and sees Ben charging at him with his magic aura exploding. He at once threw some magic cards but Ben blew them back.

As he channels his power in to his blade the member of Squad 7 cried out," Enough! I don't have time for theses annoying games of yours! This party was going great, till you and your hired thugs dared to attempt to kidnap Lacus! I won't forgive you for trying to harm her, you're finished! Take this, my anger my hatred and all of my sorrow! Shinning Flare Slash! "

With this Luxord sees Ben is going for a killing blow and tried to back into a card to get away, but Ben's charge was too fast. Ben was determined to end it and swung down hard, but everyone in the room was shocked when out of no were a new figure warps into the room and blocks Ben's attack with its own.

The clash in powers results in a shock wave that shook the room, and when Ben set his eyes on who saved Luxord, he was shocked to see its none other than Janus using one of his shoulder blades.

Ben jumped back before an annoyed Luxord chuckled bitterly." Janus, I see you're a fan of dramatic entrances. Then again it was Lexaeus who witnessed your skills first hand. "

Ben got in to fighting stance and tensed up." You? What are you doing here? Why are you working for them? "

Janus looked at Ben and shrugged. " Why who invited the Enji Knight's prized pet to the party? What do you think I am here for? The chips and drinks? It's the cash genus."

Ben saw how composed Luxord looked before he raised an eyebrow." But, you fought against the dark Enji before. "

" What are you dumb? They were in my way then, but now Luxord is my employer. And I can't get my pay if I let you kill him. "

"You…you will just work for whatever or whoever pays you most no matter what it involves? "

"Tsc, the best way to make it on top is to not be picky. But, since you're so brainwashed by the Enji code, I suppose you don't have much common sense to begin with. "

Ben could not hold back his anger as his aura flared up." I won't let some arrogant greedy mercenary who has no honor get in my way. Someone who has no pride and cares only for himself is not worth anything. "

Janus only laughed at Ben's anger look before he leaned back." Kid, you're delusional. But if you really want to try and get in my way then make my day. Sorry for the delay, that blue haired chick the family has for security was more stubborn than I thought she would be. I think she was a robot, because otherwise she is hard core from shrugging of being impaled in the chest. The rest of the Jack 4's is playing with her now."

Luxord looked annoyed before he pointed at Ben." I don't care who you dealt with! Just take care of all of these fools now! "

Just then the three hear a loud tremor and a mad Brad broke out of the rubble Luxord's attack blasted him in to. He saw Janus and snorted out," What do we have hear? Looks like someone dressed up for the wrong party! Whatever I'll thrash you to!"

Janus just turned around at Brad and sighed through his mask." Sigh, what a drag, more barking dogs to calm down. "

" You want some of this? I was playing nice buy now that I am around eighty percent of my power, you're going to get pulverized! "

Just shut up and fight all ready. "

"Gladly! "

He stomped up to attack, but Janus dodged his punch with ease, and as he ducked he then threw out some kind of object that turns in to an energy chain that wrapped around Brad's legs.

As the large brawler was tripped up, Janus then kicked him hard. As Brad was sent plowing through the room Janus narrowed his eyes." Looks like I will have to teach this dog how to behave! Huh? Please your way to slow!"

He then jumped up to avoid Ben's slash from behind." Ben Auro, you may be rising among the ranks of your order of morons. But no matter how strong you have become you're still just a rookie compared to me. "

"That's what you think! But its time I knock you down a size and bring you to justice! I will never forgive you for killing my friend Rick, even if he had his problems, he was still my former best friend and now it's time I avenge him! "

Janus just powers up his own energy and says," You hang on to things to long…a man who can't let go of the past is just a weak cub. The tighter you try to hold on to something the faster it will leave you. That's why it's the best being on no side but your own. Nothing to get yourself worked up for. "

Ben winced before spitting out," Then what's the point of anything? Bah, I'll show you how strong my resolve is and then we will see if you think it's just a drag! "

He went on the attack, but no matter how fast he struck, Janus seemed to always be one step ahead of him. After dodging a few more sword swings Janus laughed again." I can do this all day, but waiting for you to see how things are would be boring so I'll just speed up your butt kicking! "

Ben then backed off and charges his magic energy into his sword." That's what you think! You forget I am the one chosen by the celestial ones to save the universe. No way the cosmos's rising hero is going to let some random jerk who just dose what he feels like stop my destiny! "

He then unleashed out an energy sword wave at Janus, which was easily slashed in half by the masked fighter. The bounty hunter grasped his fist and narrowed his eyes." Oh please, hero? You're just some poster boy, just because you got some special blade you're on top? What a joke. "

" Well, it seems it's time for yet another jerk to learn who he is really dealing with! You are so sure of yourself but you're the one hiding your face from the universe behind that mask of yours! "

He then jumped up to slash at Janus, but Janus just sneered, before charging up his power for an energy blast." Tsc, tell me Enji, what is a man's true face? The face he puts out for everyone, or the face of his true ideals? In the end, it's that which marks a man for who he is. But enough of that, back to business. Well kid, since you're so stubborn I guess it would be a laugh to put you in your place! Howling Gale Cannon!"

He then shocked Ben by firing his powerful dark blue energy blast right at him. Ben was just able to brace himself as the blast collides into him."

Ben was able to set up a barrier, but it still blasts him out of the mansion. As everyone saw Ben go flying Sara gulped." Oh no Ben! That masked creep is being so cruel! I hope he is ok! "

Jane looked around before she grasped the guardrail tightly." In any case, I hope they take this outside before they wreak this place! And after I just had it cleaned! "

As Janus saw the blast continue to burst forward outside and explode in the distinct woods Luxord clapped again." Well done Janus, it seems you are as effective as ever. However, I still sense his power level. Do me a favor and finish the job while I get Miss Raystar out of here and I will triple your pay! "

Janus looked at the hole he made and shrugged." Well, sounds like a deal. Just don't go back on your word or I might take care of you next. Now, time to see just how well the Enji Order's mascot takes a crushing defeat! "

With this Janus flash stepped to the direction Ben was blasted and Luxord laughed at this." Ah, even if I wished to get the credit for myself. As long as the game is won I will be satisfied. Now then, do not worry mister and misses Raystar, your precious daughter's power will be put to much better use once under the control of master Xemnas! Now, time to at last, huh? Oh can't you take a bloody hint already!? "

Just as Luxord was about to fly up to the card imprisoning Lacus and warp out of there he sees Brad broke through Janus's containment thing and yell," Hey! WE are not done here yet card shark! You think a few punches and kicks with some lame magic rope thing is enough to get rid of me? Like hell it is!"

Luxord's magic energy surged around him before he hissed out," Your stubborn defiance is no longer amusing, now you're just aggravating. "

"Funny that's what I was about to say about you! Now that that annoying ninja want to be and Star boy are out of our way nothing's going to stop the Unstoppable Juggernaut from another flawless victory! "

" I see your brain is failing you, or perhaps it was not working to begin with. But in any case, you're wrong; I still have a few tricks up my selves yet! Ah and there those Frost Brothers are! "

Everyone heard a loud rumbling before the wall to the left was shattered. The source was two large mobile suits then fly in, one of them was a customized red and black Gundam armed with such weapon's and like a mega-sonic gun and special strike claws, the Gundam Virsago Chest Break.

Alongside it was the black colored Gundam equipped with such weapons as a powerful gigantic scissors claws and scissors beam cannons called the Gundam Ashtaron Hermit Crab! As they fly just out of the mansion Luxord nodded." Olba… Shagia…I see you have been having more fun than the others. "

From his cockpit Olba chuckled." Ha, that's putting it lightly! For a palace this places security is not so bad. But, it's not enough to keep us away from are prize! "

"Very good, it seems you two, Fulgore, and Janus are the only ones worth their name. Now, stay out of this room and I will finish the show soon. "

Brad then pumped his fist and snarled out," Don't hold your breath, you think you can win just because you have two more oversized tin cans helping you? HA! "

This gets Shagia angry before the mobile suit pilot hissed out," Well brother, seems like we need to teach this hairless monkey what happens to those that disrespect us eh? I'll start first! "

He then has his suits chest open up and readies its triple barrel mega sonic gun." As it charges to fire, he widened his eyes."

Ha, time for you to chill out! Say, AH! "

Just as the mobile suit was about to fire, it was hit from behind. He turns around and saw it came from KOS-MOS. "

Shion saw this from the crowd and looked excited." Yes, I knew a bunch of thugs would be no problem for her. "

KOS-MOS saw Shion and cleared her throat." Sorry for my delayed arrival Shion, the enemies sent numerous agents to delay me. However, I disposed of them. I will now engage the hostile mobile suits. "

Fulgore glanced at KOS-MOS before its eyes glowed red." Defective maid models that try and overstep there programming…will suffer."

The killer android had its glowing blue claws rotate before it charged at KOS-MOS to try and rip her in half. However, KOS-MOS did not flinch, and just as her opponent was about to impale her she muttered," R-Blade."

KOS-MOS 's right arm suddenly morphed into a blade, one that extended right through the enemy android's right arm. As Fulgore noticed his arm sparking his attacker then uttered," Target locked on. Commencing combat mode. R-Dragon."

KOS-MOS had her left arm transform into a miniature dragon head before she punched Fulgore hard enough to rip off part of his other arm. As his eyes glowed red she walked up." I am not a "Maid" I'm built to both protect and assist the Raystar family, with maximum effectiveness."

Fulgore paused for a few more moments before uttering," Devastation Beam!"

The android from Ultratech flew up and opened its chest to fire a massive red energy blast. But in response KOS-MOS stepped back before opening her own chest." Engaging with maximum output. X-BUSTER!"

The blue haired android opened her chest, before a massive blue laser burst out of her chest. The blue energy beam collided with the Devastation Beam, and struggled for only a few seconds before overwhelming the red beam, and vaporizing Fulgore before he could react.

KOS-MOS saw the remains of her enemies melted claw land besides her and shrugged. La, serutou, ettal."

This just got Olba to laugh before he aimed at her." This android has been real persistent! I guess we will have to give her a special going away present! "

With that the Gundam had its special giant beam scissors glow and prepare to crush the Raystar's robotic bodyguard. However, she was fast enough to get out of the way.

However, the other suit then took out its beam saber before its pilot cried out." Fool! Your good but not good enough to handle are tag team blitz attacks! Die! Huh? "

He was just about to bring down the suits beam saber down, when all of a sudden, a blur appeared and a sword blocked it, a blade held by Max. Ben's cousin wagged his finger at the Virsago before his grin widened." Now where are you two boys manners? Two on one against a lady is rather rude. Guess I will just have to teach you some manners! "

"Sounds like you need to learn some manners hot shot." Max paused before he saw Blue Mary, Juli and Juni, Christina, and Tayna surrounded him. Ben's cousin saw the woman closing in on him before he snickered." Sorry babes…you crashed the wrong party."

Blue Mary paused before she raised an eyebrow." Wait…I thought we partied at Bespin?"

"Blue Mary right? Knew I was not just drunk. That was one hell of a party at Cloud City, but sounds like you picked one sucky job."

"Eh…a job's a job. That's why, if you're not gonna move aside your going down!"

"Sorry babe, I have personal incentive to shut this down."

"Well to damn bad!"

Max saw all the ladies looked like they were going to strike, and the moment Max made a move Tayna unleashed a red energy blast. Max deflected it, but the blast exploded on impact. It did not harm him but it did blind Ben's cousin, and when he could see the ladies all were grappling him. Blue Mary smirked before squeezing harder." As strong as you are, you got to much heat on you honey!"

"To bad…a wolf does not go down even when parasites are all over him! Sorry…but I don't have time to play nice. Power Geyser!"

Max was bound on all sides, but he had just enough room to move his right arm, and tap the ground. Just as the ladies widened there eyes, a pillar of energy erupted all around the man with a scar over his face, and blew them all away. As Max cracked his neck the Frost Brothers aimed at him before Olba yelled out." We got a hot shot here eh brother? But even the Enji will have to bow to are fury!"

He then activated his Gundam's scissor beam cannons to fire at Max while he was still blocking the other suits beam saber.

However, Max just saw this and moved out of the way to have the attack hit the ground. He then rolled his eyes at his enemy." Please, you think you can hit me with those kinds of moves? "

Moz saw this from where the group is and flew up cheerfully." Ah there is Max, Kupo! I was wondering what was taking him so long. I guess he was also fighting outside. But, I hope he hurries and ends this fast so he can help Ben fight that Janus! Go get them Max! Huh, watch out! "

Back at the battle Max and KOS MOS were dodging blasts from both mobile suits, and just as Max dodged being hit by the large beam scissors, he was caught off guard from the Virsago when it deployed its sharp strike claw.

Max dodged the strike with ease, but was caught off guard when a second one breaks out of the ground behind him and hits him! To everyone's shock Max was hit, but even more shockingly he turned in to a puff of smoke.

Everyone was horrified as Jane blurted out," Oh no! Look at what they did to him! "

Erich looked closely and muttered," Wait, the way he burst apart. That was not the real Max, that was a shadow clone spell like what Ben used earlier. "

KOS-MOS looked around before responding with," Shion, the Hilbert Effect is active and I can confirm that was not the real Max Bruder. He does not seem to be in the range of the manor."

Moz flew around in confusion." Your right. But then where is the real Max? Is he fighting someone else Kupo? "

Brad heard all this and cracked his neck while saying," Piff, who cares? I can wrap this up so forget about it! "

Luxord heard this and had his cards surround Brad while saying," Oh you will wrap this up. For you see time is wasting, and it's time for the last cards to be drawn in your pitiful career! "

Luxord then closed in on Brad. And while he did that KOS-MOS and the rest of the Raystar 's security forces battle the frost brothers. But, what ever happened to Ben you might ask? Not too hard, the same thing that happens to most people being propelled by a rival energy beam, being sent flying.

---

Ben at least was fast enough to surrounded himself with a magic barrier to protect himself from Janus's attack. Even so it sent him far, far enough to send him clear out of the range of the mansion and through the forest surrounding it.

Using all the power he had, Ben was able to break free, and when he landed he saw he was around a large water fall. Ben remembered he went swimming with Lacus here a while ago, and when he saw two large statues he knew where he was.

He then took a deep breath." This place, I remember this, the Valley of the End, the memorial with statue of Grand Master Myers fifty years ago when he first made his name know by saving the world? And the dark knight statute confronting him was that crazy dark knight Garland. Janus's attack blasted me all the way here? Damn him, he is strong all right. But if he thinks he can defeat me with that level of attack he better be ready to be defeated! He may have blasted me far, but when I find him I will show him, whoa! "

Ben senses a swift movement and moves to the side, just as a slash slices the rock behind him in half! Sure enough Janus landed on the ground in front of Ben with his two shoulder Spiegel blades glowing with his magic energy. " I'll admit you're almost as stubborn as I am kid. But this is the end of the line. "

" It is the end of the line, for you!" Ben shouted back fiercely." I won't hold back; I'll show you my true power and defeat you! "

"That's some resolve you have in your eyes. But I should let you know I don't do the whole losing thing. "

"Well, there is a first time for everything. And with justice on my side, I won't lose! But to make sure, Shadow Clones! "

With that he summoned four other copies and then surround Janus before they all charge at the bounty hunter. However even being attacked on all sides, Janus seemed to have no problems dodging every incoming blow. As he flung a Ben clone into another, he snickered with disgust. "Oh please. Your moves are so predictable and basic! You call yourself the greatest hero when you're nothing but a fool? And your justice's speeches are getting way old. You Enji all talk big. But in the end, you don't change anything. You're just all fighting for you all and the Lylat Kingdom's idea of justice, and it's more of a cringe as hell joke made by naïve twits who are too stupid to know their jokes suck! "

Ben got mad and tried to strike with his clones, but Janus blocked them all with his blades, and performs a cyclone like slash to strike all his attackers at once! Ben is hurt in the leg and his clones are blown to smoke. Ben then stares at Janus and says," You're the one who is unhinged! The Enji Knights are trying to save the universe from being destroyed! That is a whole lot better than just trying to make as much money as you can any way you can! "

"You just don't get it! You're just a pawn in a game that has no ending! You're not fighting for true peace, just to play this never-ending illusionary struggle between good and evil! No matter how many "boss's you take down", you will never change what is unchangeable. And that's why I am not bothering playing sides. "

Ben got mad and started to surround himself with magic energy. As the ground shakes with his power he says," Enough of this! Just because you lost faith in everything but yourself it does not give you the right to cause chaos for everyone else! I'll show you the light, the hard way! Shinryukenha! "

With this Ben blasted Janus with his most powerful energy wave, but he was shocked as Janus just powers up his own aura and bursts into it before he slashed the beam in half. As the blasts spiraled uncontrollably into the sky, as it blew up Janus did not relent for a moment as he dashed to give Ben a strong kick into the gut.

He then at once kicked him in the head with such force Ben is sent flying through the water! Janus then fires one of his energy webs to pin Ben to the rocks and says," Give it up. I have seen plenty of your type over the years spouting crazy talk about heroically fighting evil for justice. But in the end, they just are fools wasting my time. To be honest I don't care who wins this war. The only thing that matters to me is coming out of it a winner. How about this, just admit that even with your fancy star sword I am the superior fighter, and I will let you live through this, after taking that blade of yours as a trophy of course. Huh? Well, looks like you have a second wind coming. "

Janus is right as he saw an explosion of power burst out of the energy web, the rocks and water where Ben was knocked in to as a determined Ben jumped back on the ground in front of Janus.

His eyes dead serious, he started to push himself as hard as he could." Never, I will never lose to you! Lacus is counting on me. I won't let you help the Organization kidnap her! Janus, time you see once and for all, what true power is! Bankai! "

With this Ben had his Star Sword shine before an aura of golden light surrounded the young man. The light enshrouded him, and when it cleared, Janus saw Ben fully transformed in to his Bankai state. Sensing the much larger power coming from Ben the Zandolor warrior snickered bitterly." Well, looks like you have a few surprises of your own. Still, the Enji Knight's mascot can bust out as many parlor tricks as he likes, but that will not change how this is going to go down. Be serious, even your captain Cloud Strife could not handle me.

What makes you think you can beat me? Emotions alone are not enough to win in battle; the superior fighter nearly always prevails. "

"Well, it's time we make it clear who the superior fighter is then right? Let's go! "

He then dashed at Janus with his newly transformed blade coming off as a golden light. To the bounty hunters shock, he was barely able to raise his weapons in time to block Ben's strike.

Ben slams down on Janus so hard that it creates a shock-wave that breaks the ground underneath him! As Janus struggles to fend Ben off he sees the anger of his opponent and cracked his neck." Well, I see your serious about this. What a drag, now I have to get serious as well. "

He then jumped back and into the air." Even if you did power up a little bit, you're still far too out classed for the likes of me. Shadow Shuriken Storm!"

Janus then throws a large sharp weapon at Ben, and that weapon soon broke into many as Ben saw dozens of them heading at him. However, he just readied his sword." It does not matter what you do, you're not going to win. "

With that Ben swings his blade into the ground, and created a wave of light energy to burst out of the ground in front of him to destroy all the shuriken in one blast.

Janus saw this and only shrugged in response." Pretty fancy skills you're pulling out. I see you really take your role seriously. "

"Of course, since it's my main goal in life I will do whatever it takes to reach that dream. I made a promise with Max, that we would both never give up on are dreams. "

" Meh, promises are foolish. In the end words mean nothing, the only thing that truly has value is power! Being so committed to such illusions shows how naïve you truly are. "

"I had enough from you!" Ben cried out as his energy caused the water to raise up." I won't let you talk like that to Max! Someone who has no honor is only half the man he is. You're just lucky he is not here, or he would be pounding you even harder than I am about to! Now, I have no more time to waste, it's time we end this. Senkai! "

With this the Star Sword glowed, and light broke out of it. The rays of light scattered around Janus, and the bounty hunter soon found himself surrounded by what seems like a thousand energy blades. Despite this he only looked at Ben with amusement." Oh my, looks like you can't take the truth well. So, you just execute those that make you angry? Some hero. "

" Please, you're far from innocent. It's true you helped me and Mario save the Mushroom Kingdom from that odd reactor thing the Zannacross Empire was using. But even so…you are always causing are mayhem every ware you go. You clearly don't care about others when you casually killed Rick. Now, it's time you face your justice! Divine Millennia Slash! "

Ben then pointed at Janus with his sword before the blades then begin to dive at Janus all at once.

Seeing this the bounty hunter had his aura flare up." I see that after fighting in this war so long you still have not changed. Time to be taught another lesson, Sturm Und Drang! "

Janus then started spinning around like a tornado, and used his attack to defect all the energy blades. No matter how many come at him Janus did not stop.

Ben saw this and just got even more determined." No, you're not going to wiggle out of this! I'll stop you no matter what!"

As his swords continue to rain down on Janus, Ben bursts at him as well! Imbedding his fists with magic energy he headed right at Janus, and as his opponent hits back the coming swords he saw Ben coming at him and cried out," The hell?"

Ben saw his masked enemy's shock and cried out. "It's over! "

Janus tried to strike with his blade, but Ben brought down his sword and slashed one of his foe's shoulder blades in half. He then punched Janus in the face as he was getting out of his attack, hard.

Ben hit Janus so hard it sent him right through a bunch of trees and rocks! Ben then sees Janus land through the water fall and goes to follow through, but he stopped when he saw something on the ground, and it was half of Janus's mask.

Ben smiled at the sight and responded with," Well, looks like you can't hide any more, huh? "

He saw movement from the water and got confidant." So, see now who you are dealing with? Ha, I always knew you were just a joker. Huh? "

He then heard a laughing come out of the water and he heard Janus boom out," Hahahah, HAHAHA! You can throw a punch all right. You have come quite far, even if your still clueless. "

"You can flatter me if you like." Ben uttered calmly as he got back into a fighting stance." but it's not going to let you of. Hey, your voice sounds different. I guess now that your mask must be broken you can't hide any, what? WHAT!? "

Ben saw the laughing Janus emerge from out of the waterfall. But what shocked Ben to his core is what he saw.

Now that Janus's mask was broken Ben could finally see his true face, and as the last of the mask crumbled of, Ben thought he was hit hard or something, because he saw that what appeared to be under the mask of Janus, is none other than his own cousin Max.

Ben kept frantically blinking to try and blink away what he was seeing before he blurted out," Max? What the? This, this can't be real! This, must be a trick, this has to be something Luxord is pulling! "

Max cracked his neck before uttering a composed," Hey cuz, looks like the cat is out of the bag. Ah, truth be told it was becoming a pain to play this game anyway. "

Ben saw his cousin looking as casual as when he last saw him and grit his teeth." Max, what is the meaning of this? This, is a trick right?

"What do you think it is Ben? "

"Wait, I get it! Janus was your cover! That's why Kira never reveled anything about your mission to the Enji! Ha, way to act like a genius as always Max. Even I never would have guessed you were Janus, everything to your fighting style was different! I see you had to act rough to fool Luxord, but come on let's stop him now! "

Max just put his hand on his face and laughed loudly. The way he laughed made Ben get really worried as he cleared his throat." Max? What, is it? That's what it was right? "

Max just looked at Ben with a mad look in his eyes and sighed.," You always were good at dreaming up some crazy stories cuz. But I am tired of it, time for me to wake you up! "

A split second later he appeared right in front of Ben and punched him so hard in the chest Ben did not even have time to move.

Max's punch sent him so far, he was knocked all the way to the top of the water fall and landed on the top of it with a hard impact that imprinted him on the ground. As he struggled to breath from the blow in a flash Max was in front of him, looking angry for the first time. " So, are you still so dense you can't get the picture? "

Ben muttered out a mortified," Max, no, this can't be real ! Why are you doing this? "

"Why? Do I have to spell it out for you like those times I helped with your damn homework? Because I was lying to you that's why! Heh, the reason Kira never mentioned me, is because he hates to admit a traitor has eluded his grip! "

"No, this can't be true, this is impossible! Max, stop messing with me! After all you talked about, about honor, dreams and pride! What is this!? No, you can't be the real Max! The real Max would never act like this!

" Oh it's the real deal. Ben, you're so clueless even after all this time that its so god damn it's pathetic! The real me, you never knew the real me. The kind cousin who was like a brother to you was just a façade I put up to amuse you cause other wise it was a drag dealing with the family.

However, that act has gotten too costly. I did join the Enji Knights when I left, but after fighting for them I soon saw their ideals were nothing but a joke. That's when I knew that in order to truly excel, I would have to ditch your pathetic order and take destiny into my own hands!

Everything was going find, till a pesky kid would not give up chasing his ideals of justice! SO, Ben, now it's time to bring the end of everything!"

Ben could barely stand up and as he gets teary eyed before throwing out,

No, not you! This can't be! You, you betrayed me!? Everything I did was because of you! " Max just looks at Ben and says," You are still naïve! Hero's are only worshiped when they are dead! Honor, dreams, in the end no one gives a damn, they just what results. And when they are done with you, they thank you by cleaning their hands of you! Believe me, the only thing worth fighting for, is your own life! All right cousin, its time I show you why you can never catch up to me! "

He then put out his hand and summons his real sword using his magic energy.

As he got into his fighting stance his large broadsword surged with energy. "NO matter what happens, I won't let anyone stop me from what I want. That includes you! So " Hero", if you are still so confident that your powers are enough. Let's see if you can survive! "

As his magic energy explodes with such force that even in his Bankai state Ben was nearly blown back from the pressure Ben can see Max is dead serious about this and he says," This, this is impossible. I know you to well Max. You're not the type of person who would out his own interest above others, you're not a person who would do something like that! Max would never betray me! This can't be happening! "

Well, saying good grief would be an understatement! Is one of Ben's greatest nightmares come true? As his mentor and favorite cousin Max truly betrayed him? And if so does this mean Ben has to face the person who inspired him to become a hero to survive? The only way to find out is to not miss the next chapter of Tales of the Cosmic wars! In are next issue Ben tries to desperately reach out to Max, and to figure out if what he is seeing is a clone, a robot, or a brainwashed Max. But despite how much Ben is in denial Max seems to truly be himself, and has truly betrayed Ben!

If this is the case can Ben manage to beat the one who taught him martial arts and the art of the sword? And let's not forget that Brad and the others are still struggling against Luxord and the Frost brothers! Will the one to cause Ben's hopes and dreams to go down in flames be his own cousin? Find out in chapter 69: Unwanted Truth of the Broken Bounds, The Way Pride Was lost. Coming soon! Authors notes. Well, yup Chad and whoever thought so, Max and Janus are one and the same. I just hope it was not as obvious as Master Asia's betrayal.

Also if you're wondering how Max could be form one place to the next it's because he has powerful teleport magic and can change in to his Janus armor rather fast. Also the Max that showed up briefly was a shadow clone. All right then, till next time. I am as excited to write the next chapter as you all are to read it so it should be up as fast as I can.