Disclaimer: Ben 10 and Bleach do not belong to me
The Lion Sleeps Tonight…On Top of Me! Part 2
Meanwhile, Back on Earth: Karakura Town
Orihime smiled as she read the latest e-mail she'd received from Ulquiorra. The first time he'd e-mailed her, it was simply a test message to help him get used to using a computer and the internet. As there wasn't much need for modern technology in Hueco Mundo, the Arrancar found himself unfamiliar with many common appliances, especially the computer. Fortunately, he was a quick learner and learned how to use a computer from reading a manual.
Despite the way he'd treated her while he'd been assigned to take care of her under Aizen's orders, Orihime could never bring herself to hate Ulquiorra. In fact, she had never shown much hatred towards anyone, to be honest. It just wasn't in her nature.
Anyway, things in Karakura Town had been pretty quiet since Aizen's defeat and death. Only lesser Hollows made their appearance but they were easily dealt with. Ichigo and Uryu still maintained a fierce rivalry but she knew they were friends even if neither were willing to admit it out loud.
From the e-mails she'd gotten, she'd learnt that Ulquiorra managed to get a job as a private detective. When she'd read it, her mind had wandered off towards a fantasy of him in a coat and fedora while she was dressed the same, but in a coat made for women. The scene was black and white and they were standing at a dock for some reason.
Orihime shook her head. Tatsuki had told her she had a problem with always falling into a daydream in the most unexpected and inappropriate times. She was getting better at not drifting into a daydream, but she couldn't help it! She had an active imagination for goodness sakes.
As for Orihime's feelings, they were slightly confusing. She liked Ichigo, she did, but she couldn't help but have some feelings for the pale-skinned, dark-haired and green-haired Arrancar. She also couldn't help but think of the brown-haired young man whom she'd met months ago, a certain Ben Tennyson. She considered him a good friend and she really missed seeing him, but not as much as Ulquiorra.
Now, there was a reason most of Japan had not heard of Ben Tennyson or his exploits. The Japanese government had decided to block all access to information on Ben Tennyson to their citizens. She didn't understand why they would do that, but maybe they just didn't want panic to be caused. There were some people who could not get over the events of World War II and the government feared that news of a young American with the power to become an assortment of aliens with a variety of powers would cause a panic.
She had asked Ulquiorra for information on Ben. It wasn't easy at first but he was able to provide her with information and what she learnt had amazed her. Ben really was an honest to goodness superhero! Just like in the anime and manga! All the things he did, saving lives and fighting crime. It was incredible that the government was able to cover him up. And here Orihime felt sad for Ben. He just wanted to help others but Ulquiorra told her about a man named Harangue who enjoyed slandering him whenever he got the chance. Ben reminded her so much of Ichigo; both rushing to the aide of those who needed it. If only there was a way she could get in contact with him just like she did Ulquiorra. Unfortunately, she just couldn't afford a plane ticket to Bellwood. Despite saving, she only had enough for her own necessities and taking a trip overseas would deplete her funds. Her relatives would tell her it was a waste of money.
Maybe she should try the lottery. Who knows? Maybe luck could be on her side.
Meanwhile...on another planet...
Ben wasn't sure when he had fallen asleep but he could feel himself slowly stirring from slumber. Well, at least it was a good nap. But the floor was kind of cold.
Wait, floor?
Ben opened his eyes and found that he had fallen asleep inside of a cave. Still wondering why the ground of the cave felt cold, he looked down to see that he wasn't wearing his shirt…and there was a pair of hands on his chest! Mila Rose's hands! He flushed when he also realized that he could feel her body pressing up against his back, her bushy hair giving his back pleasant tingles, her gentle breath tickling his shoulder. And, from what he could feel, she was only in her underwear.
Feeling her against him like this caused Ben to remember what happened earlier. Not only had he skinny dipped with Mila Rose, he had marked her, groped her, and fondled her. Ben couldn't believe that he had actually went and done all those things. He had never gone so far with even Julie! Part of him felt guilty but part of him wanted to point out that since Mila Rose wanted it (and initiated everything) then it was alright. His thoughts came to a halt when he felt Mila Rose's lips planting kisses on his neck.
"Finally awake?" Mila Rose whispered in his ear before resuming her kisses alongside running her hands along his chest.
Ben groaned. As much he enjoyed what she was doing to him, there was no time for goofing around. There was a Yautja on the loose and they had to stop him.
"Come on, Mila Rose," he said, having to fight back a moan as she started sucking his earlobe. "We need to get up."
"Can't we stay like this a little longer?" Mila Rose teased.
Ben sighed. It was tempting, but they were on a mission. "No. We need to get that Yautja."
Mila Rose sighed as well. She wanted to enjoy her time with Ben but she knew he was right. They needed to stop this alien hunter before he went after any of the other warriors. She pulled herself off of him but not before giving him a little nip in the neck, causing him to slightly jump. She laughed as she pulled away. Ben looked around for his shirt and hoodie and saw them lying in a heap nearby. At least he had kept his pants on.
"So…what happened exactly?" Ben asked Mila Rose as he went to get his stuff.
Mila Rose looked shocked. "You don't remember?! Ben, how could you?!"
Ben looked back at her. "What? What happened? What did I do?"
Mila Rose sighed longingly. "Oh, Ben, after that wonderful night, you don't remember?" She held herself. "I'll never forget how passionate you were. Who knew you liked it rough?" Unfortunately she was unable to contain herself at the look of sheer horror on Ben's face and burst out laughing. "Ben, you are just too easy!"
Ben scowled when he realized that Mila Rose had been messing with him. "Not funny."
"It's hilarious," Mila Rose said as she went over to her own pile of clothes. As she put her pants on, she looked over at the teeth marks on her shoulder. "This will probably take a week or two before fading. Who knows? It might even leave a scar."
Ben flinched as he looked over at his own bite marks.
"It's only my gigai, though; Doesn't affect my real body," Mila Rose said. "Although…I do like having your mark on me."
Ben gulped. Even after all they had done yesterday, her actions still made him so nervous. Ben never thought he could be so daring as to mark Mila Rose with a bite. Was it hormones or the heat of the moment that made him do it? Whatever it was, there was no way he could erase that moment from his mind. They had made out, naked, and he'd enjoyed it.
He just hoped his mother or Kevin never found out. His mother would kill him and Kevin would just tease him about him. He wasn't sure about his dad though. His dad might look upset to save face with his mother but might be proud deep down.
The farthest he ever went with a girl was first base. This was like second base, close to third base.
Still, as much as he enjoyed the moment, he knew it couldn't go beyond that…yet. Right now, his primary focus was on finding the Yautja and stopping it.
Mila Rose smiled as she got fully dressed. Then she got serious. It was time for the hunt and she would not allow some alien bastard get the best of Harribel-sama's Fraccion.
"What's the plan, Ben?" she asked, all manner of teasing completely gone.
"We need to track down the Yaujta," Ben said. "I'm going to use Wildmutt. He might the best suited for this environment."
"Will you be able to track this guy while he's invisible?"
"Don't know," Ben admitted. "I've never used Wildmutt against an invisible opponent before. But since Wildmutt doesn't even have eyes, he should be able to sense him."
"Emphasis on should," Mila Rose added dryly. "How should I communicate with you? Wildmutt can't talk."
"Maybe not, but Ultimate Wildmutt can," Ben said.
Mila Rose gave him a "Seriously?" look. "Then why didn't you do that earlier?"
Ben paused when she asked that. Why didn't he do that earlier? "I…wasn't thinking?"
Mila Rose crossed her arms. "That was obvious." She sighed dramatically. "You're lucky you're cute." She smirked when she saw him frown at her. "Just kidding."
Ben shook his head. "Anyway, we're gonna be stalking him while he'll be stalking us."
"Maybe we should set a trap," Mila Rose suggested. "Draw him in and get the drop on him. You know…out-hunt the hunter?" She then smirked again. "Or I could just ditch this gigai and take care of him."
Ben tapped his chin.
"Come on, Ben," Mila Rose said. "I'd have full access to all my powers and I highly doubt this guy could detect me. I could find him easily using my Pesquisa, track him down, and easily subdue him."
Ben had to admit it was a good plan. Short and simple. And probably pretty easy. Mila Rose may not have been an Espada but he knew she was far from a pushover.
"Alright," he finally conceded. "Go for it!"
Mila Rose smirked. She reached into her pocket and pulled something out of it. It looked like a medallion with a skull on it. Mila Rose pressed it against her head and suddenly her spiritual body shot out of her gigai. She quickly caught it as it started to fall and placed it on the ground. She started stretching.
"Sometimes that thing feels like it locks your joints," she said.
Ben couldn't help but admire his…girlfriend's body as she stretched. But his admiration was snapped when he noticed something. "Hey. Did you get taller?"
Mila Rose rolled her eyes. "That stupid gigai stunted my height. The wacko with the hat must've done it for some amusement or something. Personally, I'm a little annoyed you didn't spot it earlier."
Ben scratched the back of his head. "Well, you have, that is…" He pinched the bridge of his nose. "Look, let's just focus on stopping this guy, okay?"
Mila Rose laughed. "Ben, you are way too easy to mess with." Then she became serious again. "I'm gonna activate my pesquisa now. He should still be in the general area, right?"
"He should be if he's eager to hunt me down," Ben figured.
Mila Rose began concentrating to detect the hunter's reiatsu. Her eyes narrowed. She was detecting one nearby. Very close in fact. And it practically reeked of bloodlust. That had to be the one.
"He's close," she informed Ben. "Not far from here. I'll draw his attention and get him away. That should give you time to go hero and help get the drop on him."
Ben raised a brow. "I thought you wanted to take him by yourself."
Mila Rose shrugged. "You're the hero after all. I'd feel bad if I ruined your reputation."
Ben rolled his eyes. "You're too kind."
Mila Rose just grinned. Then she decided on one little coy action. Before Ben could reach she had her arms wrapped around him and her lips pressed against his. Ben didn't have time to react when Mila Rose pulled away.
"For luck," she said before walking towards the cave's entrance.
"These girls are gonna be the death of me," Ben mumbled to himself.
At first Mila Rose was about to leave the cave stealthily when she realized that she wasn't in her gigai. There was no way she could seen by this guy. She assumed it was a guy. Max hadn't told them if female Yautja hunted as well. But then a thought occurred to her. If there existed alien Hollows and alien Shinigami…was there a chance of aliens who were at least spiritually aware? Mila Rose wanted to hit herself upside the head. Why hadn't she thought of that? She shook her head. What was she doing? She was one of Harribel-sama's Fraccion. And she was not going to back down from this.
"Alright, Yautja. Let's see how good you really are."
Mila Rose began focusing energy around her fist, preparing a Bala. Once she got a lock on his location, she fired to the left of her. She made sure the Bala wouldn't hit him directly but the blast radius would catch him off-guard and leave him vulnerable. Almost immediately after she fired the Bala an explosion erupted from the direction she had shot at. Must've hit a tree or something. She used Sonido to shoot toward the spot, sensing out for the Yautja's reiatsu. She sensed something lying a little to the right of her. She drew her sword and slashed. She didn't put too much effort into it in case she wound up cutting the guy in half. She didn't mind it, but she had a feeling Ben wouldn't be happy. She made to slash but only wound up hitting thin air. She could hear rustling on the ground, indicating that the Yautja had rolled out of the way. She had to give this creep credit. But he was probably disoriented and confused, being attacked by a being he couldn't see. Though to be fair, since she could only sense him, she wasn't sure what he might be doing. She sheathed her blade. Better just stick to hand-to-hand. She didn't want to try and explain to Ben how she accidentally cut off a body part or two. She struck out with a punch. She hit the hunter in what she assumed was his chest and she also felt armor.
She could hear her adversary falling and the rustling of the plants indicated she had knocked him down and he was getting back up. She needed to find a way to get rid of whatever was keeping him invisible. She heard a sound coming from the hunter's direction. It sounded like…energy building!
Mila Rose used Sonido and quickly moved out of the way just in time to dodge some kind of energy blast.
"Great," she grumbled to herself. "It's not bad enough the guy's got spears, blades, and throwing disks. He's got to have energy weapons too."
The rustling and her senses told her that the hunter was on the move. Once he realized that he was being attacked by something he couldn't see, it was time to bail out. Mila Rose felt pretty smug. Take away this jerk's advantage and even with all those weapons, he was a sad little coward. Maybe Ben really didn't need to get involved. The Yautja was making a break for it but she could easily catch up to him with her Sonido. She was in a playful mood so she was going to let him have a bit of a head start before pursuing him. Though she had to admit, he was moving pretty swift for someone without spiritual powers.
"You can run," she said as she followed at a steady pace, "But you can't hide."
The Yautja on the other hand scrambled through the settings on his, for it was indeed a male, bio-mask. He was being attacked by someone or something he couldn't see. The being had access to weaponry that rivaled or surpassed its own. He was not aware that Ben Tennyson had allies. Or was this being here on this planet for another reason? He decided that he would need to study this new prey in order to act accordingly.
Mila Rose continued following the Yautja, using a mild Sonido so as to not lose track of it.
"Not so fun when you're the one being hunted, huh?" she taunted even though she doubted he heard her.
Just then the ground caved in from under her. Mila Rose discovered that she had fallen into some kind of pit trap. Hearing a sound above her, she looked up to see a large spike made out of a fallen tree coming down at her. Using her quick speed, she managed to draw her sword and cleaved the spike in two.
A trap. The creature had set a trap and she walked right into it.
"Must've set it when Ben and I were having our little…moment," Mila Rose narrowed her eyes. "So…I underestimated you." She looked around the jungle. "Why do I have nasty feeling that there are more traps around here?" She looked back. "Ben, where are you?"
Hearing movement, Mila Rose was alert. She wasn't sure if the hunter's weapons could hurt her, but she was sure to take this guy more seriously. She quickly hid among the trees for cover, sensing him with her Pesquisa. That was the one advantage she had over him.
By now the Yautja was both intrigued and frustrated. He scanned various wavelengths to find his attacker but was unsuccessful. Ultraviolet, thermal, electromagnetic, nothing succeeded so far. Then he came to one last setting. But this couldn't be. It was impossible to think. Through the stories of his clan, this hunter had been told of creatures. Masked creatures believed to be evil spirits. Only a select few were gifted enough to see these monsters, but after much effort, the gifted ones had managed to create technology capable of sensing these masked beasts. Could it be? The hunter set his scanner to this last setting…and he could spot it. It had a vague, human shaped outline. Almost like…the human female that was with Tennyson! Was it possible? Were the masked ones capable of assuming the forms of other species? Such questions did not matter. Long had his clan dreamed of hunting the masked beasts and now, he had the opportunity to face one alongside the wielder of the Ultimatrix. Wonderful.
But the hunter knew he had to be careful. The masked ones were said to possess extraordinary powers. To engage one in straight combat would be suicidal and it seemed the masked one was able to detect him. Very well. It would have to be a matter of who was the more cunning. Fortunately, the hunter's people had been handed down weapons that were crafted to fight the masked beasts on the slight chance that they would encounter one.
Mila Rose was getting anxious as she decided to tread carefully through the foliage. There could be a trap anywhere and she was not in the mood to set off anymore.
But she didn't need to worry about that when she heard something fire at her. She used Sonido just in time to dodge a spear-tip like weapon. The weapon itself had been lodged in a tree right where she had been standing.
He can see me! Mila Rose realized. That had to be it. It was too much of a coincidence. So in shock was she that she didn't sense the hunter come at her. The next thing she knew, there was a searing pain in her side. She cried out and looked to see a nasty gash. She looked up and see blood…her blood, dripping down what she could vaguely make out as a blade. Her eyes widened when she realized this. The creature couldn't just see her. He could hurt her! The blades, as there appeared be two of them, came at her. She quickly blocked with her own sword. She could see energy building up and realized the hunter was trying to shoot her again.
She quickly rolled out of the way and struck out with her leg again. The hunter was caught off guard by her attack and was knocked to the ground. She quickly snatched up some dirt from the ground and flung it to the spot the creature fell. The dirt showed some of the creature's outline, allowing her to see it somewhat. She swung her sword down to finish him but the Yautja had time to pull out some kind of staff-like weapon that blocked her blade. Her opponent used its fighting skills to parry her and quickly moved. The creature had great skill with its weapon, Mila Rose had to admit as she found herself on the defensive. Honestly, why was taking Ben so long? Had they gone farther from the cave than she had anticipated?
Her thoughts got derailed as the Yautja charged forward. Mila Rose had been unprepared for this and the creature knocked her to the ground. Oh this was getting ridiculous. Despite this guy being able to see and hurt her did not mean that she had suddenly become a pushover. She hadn't even gone into her released state for crying out loud! Time to end this, with or without Ben.
But just then the hunter managed to slash her with one of the blades at the tip of its staff. She glared angrily. How were his weapons capable of cutting through her hierro? Did his species hunt Hollows too?! Once they were done with this adventure, she would have to tell Harribel-sama and the others about this.
Suddenly Mila Rose felt something wrong with her body. She was starting to go numb, losing feeling in her body. What had…? Then she saw. There was something coating the blade on the staff's tip. Some kind of paralyzer? Poison? And it could affect her! This was bad. Very bad! She had been overconfident and now she was about to pay the price. She needed to release! She wasn't sure if using her Resurrecion would remove poisons or whatever she had in her, but it was better than laying around and dying. But she was finding it harder to move or even talk.
And then, in a shimmer, the creature made itself known to her. Probably given her the honor of what was about to end her life. It was humanoid and muscular, and quite tall. Though Nnoitra and Yammy were still taller. It had dark, reptilian-like skin and long dreadlock-type hair. Its face was covered with some kind of mask and Mila Rose could make out various weapons on its body such as a shoulder cannon. Now she knew where its energy attacks came from. Her foe raised its staff, ready to run her through.
Ben! she screamed in her head. Where the hell are you?!
As if in response, a roar like thunder suddenly boomed through the jungle. The Yautja looked up just in time to be tackled by a red blur of fur. Mila Rose struggled to remain conscious as she looked to see her rescuer. The creature looked a lot like Wildmutt but with red fur and several white overlapping spikes that resembled a shark's fin as they ran down its back. It also had a long tail with a spike at the tip of it similar to a scorpion's.
"Sorry I'm late," the creature growled. "But you won't believe how strong this guy's sense of smell is."
"B…Ben?" Mila Rose struggled to get the words out.
"Don't worry, Mila Rose! Say hello to Ultimate Wildmutt!" The evolved Vulpimancer faced his opponent. "You should really take a shower, buddy. I can smell your stench for miles!"
The Yautja made a guttural sound as it used its legs to kick Ultimate Wildmutt off of him. He then pulled a bladed disk like the one from before and threw it at his prey. Ultimate Wildmutt leaped into the air as the blade flew towards him. The blade spun around and flew back to its owner like a boomerang.
"Nice toy," Ultimate Wildmutt said as he landed back on the ground.
The Yautja raised his right hand and blades popped out of his gauntlet. It charged forward and swung. Ultimate Wildmutt countered with a slash of its claws. Their attacks collided, creating sparks. Ultimate Wildmutt lashed out, the Yautja taking a step back to avoid the deadly slash. He then aimed his shoulder gun, charging up energy. Ultimate Wildmutt quickly moved to the side as an energy shot past him. He felt some of his fur scorch as the blast had skimmed him. Taking the initiative, Ultimate Wildmutt pounced again. But this time the hunter was ready and delivered a powerful punch to Ultimate Wildmutt's jaw, knocking him to the side. Mila Rose tried to scream out for her beloved but her mouth was also starting to become numb. She was furious with herself. She needed to go into her released state. That HAD to heal her! She was not going to die! Not here! Not now!
The hunter then readied his staff to finish Ben off. But the hero wasn't going down so easily. He lashed out with his spiked tail, the hunter being forced to blocked. This was all the chance Ultimate Wildmutt needed to pounce again. The Yautja was pinned down, using his staff to keep Ultimate Wildmutt from chomping into him with his sharp teeth. The hunter readied his shoulder gun again, ready to fire. Ultimate Wildmutt knew that a point-blank shot like that would kill him. He quickly got off to avoid the blast. The Yautja got to his feet and pulled out some sort of gun-like weapon from its hip. Ultimate Wildmutt had no time to dodge as a net fired from the weapon. Ultimate Wildmutt found himself pinned to a nearby tree, howling in pain as the net proved to be razor sharp as it was digging into his fur. He furiously tried to pull the net off, struggling against the pain as the net's wires dug into him. The Yautja started approaching him, his wrist blades raised to gut him through.
"Buh! Mila Rose tried to cry through her numb mouth.
Just as the Yautja was about to run Ben through, the Ultimatrix started beeping.
"Unknown life form detected." Ben's voice came from the Ultimatrix. "Begin scanning now!"
The Ultimatrix symbol on Ultimate Wildmutt turned yellow as it shot a beam of yellow light at the Yautja. The hunter froze as he didn't feel the beam do any form of damage to it as it performed its sweep, scanning him.
"Scan complete. New DNA acquired."
Despite the intense pain as he moved his paw through the net, Ultimate Wildmutt tapped the Omnitrix symbol and his body was engulfed in a flash of green light.
"Predator!" A deep, bestial voice yelled once the light passed. Or at least it would have, but all Mila Rose could hear was a strange snarling (or maybe clicking) sound.
The Yautja took a step back while Mila Rose stared with what consciousness she had left. Ben had turned into a Yautja. His armor was a green tint compared to the one he was facing and the Ultimatrix symbol was on his chest. His body was covered in this armor with the same exact weapons, including the mask. With a mighty yell, Predator managed to break away from the net confining him and went over to Mila Rose. The actual Yautja did nothing. It simply stood there, watching.
"Don't worry, Mila Rose," Predator said to her. Unfortunately, she couldn't understand him. He began to check his inventory to figure out how to help her. He wasn't sure what was going on. Maybe some sort of instinct of these Yautja's. He eventually pulled something that the part of his Yautja side recognized. A kit of some sort. When he opened it, he recognized objects that he assumed were first aid items. "What did he do to you?" Again, there was a language barrier, but from what she had seen, Mila Rose could correctly interpret what he said.
"Injef fe wfh smth," Mila Rose mumbled to get out.
"He…injected you with something?" Predator guessed. Mila Rose nodded, not knowing what he said but taking a shot in the dark. Looking through the kit, Predator found a syringe filled with some kind of liquid. Hoping against hope that it was some kind of healing shot, he poked the syringe into Mila Rose's skin and injected the liquid into her. Mila Rose gasped as she felt the liquid go into her.
(You have done well.)
Predator spun around to face the hunter, who was looking at him.
(You have only just obtained that form and already you realized your medi-kit. Well done, Ben Tennyson. The stories about you appear to be true.)
The Yautja was speaking in his native tongue, which sounded like growls and clicking noises, but Ben, now Predator, could understand them like perfect English. Wait? Why hadn't the translator on his Ultimatrix kicked in. And why had it taken so long for it to scan the Yautja of his DNA?
(It is an honor that I would be the one to provide you with the form of my kind. You truly are the ultimate prey.)
Predator's eyes narrowed. (This ends here, Yautja. Your days of hunting the tribesmen of these people are over!)
(Yes. I had not anticipated that you would be here. Nor that you would obtain my kind's form. I look forward to this eagerly.)
With that, the hunter began shedding off his armor and weaponry. Predator was uncertain what his opponent was doing. Soon, all but the hunter's mask remained. He reached up and pulled if off, revealing a snarling, scaly face with four insect-like mandibles around its mouth with no visible nose.
"Whoa," Mila Rose said, the feeling coming back at a surprisingly fast rate. "You are…one ugly mother…"
"Mila Rose!" Predator snapped before she could finish. Again, all that came out was some kind of roar.
Once the Yautja dropped his mask, the hunter tensed his body.
Predator somehow understood. The Yautja wanted to fight him unarmed in hand to hand combat. Predator debated. The hunter had left himself wide open. Ben just needed to use any of his weapons to probably end this guy. Despite this guy's apparent honor code, he certainly didn't deserve it. All those tribesmen he slaughtered, all those tribeswomen who would never see their husbands again. All those children who would never get to see their fathers. But there was a nagging thought that had been on Ben's mind for some time. He might as well find out.
(Did you have the chance to kill me when I was alone with Mila Rose?)
(Your mate?) The Yautja asked. (Yes. I did.)
(Why didn't you?) Predator asked.
(What honor would there be?) Was the reply.
Predator did not comment on the mate part. This Yautja had done terrible things…but Predator wouldn't be alive right now if the hunter had not chosen to fight fairly. Predator decided that if this creature was going to fight with honor…then so would he. Predator began to shed his armor and weapons as well before taking off his own mask. Mila Rose, now starting to get the feeling back, was a bit unnerved seeing Ben with the same face as the Yautja. But then she looked into Predator's eyes and she saw they were the same beautiful green as his human ones. Seeing them gave her comfort.
Predator then assumed a fighting stance against his foe. (Let's dance!)
The Hunter and Predator lunged at each other. Predator lashed out with a punch that the hunter blocked, then proceeded with a kick of his own. The blow connected to Predator's abdomen, causing him to stumble back in pain. The hunter followed up with his own punch but Predator moved to the side, his arms raised. He had done some hand-to-hand training before. Gwen taught him martial arts, Kevin taught him some street brawling, and of course his training with Harribel. Not to mention all the experience he had with aliens like Rath and Four Arms.
Remembering the moves Kevin taught him, Predator went in fast, catching the hunter off-guard with a punch and following up with another one. He shot forward with a third punch but this time his opponent was prepared. The Yautja grabbed his arm and proceeded to flip him over, slamming Predator on the ground. Predator shook the stars from his eyes when he saw his opponent go for the next move. Then Ben remembered one of the teachings of martial arts: using your opponent's weight against them.
Grabbing the hunter by his arm now, Predator sent him tumbling to the ground. He saw his chance and leaped upon his foe, the two of them wrestling on the ground. Predator punched his foe in the face, a sickening crack meant that he had cracked either the creep's jaw or at least one of his mandibles. Judging from how the lower right mandible was now hanging at an odd angle, it was definitely the mandible. The Yautja grabbed Predator and retaliated with his own punch, the blow knocking Predator off him. Predator got up only in time for the Yautja to backhand him. The blow was strong enough to knock Predator off his feet and sprawling to the ground again.
Predator tried to get up but his opponent did not give him the chance. The hunter proceeded with a kick to Predator's stomach as he tried getting up, knocking him back. He grabbed Predator and hoisted him up by his shoulders. But unknown to him, Predator had grabbed some dirt from the ground as he was being picked up and smeared the dirt into his opponent's eyes. As the hunter struggled to get the dirt out of his eyes, Predator swung with his left fist. It connected! Then he jabbed with his right. He went for another one but his opponent blocked and threw him against a tree. Predator grunted as he made impact.
"Look out!" Mila Rose cried.
Predator rolled out of the way as the Yautja tried to attack him again, tearing a decent chunk out of the tree with his attack. Predator unleashed a roundhouse kick, knocking his opponent back into another tree. He went to follow up but the hunter rolled out of the way in time, quickly getting back on his feet. He looked impressed at Predator. Predator tensed up. He didn't know how much longer he would last and he needed to end this fight now. He looked over at Mila Rose. She almost paid the price for his wasting time. He wouldn't let that happen again.
(Come and get me!) He charged further into the jungle, amazed by the speed and agility this new form granted him. He could hear rustling nearby, which meant his opponent was following him. Good. All he needed to do was find some place to make his stand. But for now, he would just have to keep running.
But since he hadn't been paying attention, Predator missed a root that stuck out of the ground. He wound up tripping over it, sending him tumbling along the ground. He didn't have to time to think, all he could do was just keep rolling and rolling. The shift in the ground indicated that he was suddenly going down hill. But he was too busy tumbling to actually notice that. When he finally came to a stop, he wobbled to his feet, stumbling comically as he tried to get his balance back. And it would be a lot easier if the world would just quit spinning. Shaking his head furiously, Predator tried to get a bearing on where he was. He didn't know how long it would take that Yautja to catch up to him and he did not want to get caught unaware. He turned his head and bumped into something soft. Staggering back a moment, Predator shook his head, his vision finally starting to make some sense. He looked to see what he had bumped into…and he immediately felt sick to his stomach.
Before him was a body. It was hanging upside down…completely skinned. And there were more. All hanging from the trees like skinned animals. Predator turned to see a cave of some sort. It wasn't very large and was filled with a collection of stuff. Trying to fight the nausea that was filling him, Predator made his way to the cave. He saw spears, knives, and other items that looked vaguely familiar. It took him a moment to realize that these items matched the ones he had seen in the tribes. Predator looked over at the hanging bodies. The tribesmen! This is what the Yautja had done to them?! He remembered what his grandfather had told him but seeing it with his own eyes was something else. His mind went back to all those women, all those children waiting! The husband and fathers who would never come home. Never get to see their families again. The sickness he was previously feeling was gone, and in its place was a burning rage!
(Where are you?!) Predator roared to the jungle. He…was going to tear this hunter limb from limb! He leaped into the trees waiting. He didn't need to wait long when the Yautja made his way back to the cave, apparently having figured out that Predator had made his way here, and probably from his yell. With a roar like a beast, Predator pounced down upon his enemy, but the Yautja saw him coming and threw him to the ground. The impact caused a few of the warriors' spears to fall to the ground. Predator tried to get up when his opponent pinned him down and grabbed him by the throat. Predator tried to remove the tightening restrictions on his throat, but the Yautja proved too strong for him. He had to get this creep off of him. Predator could not allow him to kill anymore warriors, anymore people this way. The tribespeople...Mila Rose! He wouldn't let that happen! In a moment of desperation, he reached out to the closest thing and grabbed it before hitting the Yautja Hunter with it.
The Yautja's grip slackened and it collapsed on top of Predator. What Predator had hit it with happened to be a spearhead, one which was carved by the natives, and Predator had just pierced the Yautja through the skull with it.
The rage was fading now and Predator was left with the consequences of what he had done. He had killed someone in the heat of battle. The alien's green blood dripped from the wound. With a quick heave, Predator pushed his deceased foe off and stumbled back, trying to avoid the hanging bodies. Predator clutched his head, unable to believe what he had done. Sure, he had been prepared to kill enemies in the past…as a last resort or if only absolutely necessary. He hadn't meant to…it was like instinct. He hadn't even known the thing he grabbed was a spearhead. Predator shook his head furiously. He needed to get a grip.
"Ben! Ben!"
Ben, who was engulfed in a flash of green light, turned his now normal head to see Mila Rose running towards him.
"Ben, wha…" She froze when she saw the hanging bodies of the tribesman. Disgust and anger etched her face when she realized who they were. She then looked over at the dead body of the Yautja on the ground. She then looked over at Ben, who looked shaken but was trying his best to calm down.
"You killed him," she figured.
"Yeah," Ben said quietly, looking away from the dead body.
Mila Rose could understand why Ben was feeling upset. She went over and hugged him. "It's alright, Ben. There was nothing you could have done."
"There should have been," Ben said grimly. "But…part of me wonders if there could have been a way."
Mila Rose just held Ben in her arms, letting him know that she was there for him when he needed her. "Come on, Ben. Let's get back to the village."
"Wait," Ben said as he looked over at the bodies of the tribesmen. "Let's give them a proper burial. They deserve it."
Mila Rose nodded. She helped cut the warriors down and Armodrillo created graves for each of them. The Yautja…Ben was tempted to bury him and forget about the whole ordeal. But he knew that tribes had a right to know what had been hunting their warriors and he would allow them to do with the corpse as they pleased.
So Ben, as Four Arms, carried the Yautja's body as he and Mila Rose returned to the village. The natives came out to greet them. They froze when they saw the creature Four Arms was carrying.
"One of them," the Chief said as Four Arms put the body down on the ground. "Then…our warriors…"
Four Arms hung his head as he changed back to normal. "I'm sorry."
The wives of the warriors were grief stricken. Some held their children who had come with them. Ben felt the guilt flooding him as he looked upon the sad scene. Mila Rose, who was in her gigai, rubbed his arm soothingly.
But the tender moment was pierced by a scream from one of the tribeswomen. Ben and Mila Rose looked to see several Yautja suddenly materialize out of thin air. And then…a massive ship suddenly materialized in the center of the village. The Yautja were all unmasked, allowing Ben to see their sinister faces. The tribes-people stared at the Yautja, frozen in fear seeing more of them. The women hugged their children tightly. Ben's eyes narrowed and he raised the Ultimatrix, ready to activate it. "Alright…who's next?"
But instead of attacking like he thought they would, two of the Yautja approached their fallen comrade while a third gathered up his equipment that Ben had carried back. They headed towards the ship, where a walkway opened up. As they climbed inside, the others started going into it as well. The biggest of them, who Ben assumed was the leader, stayed behind. He looked at Ben, his eyes going back and forth between Ben's face and the Ultimatrix. He seemed to understand who his kin had gone up against. Ben waited, wondering if they were going to retaliate against what Ben had done. Instead this new Yautja approached Ben, who hand was still ready to activate the Ultimatrix. The creature unhooked something from its hip. It looked like a sheath with a sword inside. It handed the sword out to Ben. Confused, Ben lowered his arms. He looked at the sword and then back at the Yautja, trying to figure out what was going on.
"You have earned his respect," the chief explained to Ben. "He is giving you a gift as a sign of that respect."
Ben looked back at the Yautja and then back at the sword. Hesitantly, he reached out and grasped it. The Yautja gave a slight bow of its head and turned away, heading back towards the ship. Nobody said anything as the last one got onboard and the walkway sank back into its ship. Nobody said anything as the ship began to rise above the ground before its cloaking caused it to become invisible. And nobody said anything once they could hear the engines of the ship roar as it disappeared from the planet altogether.
"They're gone," Mila Rose said in relief. She was still annoyed that she had been made a fool of. Which reminded her, when she got home she had to tell the other Arrancar about this. They needed to know that there were aliens out there that could fight them.
Ben looked at the sword in his hands. "Let's go home, Mila Rose."
Mila Rose smiled. "Home. That sounds really good right now."
Ben looked at the chief. "I'm sorry I couldn't have done more."
The chief gave Ben a soft smile. "There was nothing you could have done, Ben Tennyson. But at least they are gone. For now."
Ben contemplated this. These Yautja were probably all over the galaxy, maybe the universe, hunting other species just because they wanted to find suitable prey. Well here was one prey who was going to fight back. "I'll be ready for them."
As Ben and Mila Rose flew home, Ben contacted his grandfather, telling him about what had happened and the sword he had been given.
"That's quite the honor, Ben," Grandpa Max said proudly. "Only those who truly earned the Yautja's respect receive a gift."
Ben looked at the sword. "It looks like medieval claymore," he noted.
"I wouldn't be surprised," Max said grimly. "The Yautja have been to Earth throughout time. Probably because we humans seem to like conflict so much. They're behind a lot of the demons and devil myths around the world."
Ben unsheathed the sword to study the blade. It was in good condition. Not a hint of rust. Probably sharp too but he wasn't going to test that. He got up from his chair, walked over to Mila Rose, and handed it to her. "Here."
Mila Rose blinked in surprise. "Ben?"
"You helped me against that Yautja, Mila Rose. You earned this."
"Me? I barely did anything. In fact, I probably wouldn't have died if you hadn't saved me."
Ben just smiled. "Take it."
Mila Rose huffed. Ben deserved that, not her. But she had a feeling there would be no point in arguing with him so she took the sword and examined it. It didn't look much different from her Zanpakuto. Some familiarity gave her comfort. Maybe she could use this while in her gigai. That would make fighting in it easier.
When the two arrived back on Earth, they were greeted by a little welcome party. Apparently Max decided to let Gwen, Kevin, and Ben's girls know he would be back. They noticed the new sword that Mila Rose was carrying but neither she nor Ben gave them any explanation. Right now, Ben just wanted to rest. Mila Rose informed Ulquiorra and Harribel about the Yautja and the fact that their weapons were capable of hurting Hollows. Both were less than thrilled about this unexpected news.
Ben mostly kept to himself, trying to take in all that had happened. He had met some vile aliens in his adventures but he had never seen what the Yautja did to their "prey". That night, Ben lay wide awake in his bed. Images of the skinned warriors and the dead hunter haunting his mind.
Just then there was a light knocking at his door. Rubbing his eyes, Ben sat up. "Come in?"
The door opened and Ben's face reddened to see Mila Rose enter, wearing only a bra and a pair of very skimpy panties.
"Hey, Ben," Mila Rose said, no traces of any seductiveness on her face. Instead she was looking at him in concern.
"H-hey, Mila Rose," Ben mumbled. He had swam naked with her, seeing her in just her underwear should not have been that much of a shock.
Mila Rose went over to his bed. Ben's eyes widened as she sat on the edge of it. "Are you okay?"
Ben sighed. "It shows, huh?"
Suddenly Ben found himself embraced, with Mila Rose pressing her body against him. Ben thought this was another attempt to seduce him but her next words proved otherwise.
"It's okay, Ben. Remember, we're here for you. Me, Apacci, Sung-Sun, Harribel-sama. We're all here for you."
If Ben was in a right state of mind, he would've noticed how she left out Nelliel. But right now…he was enjoying the comfort of Mila Rose's embrace. He wrapped his own arms around her and buried his face in the crook of her neck. Mila Rose had to fight the pleasant feeling.
"Thank you, Mila Rose," he said. "I appreciate everything you girls do for me."
Mila Rose smiled, rubbing Ben's back soothingly. Then an idea popped into her head.
"You would like me to sleep with you tonight?" Ben pulled away from her so she quickly added, "I promise I won't pull anything."
Ben raised a brow. "Promise?"
Mila Rose nodded. "Promise."
Ben sighed. He knew he was going to have to explain to his mom tomorrow…but he did really need somebody close to him right now. "Okay." He scooted over. Mila Rose smiled as she climbed into bed with him, wrapping the covers around her. Once she was settled in, she snuggled closer to her beloved. Much to her surprise, Ben was the one who embraced her first. She looked at Ben with a smile.
"Looks like you enjoy having practically naked girls in bed with you, eh, Ben?"
Ben didn't say anything but his blush was so visible he practically glowed in the dark. Mila Rose smiled and gave him a peck on the cheek. "Goodnight, Ben." She closed her eyes and snuggled next to him.
Ben just stared at her for a moment before he gave a small smile. He gave her a soft peck on the lips. "Goodnight, Mila Rose." Then he closed his eyes and tried to get some sleep. Mila Rose stared at him in surprise before she smiled as well. She closed her eyes, allowing pleasant dreams to fill her mind.
End of Chapter.
Well, everyone. Here is the latest chapter for Bleach: Ultimate Alien. I would like to thank Kamen Rider Chrome and Pyromania101 for their help in making this chapter. Thanks you guys! As you all know, summer is here for me so I don't need to worry about school getting in the way of my stories. Unfortunately, my job at Taco Bell is most likely going to see how many hours they can get out of me now. Sometimes I wonder why I even work at that place.
I watched the first two Predator movies to give me some more inspiration. I do accept that this isn't completely faithful to the Predator series so I apologize in advance for any Predator fans. I was not trying to insult any of you. In fact, I think the Predator series is pretty cool. Now I don't think the Yautja will make anymore future appearances in later chapters but if you guys want them to, I'll see what I can do. I'm pretty sure you guys are annoyed that Mila Rose was getting her butt kicked so easily here. The reason for that was because she was overconfident. She hadn't counted on her opponent being able to fight back, let alone hurt her. This left her vulnerable and could be taken by surprise. And let's face it, Harribel's Fraccion can be pretty overconfident most of the time. This will serve as a good lesson for her in the future.
I know some of you have felt that this is deriding away from the plot of the story. To be honest, this Volume doesn't really have much of a plot yet. I can't help it. I found most of the later episodes of Ultimate Alien to be very dull and I didn't see any point in making any chapters based off them till I get to the part that focuses on Dagon/Diagon, however you say the guy's name.. So, feel free for any suggestions to help the story going. Alright, the next date is with Apacci. I will do my best to make sure the chapter has plenty of action as well as romance.
Also, I would like to mention that I have posted the first few chapters to my alternate Bleach/Ben 10 story, Bleach: Omniverse. I won't go into all the details that explain how the stories are different, feel free to read them for yourself and it will be made clear. I hope you will enjoy Bleach: Omniverse as much as Bleach: Ultimae Alien.
I have already said this but from now on, I'm not going to tolerate any negative reviews. Constructive criticism is fine but flames and flat out insults are no longer going to be tolerated. This ESPECIALLY goes out to all those who think they can get away with cussing me out through anonymous reviews. I'm not taking crap anymore. Reviews like that are going to be dealt with.
I apologize for that sour note but I'm tired of being pushed around. I hope to see you all next chapter. Take care!