Ben 10: Rising of the Shield Hero
Chapter 2: Precognition of the Accused
Notice: This is the second rewritten version of the second chapter. The author's notes are put after the story.
The wise Vilgax once said.
"You stabbed me!"
— — —
The enigmatic figure stood atop the highest building in the town of Bellwood, overlooking the city. Their gaze alighted upon a solitary figure — Ben Tennyson, who walked into a portal as instructed by the Timewalker Paradox. As Tennyson vanished through the portal's glowing maw, Paradox turned to regard the mysterious figure with a wry smile and brought a gumball out of his pocket.
"Guess it's time for me to set everything into action."
The mysterious figure then disappeared into thin air… without taking the gumball from the Timewalker.
"Another impatient kid," Paradox muttered with a smile and he himself walked into another portal before the time stop was finally canceled. What secrets lay behind this encounter, and what role did the mysterious figure play in the fate of the cosmos? Only time would tell.
— — —
The first thing I heard in the morning was a series of knocks on the door of my room.
"Mister Tennyson! Hello! Mister Shield Hero!"
A woman's voice. Ah, the light is so bright I can't immediately open my eyes fully.
"Mom, just five— wait, it's not mom," I muttered to myself, and then yelled back at the door. "Sorry, I'm up!"
Yeah, I am in another world, after replacing a Japanese guy and getting summoned as the Hero of the Shield to this world of fantasy.
I quickly sat up and rubbed my eyes before hastily jumping out of the bed to grab my jacket.
"Oh, wait, I need to take a shower first."
I deadpanned, realizing I couldn't get the shield off my body.
"Great," my voice deflated. "Now I have to have a shower… with this?"
I've showered with the Omnitrix on my wrist anyway.
After the shower, the other three heroes: Motoyasu, Itsuki, Ren, and I were served breakfast in the dining room downstairs.
"Wow, this looks like an expensive meal set," Motoyasu remarked, seeing the table filled with a variety of delicious dishes.
"What are you doing?" Ren scolded the spear guy. "We have to meet the King later. Hurry."
"Who are you to—"
"Now, now," Itsuki brought the two to the table.
Well, I guess this is from now on how my mornings will begin. Quite lively though. I hope Rook and the Plumbers can do the job on their own, while I am slacking off here. Oh, this is delish.
After we had had our breakfast, the servants and knights took us to the Royal Palace. The palace is a large area for sure, with castles here, surrounded by tall ramparts.
"There are carts in the plaza," Motoyasu said, pointing at the coaches.
We didn't see any horse there, but they would probably have some domesticated, magical, mythical creature draw the coaches… hmm.
"This way, Brave Heroes," the guide said.
I actually remember all the routes, you know.
Anyway, King Aultcray was already waiting for us in the throne room, with a crowd of people who were dressed up in armor, fancy costumes, or robes, and equipped with various weapons. Some of them donned sturdy armor that glistened in the sunlight, crafted from either supple leather or glinting metal. Meanwhile, the figures swathed in long, flowing robes looked as though they had just stepped out of an ancient tome on magic. And they looked really strong— and I felt like they were battle-hardened bullies. Er, sorry, people, I meant no offense.
It was a scene straight out of a fantastical tale. Confirming I am in a fantasy world, ha.
"Brave Heroes," announced the King. "As I pledged yesterday, I have recruited companions who will join you on your journey. Apparently, everyone gathered has already decided which hero they wish to follow."
Oh, so they are "adventurers." Not gonna lie, they actually look like people who find joy in adventures. I'd love to tell my teammates about my adventures as well if I ever had to recruit some.
However… it's not that easy.
The Omnitrix should be absolutely kept hidden and thus I can't just tell strangers, or even teammates about it — and my heroic adventures, obviously, as long as they are residents of this world. I can't openly reveal my identity just yet. Using my forms as a disguise to fight the monsters or whatever? Sure, that's a good idea. But if I had companions, it'd be hard to keep it a secret all to myself.
So what, I can't recruit random adventurers too early. Rather, if I want a team, I need to find a trusty companion first. Well, not that I need a team, though.
With the King's permission, the crowd of adventurers quickly split into groups as each of them moved to join the hero's party.
And no one joined my party. No party members! Zero members! Okay, I had mixed feelings about it, but it actually worked in my favor. It makes sense that no one joins my party since I am a shield user — they probably thought I'd hold them back, considering I was an untrained defensive player.
I was actually going to reject the ones who wanted to join anyway.
As I locked eyes with the King, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of apprehension. He had an amused smile that looked like he was going to crack up any moment. Whatever. I'm good. Please don't pick on me.
I glanced at the other three heroes and found out that they all had been taken aback by the fact that nobody had chosen me. I could see the shock and confusion etched on their faces.
Itsuki Kawasumi — 5 party members.
Ren Amaki — 3 party members.
Motoyasu Kitamura — 4 party members (all girls).
"W-well. Dear me, I would never have thought such a situation could occur. There's quite a difference in charisma amongst them."
I acted like a dumb NPC, ignoring the mocking looks from the adventurers. Then, the King's advisor leaned in and whispered something to the King, as if it was something important.
"Seems like some rumors about sir Shield Hero are swirling in the city," the King said.
Plot twist, it wasn't that important.
"They suggest the Shield Hero has an unwarranted sense of superiority, and a total disregard for this world. I think that's the point why you have been left without any party members." (King)
Oi, I just arrived in this world yesterday and already have to deal with another Will Harangue situation? Such a baseless accusation, too. I haven't had any interactions with the locals of this world, except for those in the royal palace.
It's funny how the other heroes would gladly accept this world as a game.
"Ahem, if I may, Your Majesty," I said.
The King nodded.
"… I don't have any problem with no one joining my party," I declared. "There is no need to worry about me."
I suspect that the rumors were started by someone from the Royal Palace. They were the only ones I had interacted with so far, therefore it's the most likely explanation. But what if there's something else going on that I don't know about? Well, I should be okay on my own, as long as my alien abilities work in this world.
The three heroes were surprised by my words since it'd be unusual— and impossible for a shield user to act alone. Naturally, yes.
The King frowned at me for some reason before changing his expression.
"Don't get so cheeky, kiddo. You only have a shield and what are you thinking? Huh?" Motoyasu says with an annoyed expression.
"Yeah, you better have some party members... otherwise, I don't think you will survive for long."
"It's suicidal to go alone."
Itsuki and Ren's reactions were not much different. For them, it was pointless arrogance. I hope they leave me alone…
Ren caught a glimpse of the Omnitrix on my wrist, so I instinctively hid it under my sleeve before it was brought up.
"Ah, Sir Hero, I'd like to accompany the Shield Hero instead."
There finally was an adventurer wanting to join me and it was a woman.
To be honest, I was startled by that voice. The voice of a girl. I think she was one of Motoyasu's companions but because he had four female members, I couldn't pick up who it was.
"Is there anyone else that wishes to fall under Sir Tennyson's protection?" asked the King, seemingly unaware of the one who wanted to join me.
But the girl didn't come out. With no one showing any sign of joining me, the King sighed.
"So, there is no one else. Unfortunately, Sir Tennyson, it appears you will need to scout for additional talent yourself. But fret not, for I shall be giving you a bonus on your monthly war fund which will soon be distributed."
Uh, yeah, I guess he just wants to diss me. Laughable, and I said I didn't want any teammates.
I stole a quick glance at the King, and it looked like he was trying to have some kind of eye-wrestling contest with me. At that moment, a girly voice interrupted our sacred duel. I was almost startled but instinctively recomposed myself.
"Sir Shield Hero, I want to…"
"... yeah, what is it?"
It was a beautiful young woman with red hair and green eyes that could make anyone stop and stare. At first glance, She seemed so innocent and graceful at first glance, with curves and feminine beauty that left an impression while being modest and nice.
But then, her appearance only reminded me of what Professor Paradox forewarned me about. suddenly I couldn't shake the feeling that something was off about her. I need to be careful around her.
"I want to join your party, Sir Shield Hero."
The room went silent. It was a late, unexpected membership application after all.
"Thanks for your consideration," I replied humbly, breaking the silence. "But you are in Spear Hero's party, right? You don't need to go out of your way to burden yourself with me."
She blinked as if I said something unexpected. Everyone else including the three heroes was also surprised by my answer— as if I were the one giving up the golden opportunity.
"And I prefer to work alone," I added.
Lady, don't persist. Leave me alone already!
But, no, it didn't go quite well. Woman, she had invaded my personal space and was clinging to my arm with a pleading expression.
"Sir hero, please. I really want to join –"
Alright, this is a bit…
"Please release my hand and back off," I said in a harsh tone.
I must play the villain card, huh?
"Eh, s-sorry, Sir Hero," she pretended to stutter and backed away.
"Forget it. Look, I am fairly capable on my own. I may not be an adventurer but back in my world, I…" okay, I needed to come up with a backstory— a lie to convince them that I needed no one. "I was an experienced fighter. I can even fight with bears. So you would just… end up holding me back."
At this point, I don't care anymore.
Guess making friends in this world is also going to be another hassle for me. But it's all for the better. I can't take the risk.
"Y-you are a jerk," the lady scowled.
"Huh?" I pretended to be surprised at her dramatic change.
I considered grinning like a villain to upset her more, but I shouldn't escalate the situation too much.
Interested, the King leaned forward to hear her better.
"I-I can hardly believe it!" she said. "I extended to you a wonderful opportunity to have such a precious and graceful young woman as myself as a party member, yet you declined. You are the worst!"
She stomped back to Motoyasu, sulking like a child.
What an interesting woman.
Everyone probably thinks I'm the bad guy here for turning away an eager adventurer, but I don't really care. The King seemed amused by the scene, but when I glanced at him, he shot me a stern look.
"So this is it," the King finally finished the assembly. "Brave Heroes, it is now imperative that each of you set forth on your own paths to explore both the forest and the town. To our valiant heroes, I urge you to hone your skills and increase your levels, so that you may be better prepared for the impending waves on time."
— — —
As I stepped out of the Palace, I found myself in Castle Town, the capital of Melromarc. I decided to explore the town and gather information about adventuring before heading out to the leveling ground. The streets, architecture, and clothing of the residents all had a medieval feel to them.
Despite that, everyone was busy engrossed in their own affairs. The street was adorned with shops and the tranquil atmosphere made me doubt that my rumor could spread in this locality. Nevertheless, the absence of aggression rendered the surroundings serene, yet somewhat boisterous.
I witnessed a cart drawn by a weird ostrich-like creature. So they use ostriches instead of horses, huh? I wonder if there are any dragons in this world.
Staring off at the ostrich-like creature, I instinctively moved aside before accidentally bumping into something.
"Ah," I said before realizing it was a cage holding a child.
What the heck is this?!
The cage was placed over a barrel, inside which was a young girl. I blinked, thinking I was hallucinating. Or so I hoped. Because she had peculiar features resembling those of an animal. Her unkempt brown hair was coupled with raccoon-like ears and a small tail protruding from under her ragged clothes.
She was now frozen in fear. But I, too, was stunned, but I was just confused: are those ears and tail real? Or just some props? is she a result of some mad scientist's experiment? I found a metallic choker around her neck and cuffs and chains all over her small body. This can't be good.
Without another thought, I grabbed the cage, rushing to remove it without even searching for the door. Then I hastily rolled up my sleeve and tapped the Omnitrix. At this point, I wasn't even worried about being seen.
But hearing the footsteps, I looked up at the approacher who grabbed the cage as well.
"W-who are you?" I said, with a hint of rage in my voice.
"You can say I am her owner. I am a slave merchant," he said. "You are?"
"Her owner…?" I repeated his words. "I am Hero of the Shield."
His facial expression turned into a twisted, unreadable smile.
He was a well-dressed man, with a mustache, wearing a black tuxedo, a black hat, and round glasses.
"Wait, what is she? She is a human, right? I mean, it doesn't matter if she isn't but—"
"A demi-human slave. Can you release me?"
"Oh, sorry…" I released him from my grip.
So she's a demi-human, which means she's partially human. It's interesting to learn about the existence of demi-humans in this world.
But the "slave" part stirred me.
"I suppose you are new to this world."
"Yes, I was summoned here yesterday," I didn't bother to cover it up.
The more I examined her, the more bruises I found. I had this anger rolled up in my throat, wanting to beat the crap out of the merchant.
"Do you want her?" He said.
"No, um,..." I hesitantly answered. "Can you tell me how… how to free her?"
The child was trying to hide herself.
"There are a lot of demi-human slaves," the merchant said. "It's a norm in Melromarc. Even if you save them, they won't obtain freedom for long."
Well, being a merchant, he's someone living off of this market. I was enraged, but I don't know— I have mixed feelings. Just before the rage flooded my mind, I remembered Paradox's reminder again.
"... I see," I replied.
I can't even imagine buying a slave, but maybe I could raid the slave market and save them all from a lifetime of misery. But this world is not mine, and I don't want to upset its harmony. Paradox warned me to leave everything as it is. There is a reason for everything in this world, and it's not up to me to change it. Not yet.
"Well, you'll know it when the time is right. But rest assured, this isn't that time. Not yet, anyway." (Prof. Paradox)
"Shield Hero, do you want to help me?" The merchant said, trying to lift the cage.
I blinked. I was obviously anti-slave, and he knew it. Then why would he ask me to help him?
"How much for her?" I said in quite a harsh tone yet again.
What she needed the most wasn't just someone to save her, but someone to protect her. And I, for some reason, doubted myself to qualify as her guardian. Not just about her, but it's about all demi-humans.
Am I selfish to not take the risk and leave them in slavery?
"It's not much," the merchant said. "But is it really what you want?"
"What do you mean?"
"You are alone," he pointed out. "So I thought you didn't have party members, so you'd want a combat slave. She's ill and weak. She won't be able to support you well."
You sly bastard.
"What happened to her?"
"Her previous owner mistreated his slaves," he answered.
I clenched my fists, mentally noting to look out for such mistreatments. But for now, I can't do anything yet. I can only grit my teeth.
I let out a sigh and helped him carry the cage into a large circus-style tent nearby. It's not very heav— I mean, I want to transform into Humungousaur, damn it!
The interior was dark with the only light being the rays of sunlight following me through the entrance. When he lit the lamps, we now had a dimly bright space but I couldn't see much further into the place. Though I could sometimes smell a mixture of awful smells, I decided to not ask him for that.
For this child, I somehow came up with a plan in a few seconds and pulled out the coin pouch provided by the Royal Palace.
"Take this money," I said, putting the pouch on the table, without sparing a cent for myself. "Don't sell her to anyone. Please take care of her until I come and buy her."
"Oh, that's more than enough," he said, pulling the pouch toward himself. "Rest assured then, Shield Hero."
Being someone who doesn't have a background myself, even if I could save some slaves, I might not be able to protect them, since bigger problems dictate this world.
Unfairness. Injustice. Inhumane. But now is not the time.
This world has a dark side to it, with discrimination against demi-humans and non-humans in Melromarc. Non-human slavery is legal and demi-humans are viewed as having lower social status than humans. Some humans object to this, but they can't do anything, leaving the demi-humans to live as slaves. Some slave owners are cruel, causing mental and physical trauma to their slaves. Going down into the rabbit hole, I found out that King Aultcray apparently supported the discrimination and approved of demi-human slavery.
When humanity behaves poorly, it is unavoidable that those who are victimized will develop feelings of animosity toward us.
Ah, shit, let's forget that for a while and enjoy my trip.
I entered a valley and took cover behind a stack of wooden crates. Then I lifted my left sleeve, revealing the Omnitrix on my wrist. With a light tap, the device's holographic display flickered to life, showcasing an array of alien symbols rotating in a circle as long as my finger rested on the surface. When I removed my finger, the faceplate slid down to the side, allowing the device's core to pop out.
"It's morphin' time," I whispered, pressing down the core.
With a flash of green light, a hooded bluish moth-man replaced my human self.
"Biggg Chill! Crap…" I said it out loud.
My new form was a dark-blue humanoid moth-like alien with a slender body and four wings and two antennae-like wings that can fold can fold up into a hooded robe, resembling a phantom. My new body was black with cyan patches that looked like chunks of ice on my arms and legs. My mouth showcased four bluish-white teeth.
Most important of all, the Omnitrix sat on my torso.
Before getting any attention, I switched on my intangibility and invisibility and phased through a building to fly away.
The first step of exploration— I have to familiarize myself with the town.
Flying to and fro in the streets, I tried to remember the map of the town. I memorized the locations of certain landmarks and buildings while staying hidden from the residents.
Where is the menswear shop? No, they probably don't have separate shops for men and women in this medieval era... Or do they? I slept in my shirt last night, so I'd want some new clothes, seriously.
Alright, I've memorized the routes and the map of shops, especially the commercial area. I found an "Armor and Equipment Shop", which apparently sells the armor, weapons, and tools the adventurers need. Even for heroes who already own legendary weapons, high-quality armor will be needed.
I am not sure how it works, medicinally or not, but these potions I found in the pharmacy shop had some mystic effects that could boost the adventurers.
A man drove a cart drawn by an ostrich-like creature and stopped the cart in front of said pharmacy shop.
"This batch's for today!" He said, throwing a bag at the shop manager who hastily rushed out of his shop and caught it.
"Thanks." "Pay later. I have work to attend to."
Special items, charms, boosters… They all sound like video game items. I am not really familiar with them though.
Oh, what is this button? Mmm, wait, what the heck! A portable map?
The portable map was included in the Status Magic. So I have done nothing but wasted an hour running to and fro in the town… for nothing? I facepalmed out of disappointment.
After some time, I came across the Cathedral - a clear indication that religion exists in this world. I couldn't quite identify the symbol - it was made up of a Spear, a Sword, and a Bow. Hang on a second... Something's missing. Where's the Shield?
Hmm. I wasn't disappointed or anything, but it felt weird. I don't understand why they would shun the shield in the first place. The spear, sword, and bow are weapons after all — so it felt weird to see the weapons as the symbol of a religion.
I guess I will sneak inside and gather some information here.
With my body intangible, I phased through the wall, invading the hall in the cathedral building. The interior was pretty normal— I mean, I never was a religious type so I have almost never visited such a graceful church building. The architecture was admirable. The visitors and nuns looked really religious, too. I shouldn't judge them for the symbol of their religion, right?
Doesn't that mean the residents rely on the holy heroes so much that they regard the heroes as their gods? I am not on the list, but well, whatever.
Upon entering the innermost hall, I found a large hourglass. It was massive with some kind of magical sand trickling down from the top into the bottom part. I don't know what this device is for, but I suspect the sand inside isn't your average sand.
Oh, yeah, that ancient hourglass King Aultcray talked about. This must be it.
"You heard about Shield Devil?"
I turned around and saw two nuns who walked into the hall. Normally, I'm not the type to eavesdrop on others, but since I was gathering information, I decided to listen to them.
"What about the devil?" The other nun replied.
Shield devil? Who?
"It seems nobody has joined his party. And word is, his personality is downright wicked and evil. The royalty suspects he's up to something evil."
Evil this, evil that. Yes, it sounds more like Dr. Psychobos. Hang on, are they talking about me?!
They called me "Shield Devil." Now that I think about it, everything falls into place. The three heroes— spear, bow, and sword wielders are regarded as the symbol of their religion. So the Shield being the symbol of the devil makes sense.
I wasn't angry, but rather I was intrigued. I wonder what the previous Shield Hero did so much that these people despise the Shield, ha.
I thought the rumors about me were just spread by the palace, but it's probably wrong. The church and the entire religion could be behind the propaganda. Not that I care about it, though.
"I heard that the high priest is getting ready to counteract against the Shield Devil. But can you believe it? The Queen is still showing concern for the Devil."
"Yes, maybe she is a devil worshipper… like those Demi-human scums…"
Some interesting information I've got there. It seems the religion itself supports the discrimination for some reason, but "the Queen" person disagrees with the religion. I've never met this person but my guess is she must be King Aultcray's wife. Or someone else who got the Queen title for something else? No, no overthinking, silly me.
"Sh… don't run your mouth like that. What if royal guards hear you?" The nun said to her friend who was badmouthing the Queen.
It'd be hilarious if there was an ancient text saying "Shield Hero is the devil."
I decided to leave the Cathedral and checked out the shopping ward.
Whatever though, the thing about demi-humans worshipping me was kinda sweet into my (nonexistent) ears. Mm-hm, I feel even more motivated to work harder and help them all!
Alright, now, I have to buy some armor and usable equipment. I landed in a secluded alleyway and pressed the Omnitrix on my torso to turn myself back into human form.
Two minutes later, I found myself in an equipment shop.
"... no, wait, I don't have money," I said monotonously back to the shopkeeper, who was a bald middle-aged man with a tall, muscular man. I hope he's cool with it.
"Oh… did it run out?" He replied with a lighthearted smile.
"I gave it all to a slave trader," I said honestly, which made him widen his eyes.
"So you bought a slave?"
"No, uh, not like that. It's kinda hard to explain."
I didn't want to go on about freeing demi-humans and such, and I wasn't sure he would support anti-slavery.
"Oh, then I won't ask anymore," he said, glancing at the shield on my hand. "What a fine shield you've got there."
I hope he thought of me as a normal adventurer.
"Oh, this is…" I muttered. "Exclusive."
"Mm-hmm, you already have a small shield so what weapon would you like? Spears, swords, bows, etc."
The man folded his arms across his chest.
"How about guns?" I replied half-jokingly.
"Guns?" He thought for a moment. "I don't have them."
I figured this world shouldn't have guns due to the level of technology developed. Magic spells can work like guns anyway.
Bang Bang.
"Can I just look around?"
"Feel free to."
The owner is a good person, thankfully.
I should be able to forge a weapon or armor on my own, using the intelligence of Grey Matter, Brainstorm, or even Jury Rigg for temporary use. But well, I guess I will check out the equipment of this world, first.
Oh, this sword looks dope.
I picked up a sword from the rack, remembering the nostalgia. That time I stabbed Vilgax with Ascalon. But seconds after as I touched the handle, I felt the electricity flowing from the weapon into me, and it flew out of my hand.
"I think, Mr, Bald, your weapon doesn't like me," I mumbled in confusion.
"I have a name and it's Erhard," he said, grabbing the handle of the sword.
Why is it fine with him? Does he have magic resistance or something?
"Let me try again," I said, grabbing the sword he put down.
And as if sparks came out, the sword flew out of my hand and dropped to the ground.
Caution
Legendary Weapon Specification: Holding a weapon besides the assigned equipment type is a violation of the rules.
I deadpanned, seeing the holographic warning card appearing in my periphery.
What the heck?!
"Weird," Erhard commented, stretching the back of his head.
"Sorry, Mr. Erhard," I apologized. "It's probably because of my shield."
"What's with it?"
"It's a Legendary Shield so I can't use other weapons," I replied in a depressed voice.
That's why they said I needed companions. Logically, it's impossible for a shield user to fight alone.
"Legendary Shield? Does that mean…" Erhard widened his eyes. "You are the Hero of the Shield who was summoned yesterday?!"
Identity exposed. The undercover officer needs to retreat.
"Yes, I am one of the summoned heroes," I said, nodding.
I hope he doesn't hate me though.
"Then, Shield Hero, can you let me take a look at your shield?"
"Call me Ben," I replied, holding up my right wrist since I couldn't get it off of my body.
He placed my hand, attached to the holy shield, on the table and whispered something to himself, which summoned a small ball of light shot toward my shield.
"Well, it certainly looks like a normal small shield," he remarked.
"And?"
"You see this jewel embedded in the center of the shield. I feel a great amount of energy emanating from it. I tried looking into it with my appraisal magic but found nothing really. If it's somehow cursed, should have known that instantly."
"O-oh, I see."
"I guess you have a teammate or two already?"
"No, I don't. I am alone. Practically."
He let go of my hand. "You'd seriously need a companion if you are going on adventures. You'd need to strengthen yourself after all. Anyway, wanna see armor?"
"Maybe after I've made some money," I replied.
I was anxious. I might have to rely on my alien forms a lot if I were to go solo. Yeah, that solves half of my problems. The other half is— how am I supposed to fight in front of anyone else?
I mean, look, I am a Hero. I could always rely on my alien forms to boost my strength, but people will certainly get suspicious if I can't show such power as the Shield Hero.
"I wish you good luck, Ben."
"Thanks."
I left the capital for the training grounds.
Regardless of my status as a hero, I am still a level-one. Many of these things don't make sense to me, but I have no other option. My offensive power dealing one sacred point of damage is going to be a pain, but I'll have to find a creative way around to somehow make up for my weaknesses.
"Ah, whatever…"
Event: The monsters appeared!
There were dozens of them, all orange and balloon-like, floating ominously in the air. Their beady white eyes and sharp-toothed grins were beyond unsettling.
I didn't waste any time. I charged at the monsters with my shield raised, hoping to deal a serious blow with this sturdy metal plate.
But my excitement quickly turned to disappointment. My attack only caused a measly one point of damage - no kidding.
I fired off another blow, and finally managed to take one of them down... after taking a couple of punches to earn a single EXP.
The monsters glared at me with fury, and I knew I had to get out of there. I darted away, looking over my shoulder to see the crowd of balloon monsters flying after me.
"Omnitrix, Command Code 1-2-2-7!"
"Voice command recognized. The ID Mask function shall be automatically activated upon the user's transformation. Exception:... Homosapien."
— Announced the Omnitrix.
This must be what Professor Paradox talked about.
ID Mask — level 7 technology in my home universe. It usually has the shape of a normal mask. But it can change the appearance of a person, and can even turn the user invisible! The ID Mask has one crucial purpose here in this world - to keep my superpowers a secret from its people. If the public knew what I was capable of, they would be terrified of me, and it would only take one fear-mongering loudmouth like Will Harangue to turn the whole world against me.
Here it's just another hidden function of the Omnitrix, by the way.
"It's Hero Time!"
I stood up and struck the balloon monsters away with my small shield. After getting some distance from them, I pressed the Omnitrix, waiting for the core to pop out, and pressed it down without looking at the chosen randomized alien.
The green light briefly covered my entirety as the Omnitrix rewrote my genetic codes to transform into the selected species completely.
"Oh, this is…"
My body had turned red, and my legs had grown shorter. I sported a pair of patagial wings attached to my arms and my body.
"... Jetray. Oh yeah!"
Jetray resembles a manta ray, with a red body and a pair of golden horns.
And immediately after that, my outer appearance changed back to my human form, hiding my true form that had been transformed into an aerophibian. This reminds me of Ultimate Ben. Nice job, ID Mask.
The ID Mask doesn't change the shape of my body. It just messes with the senses of the beholders through the false light rays and signals emitted by the mask. Well, in this case, those rays are probably emitted from the Omnitrix, which was invisibly on my torso.
The balloon monsters had recovered from confusion, but when they hurled themselves toward me, I had enough time to unfold my now-invisible wings/ arms and flew backward, keeping a distance between me and the enemies.
I don't know if it works, but let's give it a try.
I jumped into the air and performed a light backflip, concentrating the energy in my eyes and the now-invisible tail. The monsters flew after me, however, only to get introduced to the three rays of neuroshock blast — fired from my eyes and tail.
However, I still dealt one point of damage.
No, hang on, there was a miracle. My damage was a total of 69 pts on each of the three monsters… as continuous damage?! It certainly killed the balloons but admittedly, I don't understand how continuous damage in videogames works. It certainly wasn't damage per second. I mean, the shot was instant.
Ah, no use thinking about it. I've somehow figured a way out to deal more damage, I guess. Now I've got a total of 4 EXP. Neat.
That evening, I gained a few more dozens of EXPs solely by killing the balloon monsters. Jetray was such a fun ride, too. I am normally supersonic in Jetray form, so I had to slow down to have fun. It sucks seeking fun from killing monsters, but well.
"Hmm, where am I?"
Ah. I was too fixated on killing the monsters and leveling up. I found myself deep in some forest beyond the training grounds.
"Well, this sucks," I mumbled, looking up at the sky.
The moon was already up at the time. I could see the capital in the distance, and it wasn't farther than a 10-second flight for me.
I quickly scanned the environment with my enhanced senses before descending to the ground. There was no monster.
It was the best weather and the best condition to take a walk in the middle of the forest.
"Who's there?" I said, without looking back. "I don't know if you are intentionally giving away your position but I know you are there."
"You are truly one of a kind, Hero of the Shield."
I don't have keen senses, nor am I the investigative type. Jetray's keen senses could tell every little sound and movement in the area: that was how I detected the monsters. So I could pinpoint where she was since no one else was there.
Also, they could tell I was the Shield Hero right away. I better be wary of her.
Suddenly, I heard a rustling from behind. I turned around to look back at the guest.
There was someone with a knee touching the ground in a respectful manner.
"Forgive me for spying on you, Sir Shield," they said. "I mean no harm. Her Majesty, Queen Mirellia, has assigned me to look out for you. However, it seems my assistance is unneeded."
They were a masked, fully-robed shadowy figure. Almost their entire body was covered in clothes, so much that I couldn't tell their gender. Plus their voice was really ambiguous to distinguish it. Their fashion reminds me of ninjas though.
"It's indeed unnecessary," sorry, I am rejective of the idea of having teammates. "How long have you been after me?"
"Since this dawn," they answered.
I couldn't tell if they were honest or whatever.
"I see. May I know of this "Queen Mirellia person?"
I hope I wasn't disrespectful and offensive, ha.
"Her Majesty, Queen Mirellia, is the ruler of Melromarc. Currently, she's out of the city and stationed by the border to establish harmony with the nearby nations. Her Majesty left the job to her consort — King Aultcray Melromarc XXXII — to attend to the nation while she was away."
Hmm, I think I've got the gist of the situation.
"So she knew we were summoned?"
"She didn't know His Majesty would summon the heroes while she was away," they answered.
So basically, King Aultcray is taking advantage of the Queen's absence and acting on his own.
"Oh, I see. Is that all?"
"Before you go, I have but one warning."
"Hmm?"
— — —
"Tennyson, you are late," Ren said impatiently.
I think I got back to our inn around 9 PM. Not that I could tell the time. But Motoyasu and others were still up, in a heroic discussion held in the dining room.
"Sorry, I kinda lost my way."
"That's what happens when you have no companion," Motoyasu said mockingly.
I canceled my transformation and subsequently turned off the ID Mask, unbeknownst to them.
"We were talking about how you would manage with a Shield," he said. "No one chooses shield class in the game after all."
"It would be nice if you would wield other weapons," Itsuki said.
"But we can't wield other weapons besides our weapon," said Ren, opening his status menu. "Here it says… The Heroes may not hold a weapon, aside from their assigned
Legendary Weapon, with the intent to fight with it."
Everyone went silent.
"You should seriously find teammates," Itsuki's tone changed. "Don't be so stubborn, Tennyson."
"I am sure there would be adventurers out there who wish to team up with you," Motoyasu commented. "Just, don't be a jerk."
You guys don't know the reality of this world.
"Yeah, I will consider that," I replied. "I am going to sleep."
As I walked away, I overheard Ren drinking the whole mug of some liquor he isn't supposed to drink at his age legally back in his homeworld. After letting out some hiccups, he also came with me and walked into his own room.
I guess I will go to bed as well.
Day 1 of Adventure. Day 2 after getting summoned.
I dropped myself onto the bed. One depressing fact is that I have spent all of my money on day one. I had been so focused on leveling up and gaining experience-points that I completely forgot to find a way to earn some cash.
Well, I can just figure it out tomorrow. No use worrying about it.
I closed my eyes and drifted off to sleep, determined to tackle the problem with a fresh perspective in the morning.
Hang on, one last thought— what am I supposed to do with the balloon remains I put into my inventory?
— — —
Where am I?
Oh, I am in the throne room. Before me are King Aultcray, the three heroes, their party members… as well as a circle of Knights surrounding me.
Hmm, something's strange. But why are they all looking at me with such disgust and contempt?
Suddenly, I can't move my limbs. I realize my hands and legs are bound by cold, heavy chains, immobilizing me.
Why is the King looking at me like that? What did I do to make him so angry?
Motoyasu, the Spear Hero, steps forward, raising his weapon as his party members struggle to hold him back. I catch a glimpse of a red-haired woman in the background, her face contorted in fear and revulsion.
What is going on?
"... you rapist!"
What? Did I hear that right? Did someone just accuse me of being a rapist? My mind reels as I try to make sense of the situation.
"... since you are the Hero of the Shield, I will let you go for now. Leave this palace at once. I don't want to see you…"
The King's words make no sense to me, and as I struggle to comprehend, the weight of the chains and the hostile glares around me begin to suffocate me. I can't breathe. I need to escape this nightmare!
"... knock, knock…"
It was midnight when I was suddenly awakened by a series of noises. Hearing someone knocking on my door, I was pissed.
I realized everything I saw just before was… indeed a nightmare. But I feel like everything actually happened. Don't tell me…
I took a deep breath and tried to compose myself. The door was locked securely but I better be careful before opening it. No, I knew I had to be cautious about who was on the other side. Should I answer the knocks, or should I wait and assess the situation first?
The knocks suddenly stopped. And I heard a click.
Suspicious, I quietly activated the Omnitrix through a mental command and assumed the right alien form to sneak out of the room without anyone's notice.
The name is Ghostfreak.
My new body had a rather distorted, eerie, ghostly form covered by pale skin. I had but one eye that could roam freely across my entire body. The Omnitrix symbol sat somewhere in the crevices of my torso.
That "clicking" noise… They are trying to unlock the door.
I scanned the room to find the usable tools. Then I telekinetically lifted the bed and the table, and carefully dropped them against the door so whoever unlocked the door couldn't just intrude the room.
Now I've gotta inspect who was knocking on my door.
After turning invisible, I phased through the wall like a ghost. This is no big task for Ghostfreak.
And there she was, standing outside my room with a key. I recognized her, she was part of Motoyasu's team, the same girl who wanted to join my party.
That woman. Isn't she on Motoyasu's team? This is the same girl who wanted to join my party.
She was also in my dream… crying. Well, it was such a frenetic dream and made no sense anyway.
But, what is she even doing here in front of my room?
Just in case, Omnitrix, record this moment. Recording someone without consent is technically illegal, but I guess I will take some evidence. Just in case.
The woman looked disappointed when she couldn't push the door open.
"Tsk," she walked away with an annoyed expression.
Interesting.
Unbeknownst to her, I followed her along as she left the corridors. She then met up with someone.
It was… the Knights from the Royal Palace?
"He didn't respond. Well, it doesn't matter, right?" Said the woman in an arrogant tone. "You can just break the door to get him later."
She was acting nothing like when she asked me to accept her. Weird.
"Of course, Your Highness," the tall, muscular man with a mustache, who I supposed was the leader of the knights, replied in a humble manner. "We won't disappoint you."
"Shield is such a nuisance," she replied. "We must get rid of him before it's too late."
Your Highness? Then, it connects the dots. This piece of puzzle solves most of my questions.
— — —
"Before you go, I have but one warning," they said. "They" were my stalker who directly answers Queen Mirellia, the ruler of Melromarc.
"Hmm, what is it?" I replied.
"Beware of Princess Malty," they said with an apparent smirk. "She will try to destroy you and your reputation."
"Oh…"
Isn't my reputation, like, already destroyed?
"... I'll be careful. Thanks," I said.
They nodded and vanished from my sight in a few seconds, like a ninja.
— — —
It was a busy morning.
Thanks to a certain person who disturbed my sleep, I had to wake up in the middle of the night. I had to leave the inn since I would probably get detained by the knights for whatever reason. I used my petrosapien form, Diamondhead, to create some greenish-blue crystals and sell them to make some money. Well, those crystals weren't valuable as expected. Their quality was toughness so the merchant said he would sell them to the blacksmiths to forge some armor. I don't care. I earned enough to buy myself breakfast after all.
I sat on the rooftop of the building across the road from my inn and waited for the knights to raid my room. Of course, I don't want to miss any moment of their schemes against me.
The knights and Princess Malty. You are going to taste your own medicine.
For now, gulp, gotta fill my stomach first.
"Thud! Thud!"
They were trying to break the door. Only after a few minutes that they finally broke into the room successfully— only to see the room empty.
"... he's not here." "... go… look for him." "... damn that brat…"
You guys are about 5 hours too late. Anyway, I guess it's time for me to attend the show as well.
The throne room in the castle had quite a crowd. A few nobles had been gathered as the audiences of the show. On the throne sat the King with a hostile look on his face, and the three summoned heroes stood before him.
The one who wasn't there was me— Ben Tennyson, the Hero of the Shield, and apparently the star of today's show.
And there was a certain red-haired girl with her face drenched in gallons of tears, her body shuddering with sobs, hidden behind the Spear Hero's back.
Motoyasu, the Spear Hero, seems to have a soft side when it comes to women. I mean, he looks like he's going to explode anytime soon, tightly gripping his spear. Motoyasu heard that the guards had already gone a while ago to bring the criminal. But nothing was heard back till now.
He would want to explode his anger at the criminal.
Ren was conflicted. He didn't have any particular readable expression, but he clearly couldn't believe it. Itsuki didn't seem to care as much as Motoyasu and Ren did. He was probably just going with the flow.
The huge double door opened to allow the Royal Knights into the hall. Seeing them bring no one, Kitamura Motoyasu finally snaps and grabs the collar of the nearest guard with the spear whirling around. The guard is trembling but he can't do anything back.
"... you… can't catch a fking kid?!"
Motoyasu furiously yelled at the guards. Itsuki walked toward them to give his heroic speech.
"We need to make sure he pays for what he's done to the victim. It's up to you guards to make sure that happens."
"What's up with all this ruckus, guys?"
Itsuki's heroic speech was interrupted by a familiar voice. Sorry, guys, I am late.
Their favorite hero — Benjamin Kirby Tennyson is here.
... They love me.
Hanging upside down from the ceiling, I folded my arms across my chest with a villainous grin, intentionally pissing off the King and my fellow heroes. The red-haired woman— Princess Malty in disguise, gritted her teeth as she glared at me.
No, shit, actually, they hate me.
Everyone else was surprised, as if they were witnessing something unbelievable. It was indeed an unbelievable sight though.
I was familiar with this scene. I see. My nightmare last night wasn't just a random bad dream. It was a precognitive dream.
I also knew those scary, pitiful eyes of hers. But I couldn't care less about her. She could hate me as much as she wanted, it is her choice. And either way, it doesn't benefit me.
"You! You rapist!"
Hmm… is he talking about me? Sorry, but Mr. Kitamura, your accusation is false. I am neither a rapist nor a rapper.
I let out a yawn standing in the same hanging position— it wasn't intentional. I just didn't have a good night's sleep.
"Er… excuse me. What did I miss here?"
Motoyasu Kitamura was so worked up. He aimed his spear at me and started spouting nonsense.
"You! You committed that disgusting crime! You are–"
"Who is this Malty person in the first place?" I responded with such calmness in my voice. "I have no knowledge of that person."
They don't know my encounter with the Queen's spy anyway.
With an unfaltering smile, I walked on the ceiling like a spider, causing the nobles and knights to utter in shock and surprise. The only ones who weren't surprised were Ren, Motoyasu, and Itsuki. Ren looked like he was still processing what to believe, while Motoyasu and Itsuki were apparently driven by false "truths" they had been told.
The thing is, my feet were sticky with silk-like substances that were produced from my soles. Guess what, this form is called Spidermonkey. Not that spidermonkey. This is an alien: a blue monkey with four arms and four arms. He can shoot webs and spider silk from his limbs, mouth, and tail. I was disguised as my human form, ha.
Itsuki strode forward with the intention of bringing "True Justice" to the person known as "Malty," replacing Motoyasu in the "court." No joke, he looks like a prosecutor.
He gestured at the red-haired lady who was supposedly sobbing.
"This lady here is the victim of the sexual abuse you committed last night," he claimed. "Malty is her name."
He sounded confident but it doesn't really matter.
"You sure you want to tell me her name?" I said with a grin.
"Huh?"
"You clearly don't know how to handle a victim and a criminal," I said, almost mockingly. "You just easily gave away the victim's information to the culprit. Is it really the right thing to do?"
"A criminal like you doesn't have the right to talk about what's right," Itsuki barked back.
Except I am not a criminal. Well, I won't be playing innocent here.
What I want to do is play the villain role.
I turned my gaze toward Malty.
She was the crying one. But I knew she was just pretending to cry.
"So your name is Malty, huh. Isn't this intriguing? You brought this entire trial into existence. Isn't it wonderful?"
Man, if I were a villain, I would probably make a good big boss. Especially against people who believe they are absolutely right, a bad guy is what it needs to give the heroes a lesson or two.
"Y-you jerk!"
Now, she's pretending to be an innocent existence who bravely stood up to her abuser. Hmm, yes, that description isn't wrong. Technically, I am bullying them.
"And why do I care about someone who calls me a jerk?" I shrugged my shoulders, averting my gaze away.
The King frowned at me in return.
Let me guess his thoughts. The Devil of the Shield has finally shown his fangs. He is truly evil! Or something like that.
But what he didn't know was that I found out about Queen Mirellia. I am going to break your fangs in front of your superheroes, His Majesty.
Ah, silly me, I shouldn't go so overboard with my acts.
"Well anyway –" ignoring the hostile glares of everyone else, I continued. "Why not move on with this trial? Come on. Call my lawyer. Where's the accused— oh, I am. Then where is the proof? Or did you all gather here for some banana giveaway from the castle? Banana wine?"
"Why do we need proof when Malty herself opened up to us risking her shame and grace? You jerk!"
Motoyasu yelled furiously. I realized he was just exploding at me at this point.
"Call me whatever you want," I responded with the unchanged villainous grin that would tick him off. "It doesn't change the fact that. I. Never. Committed. Whatever crime you are accusing me of."
The King suddenly stood up from the throne, interrupting me.
"Enough! You, Shield Devil, come down here and accept the punishment—"
"Punishment for what? I didn't steal any bananas from Your Majesty."
It's like adding oil to the fire.
Oh, crap. I thought I was overly sarcastic and attached to banana jokes… it's because I was Spidermonkey! Don't blame me, blame the DNA.
The King took a deep breath.
"You are exactly what I've expected the Devil of the Shield to be," he said. "I have known since the very beginning you first arrived in front of me."
"Hold it, Your Majesty," I said in a serious tone. "I couldn't care less about that stuff. Whether you call me the Devil of the Shield or not, I don't care. I have accepted my fate as the devil of the religion."
With a snap of my fingers, faint light rays escaped the Omnitrix, which was well hidden on my torso, and formed a holographic monitor before the summoned heroes.
"Because I've found out I'm going to be antagonized anyway."
The monitor showed the symbol of the religion— the Three Heroes Church.
"... you know what, Brave Heroes," I looked at the three heroes. "Even if it wasn't me, the Shield users still would be branded as a devil."
"That is…" Ren looked genuinely shocked, while Itsuki was now confused and conflicted.
Motoyasu couldn't care less about what I was talking about.
"Oh, I have more secrets to expose—" (me)
"Enough is enough!" King Aultcray couldn't contain his anger. "Guards, get him!"
No way he's gonna allow me to expose his dirt, I figured. But he doesn't try to sugarcoat it either, since it's about time that the heroes will find it out themselves.
Easy for him to give an order, but how the heck are the guards supposed to get here? The "Shield Devil" is literally hanging upside down from the ceiling which is at least 10 meters above the floor.
The Knights looked at each other, dumbfounded.
"I am no therapist so I can't really calm down your anger, Your Majesty."
Time for some stunts.
I released the sticky silk under my feet, allowing myself to fall down, surprising the audience with my quick moments. But I didn't fall to the ground.
"Damn him," the King quietly cursed.
Just adding more surprises, Your Majesty. I suspended myself in the air, flipping myself upside down, at least 5 meters above the floor. The nobles and the knights could only stare at me while the Heroes, the King, and Malty scowled at me in disgust.
Ren looked like he's still solving some kinda puzzle.
"I have several other secrets I want to tell you, Heroes," I said, snapping my fingers to change the display.
This time, it was the video of Princess Malty meeting the Knights in the middle of the night after failing to unlock my room.
Itsuki couldn't believe what he was seeing.
"… He didn't respond. Well, it doesn't matter, right?" Said Princess Malty in an arrogant tone. "You can just break the door to get him later."
"Of course, Your Highness," the knight leader replied in a humble manner. "We won't disappoint you."
"Shield is such a nuisance," she replied. "We must get rid of him before it's too late..."
I turned toward King Aultcray who just became angrier, and his attendants who were freaking out.
"Now Your Majesty and Brave Heroes… are you having second thoughts?"
This marks the end of Chapter (2). Thanks for reading.
Let's have a little talk, fellow fans. I avoided the "one-point attack-damage" problem entirely by making aliens irrelevant somehow in the original version. The reason is that Ben has never really played such an RPG game, nor does he have interest in learning many other functions of Status Magic. It was also to open some more routes for new Ben 10 X Shield Hero fanfic writers.
However, in this version, the attack-damage stats would still affect Ben's alien forms, like how Jetray's neuroshock blast counts as a continuous damage attack, etc.
Author's notes for the latest edition: In this chapter, some of Ben's underrated personality traits are emphasized.
At first, he liked how famous he was. But shortly after his identity was exposed, he grew tired of his fame. In the Omniverse series, he was used to it and had become even more famous, but he wasn't really fond of it. Ben's inner monologues are pretty rare though. In one particular comic I read, Ben's inner monologue showed that he still was a normal teenager who preferred a normal life with a secret identity rather than being a superhero celebrity. He described his life as lonely.
Ben is good at acting. This is laughable because in the original version, I never wanted to portray Ben as a villain. But Ben is surprisingly a good actor when playing villain so that became the plan. The Above And Beyond episode where Ben played a villain role to test the Plumbers' Helpers is one of the best episodes of Alien Force.
Using the pre-Omniverse designs of Big Chill and Ghostfreak is just a design preference.
The Omnitrix command code used to activate the ID Mask automatic function, 1-2-2-7, is a reference to Ben's birthday — 27th December, 1995. So one can assume this particular version of Ben came from the 2012~2013 era. (He is 16~17.)
Precognitive dreams: due to the anodite genes in his DNA, Ben can sometimes have precognitive dreams. However, it's a rare occasion and Ben can't consciously make himself dream such dreams.
Author's notes for V2: Any reviews are welcome, and I still need to improve. And I will consider answering the questions when the next chapter is up.
Christopher Paradox Chronos.
Misc: The author's name was originally signed as "Christopher Paradox Chronos, the Timekeeper." The "timekeeper" part has been removed before Chris Chronos, the author himself, won't appear as a character in this second rewritten version.