(Chapter 12: A 'Chaotic' Respite)
It would be a few days after the final battle against the Khornite Horde; that while celebrations were to be had over their victory, that for some reason that Ben couldn't place that there was a continuous sense of danger looming overhead that he couldn't place. Something that even as he tried to rest and relax, that there was someone or something else that was there in the wings that while he wouldn't say it was watching over him, that it had its eyes on him nonetheless, and that by itself unnerved him considerably.
(August 13th, 950. M30, 1:45 Pm, Ben's Safehouse)
It would be early in the afternoon as Ben and Perturabo were continuing to work on the Megaships together, and yet the Iron Warriors Matriarch couldn't help but notice the almost distracted state of the Ultimatrix wielder.
"I know that there is something wrong with you, Tennyson. You have been unable to operate at the standards that I know you are capable of. So what is it that troubles you to the point of being able to completely function at full capacity?" Perturabo asked as she stopped working on the cockpit of the Astro Megaship to look down at the diminutive form of Jury Rigg
"How could you tell something was up?" Jury Rigg asked back
"You are 30% slower than what you normally are in this form. Not only that, but Konstance in her concerns for you has told us of your inability to sleep completely." Perturabo informed the gremlin-like Xenos beside her
"Wait how does Konstance know that I don't sleep all that well?" Jury Rigg questioned
"She often watches you while you sleep?...In the aftermath of the Daemons being destroyed; she alongside Lorna and even Furiosa to some extent became worried of your safety and wellbeing. As such she has taken to keeping watch of you while you rest and go to sleep." The Iron Warriors Matriarch answered back as she continued to work on the control console without missing a single beat
"On one hand, it's nice to know that I have someone watching my back like that, but on the other its a bit much." Jury Rigg spoke as he assisted in the building of the navigation computers
"While I cannot speak for Konstance and her feelings towards you, what I can ascertain is that what she is doing is her way of showing that she cares for you. However, invasive it may be, this is the most that Konstance has done to for anyone that she has shown positive feelings for." Perturabo told the Ultimatrix wielder in regards to her fellow Matriarch
"As such do not take what she has done as anything offensive, so much as it is in the regard to your wellbeing. You are our ally and now comrade in arms, and as such it would not do well for us in any regard if we were to let harm come to you; because we did not ready ourselves should something happen. You are too valuable to us, and to the Imperium to let danger come to you when it can and will be avoided if possible and terminated should it come to that." Perturabo further spoke
"I didn't think I'd see you take up for Konstance like that; since you two aren't that close." Jury Rigg said with a small yawn that was unnerving to hear given that it sounded like a Koala's on P.C.P
"After all that has happened and that is yet to come, it is moreso out of pragmatism than anything else. Besides, I have come to value you as a respectable peer and colleague; during our time here." Perturabo said back with the smallest yet notable of smiles across her otherwise stern visage
"Thanks, and you're pretty cool yourself…By the way, did you ever get a chance to look at some of the Gundam I got to show you? I figured you'd like them and some of the stuff from Star Wars." Jury Rigg questioned as he continued to work on the navigation and communications computers with hampered but nonetheless frightening speed
"I have and as such have made note of several if not a dozen that will serve well in my Legion as siege weaponry…ones that if built properly will match if not surpass the power of Reaver Titans at their base. Perhaps even making Warlord Titans look like childs' playthings, before the marvels that you and I can create together." Perturabo spoke having some ideas for the Gundams she wished to build and utilize
"
Hey, whenever you want to build one of them. Just say the word and we will get started immediately! It has been ages since I have built a Gundam with someone, and I can't think of a better person to make them with than with someone who understands my love for building awesome machines and robots." Jury Rigg replied in excitement of building full-blown mechs once more
"That sounds perfect, the thought of doing so against our enemies' fortifications. In fact, I have a few in mind that I want to build to personally destroy the defenses of our enemies, with your aid." Perturabo said back with a rare sort of grin as her mind raced with all of what could be done
"Awesome! But, you guys don't have to worry about a thing with me. I'm sure its just me getting used to dealing with all this Warp stuff going on. We didn't have any of this in my time, so as far as I'm concerned all of this Daemon stuff is just playing some headgames with me…nothing I can't handle." Jury Rigg spoke sure of his messed up dreams just being tricks of the mind from exposure to these Daemons
"While your confidence is to be respected, your safety and wellbeing is not without warrant. The warp and the abominations that lie within it, are not to be trifled with. Despite our victory against them, they are not a threat to be taken lightly…So as someone who has come to value your company, as an ally in arms and in the skill of crafting, as well as on the field of combat. Tread carefully against these abominations, you are capable of great things and I wish to see them done in full." Perturabo said to the gremlin-like alien
"Don't worry, Perturabo. You have my word that when and if I have to deal with those things again. That I'll be on my A-game, I may be a lot of things, but getting caught with my pants down is never one of them. I would rather be prepared and called paranoid, than be caught with a blaster to the back of my head because I took things for granted." Jury Rigg spoke as he and said Matriarch continued working on the cockpit of the Astro Megaship
"Good, and should you experience any other problems from the aftermath of our battle. Contact Morganna, if anyone can make sense of the horrors that go on within that nightmare realm, it would be her." Perturabo instructed in regards to the one-eyed Psyker
"Gotcha, but until then let's finish getting this cockpit taken care of…I still can't believe we're almost done with the Megaships." Jury Rigg replied as he continued with an almost crackhead-like level of energy
"You have one of the if not the greatest minds in engineering in the Imperium, if not the galaxy. Of course, these ships of yours would soon near completion. It should be within a few weeks time at the latest that we will soon be away from this rock." Perturabo spoke with a smug grin
"I can't either. Soon enough we're gonna be making all kinds of cool stuff together, and I can't think of a better person to do it with." Was the gremlin-like aliens response as the two continued their work
'How is it that in the short time I have known you, that you have managed to gain not only my respect but my favor as a colleague.' Perturabo wondered to herself as they continued their diligence
(2 days later, August 15th, 950. M30, 1:45 Pm, Karakinos, Matriarch Base)
Meanwhile, Ben was alongside not only Lorna but Konstance Kurze who had a few times happened upon their talks of creating a new brigade of would-be heroes to fight for the Imperium and spread justice throught, and the Night Haunter in desires for justice couldn't help but become invested and as such join in to contribute.
"I am glad that you could join us Konstance! With your added help, Ben and I's plan to create a brigade of heroes to patrol, protect, and defend the Imperium from all threats. As well as root out corruption where it may lie, will be even better defined." Lorna Aurellian spoke happy to have Konstance join them
"Given how this can improve the Imperium for the better, and bring justice to the rot within the Imperium. This has my support in its full capacity. There is only so much our Legions can do when called upon, but with this…this we can destroy evil far more effectively wherever it may hide, and purge it once and fall." Konstance Kurze responded in seeing a great deal of merit in this idea
"And it is that sort of commitment that is needed toward the creation of what Ben and I are planning. We need heroes who will both uphold the ideals of what it means to be a protector of the Imperium. But spread justice and order, so that everything can be left better than what we left it…After the Great Crusade has finished there will still be much work to be had, and many worlds and even more lives to be defended." Lorna Aurelian spoke knowing that even after the Great Crusade was over that work was too be had
"That being said, we're going to need to not only outfit this with gear and weapons. Which I can make no problem once I get things set up, but we are also going to need to screen and test everyone that comes through. If this is going to work, we need to make sure that we are consistently hiring the right people to join this program. Because if not, then we risk creating more villains that can damage everything than heroes who can save it." Ben replied knowing that if this was going to be done it needed to be done properly and handled with utmost care
"I agree, as with my own personal experiences with the Night Lords and on Nostramo itself. I know that a few disgusting maggots, can and will poison and corrupt what should be greatness in the pursuit of something greater. As such, I wish to aid in the screening processes and make sure that whoever is to join; will be perfect for the battles to come against evil and corruption." Konstance Kurze said with great loathing over how gradually her Legion had began to become corrupt with filth
"By the way, Konstance if you're free later on, I have something I wanna give you, and a way to fix your Legion up a bit, that we can circle back too. If your free later on?" Ben said to the Night Lords Matriarch who near-immediately perked up at hearing this
"That sounds wonderful, Ben, I would love to see what you've made for me. Furthermore, any advice you have to improve my legion, I will be happy to hear." Konstance Kurze replied happy to hear what his plans were
'Yet and still, it is almost miraculous to see that he of all people can have Konstance speak and act with such warmth in her voice. The only ones to do such a thing are Fulgrim and Sekhmet, and oftentimes it is not with the ease that he is able to wield, truly he does have a way with endearing others to him.' The Word Bearers Matriarch remarked to herself
"But other than that, I have no doubt that Konstance will do fantastic at making sure that any candidates we have. That they are going to be great for the training we put them through…There's no one that I know so far who has a sense of justice stronger than Konstance, other than Branwen." Ben said as Konstance's eyes narrowed at the mention of the gothic Matriarch
"She wishes that her comittment to justice and punishing the unjust across the galaxy, and within the Imperium; was as strong as mine." The Night Haunter spoke with a proud grin about herself
"And I will take your word for it; with how genuine you have been in committing towards being a real-deal superhero. Speaking of, we will need to come up with an overall name for what we're making, as well as who we're going to call in to help with the martial training of the candidates for this. Because, as good as everyone here is; we're going to need someone to help us make sure that they're battle-ready as can be." Ben said back while also knowing they would need someone to help in regards to the martial portion of this project of theirs
"While I would suggest Leona; given how martially prodigious she is…I do not feel safe to entrust the task to her, she may be a great warrior, but that woman is unhinged, and that is the nicest way I can say it." Lorna Aurellian spoke regarding the Dark Angels Matriarch
"Can someone explain to me what makes her so scary?...Because, I do not see what's the deal about some discount knight? If anything she is not half of the hype everyone says she is." Ben replied not seeing the big deal about the crusader of a Matriarch
"She is not only one of the most martially skilled of us, but she is someone that The Emperor sends out when you want a rebelling world or system erased. If Freya is the Emperor's executioner, then Leona is his exterminator and never has she or her Legion failed in the destruction of worlds or systems that have been carried out under his command." Lorna Aurellian spoke with a level of fear that while not overwhelming was still notable in her voice
"Huh, that's good to know. So I basically have to worry about Captain Genocide, if she ever feels pissy at me…good to know." Ben replied non-plussed about the thought of dealing with a 9-foot-tall Forever Knight only with boobs and a far more prominent mean-streak
"Do not worry, if she dares to bring harm to you. I will personally remind her and her Legion; why they should fear what hides and lurks in the dark." Konstance Kurze swore to the Ultimatrix wielder
"I appreciate the thought, Konstance, I really do. But if anything does happen to me, because she want to try her holier-than-thou schtick on me, and take me off the map…Then what I do to her, will be unpleasant as an understatement." Ben assured the pale-faced Matriarch
"Are you sure? If you are ever in danger regardless of who it is, you know that my assistance and the strength of my rotten Legion is yours. I will not let anyone cause harm to you, so long as it is within my power." Konstance Kurze asked, her black and neon pink eyes almost comforting in a 'I will kill for you and no one will hear those who hurt you scream for a mercy that will never come' sort of way
"I'm positive. There has been rarely a thing that I couldn't handle, and your big sister isn't one of them." Ben answered back
"Very well, and moving on from her…I would like to put forth the Kahn, Furiosa, or Fulgrim as those we could trust to handle the martial training. From either end both are incredibly skilled at close combat, and are devastating at what they are capable of. Furthermore, with Furiosa now of sound mind and clarity; can effectively lead and teach those in the ways of combat without being hampered by the Nails as she previously was." Konstance Kurze spoke in listing the 3 most suitable candidates
"Well, we'll have to talk to them as soon as possible, since all of them are incredible at what they do. But also head their own Legions as well, Legions that they'll be returning to once everything is properly up and running. Which is why I will need Lorna's help at convincing any 1 of them to help co-sign on this." Ben said as he looked toward the priestly Matriarch
"You have my word that I will convince if possible all 3 of them to join our righteous cause. The strength of what we can build upon in the name of bringing righteous justice and defense towards its people; will not be denied in any capacity…I will need time to prepare myself on how to convince them of it." The Word Bearers Matriarch spoke in only needing a few days if that to do so
"Go for it, and let me know as soon as your ready…This is gonna be great, we're gonna make a legion of Superheroes, I'm gonna help equip your Legions with cool gear, and even fight alongside you guys. On top of being able to protect whatever my home planet is like from evil aliens, and what have you. I-I can't explain it, but I have a very good feeling about what is going to be accomplished once we get out of here." Ben replied with a feeling of true optimism in his voice that hadn't been felt since his last days with Gwen, Grandpa Max, and Kevin before and during the Chimera Wars
"I will…and I cannot express my joy at what we will achieve soon enough, nor my thanks for you showing me a purpose beyond conquest. Now, Now I can endeavor upon the truth of my own purpose beyond a conqueror, and spread the glory and faith of the Imperium in a pathway higher, and the best part is that I get to do it with someone who believes in the spirit of mankind as much as I!" Lorna Aurellian said back with a palpable excitement so potent that it could power a Lascannon twentyfold
"I'm just happy that I get to do something; that's going to help a lot of people across the galaxy. That is all that matters to me at the end of it." Was the Ultimatrix wielder's sole reply
"It truly amazes me to the selflessness of which you will put yourself toward in the name of justice and wellbeing for all. If there were more with your character in the Imperium, then it would be a far, far better place than it currently stands." Konstance Kurze spoke with a small smile at the altruistic manner that he approached justice from
"Being a hero is about doing the right thing to help out people who need it. It doesn't matter if there a janitor at a grocery store, the people who operate the cannons of a flagship, or a noblemans' bratty kids. If you have it in yourself to help someone who truly needs it, and that you know in your heart that it can be done…Then you hop to it, and do as much as possible to get it done." Ben replied with the earnest resolve of someone who knew that what they did wasn't easy but that it needed to be done regardless
"With your commitment towards righeteously protecting the innocent, I know that the creation of heroes to serve the Imperium and its people, and bring glory unto it; will be a immeasurable success." Lorna Aurellian said back
"And I cannot wait when that day comes, Lorna. But until then, we still have a lot to ground to cover, because oh boy there is a lot more that we need to cover; before we hit the ground running." Ben spoke knowing that they had much more to cover
As such the Ultimatrix wielder and the Matriarchs continued to dive deeper into the plan to create a branch of heroes to protect/defend and uphold peace within the Imperium, and to inspire hope and further calls to action within it. From there after and hour or so of doing that, Ben would go on to do a small myriad of things throughout the day that ranged from; further teaching and showing Fulgrim the wonders of rock and metal music that was a delight to the Emperor's Children Matriarch.
To sparring with Furiosa, the Kahn; wherein even Sekhmet was considering doing so in having pondered it after seeing Ben in action over the course of battling against the Khornite hordes, to later on showing Morganna some of his and Gwen's favorite anime of which she took delight in and studied for the purposes of applying to her own spellcraft. Such was the incredibly full yet delighted day that by the time nightfall had set that Ben while exhausted from the day, was happy that it was as it had been since his alliance with the Matriarchs had been eventful, but it was not over before he visited with Konstance to give her the weapon he'd worked on diligently for her.
Wherein said weapon was noneother than the Vilgax Sword having been transfigured into an imposing Power Glaive that haft of which was covered in reinforced armored plating in the colors of her Legion, wherein the blade itself reshaped to resemble more of a falchion; which she gave a few test swings and found that it handled with exceptional swiftness. Wherein after finishing it she planted it onto the ground feeling it was an exceptional weapon that if it was anything like Ben and the weapons he's built; held the capacity for both versatility and destructive force.
"I don't understand, why gift me with a trophy of your hard-fought battle against your archnemesis? Would you not rather keep this as a symbol of your victory?" Konstance Kurze questioned
"I would, but to be honest…that thing carries way too many bad memories for me to have it around. So I remade it so that it could be used to make a new legacy. One that hasn't destroyed and taken so many things from me, my friends, and allies over the years. Which is why, I wanted to gift it to you as something better, something that will do a lot of good in the galaxy. Since I know you can be something pretty great out there, and as such I wanted to make sure that you had the right tools for the job." Ben told her as Konstance couldn't help but feel her heart pound at his words
"How…How is it that you hold so much faith in my ability to be good, when you have not seen the things I've done, or will do? How can you believe in me, when I have been made a monster for the Imperium? But moreover, why do you continue to put belief in my ability to be good? I do not understand it." The Night Lords Matriarch questioned
"I do it because like I've told you a hundred or so times by now. I don't care about what you are or were like out there. What matters to me is the woman I've come to know with a good heart, and who wants to do genuine good in the galaxy. All I can see is a wonderful woman who wants to defend and bring justice, and be a genuine hero to others…Because of that, I place my faith in the strength of that, as without a doubt do i know that Konstance Kurze is worth my belief in her ability to be a hero and so much more…That is why I will believe in you no matter what." Ben answered back as for one of the rare times in her life Konstance Kurze couldn't help but shed tears of happiness and relief in those words
"Are you ok? I didn't say something that made you upset did I?" Ben wondered in seeing the tears come streaming down her face
"No…No you did not, if anything you have only made me happier at hearing that Ben Tennyson. I-I cannot put into enough words of how happy you have made me in the short time I have known you…Thank you, Thank you so much." Konstance Kurze said back in being unable to stop the flow of tears that ran down her pale scarred cheeks
"Hey, you deserve happiness just like everyone else. Even though you have gone through a meatgrinder; from what I've heard. You still remain someone who wants to do good, and who wants to protect; despite how dark it may get…you still manage to pursue after justice in your own way, and for that…I can only commend and support you for the strength it takes to continue in the face of adversity." Ben spoke
"Because of that, I will gladly support you through whatever may come, and I dare anyone to stop me from doing so…" Ben further spoke before he was caught up in a massive hug from the Night Lords Matriarch who held him close as could be
"I cannot express the joy you have made me feel, but I know this. That I will continue to do everything I can to make myself worthy of your support and faith in me…I will not let you down, I will make you proud and happy of me, so that you know that your belief in me was for naught. I swear this on my Legion, and my worth as a Matriarch." Konstance Kurze swore as she tightened the hug as she continued to let the tears streak across her face
"And I can't wait to see all the great things your gonna do. Your a good woman, Konstance, and I will be proud to see you be even better than you already are." Ben told the tear-streaked Matriarch as he returned the hug
'Is…Is this what it is like to know happiness from another close to you? Why…Why do I feel so…warm? Perhaps, I truly can be worthy of actual love from another, and if so I will spend my lifetime to let him know that I a worth every ounce of what he will give to me.' Konstance Kurze wondered as she continued the hug in enjoyment and happiness of the warmth that Ben brought out in her
(The next night, 11:10 Pm, Ben's Safehouse, August 16th, 950. M30)
Meanwhile, it would be the following night as Ben was heading to sleep given that after a busy day of assisting Rogal Dorn with the defenses, assisting Perturabo with the communications tower among other things…the Ultimatrix wielder was dead tired..
'Finally, I can hopefully get a good nights' rest for once.' Were the thoughts of a wearisome Ultimatrix wielder as he crawled into his bed for the night
"Now, all I have to do is get through these next few weeks in one piece; then it's smooth sailing from there...Well, almost since I'll probably have to deal with Furiosa and thems' dickhead Emperor for a dad." Ben spoke before a bellow-like yawn as he began to go to sleep
And for the first few hours, Ben was able to know a dreamless sleep which compared to the nightmares he'd had of wars and battles past since and during the Chimera Wars; was a peace he welcomed all on its own. However, this did not last given that those short precious few hours of dreamless sleep would give way to him standing in the midst of what could only be described as a blood-drenched hell of nightmarish ultraviolence; that unnerved him by how life-like this new nightmarescape was around him.
Wherein he stood upon a harsh wasteland covered in the countless skulls stained in blood both fresh and long since dried, as deep crimson skies cracked with forks of neon scarlet lightning; while gusts of wind howled with such ferocious anger that amidst the volcanoes erupting with hateful spite that it seemed as though it were trying to punch a ruinous hole through the sky. In tandem with Bloodletters and other such Daemons fighting with not just each other, but the most ardent devotees to the Blood God pitting themselves in constant combat, painted a sight that would forever burn itself into Ben's mind.
Yet what drew his attention as his dream self was almost pulled towards a brass and blood-red citadel; was the immensity of the armored figure he had first seen as he was sent into the 31st millennium of this dimension; the figure that had not only first looked back at him as he was flung through space and time, but also the very same who had sent the eldritch horde of abominations after him. The armored figure who sat within that brass and blood-red citadel who he felt himself almost magnetically pulled too, sat upon a colossal throne of skulls wreathed in blood; the skulls of which were cracked, fresh, or had strips of gore and flesh attached it did not matter, as human or Xenos sat affixed and fused into the macabre throne.
But the figure itself is what drew Ben's attention as he floated upwards towards them; his astral self stoping as he stood before its throne of brass and skulls, the figure gargantuan and far more infinite than what Ben's mind could fathom in this space, broad and muscular to the point that calling this figure a behemoth would be underselling it greatly. The figures' wrathful almost snarling countenance sat thoughtful and intrigued, from within its plated armor of obsidian and bloody-red armor of brass and darkened iron, as 8 eyes sat red as bloodstones staring intently at the Ultiatrix wielder…this was the Blood God, Lord of Battle, Taker of Skulls, and Lord of Rage himself; Khorne.
"Who or what even are you, and what do you want with me?" Ben questioned confused as to what this being of pure hatred and rage wanted
"I had thought that Ax'Akhan had told you upon his word, that he would make sure you have audience; with me once you defeated him in mortal combat. Then again you did wound his feeble pride when you bested him in the unconventional way that you did...he was never one to understand that glorious close-quarters can be done in more than just one way...Nevertheless, I was the only one out of my ruinous kin to look back at you when you entered this realm. I saw it first as you hurtled through the Immaterial, your rage, your hatred, you're fighting spirit, and unyielding will in the face hard-fought battle. I saw in you and still the potential as champion in my name." Khorne told the Ultimatrix wielder as he leaned forward to look at him
"And so after 8 days since you've slain those who served me, as you fought alongside the Golden wretches' daughters. I have seen fit to speak with you in audience…You have impressed me Ben Tennyson, your power, skill, rage, and fearlessness mark you as a worthy aspirant in my service." Khorne further spoke to the Ultiamtrix wielder
"Since you know who I am, then you already know that I am a slave to no one. If you want me so bad, then you are going to have to earn me; whoever the hell you are. I don't come cheap, Mr. I look like a rip-off Dark Souls Boss" Ben responded as a bestially thunderous snarl of a chortle escaped the wrathful Chaos God
"Given the strength of who you are and what you can accomplish, that is a challenge I am more than willing to undertake. It has been centuries if not millennium, since a warrior of your capacity and potential for violence has caught my attention…One whose mere presence has already caused changes to occur with the greater galaxy, changes that I cannot overlook; for the potential they yield." Khorne told a confused Ultimatrix wielder with his voice while an anger-filled snarl was one of excitement of being directly challenged
"What changes have I caused? I haven't done anything but meet everyone on-planet and fight against your minions…Not to mention, who or what even are you?!" Ben asked once more
"That is for you to find out, for you have set in motions changes that not even the supposed Emperor of Mankind and stop. Changes that will change wars and battles wholesale, and for the first time in millenia. My excitement rises at what will come of it, especially with these changes causing my kin troubles that they themselves struggle to navigate." Khorne answered back as all 8 eyes focused squarely on Ben the world around him seeming to heave from the concentrated focus of the most warlike of the Ruinous Powers
"Even Tzeentch for all his scheming cannot make a plan so needlessly complex to manipulate you or control your fate. Which interests me even more." Khorne further spoke taking great satisfaction at the Lord of Change's dismay
"Yet as for who I am, I am Khorne, the Lord of Battle, Rage, and Blood, and amongst the 4 Gods of Chaos; I am the eldest of of all. More than that, I am the one who will tell you no lies, such things are beneath a warrior who seeks glory through vicious, unrelentling combat and bloodshed." Khorne stated
"Good to know, but if you want me so bad as your champion, then why not come and get me yourself? Why send your goons to do your dirty work, if you want me to be one of your warriors?" Ben questioned
"You hold great power, a rage strong enough to tear entire star systems into blood-soaked ruins, and raise armies untold in my name. However, even in your accolades as a warrior, even for all of your power, and for all of your skill in combat and weaponscraft, you…you are not where I need you to be as a future champion…Even as you stand now I could do so, but you are not ready for what I want nor need of you…not yet." Khorne answered once more his voice morphing from a raging snarl to the deep, predatory growl of an apex predator
"No, I want your hatred to grow, your desire for violence and battle to expand and rise, I want you at your most vicious and brutal; before I take you…When I take you as my champion, and I will, then it will be when you are consumed in so much rage, and blood-red hate; that you will seek nothing but slaughter on a scale that will bleed this galaxy and so many others dry." Khorne further spoke as all 8 eyes focused further onto the young man who remained unphased despite the blood in his veins feeling as though they would burst out of his body from the sheer weight of Khorne's undiluted prescence upon him
"Then good luck with that happening, if I haven't broken under the weight of everything I've fought in almost 25 years. Then I still won't break under anything you do…So whatever tricks you have to pull out of your armor, then fine, it doesn't matter to me. I've fought Dagon, Celestialsapiens, titans of Ledgerdomain that eat stars like candy, and so much more that, Chaos God is just another thing I have to fight." Ben responded with a resolve unmatched even as he blinked red-hot blood from his eyes, nose, and ears; whilst his heart thumped so hard against his ribs that he thought they would break
"With how long it has been since a mortal has challenged me outright, especially one from beyond this universe and time. I will honor your bravery to stand against me, and tell you of the 3 other Gods…For it is only a matter of time; before you meet their own soldiers in the field of combat." The Blood God said to the Ultimatrix wielder
"Alright, and who are they then?...Also, why tell me under whatever honor code you have? Wouldn't it give you the leg up if you kept me in the dark?" Ben questioned as to the reason behind Khorne's intent
"As I said before, I am not one for deceit or trickery. That is left to that coward Tzeentch, and their tangled weave of lies and schemes…No if I am to defeat any of those who challenge me, then I will do so honorably and directly, as a warrior should; not using subterfuge and misdirection as a spineless coward." Khorne answered back in absolute refusal to do anything but the most honorable way of combat
"I won't argue against that…So, who exactly are the other 3 then?" Ben questioned as he had to spit out the bloody bile that he felt coagulating in his throat
"Beyond myself, there is the Plaguefather Nurgle who lords over the domain of disease and rot, beware his 'children', their putrid joy belies their resilience as an unwavering blight; as he seeks to turn all into his children and every planet into one of his gardens. Then there is Tzeentch a trickster and a sorcerer who believes himself a great schemer and manipulator, and yet for all of his schemes in their needless complexity. He is cowardly nonetheless in the face of those who can bring true danger to him, but nonetheless beware of his foul magics." Khorne informed him
"Then there is the degenerate and whore of excess, Slaanesh. That…thing is an abomination of carnal desire who whores in pain, pleasures, and needless pleasures of the flesh, in their pathetic ambition of perfection. Despite their pursuits of needless indulgences, you would be wise to steel yourself against their temptations. I will not have a potential champion as yourself robbed from me, because you did not know of that wretched harlot and their daemons who parade themselves in endless debauchery." Khorne further told him as his voice was nothing but unfettered rage and hate toward the Prince of Pleasure
"I'm going to take it that out of everyone, whoever Slaanesh is. That you two have personal beef with each other?" Ben questioned
"To say that I hate them, is to say that Nurgle does not love the disease and rot he conjures from his cauldron. That debauched wretch is anathema to all that should be. The day where I can wring their life from their neck, will bring me nothing but the greatest joy imaginable." Was Khorne's sole response
"I'll keep that in mind. But with that being said, you do know that even with everything you've told me. That this changes nothing, that I'm still going to find a way to beat you, your armies, and everything else here in this weird-ass future. Since I've done a lot of weird shit in my life so far, but adding the title of God-killer too it…now that is gonna be up there." Ben spoke in confidence that somehow someway he'd find one to fell the Blood God
"I look forward to seeing your efforts, Ben Tennyson. But until then, prepare yourself for what is to come. You have entered into a new realm of conflict, one that will come to you faster than you anticipate, and I look forward to the day you rise to the challenge, and more importantly..To the day when you and I will engage in glorious combat and you will be at my side as the greatest of my champions, whether you wish or know…So with this, I leave you with this knowledge and the one act of courtesy from a warrior of respect and power as yours." Khorne said to the Ultimatrix wielder
All before with a wave of his hand was Ben banished from the astral realm of Khorne and back into his waking form with such force that he was sent flying off of his bed, the 30-something Ultimatrix wielder rolling onto his side; coughing out blood in such quantities that it formed a small puddle. The blood vessels in his eyes having burst like overripened cherries; turning his vision scarlet, whilst blood leaked from his ears, nose, and mouth, his head ringing as though he'd been punched in the temple by a Tetramand; his ris feeling as though they've been bear-hugged by an Appolexian on bath-salts who had then hit him with meanest German Suplex known to mankind.
And yet from the pain of this alongside his joints burning as though acid and barbed wire had been thrown onto him, did his mind still ring in picture-perfect clarity, as his meeting with the Blood God and the images of the other 3 Chaos Gods now in sharper clarity to their haunting and terrifying appearances range true in his mind. All the while, Ben was soon met with the appearance of Konstance Kurze who had him in her arms with a worried look in her eyes, as after witnessing him having convulsed, seized, and having been hurtled clear across the room was in immense worry, as tears of concern ran down her face.
"Hey, hey…I'm fine, I'm fine Konstance…Just a really rotten dream happened is all." Ben assured the incredibly worried Matriarch
"What happened to you was the work of no mere dream, Ben. I saw you floating in the air, bleeding, and seizing…I-I thought you were going to die…W-What happened to you, while you were asleep?" Konstance Kurze questioned her eyes looking over him near frantic to make sure there were no further injuries on him
"I'm fine, really I am…but we need to get Morganna and Sekhmet up, as soon as possible. I saw something that's gonna change things by a wiiddde mile. Because, holy shit did things just get even weirder." Ben spoke as he hacked up more blood in knowing that what he had witnessed in his chance encounter had to be shared
"Very well, but you are to be healed first and foremost before you speak to any of them." Were Konstance's demands as she helped Ben to his feet
"Fair point…Man, I really got messed up by the Khorne guy." Ben said to himself his head still spinning
'On the plus side, I survived my first real meeting with a god…I think…man if I see Gwen again; she is not gonna believe this.' Were Ben's thoughts as the two would soon make haste to the Matriarchs Base
(3 hours later, 6:12 Am, Matriarch Base, August 17th, 950. M30)
Meanwhile, after Ben was patched up somewhat by his drones and the use of Archeagle to heal any internal damage dealt by his meeting with the Lord of Rage; did he and Konstance make their way to the Matriarch Base to inform the 2 Matriarchs in question of his vision concerning Khorne, and what he'd witnessed…to say they were as astonished by his recount was an understatement to say the least.
"This is incredibly concerning to know, but valuable information all the same." Sekhmet said after assessing everything that Ben told them from their dream
"But at least you guys know that these things aren't just mindless monsters. But they're militarizing, and have Gods that are leading them…All of whom are strong as shit; if they have enough power to not only send their minions from another plane of existence all the way out here. But also reach me in my dreams to contact me, and the result of that is me getting jacked up by it." Ben replied knowing that these Chaos Gods had some OOmph to them if meeting one in a dream was enough to mess with him
"Indeed, and now that we know that there is not 1 but 4 of them. This again changes things immensely regarding our fight against the Daemons…Now we know of the masters they serve and what forms they may take, which is all the more disturbing to think about." Sekhmet spoke
"Your telling me, but at least this gives all of you guys even more to prepare for. Since we have 4 threats to worry about down the line…We have this Khorne guy whose forces we just got through fighting, and they weren't anything to turn our noses up at. Then we have Nurgle a fat man whose a one-man walking plague, Tzeentch a trickster god of sorcery and who knows what kind of nonsense his people can throw our way…Then last but not least Slaanesh, a god of degeneracy and excess who from what I can gather is just all sorts of wrong on so many levels." Ben replied regarding the 4 individual lords of Ruinous Power
"This also makes things regarding our future travels through the Warp; that much more concerning. Now that we know what lurks within it. We will need to caution the others and our own Legions what further awaits them." Morganna the Red said knowing that now they would have to account for these threats
'Furthermore, I wish to speak with you after this is said and done. I fear that with this information; that I may need your assistance to help me and my Legion.' Morganna the Red telepathically spoke to Ben
'That's not really a problem at all, Morganna…Also, how are you talking to me in my mind right now?' Ben questioned back
"It is one of the many spells I have acquired through my studies of the Warp. But more importantly, this news makes what I had done to save my Legion, much more insidious and all the more perilous that we return to Terra to rectify what I have done.' Morganna the Red answered back in sudden realization of what she had made a deal with years ago to save her 'sons'
'Of course, I'm happy to talk it out with you once this is all taken care of.' Ben said to the one-eyed Psyker who responded with a mental thank you
"I couldn't agree more, Morganna. In fact, we will need to prepare our ships as well against any future Daemonic threats to come. Now that we know of what these things can be capable of, on top of the fact they are led by things that are…cosmic in scale. We need to do everything possible to prepare ourselves in defense of them, unless we are made susceptible to them as a whole." Sekhmet spoke in agreement
"This also means that you guys should look out for your own guys as well…Now that we know that these Chaos Gods are out there, this also means that there's the possibility that they could be getting their hooks into people in your group without knowing." Ben said with a thoughtful look through his bloodshot eyes
"What are you getting at, Tennyson?" Questioned the Luna Wolves Matriarch
"What I'm getting at, is that these 'Gods' could be influencing people in your own Legions or in the Imperium higher-ups without anyone knowing…After all, if your an immortal being that wants to corrupt and control things, then you're gonna want to play the long game at doing it, and playing that long game means getting people onto your side to do what you need it too…So if I were a betting boy, I would say that their might be some in your Legions, the Imperium and so on that might be getting influenced by them, and you wouldn't even know it; till its too late." Ben answered
"After all, would any of you suspect one of your own being turned into a puppet for one of these 4?...Would anyone in the Imperium think that one of you, or your soldiers could be turned against you by these things it they knew?" Ben further questioned
"No…No they would not, in fact not I or even Leona would suspect a thing. However, with what we have fought thus far; on top of the information we now have. We will need to conduct investigations into our own Legions once we return…The fact that Legionaires tainted by one of these foul-Gods could be under our noses, and corrupting our Legions from within; is something that cannot be overlooked." Sekhmet answered back with a look of calculating all factors and risks of who or what could be hidden traitors in their ranks
"Is their anything I can do to give a helping hand? Because, this stuff is gonna put a lot of wild cards in the mix, and as such all of you are gonna need to be on your A-game." Ben asked
"For the time being, no. However, should we recognize any suspects in our ranks as potentially corrupted, we will contact you so we can conduct further investigations to seek out the traitors as follows. Anything that can compromise our Legions and the stability of the Imperium; must be dealt with quickly and immediately." Sekhmet replied decisively in the way of rooting out corruption and would-be traitors
"Morganna, can I trust that your Librarians will assist with the investigations of any traitors; in the event of future investigations? Yours are by far the most skilled in their use of spellcraft, and any that can be used in sussing out corrupted marines in our midst; would be incredibly helpful." Sekhmet requested
"Of course, Sekhmet. If it means removing any possibility that our Legions could be made unwilling puppets to these entities; then my Legion is at your disposal." Morganna the Red replied
"...That is very good to hear, Morganna…thank you. But more importantly, my thanks goes to Ben for informing us of this information as well.;.The knowledge that the Warp is far more dangerous and vast, is something that cannot be understated in its value to us." Sekhmet spoke
"Hey, I just figured this was something that everyone should know…These things are gonna come for everyone soon enough, not just me. So it just made a lot of sense that I make sure you guys have some clue on what your up against." Ben replied seeing it as just basic common sense
"Nonetheless, I am appreciative of this news…That being said, I will have to call this small meeting to a close and prepare for the day ahead…It is not everyday that you will have to inform your sisters of Warp entities to this scale." Sekhmet said back as she left to prepare for how she was going to brief everyone on the information given
"Alright, Morganna. It's just you and me now, so lay it on me on what it is you have to say." Ben spoke to the Thousand Sons Matriarch
From thereon after activating a silencing spell; did the cyclopean Matriarch begin to tell Ben of the faustian bargain she had made with a Warp entity that with the information given and of Ben's description from what Khorne had blasted into his mind, now knew was the trickster god of arcana Tzeentch. Who she had made a deal with in order to save her Legion from a foul mutation known as the Flesh Curse that had debilitated them for ages without a cure in sight, a deal that she made out of sheer desperation the help them.
And so the red-skinned Psyker in a moment of weakness made the deal with the now-known Chaos God to save them at the cost of one of her eyes, and while it did work in having allowed them to stave the Flesh Curse to present day; did Morganna now have her worries returned in full force in knowing that in dealing with a trickster God…That her solution was temporary and as such given the chaotic nature of things regarding the warp, and even moreso with an entity as to whom she made a deal with, now knew that she was on borrowed time to permanently save her Legion.
"So as you can see, I have landed myself in quite the predicament…In order to save my Legion I have as those of your time would say, have made a deal with the Devil. A deal I fear has left me on a clock that could run out at any moment, and as such could once more doom my Legion to a wretchedly horrid existence." Morganna the Red spoke in cursing her prior hubris in thinking she had overcome a Warp entity now known trickster God
"That is why, I wish for you to once again work one of your miracles into being. I wish to request of your to aid in permanently curing my Legion of their curse once and for all. While I may have brought us precious time to do so, I do not wish to hold a guillotine over my Legion who have done nothing but serve me and the Imperium faithfully for decades…So please, help me to save my Legion, Ben Tennyson." Morganna the Red pleaded with the Ultimatrix wielder
"...Alright, sure. I'll see what I can come up with, and if it can be done. Then I'll try to cure as many people of it as possible." Was Ben's simple reply
"Thank you…I cannot express my thanks to you for agreeing to do so. Only that I am grateful that you are willing to assist me, in permanently saving my Legion among your other obligations you have agreed too. My gratitude will not be able to be expressed enough when this should happen." The Matriarch of the Thousand Sons spoke happy to be able to fully save her Legion from a truly abhorrent fate
"Hey, you did the best you could with the hand you were dealt, and as far as I'm concerned that is a lot more than what most would do in you're situation. Besides, even though you can be a bit much at times. It doesn't mean I won't help you out, Morganna, as its just like I told Konstance, Perturabo, Furiosa and so on…All you have to do is ask and I will help out to the best of my ability." Ben replied
"I promise that once we return to Terra and you are successful upon healing my Legion fully from this Curse, that I will do everything within my power to reward you for your efforts. You are too kind to be so quick to help us in our times of need." Morganna the Red said back thankful for Ben's willingness to help
"It is no skin off my back, and once this is all taken care of. Then we're gonna get you to being a super sorcerer in no time, and before you know it we'll get you your get-back on this Tzeentch guy for tricking you into a potentially fucked deal." Ben told the one-eyed Psyker
"And I cannot wait when that day arrives…You are one of a kind, and I cannot wait to see what further the future will hold with your help." Morganna the Red spoke with a smile of interest on her face
"Neither can I, but what I do know is…that even with this weird as heck information in mind. That the future is gonna be a bright one ahead of us, even with weirdo Gods around screwing things up." Ben replied with a comforting slap on the arm that had Morganna smile down at the smaller man
'Truly you are an astounding man, Ben Tennyson. Hopefully, you will lead our Legions to further greatness beyond that of the Great Crusade. That much I am hopeful for in the years to come.' Morganna the Red said to herself
And so with a semi-peaceful aftermath achieved in the wake of their victory against the Khornite Horde, we also see that in an unexpected visit from Khorne that Ben and by proxy the Matriarchs are soon made aware of the presence of the Ruinous Powers in full and what it may mean for the Legions going forward! Now how the 18 Legions will change in the wake of this information going forward, once Ben and the Matriarch travel to Terra is something you'll have to wait and see in the all-new chapters of; Ultimate Alien: Primarch Force!
Alright, that'll do it for this one as I hope you guys have enjoyed this chapter and everything in it; given that its gonna put into place a good chunk of events to come; now that the Ruinous Powers are made officially known to everyone present. As such I hope you guys will stick around for the ride, because it only continues to get crazier from here on out.
As such this is Pravus666 signing off until the next one, what with the next chapter having Ben being potentially visited by the incoming Aeldari as well as a transmission being finally sent out to anyone listening in the Imperium; so stay tuned for that.
Part 1 Theme Song: Black out the Sun by Sevendust
Random End Song: Post Mortem by Twelve Foot Ninja
Now then onto some of the reviews from the last chapter.
Chronolocked: I will say that the Blanks being a thing are that they are more of a mystical issue than a genetic one, given how things like that tie more into the esoteric side of things and is something that seems like it would be out of Ben's wheelhouse to mess with.
Skull Flame: After this experience, I can definitely see Slaanesh trying to get ahold of him given that he is literally near infinite experiences wrapped into one convienent package, waiting to be tapped into. Also, I have some things planned for the Aeldari trying to get ahold of Ben given that he probably won't make it as easy as they hope as you'll see soon enough, as if Konstance finds out its gonna be holy hell raised since if they take Ben from her the best thing I can say in that regard is that we may see a Night Lords, World Eaters, Emperor's Children and Iron Warriors team up to get him back. If and when Ben gets that Aeldari form it'll definitely be funny, as to the Drukhari doing a shotgun wedding it'll be funny all the way until he decides to go Ultimate Way Big and just do Kaiju bullshit to mess with them, or Ultimate Heatblast and they have to deal with a living sun melting their planet to molten slag.
Waroyer: To be fair, Ben is just seeing this as a new level of unencountered fuckery that he's not seen before so he's more confused/excited than anything at seeing legit daemons. Also, good point because now that he's had a meeting with Khorne its gonna be a fun ride to see how he gets it done.
Kourtney Uzu Yato: (Chapter 10-11): Yep as Ben and the Matriarchs gave it as good as they got to the Khornate horde and came out on top, as I liked doing those moments with Ben and Furiosa that shows that they're comrades and battle siblings now more than ever, which does go a long way when you are one of the angriest people alive in Furiosa's case. The only thing I can say is that it'll be funny regarding Ben meeting Freya and the 6th Legion and seeing if he can hang with them at one of their feasts, also its gonna be fun to see how he does things regarding when and if he finds Alpaharius and Omegon given how they still haven't been found quite yet. Also, I'm giving it to Khorne since he's been around since the 1st murder and as such has had a massive headstart on being strong as shit over the other Ruinous Powers, so I gotta give it up to him as he is the one that I know can be consistently powerful and then some. Also, I love Ben being a snarky asshole too as it always shows that no matter where he is, that he is ready to be a smart-mouth who stands on business.
ex555: Regarding the 3-d printer he would definitely use it to manufacture and aid with more land vehicles and ammunition being made, to help out on deployments among other gear of that nature. And I'm glad you liked Ultimate Humungosaur going Godzilla on the Bloodthirster, as i really wanted to do something like this for a hot minute now.