(Chapter 15: A Megaship Coming Near You)
It would be a week perhaps 2 since the departure from Karakinos, as the Astro and Delta Megaships continued to sore through the star-filled void of the 31st millenium; with little if any in the way of opposition. Wherein the sights of such were something that left Ben with a feeling of nostalgia, given that his times traveling through space be it with Gwen, Kevin, Grandpa Max or any of his former battalion members left him with a rush of welcome memories in a time that felt alien to him these past few months.
Nonetheless, it was in partial part to the Matriarchs's company that he was able to keep himself surprisingly occupied throughout their travel, given that there was rarely a shortage of times in where he could get to further know the Matriarchs aboard.
(September 21st, 950. M30, ?, 1:45 Pm, Astro Megaship)
It would be a quarter till 2 in the afternoon, as Ben was with Furiosa and Branwen Corax whom he decided to show one of his and Gwen's favorite shows growing up…which was none other than One Piece; the show itself managing to enthrall the once furious Matriarch and entertain the Lady of Ravens at the tale being told.
"And that takes care of Water 7 everyone. What did you two think?" Ben asked the Matriarchs
"It was a very decent prison break. My respect goes to all of the Straw Hats involved that were willing to stand up to the World Government, to save their friend from being executed." Furiosa said in being touched by what they were willing to go through for Robin
"I agree, to see them fight against such blatant tyranny, but also go against corruption to save a loved one…It is honestly, heartwarming, it honestly reminds me of my days back on Deliverance." Branwen Corax spoke in being genuinely being moved by the lengths that Luffy and the Straw Hats were willing to go to defy the World Governments tyranny for their friend
"A-Are you crying, Branwen?...I never thought I would see the day when you of all people would shed a tear over..anything." Furiosa said in seeing a few stray tears move down the pale womans cheeks
"In my defense, it has been years since something has managed to move me to tears…For all of the levity and humor this show has within it, it is incredibly deceptive when it wants to strike at your emotions. I still can't believe I was nearly bawling after Nami was freed from her oppressors. Those wretched fishman deserved everything and more for what they did to those people." Branwen Corax replied in not having expected this anime as Ben called it to repeatedly strike at her emotional core with the force of a rabid Konstance
"That is the great thing about One Piece, it can be a silly pirate adventure one moment with the Straw Hats. Then the next moment you know, you are getting hit by an emotional rollar coaster that hardly lets up." Ben said with a grin in remembering how he and Gwen were when first watching One Piece
"Honestly, it only gets better from here. If you think that this was good, wait until you guys get to Thriller Bark…much less Marineford. Now those are some intense arcs, that will put you through it." Ben informed the two matriarchs knowing how much of at trip that Thriller Bark through Marineford was going to be
"While I doubt that much will be able to exceed what we have watched so far, I know better than to underestimate you at your word. Which is why, I will hold you too it that things will grow more interesting from here." Furiosa said knowing better than to underestimate Ben in any regard
"Trust me, you guys willl not be disappointed." Ben said back as he rose from his seat in the viewing room
"If possible, I would like to have a copy of this anime as you call it. This is incredibly entertaining, as well as insightful to potential fighting styles I could incoporate into my Legion. That Rokushiki looked very promising." Branwen Corax requested in having grown rather attached to One Piece thus far
"Sure! I don't mind that at all, although it is going to be weird when you guys get to the part where Haki becomes a thing." Ben told the Raven Guard Matriarch who alongside Furiosa had a curious look in regards to the mention of it
"What is Haki?" Questioned both Matriarchs
"That's something that will make sense once the Timeskip happens after Marineford, I won't spoil what it is now, because that will ruin the surprise. All I can say is that once it does pop up, I honestly don't doubt that with how strong either of you or your sisters are, that you could pull something like it off." Ben answered back
"Now, I know that I need to see this through to the end if only to learn what this Haki is...Also, to see what becomes of Luffy's brother, I rather like him." Furiosa spoke now motivated to finishing watching One Piece if only to understand what Haki was
"Well, you two can do so at your own time, I have to get back to piloting the ship, and making sure we're still headed on course; to rendezvous with Fulgrim and her Legion." Ben told the Matriarchs who continued to watch said anime in interest
Meanwhile, as Ben would return to piloting the Astro Megaship; with Sekhmet having taken up a shift as his co-pilot; oddly enough Perturabo was talking with Mortarion in one of the rooms available for their lodging aboard the starship. The subject being one that Perturabo had felt was a neccessary venture that would prove beneficial to both their Legions; given the nature of what both of them were capable of, and that venture was their Legions working together as a joint force to assist one another in the taking of worlds going forward.
"I do have to ask, Perturabo. What has driven you to want to make this joint alliance between our two Legions? Even though I have to admit, between your outstanding proficiency with siegecraft and talents for mechanized warfare, and my Legions' own immense resilience, and abilities with not only chemical warfare but attrition-based ones as well. That together we would make an incredibly potent combination." Mortarion questioned as too why the Iron Maiden would make the offer to join the might of their Legions as one unified entity
"Simple, Mortarion. I was shown when we were to fight alongside each other against the daemonic hordes, that together we can truly be unstoppable if we pool our collective strengths together…Therefore, I had begun thinking of which Legions would work best together in joint efforts with one another these past few weeks. Which had led me to the conclusion that if the Iron Warriors and Death Guard were to work together to take planets in the Crusade. That we would be borderline unstoppable." Perturabo answered back
"Think about it, we would be able to cover the weaknesses of our Legions into something near-unstoppable. You would be able to have better equipment and wargear to increase the mobility and offensive might of your soldiers. In turn, mine would have an unbreakable defense to bolster my artillery and have auxilary support both in close-quarters as well as those to reinforce our defensive-lines when launching our long-range assaults." Perturabo further explained as to how both Legions could compliment the other
"I will admit, that you make a great deal as to why we should work together. The more I think about it, the more it makes sense that together, even Sekhmet for the unrelenting offensive prowess of her Luna Wolves would be hard-pressed to defeat our Legions' combined strength." Mortarion said in finding
"I am glad you see things that way, separate our Legions are nothing short of incredible. But together, and I mean truly working together to crush our enemies under our bootheel. That we would be unstoppable." the Iron Warriors Matriarch spoke with a smug grin at how untouchable they could be
"But I do have to ask what the ulterior motive to joining forces with me could be, sister? It feels strange that despite the sound reasoning of your request to have our Legion join forces in the long term; that you would make this offer. Especially, given the fact that until recently that you are not known for being a team player in any regard." Mortarion queried as to what other underlying reasons Perturabo could have
"Both as I have previously stated, and for the simple reason that with the advent of knowing just how crafty these Daemons of the Warp are. In addition, to seeing the strength of what we can become when we work together. That it has served as the motivation for wanting to do this." Perturabo answered back
"It has been with the passing of that event; that has made me realize that instead of working on our own. That we should be working together more as a combined whole to achieve what we desire…Why should we settle for acting as individual arms of the Emperor and his Great Crusade, when we can come together and pool together our talents as something far, far more powerful. Something that not even those wretched deities that claim themselves as something more important and vast than they have any right to be, can lay claim too. Do you not believe that our combined strength and that shared might of our Legions can accomplish that?" Perturabo further spoke in having come to this realization ever sense the battle against the Khornite Horde
"You make a case that is hard to argue against. Even moreso when it gives me the opportunity to spite these abominations against mankind…The fact that they stare down at us with wicked dread powers; that should not exist sickens me to my very being." Mortarion said her fingers curling into a knotted fist of spiteful hate for all that the Ruinous Powers stood for as abominations against humanity
"Then I take it that you will accept my request to join the might of the Iron Warriors with that of the Death Guard; for the forseeable future?" Perturabo asked the Pale Queen
"If it means tearing through the forces of those wretched abominations in the Warp, the further annihilation of our enemies, and better becoming a stalwart defense for mankind. Then consider it done, Perturabo..It is time that those who terrorize mankind are obliterated through overwhelming force and resilience of what we and our Legions are capable of, and that their oppression is met at the end of a Bolter to their skulls." Mortarion replied her grim features schooling themselves into one of spiteful determination to better become a defender of mankind
"Excellent, and I promise you yet, that once we gather our forces and commit to the decimation of our enemies. That the Great Crusade will have its end all the swifter, that much I can guarantee to you." Perturabo spoke as with the shaking of hands between the two the union between Iron Warriors and the Death Guard was made
(2 days later, September 23rd, 950. M30, 2:40 Pm, ?, Astro Megaship)
On the other side of things, in the days that would follow as Ben who had finished his shift of piloting the Astro Megaship and as such had passed hands to Perturabo; was currently with Fulgrim in playing music with the Phoecian who continued to be enthralled with the rock/metal music of Terra's past.
"I will say the mass variety of styles from Ancient Terra's past is truly astonishing! To think that I have remained blind to such forms of music, is truly an utter shame." Fulgrim said happy to see that there was still so much more in regards to music from Terra's past to learn about
"I am glad you like it, Fulgrim. It just goes to show that even though times change, music it forever. Plus it also helps that Sevendust is just really, really good." Ben replied happy to continue sharing his love for rock music with the Phoencian
"Undoubtedly so, to think that I had denied myself of knowing musicians of your time with such talent…It is all the more reason why, upon our reuniting with my Legion that I would love to have you introduce them to more of the music of your era. I have no doubt in my mind that they would benefit and find some form of inspiration within it." Fulgrim spoke whilst continuing to tune her guitar
"In fact, I can think of a few who could put the power of this music to good use." Fulgrim added in seeing the music that Ben had shared with her to be a great source of bolstering the spirits of her Legionaires
"Really, who's the guy you have in mind?" Ben asked
"That would be none other than the 1st Captain of my Legion, Julius Kaesoron. He is by far one of the most avid admirers of the arts in my Legion, and someone who often times fancies himself a battle-bard of sorts. From his love of poetry, to his often making sure to attend the various concerts and orchestras on Chemos and even holy Terra when possible. He is nothing if not someone who appreciates the finer things amidst the bleakness of the Great Crusade." Fulgrim answered back regarding Julius's love for the fine arts
"Huh, sounds like a pretty decent guy to be around, I hope he doesn't mind everything I can do…Since you know…" Ben said as he tapped the Ultimatrix
"Believe me, Benjamin. They will understand that your splendidness as a companion, and your capacity for outstanding greatness is more than an exception to your ability to transform into Xenos. If anything, your abilities to do so; would serve wonderfuly to train my Legion in how to better combat them." Fulgrim spoke in also finding the idea of Ben's aliens as a training method against Xenox to be a wonderful idea
"If you can convince them to be on board with it, then I am good to go with whatever you need. Personally, I just like spending time with you in general, you are a pretty great lady to be around." Ben told the Matriarch of the 3rd Legion
"Likewise, your charm, skill in combat, among your other talents have proven you to be nothing short of exceptional. In addition, to charming Konstance, Perturabo, and even Furiosa, as well as Lorna and Morganna. You are certainly capable of winning womens' hearts…are you sure you are not a romantic in disguise?" Fulgrim said back in finding the Ultimatrix bearer to be nothing short of exceptional
"No, as surprisingly enough I do not have THAT much good luck with the ladies. My grandpa on the otherhand…well let's just say that there's a reason why I have such a large family. Grandpa Max sure did get around when he was young, I still can't believe I have so many cousins across the galaxy in my time." Ben replied in knowing that he wasn't a casanova like his grandfather was during his prime
"I find that hard to believe. With how handsome you are, and how naturally charismatic and kind you have been, it is almost unbelievable. Especially with how smitten Konstance is and continues to be towards you…it is almost as though I am looking at a different person when I see her with you." Fulgrim spoke in having seen The Night Haunter act with a sort of love and kindness towards him that was rather endearing to see
"To be honest, it wasn't that hard for me to get close to Konstance. All I had to do was just be nice to her, and show her that I just think she's a sweetheart who deserves love…After that, it turns out that underneath being an incredible warrior woman who has the resilience and killing capacity of a slasher villain. That she's basically the equivalent of a golden retriever, a golden retriever that could give regular people nightmares when she gets angry, but a golden retriever all the same." Ben replied as his response as to how he saw Konstance got a bit of laughter from the Phoenician
"In my many years as a Matriarch I have never heard the infamous and terrifying Konstance Kurze be described as such!" Fulgrim said back in finding such a thing to be a genuinely humorous descriptor of her often murder-gremlin sister
"But it is something, I am incredibly happy to see become of her. I do not know how long it has been since I have seen a genuine smile of happiness from her. Honestly, I thought it would take a miracle for her to know or much less smile in genuine joy of anything that wasn't in her pursuit of justice…Yet here you stand, someone who has the uncanny ability to bring out the best in people. Honestly, to think that a human could preform miracles with my sisters that the Emperor himself could not is astonishing." Fulgrim further spoke
"Hey, I'm just giving your sisters what they should have had from the start. Someone that wants to invest time into them, and see them happy in what they can and what will be. Plain and simple as that." Ben replied regarding the Matriarchs who he'd managed to bring a positive change into so far
Since the Ultimatrix Bearer was genuinely happy to share in the company of and help the Matriarchs he'd known thus far grow in anyway possible, be it through friendship or something that could evolve into a potentially greater bond; Ben was just happy to be along for the ride. Given that much like his original timeline/universe he was just happy to see others on a come-up of their own and become the best versions of themselves possible, which was why he was more than happy to invest in the lives of those such as Furiosa, Konstance, Lorna and etc, in knowing of the wonderful people they were and could become.
"Then I am happy it is you that has chosen to do so." Fulgrim said back
"Thank you…by the way do you think that Konstance would be ok with joining us for our sessions? I think she might like doing a sing-along to some old-school Papa Roach or Linkin Park." Ben asked
"That sounds as though it is something you should ask of her. Although I doubt she will mind doing so, I still feel that it would be best for you to do it." Fulgrim answered back
"Fair point, anyways, are you ready to take it from the top again?" Ben replied as he was ready to do another run through of Themata by Karnivool
"Yes I am, and so far this one ranks among my top 10 of those we have played together…How ancient Terran musicians managed to come up with such invigorating songs I will never know." Fulgrim said before they began to play said song in question
(9 hours later, 11:10 Pm, ?, Astro Megaship)
It would be later that day as Ben after going through nearly 9 hours of continuous piloting was currently making sure that they not only stayed on target to make their mark in joining with Fulgrim's flagship, but also keeping vigilant in case any other threats would rear their head.
"Ben, I can take over piloting duties, you have done more than enough for your shift." Sekhmet told the Ultimatrix wielder as she entered the cockpit
"Are you sure, I've still got another 4 to maybe 6 hours in me?" Ben asked through bloodshot green-eyes where at least one of them was twitching from the lack of sleep
"Yes, I am sure. While I and the rest of my sisters appreciate your help thus far, I will encourage that you get some form of rest…It is honestly both impressive and disturbing how you can function with so little sleep at such a high level." Sekhmet remarked at how Ben was going on 2 nearing 3 days without sleep
"At this point in my life, I've pretty much gotten used to it. It may not be healthy, but when your used to having so many people depend on you, being a hero to who knows how many stars systems the galaxy over. On top of, consistently looking over your shoulder in case another war breaks out…having a sleep schedule becomes the least of your worries." Ben replied as he looked as though he were being held together through caffeine, willpower, and pure stress did not lessen the Lupercal's worries
"Once we arrive on Fulgrim's flagship, I am going to have one of her apothecaries see to your inability to rest properly. It is becoming very concerning at this point." Sekhmet said with a good deal of worry at Ben going for 4-6 hours of sleep at best and at his worst now being at almost 3 full days
"I'm sure I'll be fine, besides I will rest 'properly' once you guys are back on Terra." Ben assured her
"Somehow that does not assure me, but I will leave you at your word…Now return to your quarters, or whatever you need to help you rest. I will take it from it here." Sekhmet told the Ultimatrix bearer with no room to barter in her voice
With a sleep-deprived Ultimatrix wielder being a mix of too high-strung and going off of so little sleep due to other circumstances beyond wanting to keep his word to the Matriarchs, Ben decided to let Sekhmet have the reigns at piloting the Astro Megaship. However, as he made himself a large mug of coffee so he could avoid having more nightmares that had been amplified since his meeting with Khorne, was he visited by Mortarion of all people who was unable to sleep as well this night as they traveled through the stars.
So, the Ultimatrix wielder decided to get her a glass of lemonade made and the two sat down together; to have a moments peace between one another; wherein the Death Guard Matriarch found herself looking ever curious at the Ultimatrix bearer. Having grown to respect the smaller man for his resillience and unflinching resolve in spite of what they had to face on Karakinos against the daemons of Khorne, as well as his stories of what he had battled against with various Xenos invasions on his version of Holy Terra.
"I will ask this of you, Tennyson. How do you continue to remain unbroken by all of what you have faced up until this point? You have fought against things that would test and even shatter the resolve of even the most resolved of Imperial soldiers, and even some of our Astartes. Yet you continue borderline unphased, and moreso determined be it by spite, or the enjoyment of facing an enemy ready to continue onwards." Mortarion questioned as Ben continued to drink his coffee
"Honestly, it is just who I am at the end of the day. Unlike my cousin, I didn't get to have the jackpot of being a super sorcerer, I'm not half-alien like Kevin. All I had was wanting to be a hero, the Omnitrix and later the Ultimatrix, and the refusal to quit in the face of adversity." Ben told the pale Matriarch
"So despite having to deal with Vilgax, the Highbreed, the Incurseans, and so many things one another the other. I just couldn't find it in myself to ever give up…not when I knew that there were people out there depending on me, and a lot of good people that needed a hero to be there to win the day. I would be pretty rotten one if I just gave up when things got rough, so I put forward that the moment I signed onto being a hero was the moment that I would never quit no matter what was in front of me." Ben further spoke
"That is commendable of you, to know that in spite of everything you have faced. Your resolve never withered no faded, I can see why many looked towards you as an immovable bastion of courage during your time." Mortarion replied as she took another gulp of her lemonade
"Thanks, it wasn't easy to do, but being a hero never is most days…Why did you ask, Mortarion, is there something you want help with?" Ben asked the Pale Queen
"No, not necessarily. I have found myself curious about your resolve and the strength of what you are, given your ability to change others. It has been nothing if not interesting to see the differences you have made in Furiosa, Konstance, and to some extent Lorna and Perturabo; in such a short time." Mortarion answered back
"It isn't really hard to do; when you're just being kind to people. Sometimes all people need to make a change is to be shown basic kindness…It may not change them overnight, but it will sure help." Ben spoke
"Undoubtedly so, with how you have managed to inspire Lorna and even moreso Konstance towards striving to become heroes of the Imperium. Such changes have had me begun to question the nature of my own resolve and what I am doing to protect those within it." Mortarion said with their pale green eyes deep in thought
"Really? I wouldn't have thought anything otherwise; with how skilled you are with that scythe you swing around. As far as I'm concerned you are incredibly skilled at protection with it." Were Ben's thoughts in regards to her proficiency with Silence
"Thank you, but it is more than my martial skill. It is moreso that upon hearing your tales of heroism, and your willingness to spit in the face of a true God of the warp. That I feel my own resolve and resilience in the face of what is to come is now in question…Up until now, I have favored myself as the most enduring of my sisters, the one who despite everything can withstand the strongest of blows and remain unphased." Mortarion said to the Ultimatrix beaere
"Yet in seeing you, someone who is barely into their 3rd decade. That you remain not only defiant in the face of odds that would crush any other man in your circumstances. But have a will stronger than ceramite to face, withstand and endure threats that dwarf most of what our Legions have yet to face…something that I am more than willing to admit. Has had my questioning if we were to face what you have faced, would we still continue ready to fight future battles; especially in the wake of these Ruinous Powers, or would we flee and run like craven cowards?" Mortarion wondered
Given that Mortarion had always prided herself on her resilience in the face of adversity mental, physical or otherwise, in having known that no matter what regardless of her days on Barboros, or in how she has led her Legion thus far that no matter what would come her way; she would remain unbroken. Yet in having seen how Ben had conducted himself in the face of the daemons of Khorne among not only hearing, but having seen through the projections of his Ultimatrix the threats he had to face, and the terrors that he had fought from adolescence until now.
It had made her question on how far her resilience would or rather could go, that if she had to face something that could be as wretched as the DNAliens perverting one of her sons and her inability to stop it from happening; to the horrors of facing wretched phantoms in the form of Z'Skayr's army of Ectonurites and other such undead abominations. The Matriarch of the Death Guard had begun to call into question on if her own mental resilience would endure, if she had went against what the Ultimatrix bearer had gone through until landing in the 31st millennium.
"Hmmm, to be honest I think you guys could do pretty decent against what I've had to take on. I can't say you guys would come out unscathed, but I am pretty sure you guys could tough it out." Was Ben's response as he continued drinking his coffee
"And how can you be so certain of such things?" Mortarion queried
"From what I've seen you guys are demigods who can do a lot more than most people ever could. Even some of the powerhouses in the Plumbers would have a really, and I mean REALLY tough time against you guys. Not to mention, I also think that Vilgax would be in a bit of trouble against you guys…That being said, he would give you some major problems, but it would be pretty damn close, but I would say against what I've had to deal with you guys would make it alright." Ben answered after a few moments of thought
"However, I will say this right now. All of you guys are pretty tough, and with you being literally built different amongst your sisters, since with what Sekhmet tells me. You are pretty much the tank as far as things go, I would say that you are more than strong enough to take on anything." Ben told her
"While I appreciate the thought, I also worry about if I will be strong enough to face what these wretched Gods within the Warp will unleash upon us. Now that they know of us to the point where their blighted gaze rests upon us now. I am concerned that there may be a time where I am not strong enough to face what comes for me, and that in my weakness my Legion…my sons will pay the price because I could not endure long enough to save them." Mortarion replied with worry in her voice for how the Ruinous Powers could hurt her sons in the future to come
"Look, I cannot say for certain that dealing with these Chaos Gods will be easy. Nothing really is, when dealing with things that horrible. But what I do know is that if I can help it, that I will help you guys make it through and overcome whatever nonsense they throw at all of you…I've already had one mess with me in my dreams, and I like to think I turned out fine all things considered." Ben said with a bit of a soft chuckle to lighten things
"How you have not been driven insane by contact with one of them is incredibly impressive. If anything you have gained more of my respect for challenging one of them for the right to claim your soul." Mortarion replied cracking a smile at Ben's defiance of Khorne
"Hey, the only way any of them gets my soul is when they can earn it. I may be a lot of things, bu not someone who goes down without a fight, and I will give each and everyone something they won't forget before I become a slave to any of them…I would rather eat rusted barbed wire than willingly become part of anything they have going." Ben said back with nothing but petulant spite in his voice
"And that makes two of us, Tennyson. If any of them wish to claim right to yours, mine, my sons' souls; then they will have to take it from us kicking, screaming and clawing in defiance of their rot." Mortarion spoke in agreement with the Ultimatrix wielder
"But overall, the only thing that I can promise to you; other than making cool gear for you and your Legion. Is that, I will stand by you in fighting against these Chaos creatures and their dumbass Gods…I give you my word that as long as I'm still kicking around, that you will have me to fight that good fight along with you." Ben replied as he put a hand on Mortarion larger more pale one
"You are incredibly strong and durable all on your own, and I will never be a dick and say you aren't given all the crazy stuff I know you can do. But I can guarantee that from this point forward, you will never have to endure anything alone again, because whenever I can I will do my damndest to face it with you…We are in this together, and it would be a damn shame on my part if I didn't thug it out with a badass like yourself who is great with a scythe and can probably tank a gamma bomb to the face like its nothing." Ben further spoke causing a larger smile to spread at Ben's promise to endure and fight alongside her
"I appreciate your willingness to stand alongside me in what is to come, Tennyson. Truly I do, and that is why you will have my word as well to fight alongside you against the Daemons within the Warp, and their followers. With your help, the blasphemous abominations within the Warp, and those that follow these Gods will fall before us, and soon enough these Runious deities will fall as well." Mortarion swore to Ben
"Thanks, and I can almost see it now…Mortarion, leader of the Death-Guard and God-Slayer of Chaos, now isn't that something to put on your fireplace." Ben said as a small chuckle escaped the Pale Queen's lips at the idea
"That would be a sight to see, knowing I have been immortalized for overcoming such abominations to mankind. Hopefully, the tales of what I will do in the years to come will inspire others of similar resilience to take up arms." Mortarion replied as a rare smile crossed her face
"If you want to, I can beef up your armor to help out with that? Now that we're going up against them, and more than likely their followers and whatever else they throw at us. We're gonna need some new tech and gear to make it happen, and just like with Perturabo and everyone else I am more than happy to make whatever you want." Ben told the pale Matriarch
"I do have some ideas to improve my armor, if you do not mind. That Iron Man character had the right idea for improving upon his armor to endure any situation before him. As such, I will require your help with an idea I have to make mine even greater than before." Mortarion said to the Ultimatrix bearer
"Well, we do have an entire night to draft at least the prototype and some of what you want from it…So by all means, let's talk shop on making you kickass battle armor!" Ben replied as the two began to discuss and talk about what Mortarion's future armor could look like down the line
(4 days later, 6:30 Pm, Astro Megaship, ?, September 27th, 950. M30)
In the days to come the Astro Megaship would continue their voyage as Ben was currently with Perturabo, piloting said Megaship as they would hopefully be making contact with the flagship of the 3rd Legion soon enough.
"By the way, Perturabo. Have you given any thought to what you want to do when this whole Great Crusade is over? There has to be something out there, that you want to make for yourself, or just do in general." Ben asked the Iron Warriors Matriarch
"Honestly, once the Crusade is over. I want to build structures of my own that go beyond siegecraft and the fortifying of entire cities…Understand that while being a siege-master of unparalleled caliber, will always hold a special place in my heart. I wish to make creations of my own, creations that will be beyond anything that stands on Holy Terra itself." Perturabo answered back with a hopeful gleam in her eyes
"What I want is to help build cities that can endure a lifetime, structures that will never falter, and machines that will one day rise to the glory of what once was during the Dark Age of Technology. That is what I intend to do once the Great Crusade is over..The chance to engineer structures that will lead to cities of unimagineable greatness; that…that is my own true dream beyond laying siege and conquest to planets beyond." Perturabo spoke in the hopes of one day becoming an architect to grand works of machinery and cities that could endure for generations to come
"That…That genuinely sounds awesome to see one of these days. With how good you are at building stuff, and making some awesome machines yourself. Seriously, the fact that you can do build all these great stuff that I've seen so far, be outstanding at sieges and fighting, on top of being inhumanly gorgeous…I swear if you don't win some kind of an award for being one of the coolest women I know, then I will riot." Ben replied in finding himself just astounded by the sheer talent that was the Iron Maiden
"You flatter me too much…not that I am complaining. In fact, I would love to show you my designs for not only siege weaponry that I have plans to make for future conquests, but also ones I have for designing my own cities. Even moreso after the inspiration you have given me these past few months…I almost cannot wait to get started!" Perturabo said in having found her passions reignited
"Hey, I am more than on-board for helping you build cool stuff. It doesn't matter if its making Megazords, a freaking Death Star, or even Gauss Cannons and stuff like that. I will just be happy to do so, since it is the first time in forever I get to have a gorgeous woman that gets me when it comes to building things!" Ben replied in equal enthusiasm of getting to build more mechanical marvels and such with her
"Likewise, the idea of building a Megazord to crush enemy defenses sounds incredible…One of these days, I will have to challenge Rogal and see how her pitiful walls stand up to the might of my Megazord. Now that will be a wondrous day, indeed!" Perturabo said back with a wicked grim
"Say less, and I will make sure that it has enough firepower to blow through entire country! Better yet, I wonder how Rogal's defense's deal with zords that can burrow underground. Because, you can build walls just fine as a defense, but I wonder how she feels about having to deal with a 40 foot tall robot burrowing underneath your defenses to uppercut your everything?" Ben told Perturabo who had an excited smile at the idea
"You just might be onto something, Ben. That is an idea that just may work, and in fact I may keep that in mind for future sieges…A siege from underneath an enemies defenses, now that is an idea that is worthwhile." Perturabo spoke finding herself liking the idea of potentially implementing siege-craft to strike from underneath an enemies defenses
"Glad you like the idea. I figure that its something that non one would really think to defend against. Since who is going to expect getting hit with rockets coming up from their sewer system, or a bunch of armored infantry springing up from underneath the town square to rock them from within. Its something so crazy that I would be blown away if it failed." Ben replied in finding the idea of subterranean warfare to always be a funny idea
"If there is one thing that I cannot deny, it is your ideas for the unconventional…I have no doubt that with you alongside us, that victory will be assured in astonishing fashion." Perturabo said back
"Same here…but I think will have to put a pin in that chestnut for a moment. We have a call coming in, just give me a few moments and…we are good." Ben said as he opened the communications for the call to come through
"This is Lord Commander Eidolon of the Emperor's Children contacting the…Astro Megaship. Am I speaking with the one known as Ben Tennyson who has allied himself with our Matriarch?" Eidolon spoke through the communication channel
"You are talking to him right now It is good to hear from you, Mr. Eidolon. Where are you located at, since I'm going to take a wild guess and ask that if you talking too us that you must be near by?" Ben replied to the Lord Commander
"We are 10 minutes inbound from your location. We wished to confirm the presence of your vessels before making contact with you." Eidolon told the Ultimatrix Bearer
"Good to know, we are in a Green starship with a yellow and Black one following besides us. Everyone has been doing well and remains in top shape." Ben informed Eidolon
"That is good news to hear. I will also inform you that Lady Sanguinius and her Flagship has accompanied us to assure safe voyage back to the Imperium proper. We will prepare the ship so that yours will be able to dock safely and the Matriarchs can disembark from there." Eidolon said back
"Good to know, and anything else I should be aware of once we get on board?" Ben asked
"At this time, nothing further. Although, 1st Captain Juilius and Lady Sanguinius herself will wish to speak with you once everyone has landed. The Matriarchs and Lady Fulgrim have been gone for a very long time, and there are questions to be answered and accounted for." Eidolon answered
"Fine by me, and thanks for meeting us halfway, Mr. Eidolon. We appreciate the looking out for everyone." Ben told the Lord Commander
"You as well, you have mine and the Legions' thanks for helping our Matriarch." Eidolon thanked the Ultimatrix bearer
"Not a problem at all, I will talk to you in person once we board. This is Ben Tennyson of the Astro Megaship signing off." Ben said before ending transmission
"Well, we've just about it did Perturabo. In a few minutes, we're gonna be on the fast track back to Terra." Ben said to the Matriarch of the 4th Legion
"Yes, it almost feels surreal after nearly 5 months away from my Legion. But it will be a welcome return to the frontlines all the same, especially with you as a trusted companion to aid us." Perturabo replied
"You've got that right, since this is just the beginning of a whole new chapter for all of us, and its gonna fucking rule." Ben said as they continued on their way
Wherein the precious few minutes passed for Ben as he alongside the Delta Megaship that Bahmahut inhabited would soon meet with the massive flagships of the Emperor's Children and the 9th Legions' Matriarch; that to say the least had Ben nearly at a loss for words. Given that while he had seen his fair share of large starships, he was not expecting 2 absolute behemoths that had his jaw drop at the sight of such massive pieces of machinery being used to traverse the stars, so much so was his surprise that Perturabo couldn't help but levy a chortle at the scene.
Yet and still after Ben was able to gather his composure as the Astro Megaship was once again hailed, and soon allowed to board the Flagship of the 3rd Legion; did Ben prepare himself for all of what was to come, given that with this the start of the next stage of things for him in the 31st millennium would soon begin in earnest.
'So I get to meet Fulgrim's legion and another one of her sisters…I'm sure everythings' gonna go great, right?' Were Ben's thoughts as he soon landed the Astro Megaship in the docking bay of said Flagship
And so with their voyage now completed, to rejoin with the 3rd Legion with Sanguinius helping to shepherd them back to Terra proper; we also see a number of developments brewing for the Matriarchs in Ben's company; given that as Ben continues to stand by them in turbulent future to come. What shall happen in the Great Crusade as the Ultimatrix Bearer joins the fray shall be something to see in the all new installments of, Ultimate Alien: Primarch Force!
Alright, everyone that takes care of that as I hoped that you guys enjoyed this chapter, and everything that comes with it as we begin to head towards the end of Part 1 of the story, in our venture towards Holy Terra. Which should be a bit of fun all on it's own, as it is thanks to all of your guys's great support that we have made it to this point and as such am more than thankful for sticking around to get here, and can't wait for more as we head into new territory.
So with all that being said in my abundance of thanks for your support, this is Pravus666 signing off until next time. Wherein next time, Ben will be meeting some of the big players in the 3rd Legion, among other things I have in the works; so stay tuned for all of that good stuff.
Part 1 Theme Song: Black out the Sun by Sevendust
Random End Song: Space is So Cool by Markiplier
Now then onto the reviews from the previous chapter.
Skull Flame: That is actually a good question for what Ben's Ork name could be. Also, I had checked and it was Magnus along with the Kahn and Sanguinius who were the main people vying for the Librarius. Furthermore, with Ben around one of the main things for his involvement with the 1K Sons is getting them to not go so headfirst into their studies into the Warp, and actually get them to think things through now that the knowledge of things like Tzeentch and the other Ruinous Powers are out there in the mix.
Kourtney Uzu Yato: Yep and now they are out and about to meet with the Emperor's Children and as such continue their voyage back to Terra, which should be a barrel of fun all on its own. Also, I'm pretty sure that out of all of them; it would be Fulgrim, Furiosa, Perturabo ,Konstance, Lorna, and Morganna, that would lose it more than likely; especially Fulgrim who gets to see what old Terran high fashion is like and Perturabo who would go nuts getting to study Terran and interplanetary archetecture and actually getting to build what she wants.
Iron M Writer: It's going to be interesting for sure, given that it'll more than likely be Ben matching the Emperor; in that as long as he respects and isn't a dick to Ben; then their kosher. But when they do butt heads, Ben can and probably will but heads right back because as we know Ben is stubborn as a mule when it comes to what he wants, and with this being a even older Ben who has gone through a few things; he's definitely not giving an inch or if any to Big E's shenanigans.
Obsidian Nova Arc: There will be times for that down the line given that with Ben eventually fighting alongside one of the Legions in the near future, the Astro and Delta Megaships getting their champs to shine against not only Orks but even Dark Eldar and Necrons will eventually happen.