—Hero For Hire—
"Before I started here, I often asked myself... 'What's so fascinating about history, anyway?'"
The voice, steady and contemplative, seemed to fill the empty void around it.
"Legends, myths, and forgotten tales... So many ways to rediscover the past."
Darkness dominated the scene. Only the faint, rhythmic drip of water breaking against untouched stone gave any sense of time. These stones, lost and undisturbed for nearly a millennium.
"Countless stories, scattered and buried, waiting for their chance to be told."
The ground trembled now, subtly at first. Then the intensity grew, the deep rumbling vibrations building until it felt like the earth itself was about to split open.
"But here's the thing... Our world's not the only one rich in history."
Suddenly, a wall of dirt collapsed, flooding the cave with the brilliant, blinding light of twin suns. Their rays pierced through the dark, casting deep shadows across the chamber.
A massive silhouette blocked half the light, towering and imposing. As the figure stepped forward, the familiar green glow of the Omnitrix pulsed to life on its chest—a Talpaedan, bringing the past into the present.
—TITLE CARD—
Armadrillo coughed loudly as a bowl's worth of dust hit his face, falling from the rocks above.
"Oh, man." He spluttered. "Classes don't prepare anyone for how much dirt you end up munching out here..." He released one final, loud sneeze.
A group of small, tailless, lemur-like creatures in expeditionary outfits emerged from behind him. The oldest stepped forward:
"We must be careful not to cause any more harm to this cave system. This canal must have been used by our ancestors for generations. Who knows how long this section has been sealed up?" The elder Monóterra spoke with caution.
A younger member of the group chimed in, skeptical. "We are ignoring the fact that this area is completely uncharted. How will we find our way to the temple?"
Ben, still in Armadrillo form, replied, "We'll know that in a second." As they ventured deeper into the cave, they began inspecting its structural integrity.
One of the Monóterrans gathered geological samples, while others studied the surroundings. Ben, standing back, gazed deeper into the cave, contemplating a faster way to move forward.
"Alright," he said, getting the group's attention. "Time for a little 'practice over theory'."
—VIEWFINDER—
With the usual green flash, Ben transformed into a small, fat, hairless, four-legged creature with rugged skin, three eyes, four prominent fangs, a spiked tail, and two large, folded bat-like ears.
The creature unfolded its ears, expanding them like satellite dishes, producing a whistling, reverberating sound. Through this sonar-like ability, Ben mapped the subterranean pathway ahead, revealing a large distant opening—possibly what they're searching for.
—WILDMUT—
Ben roared, signaling the Monóterran group to follow, as he went down the path, leaving behind his scent for their return.
Ecstatic, the group proudly walked behind their guide.
Unexpectedly, a now rare yet familiar sound emanated from Ben's chest—the Omnitrix began to power down.
Wildmut let out a whimper as Ben, now disappointingly forced back into human form, gave a gentle kick to a pebble. He raised his arm, inspecting the Omnitrix on his wrist.
Ben, now human again, stood in typical expeditionary gear: a dark-green bomber jacket, a light-tan buttoned shirt underneath, dark-brown cargo pants with a utility belt, a bandolier, two holsters, black fingerless gloves, and sturdy black boots. True adventurer style.
The Omnitrix set itself into cooldown mode.
Ben: "Hah, three days without needing to recharge—that's a record. Always at the worst timing, though..." He fidgeted with the Omnitrix's lock-screen.
One of the younger Monóterrans approached, tugging at his leg. "What happened?"
Ben: "I'm on... cooldown." He sighed. "I've been using the Omnitrix way too much lately, but it's no biggie." The frustrated hero explained, as they resumed walking deeper into the cave.
The elder Monóterran caught up to Ben. "While it is a formidable tool, hopefully, we may no longer need it on this expedition."
Ben chuckled. "Yeah, careful not to jinx it, gramps." He quipped while climbing up a few stones, then reached down to help one of the Monóterrans up.
The elder paused, puzzled by Ben's vocabulary. "What is this 'jinx' you speak of?" He stroked his beard, squinting his eyes in confusion.
Ben sighed.
A younger Monóterran, Lou, tugged at Ben's leg again. "Mr. Tennyson, may I ask you something?"
Ben: "Sure, Lou. And just call me Ben."
Lou: "Okay, Mr. Ben."
Ben glanced at him, debating whether to correct him again, but gave up.
Lou: "Why do they call you 'Ten Thousand' when you have over a million transformations?"
Ben: "Cause it sounds cooler," he replied simply.
Lou: "Okay, but why do you only use a few of them?"
Ben: "Not every species has incredible abilities. Most aren't fit for every situation I'm in—just like how I'm not always fit for everything myself." He tried to explain in a way Lou could understand.
Lou: "Have you ever turned into one of us?"
Before Ben could answer, a female Monóterran chimed in. "Stop bothering Mr. Tennyson with so many questions, Lou," she said as she walked past.
Lou ignored her.
Ben: "I don't think I have. What can you guys do?"
Lou thought for a moment. "We... have sharp claws!" He proudly showed his claws while walking backward in front of Ben.
Ben chuckled. "I've had sharper." Though honest, he didn't want to disappoint the young Monóterran.
"Alright, alright. If you show me a really good war face, I'll consider adding you to my list. Show me your war face."
The other Monóterrans walked ahead as Lou scratched behind his ear, trying to figure out how to comply. Then, getting into a comical battle pose, he produced the most adorable war face in the galaxy—complete with a tiny hiss.
Ben simply stood there.
"Not bad, kid." He smirked as he walked past Lou.
Lou beamed with pride, watching Ben walk away before quickly picking up the pace to rejoin the group.
The Monóterran team continued their venture through the ancient caves, their excitement renewed.
Subterranean Temple Area - Planet 'Balgora'
After what seemed like an endless journey through the subterranean system, the group finally arrived at an enormous natural entrance.
They stepped into a breathtaking underground landscape, where the ancient Monóterran Temple stood, towering in the distance. The environment around them was awe-inspiring—a lost world of unique alien flora and towering fungi, all thriving in this hidden cavern. Time had forgotten this place, but now, they had found it.
Ben gazed upward in admiration, his eyes scanning the massive geological formations. He quickly began sketching and taking notes on his digital pad, completely enthralled by the strange, otherworldly architecture. His confusion only grew as he noticed peculiar openings far above them, revealing that they were standing beneath the ocean itself. Yet, an unseen force kept the sea at bay, preventing it from crashing down into the cavern.
Distracted, Ben felt a cool breeze brush past him, carrying the sweet scent of ancient vegetation. The chirping of distant underground creatures echoed softly through the vast space. He absentmindedly placed his hand on a moss-covered stone, marveling at the tactile sensation of the alien moss.
But his mind couldn't shake the unsettling thought—this underground haven had an open window to the ocean, its looming presence just above the rocky ceiling, held back by forces he didn't yet understand.
The Elder Monóterra stood frozen, overwhelmed by joy and awe. "Ah..." He sighed in relief, his voice filled with emotion. "At last! The birthplace of our civilization, we've finally rediscovered it!" He clasped one of his companions by the shoulders before dropping to his knees, facing the majestic landscape as if in prayer.
A few more seconds of awe passed before the joy was cut short by a sharp whisper.
"Get down."
Ben noticed something off in the distance and quickly pulled the group behind a stationary boulder. Moments later, a hovering vehicle passed by below them.
The vehicle was manned by bug-like aliens resembling a cross between a mantis and a cockroach. They glided silently toward a hidden camp set up near the entrance of the temple.
There were too many of them. Each alien was heavily armed, wielding highly modified versions of the PPSh-1, an old Soviet automatic rifle, alongside other Soviet-era weapons outfitted with alien tech.
The Korvans were raiding the temple, loading its ancient treasures onto two large cargo hovercrafts.
Elder Monóterra: "Korvans?! What are they doing here?!" he whispered, his voice full of outrage and confusion.
Ben: "Same reason we're here. But they definitely found a better entrance for those hovercrafts." Ben's mind raced, already working out a plan.
He quietly whistled to the group. "Guys, I need you to stay put. I'll handle the tomb raiding and find that magic do-hickey you're after."
One of the Monóterran explorers stepped forward, holding out a set of ancient scriptures. "Here, these texts will help you identify the Monógliph. Ensure it's secure—for all our sake."
Ben: "Gotcha." He took the scriptures, then turned to the group. "You all got your communicators?"
They nodded, each clicking on their comms.
Elder Monóterra: "I'm coming with you, Ben Tennyson. With my knowledge, I'll make sure we don't get lost."
Ben: "Uh..." He hesitated, weighing the risk.
The old man gave him a reassuring smile.
Ben: "Alright, gramps, just don't get us shot, yeah? You've got my back, I've got yours."
Elder Monóterra: "Yes, sir! Though I warn you, my back's already killing me."
Ben: "A lot worse could be killing you out here." He grinned, an adventurous spark in his eyes. "Let's move before those bugs get their sticky claws on the Monógliph."
With a nod, they both descended toward the temple, leaving the rest of the group behind.
Underground Temple - Korvan Camp
"Da, da, PP-2000! No?" one Korvan shouted to his group.
"Blegh, no! No more 'PP-2000'!" another member responded, disagreeing, before randomly shooting an empty crate.
It was hard to believe that such poorly mannered, barbaric creatures could achieve space travel. The Korvans were a tribal, war-obsessed race of gunsmiths with a strange fixation on human weaponry—specifically, old Russian designs. They were smart enough to handle the guns but not clever enough to realize their Russian associates were swindling them. Their "allies" swapped Korvan advanced weaponry for outdated human firearms, often manipulating them into doing their dirty work off the books.
More Korvans joined the discussion around a crackling trash-fire, some landing from above as they folded their crooked wings neatly into the back-sacks they carried.
"No, no! PP-19 Vityaz! Design I prefer," one of them chimed in.
From a distance, Ben and the Elder Monóterra crept forward, hidden behind dense bushes. They quietly made their way toward the enormous stairs that led up to the ancient temple towering in the background.
Luckily for them, the Korvans were noisy enough in their disorganized looting to miss any sign of their presence.
"Why… why no negotiate with German humans? No—no one seen MP40?!" another Korvan interjected, showing off a stolen, modified German weapon.
"Ooooh, yes, yes!" — "Beautiful, beautiful!" — "Woh-woh!" several Korvans reacted, crowding around the weapon.
"Shoot stupid Vulpimancer with this, in the face, yes?! No more! No more Vulpimancer!" one of them cackled.
The entire group burst into cheers, firing their weapons into the air in celebration. A chaotic mix of physical projectiles and laser beams echoed through the camp, causing the Elder Monóterra to stumble back in fright, his entire body trembling as he fell behind.
Ben quickly whispered, "Try to keep up, gramps," before darting back to help him.
They continued up the sides of the temple stairs, hiding behind massive stone pillars whenever a group of Korvans passed by, loaded down with their stolen loot.
Monóterran Temple - Interior
Ben and the Elder slipped into the ancient temple, their footsteps echoing softly in the cavernous entrance. The air was thick with the scent of dust and aged stone. Ben cautiously scanned the area, his eyes darting around for any signs of movement.
Ben: "Coast is... clear." He paused, taking a few quick notes on the Omnitrix. "Let's find that ancient gizmo and get the heck out of here," he muttered, the thrill of the adventure still pumping through his veins as he led them down the corridor.
Behind him, the Elder Monóterra was visibly winded, panting from both the climb and the tension. The small alien stumbled toward a wall to rest, leaning against it with a sigh of relief. His moment of respite, however, was cut short as the ancient stone wall gave way, crumbling in a loud crash, revealing a hidden chamber full of Korvans busy looting the temple.
The Korvans froze, turning their insect-like heads toward the source of the disturbance. The Elder, caught off guard, offered a shaky salute, his voice awkwardly cheerful.
Elder Monóterra: "Evening, gentlemen!" His attempt at nonchalance only fueled the Korvans' irritation as they readied their weapons.
. . .
Ben, further down the corridor, heard the faint voice of the Elder behind him. He turned his head, trying to make sense of the situation.
Ben: "What?" His confusion didn't last long. Suddenly, the Elder latched onto Ben's back, gripping his shoulders tightly.
Elder Monóterra: "I said run, boy! Are you deaf? Move your feet, lad!"
The words were punctuated by the sound of gunfire, Korvans already unleashing their volley. Ben's reflexes kicked in immediately. With a swift motion, he activated a green energy shield from his Omnitrix gauntlet, deflecting the incoming blaster bolts. The shots pinged off harmlessly, illuminating the darkened hallway with each impact.
In a fluid motion, Ben pulled out one of his blaster pistols, returning fire as they dashed for cover. His shots were precise, taking out three Korvans while using the temple's crumbling architecture as protection.
With no time to waste, they abandoned their position and bolted deeper into the temple, a swarm of angry Korvans chasing after them. The clumsy creatures fired recklessly, their shots wildly ricocheting off the temple walls.
The duo sprinted down dimly lit corridors, narrowly avoiding temple traps triggered by their frantic escape. Hidden pressure plates activated as they ran, releasing sharp arrows and ancient defense mechanisms. A massive stone pillar collapsed just behind them, nearly crushing them both as they narrowly avoided death, with Ben barely keeping the Elder on his feet.
They turned a corner only to find a massive ditch splitting the corridor in two. Ben, thinking fast, pulled out his grappling hook and shot it across the gap. He swung across effortlessly—though with the Elder clinging to his back, it was far from graceful. Blaster fire whizzed past them, making the already precarious situation even more dangerous.
Behind them, several Korvans were less fortunate, falling victim to the temple's traps—disappearing beneath crumbling floors or getting skewered by automated arrows.
After a frantic run, Ben and the Elder found themselves cornered in a small room, Korvans closing in from every entry point. With no time to spare, Ben tossed the Elder to safety behind a pillar and drew both of his pistols, firing with pinpoint accuracy. His Revonnah-kai training, thanks to Rook, kicked in as he smoothly dispatched four of the bug-like creatures, each hit and kick precise and deadly.
More Korvans flooded in, but Ben's speed and skill outmatched their brute force. He dropped two more, his movements fluid and efficient. The clattering of their bodies against the stone floor echoed ominously, and the room fell silent save for Ben's steady breathing.
The Elder cautiously crept out from his hiding spot. Ben gave a quick nod, and they continued their race down the temple halls. But the Korvans weren't done yet—soon, the sounds of pursuit grew louder as more enemies flooded the ancient structure.
Once again, they were on the run, but this time things got more chaotic. As they swung across another dangerous rupture in the floor, the Elder's squirming made it impossible for Ben to control his landing. They crashed through a weakened wall, tumbling into another section of the temple.
The dust settled, and the two lay sprawled on the ground for a moment, catching their breath. Miraculously, they seemed to have lost their pursuers.
Ben, still lying on his back, chuckled as he glanced at the ceiling. "Well... that could've gone worse."
The Elder slowly got to his feet, adjusting his robes. "Yes, let's not do that again."
They exchanged a quick glance before cautiously moving forward once more, their path uncertain but the danger far from over.
Ben found himself at a crossroads, the path before him splitting into three distinct corridors. He furrowed his brow at the one on the right, unsure of which way to go.
Elder Monóterra quickly fumbled through the scriptures attached to his bandolier, squinting as he read.
"Through the left!" he insisted, jabbing a finger toward that direction.
Without hesitation, Ben took off down the middle path instead.
"No! No! The other left!" The Elder scolded, his voice echoing off the stone walls.
Ben paused, glancing back. "Right." He ran back to the junction and entered the left corridor.
Elder Monóterra waved his arms in frustration. "No, this is left, not right! Left!"
Ben sighed, rubbing his temples. "I meant right as in, correct."
Elder Monóterra shook his head. "Well, right is incorrect!"
Ben pinched the bridge of his nose. "Dude, I—"
"My name is not Dude! I am Yuh!" the Elder interjected, hopping down from Ben's back to take the lead.
Ben smirked despite the situation. "I know... Just lead the way, Gramps. We've got hundreds of those creepy-crawlers scrambling through this temple after us." He stepped aside, letting Yuh pass.
Yuh nodded, regaining his composure. "Yes, yes, follow me, this way!"
They moved cautiously down the chosen passageway, the sound of their footsteps mingling with the distant chaos echoing through the temple.
Monóterran Temple - Monógliph Shrine
Ben and Yuh stepped into a grand, circular room, the air thick with mystery and anticipation. At the center, on a raised pedestal, lay the Monógliph, its presence commanding and enigmatic. However, as Ben inspected the artifact from a distance, he quickly realized the depth of its power. Broken platforms floated eerily in mid-air, defying all logic, while the water surrounding the room was frozen in place, suspended in a surreal tableau.
The room seemed to exist in a state of zero gravity for some objects, while others were firmly grounded. A strange, dim aura radiated from the Monógliph, casting a soft glow that climbed to the upper layers of the cave system.
"Stay here. Let me make sure it's safe," Ben instructed, determination etched on his face. He began to hop cautiously from one floating stone to another, carefully navigating the precarious path toward the center.
Meanwhile, Yuh busied himself with the surroundings, meticulously studying and collecting any items of historical significance he could find. His small frame moved with surprising agility as he examined the remnants of a long-lost civilization.
As Ben neared the central platform, his foot slipped momentarily, and he nearly lost his balance. Heart racing, he steadied himself just in time to reach the Monógliph. The moment he stood before the artifact, he felt an overwhelming sense of reverence. The gentle hum of a choir, as if a hundred Monóterran saints were echoing through the chamber, resonated around him.
Ben took a breath, allowing himself to be drawn closer to the golden shine of the artifact, which reflected brightly in his eyes. He began to read the inscriptions on the pedestal, recalling the various techniques he had learned in class and through past experiences.
"Baltori-a-mata... Nal-corri, Mal-hata... Kalos-Frior Tepol," he intoned, his voice steady but barely above a whisper as he murmured the remaining scriptures to himself.
With a swift motion, he retrieved his digital notepad from his utility belt, fingers flying across the screen as he began to translate the ancient text. As he deciphered the words, his eyes widened in realization, the gravity of their meaning sinking in.
"Ben Tennyson." A voice boomed from behind, thick with a Russian accent.
Ben whipped around, eyes narrowing as he took in the sight of a man standing amidst a throng of Korvans. One of those pesky bugs had Yuh held hostage, a gun pressed to his mouth, silencing the Elder's protests.
"Woah, no way—Boris Romanov?" Ben exclaimed, recognizing the infamous figure.
Boris Romanov, a rugged Russian in his early thirties, sported a distinctive goatee. He was clad in an elaborate, gray tech jumpsuit adorned with various expeditionary gear, lending him an air of both authority and menace. A cigar dangled from his lips, smoke curling into the air.
"Correct, Mr. Tennyson," Boris replied, taking a leisurely puff.
Ben's expression turned incredulous. "You're that super-rich collector from Moscow right? I've had to read some of your books. Gotta say, I'm a big fan of your expeditions! Not so much a fan of the contraband part... the bloodlust... the stealing." He subtly checked his Omnitrix, halfway through it's recharge.
Boris chuckled, a hint of danger in his tone. "Da, da, big fan of you as well. Heard of your… heroics. You've taken a liking to this now, ah? Hero turned adventurer?" He raised an eyebrow, skepticism lacing his words.
Ben shrugged, trying to maintain his composure. "Don't those go together like bread and butter? I mean, you're a grave robber; you should tutor me on 'thrills.'" He was half-entertained by their banter while also strategizing an escape.
"I suppose I could," Boris replied, casually flicking ash from his cigar. "But… how come no fancy aliens? No transformations, hm? Run out of juice?" His gaze was sharp, suspicious.
Ben lifted the Omnitrix just enough to catch Yuh's anxious glance. "Something like that." He put his notepad back in his bag, his voice steadying. "This is cool and all, but do you mind letting go of my friend there? He's pretty harmless, I promise."
Boris chuckled darkly. "Hm, yes, of course, but first... the artifact, Tennyson, if you will." He extinguished his cigar, tossing it into the ditch that separated them.
Ben's gaze shifted from the Monógliph to Boris, weighing his options. "Yeah, about that… I translated everything on here, and… let's just say none of us would want to find out what happens if—"
He was abruptly cut off.
Boris: "Tennyson. I'm starting to suspect you have not read my books in their entirety… Out here, when you step foot in the same tomb as me, you are either with me or against me. And those who are against me…" He let out a chilling laugh. "Let us just say they became the very thing they seek… history.'"
Great, another villain added to the already lengthy cast. Ben felt a mix of frustration and concern. It wasn't enough to contend with the race of gun-toting Korvans; now he was up against one of Russia's richest and deadliest men. If his books were any indication, Boris valued money above all else, and right now, he was intent on robbing Ben of that which he sought.
Ben squared his shoulders, mentally preparing for the inevitable showdown. He couldn't let Boris or the Korvans take the Monógliph or harm Yuh. This was about to get a lot more complicated.
Boris Romanov stepped forward, his demeanor menacing. "Unless you want your furry little friend to take part in the writing of my next book... I suggest you give the artifact to me." He threatened, his Korvan henchman leveling a weapon at Yuh. "But of course, do not take this personally; I assure you, it is just… business."
Ben smirked, attempting to maintain his composure. "Ooh! Okay, okay, I get it." He let out a fake laugh. "You're one of those guys. I knew something was fishy." He pointed and waved, putting on a show. "Never trust a guy who writes his own biography." His eyes darted toward Yuh, signaling him to prepare for action.
Yuh caught on, and though he wasn't sure what Ben had in mind, he braced himself. Stomping on the Korvan's legs? Perhaps that could work.
"Can't say I didn't warn you, though," Ben said, taking a deep breath as he reached for the Monógliph. He gritted his teeth, knowing full well the chaos that was about to unfold. "For the record, I pirated your book."
As Ben grasped the Monógliph, he stood still, holding his breath for a few seconds. Boris raised an eyebrow, confusion flickering across his face as the other Korvans slightly lowered their weapons.
Suddenly, the temple began to shake. The entire subterranean structure trembled, catching everyone off guard.
Seizing the moment, Yuh stomped down hard on the Korvan's legs, causing the creature to yelp in surprise and loosen its grip on him. Yuh broke free, and in a split second, Ben used his grappling hook, swinging across the room to a sturdy outcropping on the other side. He landed smoothly, quickly turning to allow Yuh to climb onto his back once more.
Boris's expression morphed into fury. "Get them! Get them! Snatch back the artifact!" He barked, snatching a weapon from a nearby Korvan, his eyes burning with determination.
The Korvans sprang into action, weapons raised and ready to fire at Ben and Yuh. But Ben was already on the move, spotting an alternative path through a narrow passageway lined with ancient, glowing symbols.
"Let's go, Yuh!" Ben shouted, darting toward the passage.
They narrowly dodged a hail of blaster fire as they squeezed through, the shots ricocheting off the stone walls behind them. The temple continued to shake, rocks tumbling from above, adding to the chaos.
Once they were through the narrow opening, they entered a winding tunnel illuminated by bioluminescent fungi. The sounds of the Korvans shouting and firing faded behind them, but the tremors from the temple's instability persisted.
Yuh: "What is happening to the temple!?" He clung to Ben's back for dear life as bullets whizzed past them.
Ben: "Heed this warning: Those who disturb the column of our home, the pillar of our existence, may find the sky crashing down upon them." He quoted the scriptures, trying to sound dramatic.
He ducked into a corner, quickly pulling out a stun blaster. With precise aim, he took down two Korvans hot on their trail.
In one swift motion, Ben fired his last grappling hook, creating a taut line that sent another two Korvans sprawling to the ground, knocking themselves out.
Ben: "So, what happens..." he panted as he dashed through a maze of corridors, "when you take the invisible lid off an upside-down water bottle?"
Yuh: "What is a bottle?"
Monóterran Temple - Exterior
The rest of the group huddled together, anxiety etched on their faces as the ground trembled beneath them.
They watched as the Korvans began their frantic retreat, their movements chaotic and desperate.
Commlink: "Oak, Lou, Dak, and Jet, I don't know if anyone's getting this, but we need to get out of here! This whole place is coming down!" Ben's urgent voice crackled through the comms.
Looking up, the group gasped as they saw water from the ocean cascading down into the cave, signaling the imminent collapse of the temple. The magic that had once stabilized the ecosystem was fading fast.
Lou: "What do we do?!" He scrambled to grab his commlink, panic rising in his voice.
Ben: "Still working on that," he replied, urgency creeping in. "Stay put and wait for the regroup!"
They turned their gaze back to the temple, spotting Ben Tennyson with Yuh clinging to his back, sprinting down the stairs as a swarm of Korvans—and Boris—pursued them.
Yuh seized Ben's blaster, aiming it backward at their attackers. The elder fired with surprising accuracy, taking down a few Korvans whose bodies tumbled down the steps in a chaotic cascade.
Just then, a massive surge of ocean water crashed onto the temple, pouring down the stairs like a relentless waterfall, threatening to engulf everyone in its path.
Boris glanced back, a look of horror crossing his face as he realized that any other potential artifacts were now lost to him. In a panic, he turned and sprinted towards the nearest vehicles, desperate for safety.
Some of the Korvans, displaying their 'brave' nature, took to the air, fleeing from the collapsing temple. Those without wings, however, were left at the mercy of their circumstances.
Ben glanced back, his eyes widening as he neared the bottom of the temple's stairs.
Reaching the ground, he encountered three armed Korvans, their weapons trained on him. Without hesitation, he activated his energy shield, deflecting their laser shots before charging forward and slamming into one of them.
He shoved the Korvan hard against the metallic surface of a nearby cargo hovercraft, delivering a swift uppercut while Yuh covered him, firing at the other two assailants with precision.
The duo fought their way into the large hovercraft, dispatching the remaining Korvans inside with a flurry of punches and kicks, tossing them out like ragdolls.
Ben slid into the driver's seat, a look of shock crossing his face as he realized they had just commandeered a vehicle filled with stolen loot. "Holy crap..."
Yuh: "Drive! Drive!" he shouted, urgency lacing his voice.
Ben slammed his foot down on the pedal, accelerating as Boris lunged into the vehicle behind them, slamming the side hatch shut right in the faces of his wingless Korvan troops.
The Korvans still outside were swiftly engulfed by the deluge of water crashing down, their cries lost in the chaos.
Boris, unfazed by the pandemonium, turned to the driver with a fierce glare.
Boris: "Follow that Class Three Carrier!" he commanded, his tone leaving no room for argument. He then turned to the back of the vehicle, tapping on the roof with authority. "Hudson, you're up," he called out to an unseen individual.
Ben maneuvered the stolen hovercraft closer to the edge, where the rest of the group stood, overlooking the treacherous terrain. Tapping his commlink, he tried to keep the mood light, despite the chaos around them. "Get on, get on, get on the magic school bus!" he sang, his voice strained as he checked the Omnitrix. It was almost fully recharged, but not quite there yet.
He glanced at the rearview monitor, noticing a fleet of vehicles rapidly closing in on them.
The Monóterrans quickly climbed atop the craft, with Yuh opening the hatch to help them inside. Once everyone was secure, Ben slammed on the throttle, steering hard toward a massive tunnel at the far end of the cavern.
The cabin erupted into panicked chatter, everyone speaking over each other, their voices filled with fear.
Ben: "Guys, guys!" he shouted over the noise. The Monóterrans fell silent, all eyes on him. "Calm down, just... go with the flow," he said, trying to ease their nerves as he weaved through sharp turns and dodged jagged rocks lining the path.
Dak: "We will definitely 'go with the flow' if we don't get out of here!" he retorted, gripping the side of his seat.
Jet: "What about the Monógliph?" she asked, anxiety clear in her voice.
Yuh reached into Ben's bag and carefully pulled out the artifact. For a brief moment, they all stared at it in awe, but the tranquility shattered when Boris' vehicle slammed into them from behind. Two smaller speeder crafts flanked their hovercraft, bumping and firing at its hull.
Ben clenched his jaw, swerving hard to the left, smashing one speeder against the tunnel wall. He immediately veered right, sending the other speeder crashing into jagged rocks. Both crafts disintegrated on impact, their debris scattering in the tunnel.
As Ben checked the rearview monitor again, his heart skipped a beat. Something massive had leaped from Boris' vehicle, landing squarely on top of their hovercraft. The heavy thud of footsteps echoed ominously from above.
Ben: "Who knows how to drive?" he asked, activating the autopilot. His gaze swept over the group.
Jet, hesitantly, raised her hand.
Ben: "Awesome. Happy sailing, don't get us killed," he quipped, pulling her up and plopping her into the driver's seat.
Jet: "Wait! But— I don't have a Class Three license!" she panicked, gripping the controls tightly.
Ben: "Neither do I!" he shot back with a grin, sprinting toward the ladder and scrambling up to the hatch.
As soon as Ben cracked open the latch, he was yanked upward by four massive, reddish arms. He let out a startled groan, his body flung violently toward the edge of the vehicle's roof.
Grabbing the ledge just in time, Ben dangled precariously over the side, struggling to regain his footing. Before he could pull himself up, one of those powerful arms wrapped around his throat, lifting him into a crushing chokehold.
His attacker was a young Tetramand mercenary, decked out in tactical attire, with a vicious grin plastered on his face as he watched Ben struggle for air.
Ben's hands scrambled for his blaster pistol, but the Tetramand swatted it away with ease, sending it clattering across the metal surface. In a desperate move, Ben grabbed a taser from his bandolier and jammed it into the brute's arm.
The Tetramand chuckled through the pain, clearly unimpressed. He pulled Ben closer, trying to intimidate him further with his strength.
But Ben wasn't done. He quickly fished out another taser from his pocket and, in a bold move, tased the Tetramand's chest-right between the nipples.
The mercenary let out an embarrassingly high-pitched scream, a cry that echoed through the cavern. Overwhelmed, he released his grip on Ben and collapsed to his knees, gasping for breath.
Ben, now free, gasped for air as well, though his tasers had been lost in the scuffle. As he regained his composure, he noticed three Korvans climbing aboard the hovercraft, heading for the hatch.
He tried to get up and stop them, but the Tetramand, not entirely down for the count, grabbed Ben's leg, pulling him back into the fight.
Ben twisted around and delivered a hard punch to the Tetramand's face. The result? Immediate regret. "Ahh! That was really stupid!" he yelled in pain, shaking his hand as the pain of nearly breaking his fist against the Tetramand's rock-hard skull shot through him.
In retaliation, the Tetramand swung a massive fist, connecting squarely with Ben's face. The force of the blow almost knocked him out, stars bursting behind his eyes as he staggered back.
Both fighters were on their feet now, Ben barely holding it together, his face swelling and bruised. In a last-ditch effort, he activated his shield, but after two devastating strikes from the Tetramand, the energy barrier shattered, leaving Ben exposed.
From the cockpit of the pursuing vehicle, Boris cheered for his champion, egging him on with a malicious grin.
Boris: "Come on Hudson! Stop playing around and clean house!" He shouted.
Inside the hovercraft, Lou clutched the Monógliph tightly, while Yuh, Oak, and Dak gathered near him, all on high alert. The Korvans had breached the hatch, their weapons aimed at the Monóterrans.
Suddenly, Lou felt a strange vibration in his hands. The Monógliph began to shake, glowing with an ethereal blue and golden light. Before anyone could react, the artifact unleashed a blinding pulse of energy, sending a magical blast through the air.
The Korvans screamed, their bodies disintegrating in the light as they were sucked into the abyss created by the Monógliph's power.
The Monóterrans stood frozen in shock, staring at the ancient relic in disbelief. The raw, overwhelming power of the Monógliph had just saved them in an instant.
Outside, on top of the hovercraft, Ben dodged a flurry of punches from his towering Tetramand foe, while managing to shoot at any Korvans attempting to breach the vehicle. His last blaster clicked uselessly-out of ammo.
Before he could react, a brutal punch caught him off-guard, sending him crashing to the metal surface. Ben coughed, blood splattering from his mouth.
"Yep... there goes a rib..." Ben groaned, clutching his side in agony.
The Tetramand loomed over him, sneering. "Fraud. You really are nothing without that watch..." Hudson mocked, adding insult to injury.
Ben winced, blood dribbling down his chin as he forced himself to sit up. "Dude, you're like... nine-ten feet tall? Cut me some slack." He coughed again, struggling to stand.
As Hudson swung for another punishing blow, Oak and Dak burst out from the hatch, jumping onto the Tetramand's back. The small aliens clawed at him relentlessly, scratching at his skin.
The Tetramand staggered, trying to swat them away, clearly irritated and in pain. Ben, meanwhile, attempted to rise but collapsed again, slamming his fist against the Omnitrix in frustration.
Inside the hovercraft, Jet was struggling to steer through the narrow cave tunnel. "Are you sure you can do this?" Yuh asked, concerned as the path grew tighter.
"No!" Jet whimpered, her voice cracking. The hovercraft scraped against the side of the cave, shaking violently. The entire group inside lurched forward, tripping over one another as the vehicle banged against the walls.
In Boris's vehicle, the leader checked the rearview monitor, noticing the floodwaters creeping far up from behind, drowning one of the two remaining transports that dragged too far back.
He grabbed the comms and spoke through the loudspeaker. "Tennyson! We can end this now. Hand over the riches, and maybe we split the haul. Wouldn't want my favorite superhero to drown, eh?" he jeered, shamelessly negotiating.
Ben lay flat on the ground, clutching his aching ribs. "Definitely gotta work on the abs more..." he muttered, groaning as he looked over at his allies.
With a loud thud, Oak was sent flying toward the hatch after being swatted off by the Tetramand. Fortunately, the little alien tumbled back inside the hovercraft, unharmed. Dak was next-he was thrown straight at Ben, who managed to catch him just in time, gently setting him down.
There was no time to rest. Hudson charged at them, his four massive arms outstretched, roaring in fury. Ben's heart pounded in his chest as he braced himself for the impact. But then, he heard a familiar hum from the Omnitrix.
Just as Hudson's fist came barreling down, a vine-like arm shot out from Ben's wrist, wrapping tightly around the Tetramand's fist, stopping it dead in its tracks.
The Tetramand grunted, struggling to free himself. Fear flickered in his eyes as he realized what he was up against.
—SWAMPFIRE—
Ben smirked, his body now transformed into the Methanosian. "Round two..."
Tennyson unleashed a fury of flamed hits towards his opponent, having his revenge for the beaten he endured prior.
Using his vine-like appendage extensions, he engulfed the Tetramand, launching and dragging him onto the cave's walls as they drove.
Swampfire watched as Boris's vehicle careened toward them, hurling the battered Tetramand mercenary straight into the cockpit.
The brute's body shattered the windshield, nearly crushing Boris beneath his unconscious form. Boris, trapped and panicking, flailed beneath the heavy weight, while the Korvan driver desperately tried to regain control of the vehicle's steering.
Swampfire's hands ignited in flames, casting an orange glow over the scene as he hurled fireballs at the remaining Korvans circling the vehicle. One by one, the flying foes were forced to retreat back into their transport.
"Go back inside, Dak, it's—" Swampfire's voice trailed off as he spotted something alarming ahead: a dead-end looming at the tunnel's end. Jet slammed on the brakes, the screeching sound echoing through the cave as their hovercraft skidded to a sudden, jarring halt.
Ben quickly tossed Dak inside the vehicle and braced himself for impact. Their hovercraft managed to stop just in time, inches from the cave wall, but Boris's vehicle wasn't as lucky. It slammed into theirs, causing a violent chain reaction as the smaller vehicles behind piled up, locking them all in place.
The sound of rushing water grew louder, rapidly approaching their position. The pressure from the flood could crush them all in an instant.
From below the hatch, Yuh's panicked voice rang out. "Mr. Tennyson! There's nowhere left to go! What do we do now?"
Ben's gaze shifted upward. Above, far beyond their reach, was a breach—a small opening to the surface, offering a sliver of hope. "Might wanna hold onto something," Ben called out to his group, a plan formulating in his mind.
As he prepared to act, he glanced back toward Boris and the Tetramand, who were left abandoned by their fleeing Korvan allies. They were trapped, just as doomed as everyone else, if they didn't act quickly.
Ben let out a weary sigh. His own heroic instincts tugged at him, compelling him toward a decision he knew was right, even if it felt contradictory. He couldn't leave them to perish. Not like this. Self-defense was one thing, but allowing them to drown when he could save them? That wasn't something he could live with.
Swampfire's vines extended, wrapping around Boris and the Tetramand, enclosing them in a protective cocoon. With a swift motion, he pulled them up and sent them into his group's hovercraft, ensuring their safety.
Dak looked at him, puzzled. "Ben? What are you doing?"
Yuh, peeking up through the hatch, smiled knowingly. "It's what he does. Saving the lives of even his enemies, if given the chance."
Ben turned back once more, his eyes widening as the floodwater barreled toward them. The sheer volume and pressure of the approaching wave would crush them in moments. They were out of time.
"Don't worry guys, this'll be easy!" Ben shouted.
—WATER HAZARD—
Now in his Orishan form, he stood firm as the wave of water rushed toward them. His instincts kicked in, knowing the only way to survive was to slow the flood and control its flow. With his hands raised, he concentrated, summoning all of his strength to manipulate the water's pressure.
Even as Water Hazard, the sheer force was overwhelming. The torrent strained against his control, but gradually, the speed of the flood began to slow. Bit by bit, the water filled the tunnel, lifting their hovercraft ever so slightly.
However, the vehicle was weighed down by its cargo and passengers. It was far too heavy to float freely. Ben realized this wasn't enough. They needed more.
Without missing a beat, he switched forms again.
—UPGRADE—
Now merged with the craft, Ben overhauled its inner workings, modifying it to function like a submarine. The vehicle hummed with new life as he activated the lower turbines, making it capable of propelling itself upwards as the water continued to rise.
Inside the vehicle, Jet, from her seat, watched in amazement. "He's done it! We're going up!" She excitedly left her post, joining the others around the Monógliph as the craft ascended.
The group formed a circle around the artifact, studying its mysterious power. Meanwhile, Boris, still trapped in the cocoon, seethed in silence from the corner, his frustration evident but powerless to voice his anger.
The craft continued its ascent, rising steadily toward the breach above, escaping the depths of the cave and the deadly flood below. They were finally on their way to safety.
Balgoran Coastal Grasslands - Midday
The midday sun cast long shadows over the endless plains. The once-embattled hovercraft now sat idly beside the flooded sinkhole, a stark contrast to the flat, dry expanse of grassland stretching out around it.
Vines emerged from the craft, lowering the two cocooned figures onto the ground. Ben, now as Swampfire again, dissolved the organic binds, freeing the unconscious Tetramand and Boris, who quickly regained his composure. He stood, adjusting his attire, facing Ben with a confused expression.
For a moment, neither spoke. The silence between them seemed to stretch, laden with unspoken thoughts.
Boris: "I don't understand..."
Ben, now back to his human form, shrugged and stuffed his hands into his jacket pockets. "I don't expect you to."
Boris stood still, his mind racing. He glanced at the Monóterrans, watching them cheer and raise the Monógliph high as it gleamed in the sunlight. The ancient artifact was clearly a symbol of deep significance to them. When Boris looked back at Ben, his thoughts grew even more tangled. 'Why? Why save him?'
Without a word, Ben handed Boris a small beacon. "I'm sure someone will come pick you up eventually."
Boris accepted the beacon, staring at it for a moment. He pondered Ben's actions. Was the boy a fool? Or perhaps, it was something deeper— integrity, something Boris hadn't encountered in quite some time. It was clear this wasn't a play for power or superiority. Ben had shown him a rare, unspoken trait: honor.
Boris extended his hand, offering a handshake. "You have earned my respect, Ben Tennyson. You bested me today, but know that this is not the end."
Ben, slightly surprised by the gesture, shook his hand. "This has to be the first time someone who tried to kill me acted like a good sport right after."
Boris: "Such is business. You saved my life. My... disloyal party has retreated, and my champion is defeated. I surrender my quest." He clasped his hands behind his back. "I do hope you enjoy your fortune."
Ben let out a light chuckle. "It's not my fortune, it's theirs." He motioned toward the Monóterrans. "It means more to them than it ever would to us."
Boris remained quiet, a faint smile forming on his lips. "History. Identity. Culture," he mused aloud. "Far more valuable to a people than it is to a mere man."
Ben simply nodded in agreement.
Boris: "I hope to never see you again, Ben Tennyson," he said, oddly serene.
Ben smirked as he turned to walk back to the ship. "Yeah, can't make any promises." He turned around to face him one last time. "Also, you should seriously hire a writer for your biographies. Serious false advertising!" He pointed.
With a quick transformation into Upgrade, Ben merged with the craft once more, modifying it for flight. As the ship's engines roared to life, the wind whipped Boris' hair, and he stood watching as the craft took off, soaring into the distance.
He looked down at the beacon in his hand and let out a heavy sigh. This wasn't over.
Balgora - Monóterran Settlement - Dusk
As dusk fell over Balgora, the soft glow of hundreds of candles flickered across the Monóterran settlement. The townspeople gathered at the center, their faces solemn yet hopeful as they watched the priest approach the grand fountain at the heart of the recreational area. Ben Tennyson stood on a nearby balcony, arms folded, watching the ceremony unfold. Beside him, Yuh quietly observed the scene.
The priest reached the fountain pedestal and, after a moment of stillness, addressed the gathering:
"We are gathered here thanks to the bravery and wits of our greatest expeditionary members—Yuh, Jet, Lou, Dak, and Oak—alongside the legendary Ben Tennyson of Earth. It is because of them that we have recovered the essence of our ancestors, the fountain of our very existence."
With careful reverence, he placed the Monógliph atop the pedestal. The crowd, still and silent, waited for his next words.
"The heart, faith, and might of our people. The last of the Monógliphs. May it strengthen our lands, empower our spirits, and guide our minds. Just as our ancestors once prospered, Balgora will prosper yet again! For all time!"
He lifted his hands to the heavens, and the people cheered. As the Monógliph glowed, a golden beam shot into the sky, triggering a silent yet mesmerizing electrical storm. The golden light cascaded across the landscape, rejuvenating the soil, healing the wounded, and clearing the minds of the troubled.
Ben leaned against the doorframe, a faint smile on his face as he marveled at the Monógliph's power. He didn't fully understand the artifact's abilities, but the effects were undeniable.
"Manifestation," Yuh said softly, drawing Ben's attention.
Ben glanced at the elder.
Yuh continued, his voice trembling with emotion, "That is the true power of the Monógliph. Faith charges it, Hope encapsulates it, and Belief expresses it. It is merely the physical projection of our people's will." A tear slipped down his cheek as he spoke, overwhelmed by the moment. "You have done us a great service, Ben Tennyson. You will be written in our halls of history as the one who came down from the stars to recover our past, our identity... But of course, that's not primarily why you're here." He pulled out a Holo-pad. "Your payment."
Ben hesitated, looking away and folding his arms, clearly uncomfortable. "I feel bad getting paid for this, Yuh. I'll admit that. It's not something I'm used to. Heck, I totally forgot about it."
Yuh chuckled softly. "Nonsense, boy. Nothing in life is free. It's either praise or credits, but praise alone doesn't put food on the table. You earned both!" With a few taps on the Holo-pad, Yuh transferred a hefty sum of credits to Ben.
Yuh paused, pulling out a small Monóterran totem and handing it to Ben. "One last thing before you go," he said, his tone serious. "The galaxy is full of rumors, legends, and mysticism. From the stories that have reached us from the heavens, you are certainly not what I expected."
Ben chuckled, still feeling awkward. "I've heard that a lot lately. I'm not what the stories try to sell—"
Yuh raised a hand, stopping him. "Quite the contrary," he said, eyes fixed on Ben. "You are far more than the tales speak of. The stories focus on the Omnitrix's power, spreading across the cosmos, but they never highlight the bravery of the one who wields it." He gestured toward the celebrating crowd below. "You impressed us, not with your abilities, but with your heart. You showed courage, talent, and honor. That is what will be written here—in stone, not in rumor. Recognized not by ten thousand masks, but by the true face behind them."
Ben, unexpectedly moved, stood in silence for a moment. Yuh's words resonated deeply with him, and for the first time in a while, he felt genuinely seen—not as a hero with powers but as Ben Tennyson.
"Thank you, Yuh," Ben said softly, offering his hand.
Yuh took it, his grip firm yet gentle. "Until we meet again, Mr. Tennyson. Though, hopefully, not in such stressful times. I'm getting too old for this." He gave Ben a knowing smile before leaning back in his chair. "Safe travels."
Ben nodded in appreciation and walked away, the soft melodies of local musicians and the voices of villagers singing filling the air. The calm dusk turned the end of the day into a serene, almost magical experience as Ben glanced once more at the town, feeling a quiet sense of fulfillment.
Balgora - Grasslands - Dusk
As Ben walked across the plains, a floating train of mobilized crates followed closely behind him, filled with the trinkets and gifts from the people of Balgora—tokens of gratitude for his service. In the distance, the settlement celebrated, fireworks lighting up the twilight sky.
His path brought him near the Rust-Bucket, his newly acquired mobile home, but as he reached the top of a small hill, something caught his attention. Ben stopped in his tracks, captivated by the sight unfolding before him.
The dry grass that covered the plains had begun to shift, turning a vibrant green as the Monógliph's magic continued to flow outward, healing the land. Ben followed the progress with his eyes, watching the transformation until his gaze was drawn toward the horizon.
There, with a sense of quiet awe, Ben moved forward and leaned against a tall rock, taking in the breathtaking scene before him. The twin suns of Balgora were setting, casting a golden-orange glow over the landscape, painting the sky in hues that seemed almost surreal.
In that moment, something stirred deep within him—something unfamiliar yet profoundly moving. Ben stood tall, the warmth of the setting suns enveloping him, and for a reason he couldn't quite place, tears welled up in his eyes. He wasn't sad, but the emotions that flooded him were overwhelming.
As the twin suns aligned perfectly with the horizon, casting their final rays of light, Ben came to a realization. What he felt, though elusive at first, was something he hadn't experienced in a long time.
Peace. Serenity. Tranquility.
For that brief, singular moment, an insignificant speck in the grand scheme of the universe, he found solace. It didn't matter how fleeting it was. It didn't matter that the moment would soon pass.
In that instant, Ben felt thankful—not for any particular reason, but simply for the experience itself. And in a way that felt almost like a prayer, he honored the moment with gratitude.
Balgora - Rust-Bucket - Interior
Back inside the Rust-Bucket, Ben placed the last of the crates down and walked over to a small rack built into the wall. Pressing a button, he watched as the columns shifted, revealing a collection of archaeological alien artifacts—items he'd collected over the course of his journey.
He held up the Monóterran totem, studying it for a moment before carefully placing it in one of the columns.
"It's not just about uncovering our past anymore."
The totem gleamed under the soft light, a symbol of what he had helped restore.
"It's about digging up the powers hidden across the universe. And that power is knowledge... wisdom."
Ben stepped back, his eyes lingering on the totem.
Friedkin University - Archeological Auditorium
The Monóterran Totem sat proudly on a pedestal at the center of the platform, its mysterious and ancient design captivating the attention of the audience. The lecture hall was packed, with students and faculty listening attentively to Ben Tennyson's presentation.
"It's not just about the money or the thrill of adventure," Ben began, his voice steady and sincere. "It's about the cultural enrichment that guides us toward a better future."
He paused for a moment, glancing at the professor, who returned his gaze with intrigue and admiration. Then, he turned back to the class, his passion clear.
"Every world out there, throughout the cosmos, has its fair share of treasures waiting to be dug up. I believe that's where this profession is headed, and..." Ben looked toward the Monóterran totem, pointing to it, "I aspire to manifest that future into reality—just like how the Monóterrans believe in the power of manifestation."
A smile spread across his face as he turned to the class, his confidence radiating. "Call it a cross-planetary inspiration."
Friedkin University - Hallways
Ben walked down the hallways of the university, his steps filled with confidence. The presentation had gone better than he'd hoped, and the energy of it still lingered. His classmate, Fellah, caught up to him, grinning.
"Wow, what a change in vocabulary!" she nudged him playfully.
Ben chuckled. "You hang out with enough aliens, and you pick up a few fancy speeches."
As they stepped outside into the crisp university air, Fellah laughed. "I really loved your presentation. That's one way to wrap up the trimester. How're you doing, by the way? You get the 'cash cash'?"
Ben glanced around, ensuring no one else was nearby, and leaned in, barely containing his laughter. "I'm stinkin' rich," he whispered.
The two shared a playful, exaggerated high-five followed by a low-five, their friendship full of camaraderie.
"But hey, your presentation was the real winner," Ben added. "You're the only one actually doing a modern-day investigation. Lucky you—going to Egypt with the class to get your hands on some real man-made artifacts."
They sat down at a nearby bench, the sun casting long shadows across the campus grounds.
"Whaddya mean lucky? You're going too, right?" Fellah asked, her tone shifting to seriousness as she expected a straight answer from him.
Ben hesitated, avoiding eye contact. "Well..." He trailed off, looking around as if searching for an escape route.
Fellah placed her hands on her hips, clearly not satisfied with his evasion.
Just then, Gerald appeared, standing in front of them with a grin. "Dang, you guys really don't wait for anyone, do you?"
He fist-bumped both Ben and Fellah as he joined them.
"Gerald! What's up? I saw you online last night on Sumo-verse," Ben quickly redirected the conversation, dodging Fellah's question.
Gerald laughed. "Oh man, I almost pulled an all-nighter! I was just about to—"
"Ah ah ah!" Fellah interrupted, waving a finger at Gerald. "Sit down, Gerald. Don't help him change the subject."
She turned her attention back to Ben, eyes narrowed. "Are you, or are you not, going to Egypt with us?" she demanded, poking him for emphasis.
Ben smirked, trying to keep the mood light.
Ben: "I'll go if you manage to get a date with Alice by then." He teased, still trying to dodge the question.
Fellah, unfazed: "Terrible choice, easy task. Give me a week." She crossed her arms, lifting her chin in mock arrogance.
Ben and Gerald exchanged knowing glances. "Bluff." they both said in unison.
Fellah leaned in, her expression serious. "I'm not bluffing!"
Gerald: "Girl you lose your mojo whenever Alice is 5 feet in approximaty of you. I'm doubling down on bluff."
Fellah: "Ugh, whatever." She folded her arms, then turned to Ben. "Back to you now. What have you been up to that's so important you can't even commit to a trip to Egypt with us?"
Ben leaned back against the bench, letting out a quiet chuckle. He paused, smirk tugging at his lips as he realigned himself to face her. "I'm glad you asked."
The Gakaxy Is At War
Three powers divide the Milky Way into fractured territories: the Incursean Empire, the Tetramand Empire, and the High Union of Interplanetary Systems. The Incursean and Tetramand Empires remain locked in a brutal and unrelenting stalemate, while the High Union scavenges what's left, mired in parasitic bureaucracy.
At the helm of these powers stand Empress Attea of the Incurseans and Princess Looma of the Tetramands—both too young and impulsive, fueling a conflict that leaves billions of innocent lives to suffer in a war they never asked for.
Amidst this galactic chaos, Ben Tennyson, in search of glory and fortune to fund his illusionary 'normal' life, turns to a clandestine help line connecting him with worlds in desperate need of a hero.
And so, sitting in the cockpit of the Rust-Bucket, a new role is forged—a Hero for Hire is born.
With the Omnitrix granting him the power of a million life forms, liberating countless worlds from tyranny, and villainy. A true intergalactic problem solver.
Through his prosperous mercenary missions, akin to a missionary of goodwill, Ben's debts are paid, his tuition secured, and his future assured.
No matter how the galaxy may view him, one thing remains certain:
He is...
—END CARD—