(Chapter 20: A Meeting of Captains)
It would be a short time after the 1st ever Blood Games that all Matriarchs gathered were able to witness and suffice to say that things were in quite a stir; given the fact that Ben had managed what many would think the impossible in besting the Custodes. Therefore, there were a considerable amount of those that wanted to meet with and get to know the Ultimatrix bearer in the wake of his victory in the Blood Games.
(November 5th, 950. M30, Holy Terra, 1:05 Pm)
It would the start of November as Ben was currently talking with Kharn who had in the days since regrouping with Furiosa who had actually apologized to him for cursing him and those of the 12th; with the Butcher's Nails had upon request opted to be the first to undergo surgery to remove them; albeit with the promise of cybernetic enhancements to more than compensate for the loss of what the Nails provided to them.
"I'm surprised that you went along with Furiosa's recommendation, Captain Kharn." Ben said to the still groggy Captain of the 12th Legion's 6th Assault Company
"I cannot decide which was worse, having those blasted things shoved into my skull, or having them taken out and being put back together...But if it is for my Matriarch, then I will put my best foot forward and do so." Kharn responded still feeling as though his skull and nerve endings were on being set on fire by a Salamanders Heavy Flamer at full blast
"Hey, I warned you that having brain surgery to get that tech out of your head was gonna hurt...At least, you'll get some custom-made augmentations out of this." Ben told the often taciturn World Eater
"...Fair enough, nonetheless, Tennyson. You do have my respect for having not only thought against my Matriarch, but bested her in combat as well. Not only that, but somehow managing to fight alongside and keep up with her as well. Those Xenos forms of yours really are strong if they were able to run right through the Custodes like that." Kharn said in regards to Ben's transformations and his being impressed at being able to keep pace with his Matriarch
"I never thought that I would see the day where someone could put those golden bastards on the backfoot. I almost broke out laughing at seeing them be taken out that easily." Kharn added with a guttural chuckle
"It was no skin off my back to do it. Better yet, getting through them was almost light work to me. If you ever want, I can beef up your guys's armor and equipment so you can chin-check one of 'em too." Ben offered to Furiosa's equerry who had a thoughtful look on his face despite the immense throbbing that persisted in his skull
"One of these days, I may take you up on that offer. The World Eaters being equipped with technology of that level would definitely be a massive boost to our soldiers." Kharn said in not saying no to Dark Age level technology
"Awesome, my guy. I will put you down on the short list of people I'm going to buff up in the future." Ben told the Centurion of the World Eaters
"And again, Tennyson. It cannot be stated how much the 12th Legion is indebted to you for freeing not only Furiosa from the Nails. That you have also not only done so for many of us as well, but agreed to improve us further so we can stand alongside her without them roaring in our skulls. For that alongside your incredible skill in combat, you have the respect of the World Eaters until our dying days." Kharn said to the Ultimatrix wielder who grinned back at him
"Thanks, and to be honest I am just glad that Furiosa is in a lot better shape than she was when I saw her…Having a nearly 10-foot-tall woman with chainsaw axes try to take your head off; is not the most pleasant experience." Ben replied to the Captain of the 12th Legion
"Trust me when I say that her in one of her rages is or rather was an often occurrence…Right now, my hopes are focused on that things will improve over what they have been. She might seem genuine about wanting to do better for the Legion overall, but even with how close I have gotten to her over the years. I prefer to reserve any hopes about her with caution." Kharn said back with cautious optimism for Furiosa's promise to do better by the World Eaters overall
"Hey, I'm sure that she does mean it. It's just a matter of patience with her, Mr Kharn. Understandably, I can't exactly promise that what she does for your Legion is going to be immediate…What I will say is that she will make the right calls to show that she's doing better, I may not have known her as long as you have. But I believe that she can do a lot better job now that she's no longer kill-crazy." Ben spoke with a shrug of his shoulders in regards to his faith in Furiosa
"I will not rebut against your words, Tennyson. If she is dead-set on changing the Legion for the better, and actually truthful in wanting to do better for us, then so be it. However, I will be holding her feet to the fire to make sure that this is not a deception to lower our guard. I refuse to let false hope invade the 12th ever again, not after our 1st encounter led to the deaths of my comrades." Kharn replied
"...Yeah, on the way here, she did mention that she got super-pissed about being dragged into this. Not that I could blame her after what she grew up with on her home planet. Then on the otherside of that, I can't defend her turning the people you fought and grew up with in the trenches into a bloody paste...Even I know that's messed up." Ben said back
"But otherwise, Captain, I am ready to pitch in and get it done with you guys. When and how that'll happen is another story altogether." Ben further spoke
"If your performance against the Custodes was anything to go by, and a damn good one it was. Then I will not mind sharing the battlefield with you, Tennyson, and I would rather you call me Kharn. The strength of what you are and what you have done for the Legion overall. That alone means that we are equals and Battle-Brothers now." Kharn told the Ultimatrix wielder
"Alright, Kharn. That all sounds fine to me." Ben said back
"There are a few more things I have to ask of you, now that you are going to be fighting alongside us." Kharn said to the Ultimatrix wielder
"Alright, go for it." Ben said to the World Eater beside him
"Do you know what is going to be expected of you in the Great Crusade? I will not put it lightly that you are going to have to get you're hands dirty, it doesn't matter if it is human, Xenos, or something else. You are going to have to be in the shit with the rest of us." Kharn questioned
"I know what it's all about, I asked the Emperor before and after the Blood Games…Honestly, as much as I'm not the biggest fan of this sort of thing, I understand why it has to get done…It is a fucked up place and someone needs to bring it all together. Especially with everything that's out there in the galaxy." Ben answered back
"I may not be the biggest fan of killing off aliens, Xenos, or whatever you call them, but I understand the neccessity of doing it all the same. It won't be the first time I've had to damn near wipe out an entire race to keep the people back home safe, and it looks like it won't be the last." Ben added
"You've wiped out Xenos before?" Kharn questioned
"I try to avoid it if I can, to exterminate entire races. But even there are some things you can't get around, even when you try as hard as you can to be a hero... So yeah, I've definitely put a few on the endangered species list or close enough to where they wouldn't try anything." Ben answered back with a grim solace in his voice
While it was something that he was not proud of, Ben had brough a few alien races from his own time period to being endangered or right at the brink of extinction in order to protect the galaxy and his own people on Earth…From the Ectonurites, the Yautja, the Incurseans, the Kryptonians, and recently enough the Chimera Sui Generis to name the small handful that Ben had brought to their knees, due to the constant threat that they posed to the greater galaxy.
"That being said, if we can end it without an entire species getting wiped out then that's great. If not then, I understand that there are some things just have to be…I learned a long time ago, that you can't save every life out there...That's why, I do enough to save as much as I can." Ben further spoke
"That is an interesting perspective, all that I've known is killing whatever is put in front of me. Even if I hate doing it, I do it because there is glory to be brought to my Legion through blood and violence, and a order than can only be given by the enforcing of the Emperor's wrath." Kharn spoke
"Do you at least have any plans for the future other than fighting? There has to be something you want when all the fighting ends?" Ben asked the World Eater
"I do not know of what I will do once the battles of the Great Crusade have ended. All that I do know is that until that time comes, I will fight with all the strength, rage and power that I have. This is what I am, Tennyson, I am a soldier, a War Hound to bite at the heels and throats of the Imperium's enemies, and I do this until I die; that is all there is to it." Kharn stated with a solemn acceptance of what his place was
"Then lucky for you, I'm going to make sure that you and the rest of your brothers; live long enough to find something more to be than soldiers. Plus with all the stuff I can cook up, I'm sure I can make you guys into super soldiers squared." Ben said back as a small smile tugged at Kharn's face
"That is appreciated, Tennyson...That in mind, if you can somehow bring me to a level of strength to compete with one of the 10,000. Then I will be permanently in your debt." Kharn spoke
"I'm sure I can figure something out for you, with everything I know how to make. It shouldn't be too hard to make you some augmentations that can let you scrap with the best of them." Ben replied
"We will see, in the meantime the second thing to note; that I want to request from you." Kharn spoke
"Sure, what do you want?" Ben asked back
"Before Lady Furiosa and the 12th are called to go forward on another campaign. I wish to test myself against you in unarmed combat, it does not matter if you use one of your Xenos forms or wish to fight me bare-handed. I want to test the strength of what I am as a World Eater and Astartes against the strength of what you are as someone who could best my Matriarch." Kharn requested of the Ultimatrix wielder
"If that's what you really want, then I'm more than fine with it. All you need to do is just set it up, and we can get it started whenever you want." Ben said back as the small smile on Kharn's face widened
"Good, I wish to further the strength of what I am as a warrior; at any given time. If you can show me what I can improve on to be an even greater one in the future, then I look forward to it." Kharn spoke as he raised a hand to shake Ben's
"Go for it, Kharn…Before you know it, you'll be strong enough to bench press houses and punch tanks in half, and make it look easy." Ben replied as a small bit of laughter escaped the World Eater
"To wield that kind of strength, that would make me truly worthy of being called a World Eater. All that matters is that I have the strength to stand alongside Lady Furiosa and best my enemies. With your help that just may become even further of a reality." Kharn said back as Ben shook hands with the towering Astartes before him
(The next day, Holy Terra, November 6th, 950. M30, 1:45 Pm)
Meanwhile in the following day to come whilst Morganna was helping Lorna in the traning of her psychic powers, Ben was in the interim introduced to noneother than her 1st Captain; Ahzek Ahriman who was keen to meet the one who had gained the attention of his Matriarch and who would be working alongside them in future endeavors.
"So you truly intend to help Lady Morganna and our Legion, not only better understand our pursuits into the Warp?...Even though we are Psykers and the information of our 'curse'? " Ahriman questioned the Ultimatrix bearer
"Yeah, I really don't see why I wouldn't. To be honest, this whole Psyker stuff that Morganna explained to me while we were stranded…All of it just seems like another form of science when I got right down to it." Ben answered back
"Plus, after what we dealt with 3 months ago, any headway I can make towards understanding this Warp stuff and these Daemons. I will take it and then some, ." Ben further spoke
"Ah yes, the Daemons of the Warp. Honestly, I had thought that they were simply abominations and malformed creatures native to it. However, with the recent information given that they are something far more insidious at play. I am inclined to join you in better understanding the mysteries of the Warp as well." Ahriman replied in having been made aware of the true nature of the Daemons in the Warp and the 4 'primary inhabitants' that lived within
"That's something I want to ask you about. How do you feel about there being and I say this as loosely as possible, 'Gods' in the Warp? Because, it is a massive adjustment to me, and I had to deal with one of their super henchman." Ben asked the 1st Captain of the 15th Legion
"To be completely transparent, it is both an enlightening piece of knowledge to be made aware of. However, it also opens far more questions than it solves." Ahriman answered back
"How did these 4 'Gods' come to be, what is their intended purpose within the Warp, can they be killed, how do they function as sentient beings, and how do they further affect things both in it and in the material? These questions and so much more have now been opened to the forefront." Ahriman spoke as even now his mind swarmed with all of the questions and mysteries made apparent by this new information
"I can't answer that at all, since I'm still getting used to how things are in the 31st millennium…That by itself, still takes a lot to get used to saying. But the point is. is that whatever these 4 'Gods' are they and their forces can be studied and understood. They aren't to removed from reality to understand what the hell we're dealing with." Ben replied in seeing the Ruinous Powers as less mythic beings and more as things that can be measured and understood
"That we are of like mind upon. Despite the superstition that comes with those who study the Warp, and the nature of being psychically attuned. It is my belief as well as that of Lady Morganna's, that the entities within the Immaterium can be measured, studied, and by extension; made to fit within the realm of logic…This is the purpose of the Thousand Sons, to use our knowledge of the esoteric and arcane to better understand both the material and immaterial worlds. Only then can we truly take mankind on pathways higher than we currently exist within." Ahriman said in agreement with the Ultimatrix bearer's statement on the matter
"I don't see why people would get into a big deal about this psychic stuff…Between you and me, I think the whole being a super wizard is pretty cool." Ben told the Chief Librarian of the Thousand Sons who gave a light chuckle at his words
"Thank you for the compliment, Tennyson. It is rare that we hear anyone compliment our gifts with praise and respect. More often than not it is with fear, disgust or awe…Psykers are a misunderstood subclass of mankind, it is only recently that we are seen with any form of respect and seldom praise towards what we are capable of." Ahriman replied
"Well, that sucks. If I saw people in armor shooting lightning bolts, fireballs, and all kinds of cool magic. I would be thinking that is the most awesome things I've ever seen. Better yet, I'm surprised that you and whoever else does magic aren't seen as superheroes with what you can do." Ben said back
"That is a rather nice dream to have. Unfortunately, many are not so lucky to be seen as positively as an Astartes of the Librarius are, or that of a sanctioned Psyker of the Imperium. The fate of many a Psyker both within and outside of the Imperium can often be a living nightmare for most. It is another reason as to why we seek to better understand the Warp and the nature of our psychic gifts." Ahriman spoke in regards to those who were not as fortunate as he, his brothers in the 15th or many other sanctioned Psykers in the Imperium
"There has to be something that can be done to help out Psykers. It doesn't seem fair, that they get a bad rap for having kickass psychic powers…Why not do what the X-men do and open up a school for Psykers across the board." Ben suggested to the confused 1st Captain
"What are these X-men you speak of?" Ahriman questioned with a curious brow
"Oh yeah, that's right 30 thousand years into future…Anyways, the X-men were a group of people with superpowers and abilities that were trained at an institute for those with said powers and of like Psykers except a lot weirder and crazier." Ben answered back
"This sounds interesting, but I fail to see how this ties into helping Psyers at large." Ahriman spoke in a request for elaboration
"The main point of what I'm getting at, is that like the X-men. You could have this academy set up to house, teach, and train Psykers across the board for the Imperium. That way they can get a better understanding of what they can do and help you guys out in the long-term. On top of that they can get fast-tracked into either taking things further as one of those sanctioned Psykers you mentioned, and whatever you call the ones that join the Legions." Ben responded
"I see that you were talking about the Librarians, yes?" Ahriman asked as Ben nodded
"Yeah, that…But honestly, if we made an academy specifically for Psykers to get a better handle on their powers. Then I'm pretty sure that things would go a lot better for everyone overall." Ben answered back
"That actually is a very good idea, Tennyson. It would definitely lessen the amount of Psykers that fall through the cracks, when we cannot find them before an incident occurs. Even moreso in the wake of our newest enemy from beyond the stars." Ahriman spoke
"In fact, I will bring this to Lady Morganna's attention when the opportunity presents itself. I am sure that she will love the idea." Ahriman further spoke in rather liking the idea altogether
"Hey, I just hope it gets done, because I want to make sure that everyone gets a fair shake of things. We are all on the struggle bus, so it makes more sense if we are doing everything together than being divided for stupid reasons." Ben responded
"I have the feeling that our sentiments towards the betterment of Psykers overall, as well as the Legion and the ending of our Curse. Something that I hope can be brought to heel swiftly." Ahriman said back with hope in his voice
"Trust me, I can and will get it done. I gave my word to Morganna that I'm going to help you guys out, and I am a man of it to the end." Ben said to the Chief Librarian of the 15th
"Then I will hold you to that promise, Tennyson. I take the lives of my brethren in the Thousand Sons, as well as those who make promises to Lady Morganna very seriously…For the sake of the 15th Legion, I hope that I will see our curse brought to an end within my lifetime. That by itself would be a miracle to behold." Ahriman replied with equal amounts of sternness and hope in his voice
"On my honor as a hero of the 21st century and cousin to one of the greatest sorcerers of my time. I promise that I will make sure your Legion's curse is ended before you push-up daisies." Ben swore to the 1st Captain of the Thousand Sons
"Thank you…and did you say you were kin to a great sorcerer?" Ahriman asked
"Oh yeah, my cousin Gwen was a powerhouse sorcerer. I'm telling you the things she could do with magic were phenomenal. I'm talking about cracking the skies open to make magma and meteors rain from the sky, make mini black-holes she could kick like soccer balls, crack open time itself so we can time travel, and making the weather do whatever she wants…Honestly, half the stuff she can do is almost crazier than some of my own aliens." Ben answered back regarding the strength of his redheaded cousin
'Honestly, with how much time has probably passed, I bet she can snap entire suns out of existence and make it look easy.' Were the Ultimatrix wielder's thoughts regarding how much stronger his cousin had grown in his absence
"Would you mind sharing a story or two regarding your cousin? If she is as strong as you proclaim her to be; then I would not mind hearing some of your adventures shared." Ahriman requested
"Sure, why not…Now then let me tell you about the the time we had to chase a titan from Ledgerdomain into World War 1…That by itself was a trip." Ben spoke as he began to tell the tale in question that was the 1st of many for his and Gwen's temporal adventures
(3 days later, November 9th, M30. 950, Holy Terra, 3:20 Pm)
Meanwhile, in the days to follow were a combination of Ultramarines and Iron Warriors gathered to witness Ben battling it out against Minerva Guilliman in a rather intense back and forth of a Wargame; wherein Perturabo was watching interested alongside Sekhmet at how Ben was surprisingly giving the Avenging Daughter a run for her money.
"How long has this been going on for?" Sekhmet questioned the Countess of Iron
"Over 3 hours…it is actually impressive how close it has been so far." Perturabo remarked as both Ben and Minerva were constantly maneuvering and adapting to each other to best the other in a match of wills
"That would explain why I have not seen him all afternoon, and why Konstance seemed irritated today." Sekhmet noted regarding Konstance's 'sour' disposition without Ben around
"When isn't Konstance in a bad mood, Sekhmet? At least now we don't have to worry about her flying into one of her episodes and flaying someone's family alive." Perturabo curtly remarked
"That is the greatest positive that comes from her and Ben's relationship…At least going forward Minerva and I won't have to worry about the mountains of paperwork that come from her exploits…I love Konstance as much as any of you, but she is a living nightmare at times." Sekhmet responded knowing that while effective Konstance's terror tactics made the aftermath of her bringing planets to compliance a hassle to say the very least
"However, I hope that this can also transfer to the Night Lords themselves. It is one thing if Konstance improves and changes for the better, but her sons on the other side of that coin…That is a different matter altogether." Sekhmet further spoke knowing that there was quite a bit of work to be had with the 8th Legion
"That is by far the greatest understatement I have heard from you yet. How she intends to turn a Legion full of gutless, depraved monsters of men into the heroes she desires is a borderline laughable task." Perturabo spoke knowing that the task of reforming the 8th Legion into a more heroic one was going to be a very difficult task at best
"I wouldn't say it isn't impossible, but it is doable. It is just going to be a very lengthy process; that being said she does have people to help her. So I imagine that if she truly wants to improve the Night Lords, then she can get it done." Sekhmet responded
"Fair point, on the other hand who do you have to win? I would say Ben but Minerva being a master of logistics is not something I will normally bet against." Perturabo asked as the intense war game between the Matriarch and Hero of another time continued
"I am putting it on Minerva to win. Ben may be good, but against someone like her, it is going to be next to impossible to beat one of my sisters in a game of tactics." Sekhmet answered back with confidence in the Matriarch of the Ultramarines
All the while Ben was locked into the one of the most intensive bouts of concentration yet, as he was doing everything possible to make sure that Minerva Guilliman would not have an easy victory against him in this war game of attrition. Wherein he was making use of things from aerial bombardments, underground assaults on her supply lines, and the use of armored assault infantry, alongside incendiary/plasma weaponry for a relentless assault that was a combinaton of relentless offensive firepower, vicious siege and attrition warfare to make it a utterly unceasing meatgrinder.
Something that had put Minerva through her paces given that she had to make readjustments on the spot, to prevent her supply lines, her soldiers, and armories from being destroyed outright; by the crushing aggression of Tennyson's own armies. Especially with the swarm tactics that made it feel as though she were fighting the unholy union of the World Eaters, Iron Warriors, and Dark Angels rolled into a nightmarish cocktail of brutal calculating relentlessness; that had her running calculations of defensive counters against the Ultimatrix bearer. However, the same could be said for Ben who was having to be on his P's and Q's to make sure that everything went well against the Mistress of Macagge, given that her affinity for logistics made the act of keeping her armies broken down and her defenses sundered a mountainous task.
As such every moment that Ben had his armies swarm and go forward to further break down the defenses, destroy the supply ships and, burn any support that Minerva could bring to bear to reinforce her own soldiers was done with the most painstaking of attention to detail. Hence why in these now 4 approaching 5 hours of back and forth between the two would it be that Minerva would finally be able to overcome Ben's relentless offensive against her; through one defining factor that had been his greatest strength now turned weakness. This being his commitment to a strong offensive that it had left his overall defense while nothing to be scoffed at lackluster in the sense that he wasn't able to commit to a sustained defense against his own holdings when bypassed.
As such after 48 grueling minutes of countering and dismantling Ben's borderline ravenous offensive was she able to finally defeat Ben in said wargame after a little 6 straight hours of attrition against the man out of time. Wherein many a Ultramarine and Iron Warrior were having to give credit where it was due and even applauding Ben for being able to last even an hour much less six straight hours against the master of logistics that was Minerva Guilliman; especially when you are able to put her on the backfoot a few times and be a human at that.
"Man, they really weren't kidding when they said you are a master at logistics and tactics. Because you really did not pull your punches." Ben said after letting out an exhale after so many consecutive hours of concentrating
"Thank you, and I will extend my compliments to you as well, Tennyson. Other than Sekhmet, Branwen, and Perturabo, you are one of the rare few to push me to such limits in my war games. Honestly, it is incredibly impressive for a human to put my back against the wall so many times. Such things are a rarity all things considered." Minerva Guilliman responded
"Honestly, had I not been able to take advantage of your commitment to staging such overwhelming offensive tactics; then I would have lost. If anything I would say that it almost felt like I was fighting someone from Perturabo or Leona's legions." The Avenging Daughter further spoke commending Ben for his tactical prowess
"What can I say, the best defense is a good offense. I just so happen to really like an offense that makes sure that when someone gets knocked down; they won't want to get back up." Ben said back
"While that is a great methodology for strategy and tactic, I would advise you to work more on defensive tactics in the future. I will freely admit that had your defenses been between 70-85% more efficient then you would have been able to best me." Minerva Guilliman advised to the Ultimatrix wielder
"Thanks for the heads up, and next time we do this I will make sure to get a head start on those supply lines of yours. The defenses you had set up on those were a pain in my ass to get around. Especially when you were able to get your forces set up as bait, so you could sneak your support in to absolutely demolish my ships and artillery." Ben noted in being more than willing to admit when he had been had
"If you ever have the free time to do so, I would be happy to further discuss these things on my home of Ultramar. I'm sure that some of our military academies would love to have a speaker from the 21st century. You are undoubtedly skilled as a tactician, Tennyson, and without a doubt, your skills and strategy would be a welcome benefit to not just that of my planet, I would even wager the 13th Legion overall if you are so interested." Minerva Guilliman offered to the Ultimatrix bearer
"I may take you up on that one of these days. But just so you know, I am more of the 'hands on' approach of teaching. If you need someone that can give them live and practical experience; then I am your man for the job." Ben said back in preferring the straightforward and practical side of things than through lectures
"Fair enough, Tennyson. Nonetheless, the invitation is yours to take should you find yourself available." Minerva Guilliman told him
"Thanks, anyways, I'll let you get back to your men." Ben said as he saw and went over to Perturabo who was accompanied by a stern-faced Astartes of the 4th Legion
"Hey, Perturabo…sorry I took so long against Minerva there. She is…something else, I didn't think she would give me that hard of a time to beat, but boy was I wrong." Ben said to the towering woman
"You are fine, Ben. In fact, I should have warned you that Guilliman is annoyingly adaptive and competent when it comes to the matter of tactics and being a calculative logistician…That being said, congratulations are in order for having contended against her for 6 hours straight. A feat that not many can boast." Perturabo said back
"It's not that big of a deal, plus I just take it as a learning experience if anything. Now I just have to figure out how to beat the grandmaster of logistics." Ben spoke now determined to beat the Ultramarines Matriarch in a wargame
"Nonetheless, I did want you to meet some of my Legionaires. Especially those within the Trident, my most trusted advisors within my military council." Perturabo said to the Ultimatrix wielder
"I'm going to take it that this guy here is one of them." Ben said back gesturing to the Astartes beside her
"Indeed, this is Kydomor Forrix; one of the members of the Trident and one of my best Warsmiths. Forrix, this is Ben Tennyson, the man I have told you and the others of the Trident about since my return." Perturabo spoke as she introduced the two to each other
"Lady Perturabo talks a great deal about your skills in creating weapons and engineering." Forrix spoke as he extended a large armored hand to Ben
"Thanks, I do the best with what I can…Actually, I've got a few ideas that Perturabo and I have been working on to beef up your guys's armor." Ben said as he reached out with his own to shake hands with the Warsmith in question
"Really, and what did you have in mind exactly?" Forrix questioned
"One of the ideas I had was on buffing the defenses on your guys's armor. That and giving you guys a lot better ways to break through enemy defenses too. Its one thing to be Iron Warriors, but I'm pretty sure we can amp that up a step further." Ben said with an excitable grin
"It sounds as though you are intending to make the standard something akin to our Terminator armor." Forrix spoke
"But why stop there, as Perturabo has shown me what that is and what it can do. Honestly, it's pretty cool don't get me wrong, but I think going a step further will work wonders for when you guys have to do sieges. Why be an Iron Warrior when you can be an Iron Juggernaut that can just straight up bulldoze their way through fortifications, take a tank shell to the face and have it feel like a bee sting, and then unload with enough firepower to level a building in minutes if not seconds. I'm telling you, I got plans to beef you guys up to make sieges practical light-work…That is it you are up for it?" Ben responded in elaboration to what he had in mind
"I like the way you think, Tennyson. Lady Perturabo, with your permission; I would like to speak further with him on the matters of improving our armor and offensive output for further sieges. Given how he was able to fair rather well against Lady Guilliman, I also feel that his tactical input would prove valuable as well." Forrix requested in having been rather impressed by Ben's performance against the Matriarch to warrant a continued discussion with him
"Permission granted, Warsmith." Was Perturabo's response
"Understood, as for you Tennyson. I would like to further talk with you regarding your ideas for improving our armor, and perhaps ways to further improve our success rates with future sieges." Forrix spoke to the shorter brunette
"No problem, and by the way Perturabo. Remember that we're working on that Megazord of yours tomorrow!" Ben said before heading off with Forrix and the other members of the Trident
"It looks like Ben is ingratiating himself rather well with everyone. It is almost unreal at the rate he can endear himself to everyone...minus Leona." Sekhmet remarked at how so far Ben had made a rather positive impact in getting to know those from the various Legions
"Considering that he is skilled enough to have helped us against those wretched creatures, it only makes sense that his skills would translate well into proving himself worthy." Perturabo spoke
"Now the real question is when you and Ben will find time to yourselves. I'm sure making artillery and machinery aren't the only 2 gears that are grinding if you had your way about it." Sekhmet said to Perturabo whose face nearly became flustered at the insinuation
"Not you too, Sekhmet. I do not need you and Fulgrim both to tease me about things that are not present, Ben and I are simply colleagues, nothing more." Perturabo rebutted
"Oh come on, I was just teasing. Nothing to get wound up about." Sekhmet said raising her hands in friendly sibling jest
"That had better be all that there was too it, Sekhmet. The last thing I need is for you to join the succubus in hounding me after imaginary feelings; I have for him." Perturabo responded although the reddening of her cheeks at the implication did little to hide her feelings
'So what if he understands my love for crafting and tinkering, and is rather…handsome as well. It does not mean anything beyond our current standing.' Were the thoughts of the Countess of Iron
"You have nothing to worry about…That being said, why don't we venture out for dinner? It is that time of the hour is it not?" Sekhmet said as she diverted attentions towards getting themselves food for the growing autumn evening
"Very well, let us be on our way." Perturabo responded curtly as she followed Sekhmet to eat dinner
(The next day, Holy Terra, 1:20 Pm, November 10th, 950. M30)
All the while in the following afternoon was Ben being visited by noneother than Luther; the supposed 2nd in command of the Dark Angels who after hearing of the younger mans' exploits had decided to talk too and gather further information about as they took a walk throughout the vastness of the Imperial Palace.
"It seems as though life has thrown you from one adventure into the next by the look of things." Luther spoke after hearing of Ben's tale from his fighting in the Chimera War to being slungshot 30,000 years into the future
"Trust me its not the worst thing that could have happened to me. Heck, I'm just glad that I can actually have some actual rest after gong from an intergalactic war to fighting the daemon servants of a blood god. The turnaround on that stuff is enough to make my head spin." Ben replied regarding how one moment he was fighting against a intergalactic tyrant and then the next was in the 31st millenium
"But if I am going to keep it completely honest. Getting shot into the future is the least crazy thing I've had happen to me…definitely on my top 10." Ben further spoke
"If this ranks amongst your top 10 of strangest experiences yet. Then I hazard to guess what should rank amongst your top 5 all things considered." Luther said with a slight chuckle of disbelief
"Believe me, if you had to deal with half of what I have growing up. Then you would think it was pretty strange to." Ben said back knowing that roughly a quarter of what he faced would be considered an epic adventure all on its own
"Perhaps, we could exchange stories then at a latter time. I am sure that the battles waged on Calliban while not as grand in scale as what you have encountered; would still be something interesting to be told." Luther spoke in finding a merit to his own tales as a knight of Caliban before becoming a Dark Angel
"Not gonna lie, I would love to hear more about you being a kickass knight on this Caliban place. It sounds pretty freakin' awesome!" Ben replied
"Then when time allows it, I will tell you of such times before the Knights of Caliban became the united host that now stands as the Dark Angels. Such a great time it was indeed." Luther said back
"You don't sound all that happy about it, Mr. Luther." Ben remarked in having picked up hints of resentment in Luther's tone
"Pretell, Benjamin. What makes you think that I would be unhappy about being a part of the 1st Legion?" Luther queried
"Well, every time you bring it up you sound a bit resentful or angry about the whole thing. Which is weird to me, since you can somehow manage to hang with super soldiers and lead them to battle…That to me sounds pretty cool if you ask me." Ben answered back
"That's why if you want to say something about what's eating up at you, then go for it. Its' not like I'm gonna tell anybody if you're unhappy with things in your Legion." Ben added in having clocked in on Luther's resentment by a wide mile
"Am I that easy to read?" Luther questioned once more
"Look, it is not that your easy to read. It;s just that as someone who has dealt with people from aliens, humans, cyborgs and everything else in-between. You can get a read when someone is unhappy in a team. So what's eating up at you that's got you not so happy with being a Dark Angel…Maybe I can fix things up for you if you let me?" Ben responded
"Very well, I will tell you; if you can guarantee a way to improve my shortcomings that have spawned my…unhappiness within my station." Luther said back with a brief pause in his voice
"I only promise to try, scouts' honor." Ben spoke
"...As you can very well see, I am not as spry nor youthful as those who are able to become an Astartes." Luther said to the Ultimatrix wielder
"I can see that, but to be honest for a guy who looks to be pushing 50, you look like you are in fantastic shape." Ben told Luther who smiled at the compliment
"Thank you, Benjamin, that is kind of you to say. However, therein lies my weakness and a partial reason for my unhappiness." Luther said before continuing
"Given how I was too old to become a full Astartes of the 1st Legion, I was left unsuitable for the additional enhancements that would make one a full Astartes of a Legion. Therefore, even with all of my tactical skill, knowledge, and forebearing as a commander and once the greatest of the Knights of Caliban. I am left further and further behind and am made to suffer in knowing that even though I hold greater skill than those who are mere neophytes that I am there inferior nonetheless." Luther added with his fist clenched and a look of resentment and disdain for the neophytes and newblood outclassing him by sheer luck of the draw
"Damn…that sucks, Mr. Luther. That has gotta be one of the crappiest hands dealt." Ben said in sympathies for the ones greatest Knight of Caliban
"Believe me it is infuriating…Even though I am giving respect as a senior due to my station before the Dark Angels were fully formed, as well as my camaraderie with Leona. It still does not help that it is fleeting behind closed doors, that every day I am reminded of my own weakness. The worst part of it, that I can do nothing to resolve the issue, as I am left further and further behind; while those around me exceed me at every turn….It is a vexing and continuously insulting life to lead knowing that for as skilled as I am, it penultimately means nothing." Luther replied in hating how at every turn it was thrown back in his face that he was consistently inferior the every Dark Angel around him and Leona especially
"If this is all a case of you needing a boost, then I'm pretty sure I can help out with that...Actually, yeah I can definitely fix your problem." Ben told the 2nd in command of the Dark Angels
"You can, how so?" Luther inquired at the quickness of the response
"If there's one thing I'm good at, its' machines…Which means I have just the solution to your strength problems, Mr. Luther." Ben answered back
"Really and how is it that you can remedy my circumstances?" Luther questioned
"Simple, it's a combination of nanotech, some cybernetic augmentations here and there, and a gear upgrade to make you absolutely cracked. I'm talking so strong that not even the powerhouses in your Legion can tell you anything." Ben told the former knight of Caliban who had a skeptical yet hopeful look on his face
"Would it truly be something so simple?" Luther further questioned
"Yeah and in all honestly it wouldn't be that much of a problem. It would take some time to get everything set up to make sure you get buffed up correctly. Otherwise, it would be a matter of surgery and then a few weeks of recovery from getting the cybernetic implants installed…That is if you would be up for it?" Ben informed the 2nd in command of the Dark Angels
"If this will mean that I will no longer be made the weakest of the Dark Angels, nor a charity case of El'Jonson's any further, then I will accept…I will ask if there are any side effects to going through these augmentations?" Luther responded
"Other than being disoriented from getting nanotechnology and cybernetics shoved into you, then you should be fine more or less." Ben told him
"If that is all that I will have to worry about then I will agree to this enhancement." Luther spoke
"Awesome, and by the way…you are a lot more pleasant to talk too than Leona. I don't know how you do it, but that is a nightmare woman to deal with if I've ever seen one." Ben said back
"Leona is a….special case. Understand that while I love her as one would a daughter or younger sibling, even I can admit that she is often prickly to be around." Luther said knowing that Leona was not the best to always talk too or the most personable
"That's an understatement…I'm sure she has her moments and is even a great woman to be around; when she has the chance to be. But between you and me, I really doubt it." Ben spoke as he did not have much of a high opinion of the Lioness a sentiment that he knew was shared in vice versa
"Perhaps your opinions of her will change in time…Trust me, Benjamin there is more to her than what you have witnessed at face value. The chances of such things are more than a certainty to happen as we work alongside each other in the Crusade." Luther said to the Ultimatrix wielder
"Fair point. Anywho, would you mind telling me one of the stories from when you were a badass knight? It isn't every day that you get to hear about them, or even meet one for that matter." Ben requested
'At least ones that aren't massive dicks like the Forever Knights.' Ben remarked to himself
"I do not see what the harm could be in doing so. Very well, let me tell you of the tale of when I led a squad of my men to battle one of the great beasts of my homeworld. You would not be far off from calling it a dragon of old." Luther spoke as the two continued to bandy about
However, as the day wore on into the evening Ben would take time to be beside himself in having spent some of his spare time flying on his hoverboard; to explore more of Holy Terra and the expanse of the Imperial Palace overall. Wherein as the night began to take over would he find himself atop one of the the rooftops of the many buildings comprising the area around him, at least until he felt a large armored hand upon his shoulder that startled him into screaming for his life, as the dark chuckling of Jago Sevatarion was heard at having successfully jump-scared the Ultimatrix wielder.
"Jeez, I swear for an almost 8-foot-tall man that's wider than a refrigerator, you are too quiet!" Ben said almost falling over on himself after being snuck up on by the Prince of Crows
"It never ceases to be hilarious when someone is frightened by my sudden appearances. It does my heart good to always give someone a good scare every now and again." The Prince of Crows spoke with an all too menacing grin on his face
"So who are you supposed to be, Mr. Tall, Dark and super Creepy. I swear you look like you belong in a horror movie…you are…haunting to look at." Ben questioned
"I am Jago Sevatarion, 1st Captain of the Night Lords, Prince of Crows, and any other titles as a soldier of the 8th." Jago Sevatarion introduced himself
"Ooohhh, so your from Konstance's camp then?" Ben replied
"Correct, Tennyson. I wanted to see who and or what has caused a change within my genesire. Her return is quite possibly the happiest and the most stable I have seen of her since she has become our leader." Jago Sevatarion spoke
"Just so you know, I didn't really do anything special for Konstance. All i did was just be nice to her and show her I actually care about her…It wasn't anything groundbreaking like everyone makes it out to be." Ben replied in simply seeing what he's done as just showing her common kindness and decency
"After everything that she has lived through, the madness that follows her like a plague, and so many other things that make her the Night Haunter. Someone that can get close enough to show her genuine kindness and have her return it in kind with true affections, that is something miraculous all on it's own." Jago Sevatarion said back
"Thanks, but I doubt you just came up here for a social call. You don't really seem like the type, or you do…sorry meeting you Space Marine guys after everything has been weird….That's saying something coming from me." Ben spoke as another small chuckle
"Fair enough, especially those of us from the 8th, the monster in midnight-clad as others have taken to calling us, and rightfully so. Which is why I have to ask you, are you certain that you wish to undertake the monumental task of turning the Night Lords into a Legion of heroes?" The Prince of Crows replied before bringing up the question of the night
"The Legion is full of murderers, violators, arsonists, and criminals. We are the most loathed Legion for a reason, Tennyson...Even I am inclined to agree with Lady Kurze regarding the rot and detritus that infects the 8th like a plague. It is also why I ask of you on if you truly wish to continue this mission of pure insanity. The path of heroism for the Night Lords will be a treachery and hard-fought path to force upon cowards who masquerade as demigods." Jago Sevatarion further spoke in having no lost love for his own
"Look, I am not expecting any miracles to happen. I know that asking any of you to turn into embodiments of good, justice, and all of that; at the snap of your fingers is a hard sell. But I promised Konstance that I would help her make the Night Lords become so much better than what they are. She wants to believe it; that not just you guys can do it, but herself that she can be heroes and you along with her…So I'm going to do the best I can to make that happen." Ben responded in fully knowing he had a long ways to go
"However, do you believe these things are possible, Tennyson? We are a Legion of a fear and terror, those things are not exactly synonymous with what it means to be a hero." The Prince of Crows asked curious for Ben's response
"I do, and just so you know heroes come in all forms. It doesn't matter what you use to be a hero, where you start from, or the fuck-ups along the way. What matters is that you put one foot in front of the other, ad make the effort to be the best one you can…All that matters is that you are doing the best that you can to help people, defend lives, protect them from the fucked up things in the world, and give them a reason to believe in something better." Ben answered back
"I've seen the best and worst in a lot of people, not all of them were able to do good the traditional way. What mattered most is that when it came down too it, they locked in when it was needed of them and showed they can be a hero too…Something I know that the people in yours and Konstance's legion are capable of, we just gotta show them the way and dig deep to help them make the transition into it." Ben spoke his voice one of hope and ever cautious optimisim
"If you truly believe there is hope yet for the Night Lords, then by all means go for it. I will not stop you in your endeavor to make heroes of us yet. However, I will also caution to you that the opposition you will face will be incredible to say the least." Jago Sevatarion responded with a smirk of respect
"There are those within the 8th that have grown accustomed to acting as unruly monsters. That is why I will say this as a word of warning, do not let your guard down when around the 8th in any capacity. Otherwise, you may find yourself with a Bolter to the back of your head as a mercy and a flying knife to skin you alive." Jago Sevatarion furhter spoke
"If any of them want to come for my neck; because I'm trying to make things better. Then fine by me, but they are going to learn that I will not go quietly if they think that can pull any funny business." Was the Ultimatrix bearer's response
"You have guts, Tennyson, moreso than most in your precarious situation…If you hold to that and keep your vigilance and wits about you, then you just might make this impossible goal of yours a reality." The Prince of Crows said back
"Thanks, I guess…But let me ask you, do you believe that the 8th has a chance at being heroes? Do you believe that Konstance and I can change things?" Ben asked
"I will not say for certain on the possibility. All that I do know is that I will support my Matriarch till the bitter end, it is what is needed of me…So to better answer it, I will hold my reservations until I see actual progress." Jago Sevatarion answered back
"That's better than nothing, I guess." Ben said
"Regardless, Tennyson, I wish you the best when it comes to your relationship with Lady Kurze. To be in a relationship with her, especially a romantic one, and survive is something I wholeheartedly wish you the best in." The Prince of Crows replied keen to see how things would go between Konstance and Ben
"How much do you wanna bet that I somehow make it to a wedding day with her?" Ben jokingly asked
"If you can somehow make it to proposing and then marrying my genesire, and much moreso live long enough to enjoy your wedding night. Then I will personally pay for an all expenses paid trip to a paradise world of your choice." Jago Sevatarion answered back with a smirk
"That being said, I look forward to working alongside you. It should be interesting to see how a true superhero fairs with the worst of the Astartes." Jago Sevatarion further spoke
"I'm sure I will do just fine, Mr. Sevatarion…If you want to, you're free to pop a squat and chil with me. I don't have much going on right now." Ben offered the 1st Captain
"I do not see the harm in doing so. Besides, I am curious to know the man who has not only won the heart of Lady Kurze, and even pacify her madness. But has fought against Xenos who wield power beyond what we have faced in recent memory." The Prince of Crows spoke as he took a seat beside Ben who passed him a bottle of lemonade from out of his satchel
"When did you…" Jago Sevatarion wondered
"I can turn into Xenos that can travel faster than a person can blink, fly at the speed of light, and even stop time. Traveling across the world to get stuff to make lemonade with; was pretty easy." Ben told him as he passed him the Astartes-sized bottle
"Fair enough. Now then, tell me Tennyson. How did you come into the path of being a hero, when you could have easily become as Lady Kurze or those in the Night Lords?" Jago Sevatarion questioned
"To put it to you like this it all started after my 1st battle against Vilgax when I was 10 years old. Now that was a day to remember." Ben answered back as he uncapped the bottle
"What is a Vilgax?" Jago Sevatarion further questioned
"Ooohhhh boy do I have a story or two for you." Ben said back as he began to tell the story of his 1st encounter with said alien warlord
And so with Ben meeting with and getting to know those within the ranks of the Adeptus Astartes, it seems as though things may look to his favor as plans to aid and potentially improve those within the Legions abound are made. The question now remains of how things will change for the Imperium of Man now that Ben begins to integrate himself into the far-flung future of the 31st Millenium? Well, stay tuned and find out in the all-new chapters of, Ultimate Alien: Primarch Force!
Alright, that'll do it for this one as I hope that you guys have enjoyed this chapter and everything that goes into it, as I have so many things planned that I cannot wait to mess with. However, that being said in the shenanigans to come; I would also like to say thanks to everyone who has continued to support the story, as every favorite, follow, and review given thus far is as always greatly appreciated.
But with all that being said this is Pravus666 signing off until next time, wherein the next chapter is gonna be a mixed bag of things going on for Ben in the Imperium, so stay tuned for all of that good stuff!
Also, before I forget I want to put out there that I've recently made my 1st Bleach story called The Twin Guardians, which features the shenanigans of what would happen if Karin and Ichigo were born as twins. If any of you guys want to check it out.
Part 1 Theme Song: Black out the Sun by Sevendust
Random End Song: 16 Dollars by Volbeat
Now then onto some of the reviews from the previous chapter.
ChowChow10181: He will and I actually have something in mind for Ben to help Lorna investigate the corruption that Kor and Erebus have started in the Word Bearers. Given that I will have them be part of the reason why Lorna's compliance missions are so slow since with them being Chaos's biggest fanboys...what was really stopping them from sneak preaching the word of the Ruinous Powers behind Lorna's back.
Skull Flame: There's a reason why as Ben and Kevin got older they were on Beavis and Butthead levels of stupid shenanigans when they got high together...it's also for those ideas why Ben and Kevin are banned from Las Vegas, Cuba, parts of Austrailia, Atlanta and a few other locations because it got THAT out of hand. Also, Minerva's consort will eventually show up as I do have plans for him an Ben to work on a campaign with each other down the line...the shenanigans will be something else for sure. Glad you liked how Ben won the Blood Game, since I wanted to show that this version of Ben is just another league of being a problem, since it also gives the Custodes a much needed reality check when you think about it. Also, I love writing Kurze getting flustered about these things, since it shows the humanity of what they can be when they have someone who genuinely loves them, that and having Fulgrim be a genuinely good sister to her is something I wanted to do from the jump, because to me Fulgrim and Kurze being this preppy and goth dynamic is too fun not write.
Masterpanda1255: To be honest, having him scan and turn into a Space Marine is a bit of a weird grey area. Given that it is in the weird limbo spot of both being human and not human at the same time, not to mention all of the weird aspects of if the Ultimatrix would consider it to close to human to allow Ben to do so. So as far as I'm concerned that's a weird one to deal with.
smallszay106: Yeah, as much as I love the Custodes and will fully admit that they are powerhouses as good as they come. That if Ben really wanted too, there is no way they were going to beat him if he put his full back into it. Also, I will have to look into Warframe to see what exactly that's all about as I've not heard of it, but I will nonetheless take your idea into consideration.