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Avengers Infinite Wars Chapter 57: It Requires Vis-Perspective.
This wasn't Earth.
Of that much he was certain.
The synthetic being known as Vision stood in a barren wasteland that seemed to stretch on for miles all by himself.
He frowned to himself and without wasting a moment, utilized his comm systems to reach out to the other Avengers.
"Captain Rogers, are you there?" Vision spoke aloud. "Ms. Romanoff? Pietro?"
The artificial being paused for a moment.
"...Wanda? Anybody?"
He was only met with static.
Vision found himself frowning as he tried several more times only to be met with the same results.
No response from anyone whatsoever.
Perhaps it had to do with him being here.
Wherever here was.
Vision took a moment to briefly recount what had just happened prior to his sudden arrival here.
He and the rest of the Avengers were on a mission to confront a base operated by HYDRA.
It was with their two newest members, Ant-Man and the Wasp.
There was a giant robot that they destroyed.
They found a large lab built inside a mountain.
Within the HYDRA base was an incomplete portal-looking gate of some kind that Mr. Lang has referred to as a "stargate".
A spike of energy followed by the whole room whirring with activity which ended with a flash of light that engulfed the whole team and…
'Were we teleported away?' Vision internally mused to himself.
It was perhaps the only plausible explanation because he was certain there wasn't any barren environment like this one that was near the village that HYDRA had been operating out of.
So… where was he then?
Levitating up off the ground, Vision took to the skies and after getting some good distance from where he stood, hovered in the air as he took in his surroundings.
This land was strange to say the least.
There were these unusual protrusions that looked like what Vision would describe to be plated corals. They were large and some shaped like a Christmas tree of sorts.
Viz was at a bit of a loss as to what he should do right now but after thinking about it for a moment, there was really only one priority in mind.
Finding his teammates.
So for a time, Vision flew through the air, occasionally landing in certain areas to inspect it and see if he were to find anything of use.
He came up empty handed for the most part much to his slight frustration.
Just where did that HYDRA base send him?
What kind of desert or quarry on Earth was this?
Vision halted in his thoughts, landing on the ground with a contemplative expression.
He looked around at the environment that seemed to stretch on from all sides.
Being an artificial being, whilst he had the appearance of a "human", Vision was still a machine to a degree. A highly advanced machine with human emotion and morality but a machine nonetheless.
And in being a machine, he was also a computer.
A computer with the ability to process data in an instant.
Vision closed his eyes and within the span of a few microseconds, reviewed the Earth and all the habitats that surrounded the globe.
Sure there were a number of deserts.
But oversized, plated surface coral? There appeared to be none of that on Earth.
He opened his eyes and was once more in a bit of pickle as he didn't know what to do exactly.
Vision looked about and tried to pick a direction to go in…
When the synthetic Avenger suddenly felt something… peculiar…
A scratch in his head was the closest he could describe the feeling. One which seemed to continue by each passing moment.
He then felt a small pulse and in an instant had a hand up to the gem lodged within his forehead.
'The Mind Stone?' Vision internally thought to himself. 'It's reacting to something… no, someone here that isn't that far off.'
Viz felt another nudge within the confines of his mind and he was rather perplexed as to what it was.
He had never experienced something like this before and wise as he may be, when it comes to "feeling anything" he'd rather have it that the Avengers were present to help give him some pointers.
He's already had more than enough of a few social snafus that made him look like a bit of a fool.
Viz would rather have it if Wanda or Pietro were present or any other Avenger for that matter.
Maybe they would be able to help.
The Synthetic being shook his head as he felt that pressure, that nudge in his mind again.
Vision spun about in the opposite direction to where he faced and stared off into the distance.
Squinting his eyes a bit, Vision was able to make out a cluster of those surface coral trees.
It was as if he was being drawn somewhere. A calling, perhaps?
He could hear it… somehow…
Maybe he could…
"Hello?" Voiced the Vision. "Is someone there?"
It seemed rather illogical-
"I am."
The former AI heard a whisper which seemed to come from all around.
The Avenger exhaled shakily, eyes widening slightly.
"Where are you?" Vision said softly. "Who are you?"
"Come to me." The whisper said kindly.
Lifting himself off the sandy ground again, Vision slowly flew through the air. He didn't know where he was exactly going but he was following a certain pull from parts unknown.
The closer he got to the source, the more he saw things out of the ordinary.
For one, there were these unusual arachnid creatures roaming the dunes. They were large, bulbous, pale grey and had multiple black eyes.
He did draw close to one of them for curiosity's sake in order to briefly study it further.
In theory, these unusual arachnids would not attack unless provoked.
The next species were harmless little critters which resembled crustaceans with snail-like shells. Nothing really extraordinary about them, aside from their alien appearance.
The last resembled owls, but their species were rather unknown to him.
Resuming on his airborne trek, Vision came across an assortment of rock formations where the peculiar feeling was strongest. And they all surrounded some sort of crater.
He felt a tug to the area below him and he descended down to it.
'This is the place.' Thought the former AI as he made his landing. "Hello? Are you… here?"
Vision was met with silence.
There was no verbal or mental response but…
The presence of whatever it was that reached out to him.
It was here.
He could feel it.
"You called me here." Vision said aloud. "I know you are here. I mean you know harm unless you prove to be hostile."
If any of the other Avengers were here right about now, they would give him a teasing joke or a look of 'why would you say such a thing?'.
A moment later, the earth started to quake. It didn't seem like one Vision was familiar with.
Hearing the sound of something shifting about behind him coupled with a large shadow looming over him, Vision spun about to face whatever it was that just appeared.
A figure soon rose from some of the rock formations. In fact, some of the formations were a part of the being rising from the earth.
The creature seemed simian in appearance as it was several stories high in terms of size. It had brown fur, tanned skin and had these coral-like protrusions off his body. It's eyes were white, almost to the point that they appeared to be milkish for a blind person.
"Ah. You heard my call. Good."
And the being's voice was booming, echoing and felt old.
Vision's curiosity and intrigue was completely captured as he stared at this being before him.
He tentatively walked forward at a slow pace as he hoped he wouldn't startle this large creature.
"It has been some time since I had last spoken with a visitor to my home." The being's voice seemingly had a natural echo of sorts as he spoke. "But to have such a guest come in such a fashion. This universe truly can still surprise me even after all this time. When you awoke me from my slumber, I certainly wasn't expecting someone like you to be here."
"I'm sorry?" Vision said in clear bewilderment. "But how was it that I awoke you? Did… did you have a means of detecting or being alerted to my arrival here?"
The large being nodded his head. "Your power woke me from my deep slumber. It is like a violent storm in this quiet world."
"My power? What are you referring to?"
He lifted one of his large hands and pointed a finger right at the Avengers' forehead. "You bear one of the six singularities of the universe. One of the six Infinity Stones. A truly dangerous item to be a part of your person."
Vision blinked in surprise at such a revelation. "You mean the Mind Stone? You know about it?"
"And the other Infinity Stones." The being said, adopting a contemplative frown on the reconfirmation.
"So you know what the Infinity Stones are then?"
"The knowledge of the six have been nearly lost in this galaxy for a very long time. Only very few still know of them on hand, let alone have encountered them." The being said as he leaned forward to get a better look at the yellow gem within the head of Vision. "I haven't seen one in… I actually do not even recall the last time I saw one. Only that it was thousands upon thousands of years ago. Perhaps more so even."
"Interesting…" Vision's eyes met with the larger beings. "Who are you?"
"You may refer to me as Bendu. And you are…"
"I am known as Vision."
Bendu arched a rocky brow. "Vision, eh?"
"My name is peculiar, yes. I was once known as Jarvis until I became who you now see before you."
"And how come you came with your new name?" Bendu inquired.
"Circumstances." The vague start led to an explanation. "My… brother... If one may refer to our relationship, sought to use this body for his own devices in harming the population of the world I come from. My body was to be used as his instrument, his vision for a better world. A world without life in it."
"So you sought to use your own vision to counter his own?"
"My compatriots didn't want that to happen, thus they averted his goals from happening. I merely helped it along by occupying this body. After that, I… changed…"
"Everyone changes at some point in their existence."
"Mine was… unforeseen. I still question it very often."
Silence befell the two beings for a time.
"I take it you have questions."
"Many." Vision admitted in an instant. "What are you really? How do you know of the Infinity Stones? What is this place? Is this Earth? Or…"
Bendu raised a hand that halted Vision in his questions and gestured for him to take a seat.
The duo settled down for a moment as Bendu made himself more comfortable.
"I know how much you wish to ask and there is much I myself would like to learn." The larger creature said patiently. "But whilst you are different from most other beings I have encountered, it is best you take this time to better acquaint yourself with this place. I have a feeling that you may be here for a longer time than you might realize. Let us talk at night. I wish to slumber a bit more. I know this may come across as rude, but your sudden arrival has given me quite a headache through the Force. I never felt anything like it."
"I'm… sorry?" Vision said awkwardly.
"All is forgiven." Bendu said in a humored laugh, turning back to go over to where he was initially sleeping and settled back into his spot.
Not knowing what to do, the former AI merely floated away to give the Bendu some needed space.
For hours on end, he thought of his present circumstances more while compiling a list of inquiries he sought resolutions for.
The more he thought about it, the more Vision came to the conclusion that the HYDRA base had teleported him away, not from Europe.
But from Earth itself.
Eventually, the sun of this place went down and nighttime set in.
Bendu awoke from his slumber and saw Vision, floating in the air with his legs crossed, waiting for him patiently.
"Apologies." Bendu said straight away. "I know that me going to sleep minutes after your arrival was rude."
"It's quite alright. I needed to figure out a number of things before we spoke again."
"I can imagine you have a long list of questions." Bendu surmised.
"That would be putting it mildly." Vision remarked. "But… the best way to begin is to simply ask this. Where am I?"
The larger being stroked the furry beard that he possessed and hummed to himself.
"I believe you should already know the answer to your first question."
"I would prefer it that it had a name." Vision calmly rebuked.
Bendu nodded after a moment of thought. "This planet is called Atollon. It has been my home for some time now."
Vision's shoulders slumped slightly. "So this is not Earth then?"
His new acquaintance shook his head. "It appears you came to this planet not of your own volition."
"No, that would seem to be the case." Vision muttered in a low voice.
Bendu hummed aloud as he gazed upon the stone in Viz's head. "Have you ever left your planet before?"
"No, this would be a first for me."
"And yet you possess one of the Infinity Stones."
"The circumstances in how I got both the stone and this body are rather… long and complicated."
The Bendu snorted and moved to make himself more comfortable. "I have nothing but time on my hands. And you have nowhere else to go as well."
"So it would seem." Vision said, more to himself than to the larger being.
He was silent for a few seconds until he nodded.
"It is best that I start from the beginning."
Thus he began his tale on how he came to be. From his beginnings as Tony Stark's AI companion, Jarvis, to how the Avengers formed to combat against Loki and his Chitauri forces. Eventually leading up to the conflict with retrieving Loki's scepter from a HYDRA base where things spiraled downhill once retrieving it.
His "death" upon Ultron to his rebirth while inadvertently sabotaging his "brother/creators" vision for peace.
The Avengers assembled once more to combat Ultron over at Sokovia before he went with his "Plan B" with his city-sized meteor to wipe out all life on Earth.
After hearing all that, Bendu opted to remain quiet for a time as he processed everything he had just heard.
"Your planet sounds as though conflict is never far behind."
"It is the nature of my world, unfortunately." Vision responded with a somber tone.
Bendu waved him off. "You must not feel a semblance of guilt on the matter, Vision. Conflict, clash of ideals, they are all universal concepts that dictate all sentient life in this galaxy. It is not a matter of if but when conflict rears its head. Such is the way of the Force. Of life itself."
"Be that as it may, I worry that it has been escalating as of late." Vision said with a frown.
The artificial being then looked up at Bendu with a curious gaze.
"I've answered some questions of yours. If you would not mind…"
"By all means. Ask away."
"What exactly are you? I detect some sort of power and energy emanating off and around you but it is difficult to discern."
"Tell me something, my new friend." Bendu said. "Has your planet ever heard of something known as the Force?"
The inquisitive face directed at him was enough of an answer.
"The Force is what gives me shape, form, purpose and power." The large being said in a sage-like manner. "It surrounds us, penetrates us and binds everything together. Though there are places -territories- where it doesn't reach. Voids, so to speak."
"A mystical, omnipresent energy?"
In an act of demonstration, the Bendu lifted a number of rock formations from nearby via levitation with a simple hand movement.
"The basics of those who are attuned to the Force to a simple, intermediate level." Bendu explained, setting the rocks down.
Vision gazed upon the rock formations that were just in the air.
"That explains one question…"
"But presents you with a hundred more." The Bendu said with a knowing look. "Understandable given to someone who has just been exposed to it."
Vision simply nodded, knowing this to be true.
"Tell me then." Viz said. "Tell me everything about the Force."
"Oh? And do you wish to learn about the Force?"
"Yes." The Avenger said with open honesty. "You know about this," his fingers grazed over the yellow gem. "And this Force that you have has me curious. Perhaps… if I learn about it, I can use it to figure out more about what this is inside me and understand it. Maybe even learn to control it."
Bendu leaned back slightly with a thoughtful expression.
"I can tell you much about the Force." the ancient being stated. "But in terms of the Mind Stone? That is a different matter entirely."
"Then for now, let us start with that which you are most familiar with."
Bendu nodded and began at the beginning.
"The Force, or as it is truly known as the Power Cosmic, is an omni-present energy field that exists all around us." Bendu said like a theatrical storyteller.
"Thousands upon thousands of years ago, a group of interstellar and extragalactic travelers made their way into this galaxy. In an instant they recognized the potential this place had and began preparations for those who would be able to tap into the Power Cosmic."
"Who were these beings?"
The Bendu paused for a moment. "Starborn, some called them. Ancient and foremost. The Architects of all that you see. Though the name Celestials seemed to have been the one that stuck with them the most."
"Celestials." Vision repeated to himself in a low voice.
Bendu nodded. "Many believed them to be dead and gone but I know better."
"Do you now?" Vision tilted his head. "Have… have you met them?"
The larger being inclined his head. "Yes. There was a time where seeing them was a common occurrence."
"I take it that something changed." Viz stated more than he questioned.
"Indeed." Bendu's tone. "I am unclear as to how it started or what started it but in time, the Celestials made themselves scarce within this galaxy. Some departed of their own volition. Others simply died out in their own way. But there were a few… that were killed off."
"Killed you say?"
"Something that many would believe to be impossible but in a universe such as this one, nothing is impossible. After all, nothing is ever immortal."
"Even you?"
"Even me."
The synthetic Avenger was silent for a time with his arms crossed.
"Is there a possible reason why these Celestials haven't returned?" He found himself asking.
His new acquaintance shrugged. "I have a few in mind. Some are theories."
"Like what?"
"No longer finding use in studying this galaxy in its entirety." Bendu remarked in a plain voice.
That certainly was an unusual answer. "Pardon?"
"They left after seeing everything in this galaxy from all four corners of it. The Outer Rim, the Mid rim, the Deep core, that which has yet to be fully explored by those within. None of them bothered to return to see what changes occurred since their last appearance."
The synthetic hummed, pondering a little on this factor.
"You mentioned that you once saw them as a common occurrence." Vision recalled.
"Yes, there was a time where seeing these beings of great power was an everyday sight for one such as myself. Most, if not all, had been weary of their presence and sought to stay away."
"But not you, I take it."
Bendu released a mirthful and tired chuckle that didn't fully convey the age that this being possessed.
"Like myself, they won't harm unless provoked. Though times can change and their actions differ now than then."
"What happened?"
Bendu sighed. "As they became less and less, the last Celestials I ever saw were individuals I would even consider to be my friends. They had a purpose to fulfill and it involved safeguarding the center of the galaxy."
The foreboding tone set Vision on edge to a degree.
"As of now, only three have chosen to remain here." Bendu revealed a moment later.
Vision blinked upon hearing that. "Truly?"
"Yes." The larger of the two stated.
"For what purpose?"
"Maintaining the balance of the Force… in their own fashion." Bendu's voice now sounded wry and slightly amused even.
"Three of them you say…" Vision said, rubbing his chin in thought.
"There was a fourth at one point, who rose from her mortal coils and joined the three. But she was… exiled." Bendu said in an enigmatic manner.
"A fourth one?" Viz said in surprise. "One who went on to become a Celestial themselves?"
Bendu nodded. "Indeed she did. But her ascension came at a cost."
"What did this person do?"
"Sometimes those who find themselves going down the path to damnation start in just wanting to do good and right by those they care for." Bendu stated with his shoulders sagging.
"The Road to Hell is paved with good intentions." Vision found himself blurting out, slightly surprising
"Oh~? Where did you hear that?"
"A saying back on Earth. One that feels appropriate in this instance." The Avenger said, before he steered the conversation back to the topic from before. "So you mentioned that she did something that was meant to be beneficial, yet it backfired. What was it that caused this event?"
"This woman did something that changed her body and warped her mind into insanity." Bendu now held a grim visage. " Drank from the Font of Power and bathed in the Pool of Knowledge."
"I take it such an action is highly discouraged." Vision surmised.
"She was not prepared. It led to her insanity and corruption and in return, the three who she had grown to love as a family were forced to keep her locked away at the center of the galaxy. A penance for their own hubris and clashing sides of the Force. In order to be sure she stays locked away, the Three would return to her prison when she sought to escape and battle her. This has continued, cycles upon cycles, in hopes of protecting all life."
That wasn't ominous at all.
"That actually reminds me of a biblical story on Earth." Some interest was piqued on the Bendu's features, making Vision explain. "The first humans, Adam and Eve, lived in paradise with no harm brought upon them; courtesy of God, their divine creator. Yet Eve was tempted by a serpent to partake the Forbidden Fruit from the Tree of Life. Once eating it, she got Adam to eat it as well. They were soon cast out from paradise because of it."
"Why is that?" Asked the Bendu, who may already know the answer but asked anyway.
"The Fruit of Knowledge made them know the difference between good and evil; and, knowing good from evil, they were no longer in paradise. In Genesis, it states that God expelled them because he was scared: scared that, having disobeyed him once, they'd disobey him again- they'd eat of the Tree of Life and live forever, like gods and becoming endless. And knowledge was considered -by philosophers- the first sin to corrupt innocence."
"Your story may apply to a number of things. And in some way, history repeats itself through different variables." The Aged being stated.
"It's like poetry you could say. It rhymes."
Bendu laughed aloud. "Now that is accurate."
The two converse for a bit longer on the matter of the Celestials, the species that came after them such as the Kwa and Rakata until he brought up the Galactic Republic.
And with it the well-known users of the Force called the Sith and the Jedi.
"Ah yes, the Jedi and the Sith." The ancient being said slowly. "The light and the dark. The wielders of Ashla and Bogan. Those who came after the Dai Bendu and Je'Daii order."
"Dai Bendu?" Vision said in confusion. "Was this your order that you founded?"
Bendu shook his head. "No. This was a name bestowed to me by those who were once a part of that ancient order as they aligned with what I am. The middle. The balance and harmony of the Force."
"Like in the center? Or in-between?" Vision guessed, garnering a wide grin out of the rocky creature.
"I am."
"And why would you say so?"
"Because that is what the will of the Force tasks me to be as a manifestation."
"The Will of the Force?" Vision repeated. "This energy field has a mind of its own?"
"If it exists within all living beings, is what gives them life, why would it not?"
"That's… confusing."
"It is for those who first learn of this." Bendu then released a hearty chuckle. "And don't get me started on their physical, manifested concepts."
"I'll take that into consideration." Vision mused. "So, the Jedi and Sith, you mentioned they came after this Bendu Je'Daii order."
"Mmm, yes." The rocky-like being sighed. "The old ways. The ways as it was once meant to be. Balance, harmony, working in tandem with the dark and the light."
"What happened to the order?"
"Like all civilizations, they come and go and are inherited one way or another. Remnants adapt and change with the times in order to survive. Through many conflicts and schisms, the Je'Daii order fell apart and was reorganized into a new one."
"The Jedi." Vision answered, getting a nod out of the Bendu. "And what of the Sith?"
"The same, but through other extreme methods." Bendu stated. "They were once brothers and sisters of the Jedi but their adherence, no, their obsession with the Dark Side of the Force led to a great schism. Rather than destroying their rebellious kin, the Jedi chose to exile them and in return created their most enduring enemies to date."
Without even realizing it, Vision blurted out a phrase that floated through his mind with a voice that belonged to someone far more sinister.
"Everyone creates the thing they dread." Vision said in a blank tone with Bendu humming in agreement.
"Yes… they do."
"How did they get the name of Sith?" Vision abruptly asked. "The Jedi I understand but the Sith seem out of place."
"That's because they took on the name of Sith from an ancient species of the same name. Said people became extinct after some time the one order was established." Bendu said.
Vision was finding himself more and more engaged in this conversation as the two continued speaking on the matters of the galaxy's history, the Force, the Jedi and the Sith.
He learned of how the two opposing force wielders were responsible in the many wars and conflicts that abounded the galaxy following the schism that led to the creation of the Sith and how the Force as of late has been a constant state of fluctuation.
Philosophies within the two opposing Force Orders have changed with the passing eras. Like before, they adapt, yet they often lose sight of their roots through present beliefs.
"How is it that you are aware of all this, Bendu?" Vision suddenly asked in the midst of this long winded conversation. "Are you a traveler?"
"Nothing of that sort." Bendu said, waving his hand. "With the Force, I am given a greater sight than most others. The Force flows through me and I through it and have seen much of the galaxy in its time of war, change, stagnation and near annihilation."
"Then…" Vision reached up to his forehead. "What do you know of this?"
Bendu gazed upon the glowing yellow gem with a conflicted look.
"There is much I can tell you but even then it feels like it would only amount to so much." Bendu admitted. "But for now, let us start with what you know of that which gave you life."
Vision thought on this matter for a number of seconds as his all but brief existence flashed through his mind.
"When I first came into being, one of my teammates told me that this was an Infinity Stone." Vision said, fingers grazing over it. "One of six with four having made themselves known in the galaxy. It was once in the possession of Thor's brother named Loki who received it from a power stronger than his own."
"And the others?"
"One, to my belief, is involved with a number of instances in Earth's history and was a part of how the Avengers first formed. It was called the Tesseract." Vision said. "Another was connected to an incident with Thor once more and it was something that was shapeless and formless, taking on whatever it wanted to be dependent on who the user was."
"And the fourth?"
"I do not know. Thor only mentioned something of a fourth but he departed on seeking answers in that matter."
Bendu was silent on that matter, a frown marring his face as he found himself surprisingly conflicted on hearing that four of the six Infinity Stones have made themselves known to the universe.
"First is happenstance, second is coincidence, third is the enemy's action." Quoted Vision.
"What does that mean?"
"It is a quote from a famous writer back on Earth."
"I see… And what of a fourth?"
"A fourth?" Vision grimaced. "I fear a greater danger is at work."
For the first time in a long time, Bendu felt a cold shiver go down his back when he heard those words.
Wherein the Jedi and Sith had long since lost their higher connection to the Power Cosmic, Bendu never did.
And he felt it.
A shift within the fabric of the universe itself with a dark warning of a catastrophe to come.
His thought process was cut short when he heard Vision speaking again.
"Troubling times, I fear."
The larger being nodded. "Indeed, my friend. Troubling times indeed."
"Then I must know what this is." Vision said in a far more determined manner. "This stone in my head, it may be one of the keys needed in countering what's to come. Whatever it may be."
Pondering for several moments, the Bendu gave a response.
"It is my belief, in time through training, you may use a number of skills similar to the Force due to who and what you are." He stated. "I believe through this training you will better understand that which resides within you and use it for when the time does come for it."
Vision couldn't fight the wide, genuine smile he now held as Bendu lowered his head down to the synthetic being.
"I believe now is as good a time as any to start." The larger creature stated.
"Right now?" Vision said in slight surprise.
Bendu vigorously nodded. "Yes, there is much to be done and it appears you may be staying here for the foreseeable future."
Nodding in understanding, the synthetic Avenger followed through and prepared himself for his lessons with his new mentor.
"So what shall I start with then?"
"The simplest and most consistent practice of the Force. Meditation."
Looking up at the sky in thought, Vision simply lifted his feet off the ground and crossed them Indian style while casually floating off the ground.
Bendu chuckled at the sight with a shake of his head.
"And you have already displayed an ability many could only aspire to achieve in the later years of their lives."
The Avenger chose not to comment or reply to this, only focusing on the lesson at hand.
"Now then, close your eyes." Bendu instructed, the being doing so himself. "And concentrate. You may be a being of artificial creation, but power and energy flows within you. At its epicenter is the stone upon your head. Focus on it. Reach out and let the energy flow through your being."
Vision closed his eyes and concentrated on the energy within the Mind Stone.
It took him a few seconds but soon he "felt" something.
Within his mind, the visualization of the Mind Stone became clear and he saw energy floating around it.
"Good, good." Bendu's voice echoed in his mind. "Now, grasp it and then, reach out to my presence."
Following his new teacher's instructions, Vision reached out with its invisible tendrils and grasped onto the energy of the Mind Stone. Outside, the yellow gem started to shine.
He felt a swell of power permeate through his entire being and he took a moment to grow accustomed to it.
Soon enough, he found the presence of the Bendu.
In the "blink" of an eye, Vision found himself getting pulled into some sort of mindscape that made it look as though he and Bendu were standing on nothing while floating through the cosmos.
"This is interesting…"
"Indeed it is." His mentor remarked cheekily. "Now then…"
Bendu gingerly raised his palm facing upwards and lightly twitched his fingers.
"Far before what we know to be our universe, there was an explosion of primordial energy that brought about everything we know today."
Within the palm of Bendu's hand formed a galaxy.
"From this explosion, six elemental crystals were sent flying across the newly birthed universe."
Vision observed six lights formed into concentrated ingots.
Blue, Purple, Red, Green, Orange and his own, Yellow.
"These Infinity Stones each represent an aspect of our universe that is essential to its existence." Bendu lectured. "Space, Power, Reality, Time, Soul and Mind."
The Avenger gazed upon the stones in awe and wonder.
In a flash of moments, Vision saw glimpses of what a number of the stones were like and how they were mistaken upon first glance.
The Tesseract broke apart to reveal the Space Stone kept from within. The same occurred with Loki's Scepter for the Mind Stone. The Reality Stone was in a liquid state as it was momentarily kept within Dr. Jane Foster before Malekith. The other stones appeared in an orb presently kept by a Corp of heroes, an amulet with mages or sorcerers and the last was… unknown?
Each of the stones swirled together as they came together to a… what was that? A glove? Gauntlet?
And there was a figure… he couldn't quite make it out but whoever it was that wore this object… he emanated great power. Not from an outer appearance, but from within.
He wasn't the only one as several others seemed to wield this gauntlet in their own fashion, but it happened so fast that it was hard to discern their details at all. But one thing was sure that each was great in their own right.
Vision opened his mouth, wanting to know just what he was looking at when…
"And… that is all I know."
Vision uncharacteristically deflated upon hearing such an abrupt end to Bendu's explanation of the Stones with the images around them vanishing.
"Shame." Muttered the synthetic.
Bendu let out a sheepish laugh. "Yes, I know. It is rather disappointing on my lack of knowledge on something as important as this."
"I forgive you for that. My expectations seemed to have been raised considerably throughout our discussion."
"Apologies once more." Bendu stated earnestly. "I should have made my knowledge more clear."
"No, no, it's alright." Vision placated. "Some knowledge is better than nothing."
"True, true." Bendu hummed aloud. "But knowledge, if not taken in moderation, can be a curse. There are certain things that are better left in the unknown. For once a secret has been seen, it cannot be unseen."
Vision gazed upon his teacher with a contemplative expression.
The old creature seemed to be a fan of duality.
One moment he is being wise and educational, another as a lighthearted individual who enjoys a good laugh and just now… cryptic and enigmatic.
A duality.
Like the Force.
"You spoke of how a comrade of yours was aware of these Infinity Stones." The Bendu's voice echoed around the mental cosmic landscape.
The image of a certain God of Thunder soon formed, courtesy of Vision.
"Thor." Vision said aloud. "He is not of my homeworld. An extraterrestrial being who has a vast degree of knowledge on the cosmos."
"More than most would expect." Bendu surmised. "You told me he didn't have much time to explain about the Stones."
Vision inclined his head forward in confirmation.
"What did he manage to tell you at the very least? Excluding what you have already said prior."
"He spoke of how he saw them in a… Well, Vision. How there is something greater at play than we realized." Vision said. "But as to what that is? We don't know. It was the reason for his departure."
Bendu gazed upon Vision with a conflicted expression.
The large being grimaced a moment later. "Then perhaps things are far more grim than I had realized."
"Apparently, in his words prior to his departure, these stones are nothing but trouble."
Bendu shook his head. "An object nor a power can make you good or evil. Though there have been items and instances where inanimate objects possessing Wills of their own, at the end, the choice falls upon the user's shoulders. The temptation of power, forbidden knowledge, even the desire to do good can lead some down that path. The opposite applies as well. In the end, it is with one's intent with the object which decides which is which."
"I agree." Vision said. "But it is who gets the stones that concerns me. Ultron… he wished to utilize the Mind Stone when he was first creating me. Loki used the Tesseract -the Space Stone- to open a gateway for an invasion, which I believe he must've had a benefactor to secure his army and his scepter; which contained the Mind Stone."
"Do you believe someone else will come for the stones?"
"I fear it is inevitable." Vision said, countenance deadly serious.
"Quite the conflict you bear." Bendu murmured.
"Will you help when the time comes?"
The ancient creature before him paused and held a deep frown.
"I shall be honest with you, my friend." Bendu said in a grave fashion. "I am the one in the middle for a reason. I am the unmoving rock in the river whose purpose is to be and not to interfere with that to come. I follow the will of the Force and only the Force."
"That doesn't answer my question."
"One can say that I must stay neutral in many conflicts. If I act, I must respond to both sides."
"And what of the other?" Vision asked in challenge.
Bendu exhaled tiredly, his form slumping slightly.
He didn't say anything for a few moments when he began.
"There was a time where I did participate." Bendu said in a low voice. "Long ago when the Galaxy was still in its infancy in its understanding of the Force. Suffice to say, it wasn't a pleasant ending."
"What happened?"
"Mistakes that can't be undone."
Vision didn't dwell any further on this topic.
"What can you do now then?"
"Now?" Bendu seemingly lost his prior demeanor and rose up slightly. "Now begins your lessons, my friend. I may not have a chance to undo my mistakes but at the very least I can help teach you in preventing repetition through your actions."
"Then let us begin."
-Scene Cut-
Time has come and gone for the synthetic Avenger. Learning much of the galaxy at large through the numerous species, systems and histories. There wasn't that much difficulty in the repository of knowledge he received.
Outside of his general learning, Vision did much to learn the ways of the Force; even if limited on a handful of details.
Even if he can't truly wield it, he can make up for it with the Mind Stone.
Meditation became his most common practice and application of the Force or the infinite Power Cosmic that Bendu called it at times. Exercises through other Force abilities to see which suited him best were often performed on top of the philosophies with how each one fitted onto where.
There was also the advent of trying to tap into the greater powers and mysteries within the Mind Stone though that was proving to be difficult. Even if it was a part of him, just like with Wanda, Pietro and Ultron; there was a gateway which prevented him from accessing it in its entirety.
His internal systems told him that a number of months had passed by since his arrival on Attolon and it was now 2016.
Vision had long since believed that if he somehow wound up on this planet somewhere in this galaxy, it was easy to assume that the rest of his friends and comrades had as well.
The only questions which stemmed from this were the typical "where are they" and "are they safe".
All he could do was hope all was well.
Currently, he was descending down from another foray into space.
With him not being entirely flesh and bone and requiring oxygen to survive, Vision could leave this planet and exit through its stratosphere -let alone orbit- with no issue at all. He can head off and travel the stars on his own with no other assistance.
Being made of Vibranium and having an Infinity Stone helps.
Yet there was a problem to this factor: he would literally forever to get to another planet.
Without a StarCraft, it would take months, perhaps years in order for him to get from one planet towards another.
He now really wished he had the Space Stone rather than the Mind Stone. It would help his means of travel on a considerable level.
As his feet touched the ground, he was met with some of the local native wildlife of the planet.
"Gilbert." Vision said pleasantly, crouching down to pick up the native species of Dokma that he had befriended. "How are you today?"
The snail-like creature chirped in happiness at seeing its larger friend as it was placed upon Vision's left shoulder when the Avengers' right shoulder was soon occupied by a Convor.
"Archimedes." Vision said with a pleased smile.
The Owl-like creature ruffled his feathers as a sign of greeting as Vision began walking towards his current place of "residence" on the planet.
If one were to look onto this moment, they would think Vision was going crazy in his own fashion.
One wouldn't blame him, given he has been nearly isolated ever since being stranded on this desolate planet. The only company he has are the Bendu and the local fauna.
He had to make friends with what he had.
But what many also didn't know or "see" so to speak was the application of the Mind Stone Vision was utilizing on his two companions situated on his shoulders.
Viz had developed a frequency of sorts that conveyed a sense of calm and friendliness to the wildlife of the planet and in doing so had befriended these two creatures that now use him as a ride whenever he was around.
It was hit and miss with the arachnid-like species, given their growth rate. Enough said.
"Bendu." Vision said aloud, walking down into the crater where the Force creature resided.
He heard the shifting of the ground and spotted Bendu rising up to turn and face him.
"Ah, Vision." Bendu greeted. "I take it that-"
"Another successful, pointless endeavor." Vision blandly said, Archimedes taking to the skies for a moment to fly over and land atop one of the many protrusions from Bendu's back.
"I have told you."
"And I didn't listen, despite my hopes and thoughts on the matter."
Bendu chuckled. "Machine you may be a great deal of humanity has been instilled in you."
"I would like to think so given those who created and influenced me." Vision spoke with a degree of pride. "Besides, I had to at least give my chances a try once more."
Bendu wagged his finger at the Avenger.
"Do or do not, there is no try."
"But how can things be done without an attempt?"
Once more, the two began to banter back and forth in amusement.
This one topic had been a constant source of witty contention between the two beings to pass the time here on the planet.
They only had one another to speak with after all.
Atollon was rarely visited by anyone at all. There were no settlements for him to travel towards and get in touch with their systems to find out the present state of the galaxy at large. It had no intelligent life on it, outside of himself and the Bendu.
Who knows when someone could come out of their way or stumble upon this planet.
Vision could use the Mind Stone to reach out and contact someone telepathically, but he didn't know how far it could go. Even through this, it may be a rather long time before he could get in touch with just about anyone.
All he could do was study, train and expand his knowledge; like a hermit, sage or monk of old.
Eventually, the unusual duo ceased their "bickering" and now simply remained by one another silently as they watched the planet's sunset.
They didn't say anything to one another as they felt there was no need to.
Though their silence was not to last long as Vision grimaced at the pulsing feeling, sound and light of the Mind Stone.
"Oh? Something wrong?"
"It's been like this for some time."
"Ah~" Bendu nodded his head in understanding. "Ultron, yes?"
Vision didn't respond but his silence was more than enough of a confirmation.
"Ever since feeling him… my drive to find my comrades has increased."
Upon learning his "brother"/"creator" was still alive through his connection with the Infinity Stone, a sense of dread filled the synthetic Avenger.
"And what else have you been feeling from the Stone?"
Vision thought about it for a moment and it didn't take long to get a mental image of…
"Wanda…" He muttered. "And Pietro too. Though Wanda's had a stronger reaction than her brother."
"Hmmm and why do you believe that is the case?"
"Pietro has a connection to the Mind Stone but it has always been more physical. It changed his anatomy which granted him his enhanced physiology in speed. In my comrades' words, he acts before he thinks. The stone merely enhanced that to a degree." Vision recounted. "Wanda, however, was the thinker and more levelheaded of the two. The same applied upon her exposure to the Stone. Yet how much she was exposed to its cosmic power, I am the foggiest on the changes."
"And how would you describe her gift of the Mind Stone?"
Focusing on the Infinity Stone, Vision projected several mental images for the Bendu to see through the Force. The red ethereal energies Wanda conjures and uses for her offensive and defensive capabilities. Not just that but using them to help achieve flight and manipulate illusions in a person's psyche.
"My, my." Bendu said, tone cryptic. "Quite powerful if I do say so myself. And like you, she has much left in development."
"Indeed she does." Vision remarked. "I don't know if I told you this but out of all of us, Wanda perhaps has the greatest potential power minus myself and Thor. Hulk has his raw strength and Mr. Stark his inequity. The rest of the Avengers all have their own abilities and skills but Wanda… She's something special."
"In more ways than one, I take it."
"...I don't follow."
The chuckle the force entity gave out seemed to unsettle him from confusion.
"Tell me my friend, when you see those connected with you through the Mind Stone, what do you see them as?"
Vision frowned and thought about this.
"With Ultron… A pained existence that twisted its purpose into genocide. Whereas I wish to see life flourish, he views it as a sickness."
Bendu only hummed as Vision went on.
"Pietro… unable and unwanted in restraints placed upon him. His speed and impulsiveness can be his greatest asset and downfall but his heart in helping people always came above his own wants. Even his life."
Viz vividly recalled the bullet holes that riddled the speedsters body, the shock and terror from the other Avengers, especially Wanda and surprisingly Clint.
Brash, arrogant and cocky as Pietro likes to show himself as, when the chips were down and he was needed most, he displayed the heart of a hero.
A true hero.
Something Clint, Steve and the rest of the Avengers made sure he knew of.
One of the few times he saw Pietro appearing bashful.
"Wanda… she is powerful and strong in many ways that don't involve her powers." Vision spoke softly now. "She wishes to make sure her brother is safe as he does with her and she wishes for redemption. Wanda believed that she was responsible for allowing Ultron to destroy her home and for nearly killing her brother. But I have seen her press forward with her head held high."
Yet she bears this great grief and sorrow. One that seeks to constantly heal.
He recalls one of the first handful of days back at the Avenger's compound after they first defeated Ultron at Sokovia. The twins were still adjusting to their new lives after much hardship they had to endure.
Checking up on her, he saw her watching a show she occasionally watches to help ease the pain. Yes she nearly lost her brother in the recent conflict, which made her return to a state of depression Pietro had witnessed several times over.
Thus Vision chatted with her as a means of comfort and bringing her out of her negative state of mind.
He listened to her and gave the best advice he could give her with his new lease of life, of existence.
It seemed to do the trick as she got better, hopefully.
After that, things seemed to change depending on his perspective on her. After all, he was only a week old at the time.
"What do you truly see in her?"
"I see… a wonderful human being." Vision said in a whisper. "Grace in their failings. Indomitable will. Something truly beautiful."
Bendu let out a wry chuckle.
"Did I say something funny?"
"None of that sort."
Vision opened his mouth to say something in response when he felt something from the Mind Stone.
He thought he was imagining things.
"Vision?"
The synthetic Android held up a hand as a gesture for him to get a moment.
Scrunching up his face in concentration, Vision focused on the strange pulse that came from his head.
"I… I sense something. No… someone."
In fact, some people had finally come to this planet.
Excitement oddly filled him, making him wonder who these people were and what their reasons were for coming to Atollon.
He then heard a sound of a whirring thrusters far in the distance and he whirled about to see a ship of some kind flying down from the atmosphere.
"Well now, be a good host, my friend, and greet our new guest." Bendu quipped and Vision simply nodded and took off to the skies.
He figured he was most likely out of sight but he still hung back from the ship coming down to the planet's surface.
It was alien in appearance then again, the thought itself was silly since he wasn't on Earth.
As he drew closer to the ship and watched it land, Vision wondered what kind of people or sentient life he was about to encounter.
Bendu made it clear that the sentient races of the galaxy, while all having their unique looks, stereotypes and specialties, were the same as any other human on Earth.
If merchants, smugglers, politicians or anything else remotely good came from this craft, he could perhaps negotiate a means for him to come aboard.
He obviously didn't have any money… or credits as the currency goes here. He could perhaps work off some payment or something pertaining to his set of skills, within reason of course. Or he could be lucky they would let him come out of the goodness of their hearts.
If unlikely things don't follow through, he could just phase himself into the cargo hold and merely hide until reaching the next inhabited planet.
If they were pirates or slavers, he may have to be a bit more forceful in getting a ride. One way or another.
Vision landed behind one of those large coral-like trees and phased through it with only his eyes being visible as he stood inside the trunk of the large fauna.
He watched the ship land and an exit ramp came out from the back.
Three well armored male humanoids walked down the ramp, all wearing helmets that had visors in the shape of the letter T.
He continued observing them from afar and saw them remove their helmets to reveal them all to be human.
If memory recall from his lessons, they were Mandalorians. Or perhaps people posing as them.
Who's to say these days?
"You sure about this place, Dax?" The one with the green accented armor spoke first.
"Positive." The one called Dax in the grey and silver responded, holding a book in his hands. "Tobbi and I coordinated with Mandalore and one of the planets my ancestor and Revan came to was this one."
"Come on Fenn, have some faith in us." The other green armored Mandalorian said, lightly patting Fenn on the back.
"It's not that I don't have faith Tobbi, it's just that I fear us being here."
"Being what? The krykna coming out and swarming us?" Tobbi said teasingly.
"You know what." Fenn said with a roll of his eyes. "The Protectors should stay together right now, above all else. After that droid went and attacked the galaxy, the last thing that the Mandalorians need is further division."
'Droid?' Vision thought to himself.
That was the term used to describe mechanical/AI in this galaxy. From what Bendu spoke of, they were not fully sentient AI in comparison to creations like himself or Ultron. They were more like simple programs in terms of comparison rather than multifaceted beings.
They spoke of a Droid attacking the entire galaxy.
That was rather troubling.
Now how should he approach them?
The Avenger could be upfront, but it may go either way depending on their response. Shooting from his sudden surprise is an option. Another being running back onto their ship, taking off and making things difficult.
Or he could go with the more natural approach, instead of a desperate one.
'The droid…' Vision mentally thought to himself and with that, he made up his mind.
Walking out from his cover, he approached them as his golden cape briefly fluttered against the coming breeze.
Just when the Mandalorians were about to begin whatever task in coming here, one of them spotted him.
"Hello there." Vision spoke aloud, holding up both hands as a gesture of peace.
The three Mandalorians tensed up and faced the Avenger. They saw that he had no weapons and opted not to reach for their own
"Who are you? Identify yourself." Fenn asked straight away, gaze sharp and at the ready.
"I mean you no harm, I assure you." Vision spoke calmly. "I just wish to talk as gentlemen."
"Gentlemen." Fenn repeated. "Forgive me if I sound rude but what even are you? Can't put down what species you are."
"I am a unique case." The android vaguely said. "You may call me Vision."
"Vision?" The trio said in sync.
"What kind of name is that?" Tobbi inquired.
"One given to me by people I trust." The Avenger stated. "And who might I ask are all of you?"
"I'm Fenn Shysa." The blond haired Mandalorian said first. "This is Tobbi Dala and Dax Ordo. We're members of the Mandalorian Protectors."
"Protectors you say?" Vision said in intrigue. "And what is that you protect?"
"The old ways of our people." Dax said with pride. "Those who can't do it themselves or whoever gives us a decent price."
"So not entirely honorable." Vision bluntly said though the trio didn't take offense as they all shrugged.
"When credits are needed, they're needed." Fenn plainly said.
"I see…" Vision murmured.
"Now we'll be asking the questions." Said Tobbi before he addressed the obvious question. "What are you doing here?"
"I've been stranded on this planet for some time."
"Did your ship crash or were you just dropped here?"
"The latter." Vision remarked. "Unforeseen circumstances beyond my control."
"Uh, huh." He inspected the Avenger with a critical eye. "How'd you keep your clothes all nice and tidy for this amount of time?"
Vision let out a small chuckle. "Let's just say that these aren't exactly clothes."
As the Mandalorian got closer, he noticed a number of other things about the person.
"You got synthetic implants or something?"
"Quite a lot actually." Vision said honestly.
"What's with the cape?" Tobbi asked.
"A Stylistic choice." Vision freely admitted getting the Mandalorians to laugh.
"Weird choice."
"Coming from you three?" Said Vision, who eyed the little tattered capes hanging off their right shoulders.
"What, we don't look cool?" Dax asked, looking down at himself.
"Hey, these are given to us as a rank." Tobbi defended childishly.
Fenn chortled aloud.
"Tell me, is there a reason you three came to this planet?" Vision asked them. "I couldn't help but overhear you three searching for something."
A look was shared with the three Mandalorians before Tobbi questioned Vision.
"What's it to you?"
"I may be of some help. I had explored this planet for quite a while so I may know-"
"We're looking for this." Dax said, turning the book he held and flipped it around for Vision to see. Ordo pointed at a skull of some kind with curved horns. "This is the symbol of the Mythosaur, the symbol of all Mandalorians."
"Oh, that? I actually came across that some weeks ago."
"Really?" Tobbi said with a glint of hope in his eyes.
"If you'd let me come aboard your vessel, I can quickly point you to the right directions from the air."
Another shared look went between the Mandalorians.
"Can you take us there instead?"
Vision shrugged. "Yes, follow me."
The Mando's jolted back when Vision flew up without any sort of assistance.
"Do you guys see any jetpacks or boots?" Fenn asked in surprise.
"Nadda."
"Is he a Jedi?" Dax asked. "He kinda feels like-"
"Are you three coming? The sun shall be setting soon." Vision called out to them.
The Protectors shook off their stupor and used their jetpacks to follow after the Avenger.
Eventually, he led them to a cavern within a crater that had a door of some kind.
Opening the passageway, Vision guided the trio to where he found the skull during his past weeks exploring this planet.
After several more minutes, he led them to a chamber filled with an assortment of items. It resembled a small trophy room or a cache of goods which collected dust for an unknown amount of time.
"This is it!" Dax said excitedly, holding up a Beskar vibroblade. "Canderous Ordo and Revan were here. This is what they left behind."
"I can't believe it was actually true." Fenn said in disbelief as he was handed the knife. "Mandalore the Preservers dagger."
"I believe this little centerpiece is what you desire?"
Situated nearby the synthetic Avenger was a rather large skull. One which was all too familiar to Mandalorians through both their ancient sigil and history lessons.
Fenn, Dax and Tobbi immediately surrounded the skull and inspected it from all sides.
Deciding to throw caution into the wind, Dax brought his fist down and broke the top of the skull. Lying within was another book that was encased in some sort of bindings that were quickly discarded.
Dax flipped it open and inhaled sharply with a wide grin appearing a moment later.
He looked over to Fenn and Tobbi, his eyes glimmering with excitement.
In a weird way, Vision saw they now resembled giggly schoolboys with each passing second.
"So, you want off this rock, huh?" Fenn spoke now in a far more friendly manner.
"I very much would like to."
"Then consider this your payment." Dax said with a laugh, lightly slapping the Avenger on the back. "You made this search waaay more easier."
Granted this large haul would take a long time for them to bring back to their ship…
Was what most would say had it not been for Vision's help.
To say that the Mandalorians were grateful would be an understatement.
It didn't take long to empty out this bunker of its goods and double checking nothing was left behind. Once everything was cleaned out, the Mandalorians were securing everything within their ship and cataloging them for their return.
"The Mandalore is gonna love this." Tobbi proclaimed excitedly.
"We'll make sure to introduce you to him." Fenn said to the Avenge. "We Mandalorians take debts very seriously. We owe you much."
"I believe passage off this world shall suffice."
"And we believe that a simple ride isn't." Tobbi declared. "Come on, once you meet Mandalore Spar, we'll take ya wherever you want afterwards."
"I'll hold you to that."
And with that, they stepped onto the entrance ramp to their ship when the Avenger paused and looked back out at the horizon of Atollon.
Before leaving the planet's surface, Vision sent one last telepathic message with his mentor.
"I believe this is goodbye."
"For now, my friend. We shall see each other again."
"I'll put your lessons to good use."
"I'm counting on it. Be sure to visit as soon as you can, my friend. I have grown used to your company."
Vision got himself seated behind Fenn as the ship powered up.
With a woosh, the Mandalorian craft went into Hyperspace, leaving the Lothal sector.
'Soon, my friends.' Thought the Avenger. 'Just wait a little longer.'
AN
And that's another one.
This Anthology arc is a literal breeze.
Black Panther and Vision are now done and up next is Wanda.
Someone we have very special plans for in her own solo outing.
Jebest4781: This next bit will take a while to bring out, given what will be exactly done. And boy I'm already dreading the headaches.
FMW: Yeah, when we sat down to figure out what to do with her, we went ham on it in the planning phases. Bullet also gave some great ideas and contributions to come so this is a three planned arc so to speak.
Jeb: After all, stuff with Wanda will greatly contribute to later story events by a large margin.
FMW: Yup. Anyways, to address some reviews from before. Loving the pouring of love towards the last chapter since it was a chapter dedicated to our lost king. May he continue to run endlessly with those he loves in the eternal field.
Also, like before, no X-men. No Fantastic Four.
NO VENOM.
This story has already been extensively planned out with a clear ending in mind.
Jeb and I along with Bullet already know everything we need to and if we add anymore characters as is it'll just be too much to juggle and handle.
You all already saw the list of factions and characters at the end of season 2 and mind you, that list is only gonna grow from here but any new MCU and Star Wars content for the most part will not be included in this story at all.
So thanks for reading again and next stop, Dathomir.
Rate Read and Review as Always Have Nice Day.