(Chapter 6: Getting to know your new Allies)
It would be nearing 2 weeks since Ben had made his official partnership with the Matriarchs, and as such it had been an…experience given that in dealing with the personalities that ranged from Fulgrim and Furiosa to that of Lorna Aurelian, Perturabo and Konstance Kurze. That alongside his other projects and his continued work on the megaships, that Ben for the most part had his hands full in a good way.
(June 14th, 950. M30, 1:45 Pm, Karakinos)
It would be a sunny afternoon as Ben alongside Perturabo were watching as the Kahn was racing on a speeder-bike that the two had worked on to make for her, as she sped through a crystalline obstacle course that said Ultimatrix wielder had made to test it out.
"I'm honestly surprised she hasn't found the turbo on her new bike yet…From how much of a speed demon you guys told me she was, I figured she'd be going nuts with it by now." Ben spoke as they watched the Kahn navigate through said obstacle course with all of the mastery that someone of her caliber would have
"What turbo?..." Perturabo asked
"Oh, I figured it would be a funny idea to install speed boosters on there...In my defense, I wanted to see if she could handle racing around at the speed of sound for shits and giggles." Ben answered back as the Iron Warriors Matriarch could only pinch the bridge of her nose at the unhinged line of thought that Ben had at times
"Out of everyone here, you thought it would be a great idea to allow the Kahn to traverse even faster? I cannot tell if this will be a good idea or disastrous in its results." Perturabo spoke before the screens showed the White Scars Matriarch tripling in her speed output
"It looks like we're about to find out, Perturabo. Because this looks like its' gonna be good. My only regret is that we didn't get the chance to make it break the sound barrier…Now THAT would've been awesome to see happen." Ben said back as the Jagahtai proceeded to accelerate to subsonic speeds
"You do realize that she will ask for you to make more of these for her and her legion?" Was Perturabo's response as her fellow Matriarch raced about like an absolute madwoman
"I know, but I will be damned if this doesn't look awesome. Plus, I am just happy I get to build cool stuff with you…You're pretty alright to be with, by the way." Ben said with an excitable grin as he watched their joint creation rip through the obstacle course
'At least someone recognizes the greatness of what I can create, beyond war machines.' Perturabo said to herself as a small smile crept upon her face
From thereon the Ultimatrix wielder and stern-faced Matriarch continued to watch as Jaghatai Kahn who looked to be having the time of her life on her speeder biker, made her return lap back to them as a blur of motion and masterful control. The feeling of exhilaration as she navigated through the obstacle course despite all of the traps, winding sharp turns, and so on and so forth; as the experience of riding with such speed brought a sense of nostalgia to her conquering days on her home planet, as well as a great adrenaline rush from traversing at speeds she never thought possible beyond commanding a ship.
As such, while her hair was a mess after finally stopping her speeder bike in place before Ben and Perturabo; her face holding a large grin of excitement as her heart pounded in her chest from testing out her new means of transport.
"That was…incredible…I never thought that I could go that fast before." Were the only words the White Scars Matriarch could say as she stepped off the speeder bike
"So I'll take it that you like your new Speeder Bike?" Ben questioned
"Liking what you and Perturabo have built would be a great disservice to your work…If it is possible upon our return. I want to commission more of these Speeders as you call them for my Legion. They would drastically increase our odds on the field if we had them." Jaghatai Kahn answered back
"Glad you like it, and I am more than happy to make you and both your legions more if you want?" Ben spoke not really minding making more Speeders
"I would appreciate it as well. It would make transferring supplies and reinforcing our structures during sieges far more efficient." Perturabo said in seeing this as a sizable boon if she could have more of these during her sieges
"Many thanks to you, Ben Tennyson, and to you as well Perturabo.." Jagahtai Kahn thanked the Ultimatrix wielder and her fellow Matriarch
"Of course, by the way, I will try and get your Speeder-Bike painted later on today…Also, if there are any ideas for the newer models I intend to make, once we leave here. Feel free to say something, I am always happy to take suggestions." Ben told the Matriarch before him
"I will be sure too…By the way, at a later date; I do wish to see how you fight. I know from your tale of how you beat Furiosa, that you are capable as a warrior. But I wish to see your martial skills for myself." Jaghatai Kahn requested
"Hey, I will fight anyone you guys think can take me down in a fight. If any of you can make me use any of my powerhouses, then I will be amazed!" Ben said actually keen to see if he would be forced to tap into any of those transformations
"I am sure that someone in our ranks is capable of such…We are one of the greatest warriors of the Imperium for a reason, so to underestimate any of would be suicide." Jaghatai Kahn responded
"Same goes for you. I may not be a giant warrior woman, but I have gotten out of my fair share of fights too. Besides, you guys haven't even seen half the stuff I can do." Ben said back full of nothing but an unstoppable sense of confidence that brought a laugh from said Matriarch
"With confidence that high, I wouldn't be surprised if you find yourself in Fulgrim's legion; when we return to Terra." Jaghatai Kahn spoke in seeing Ben as a worthy candidate of said legion
"If someone wants me on their legion, then it doesn't really matter to me all too much... Just as long as I can do what I have been for the past 20 plus years." Ben replied
"However, I will leave you two to do as you please for now. It is my turn for patrol duty today, and I would like to get it over with as swiftly as possible." Jaghatai Kahn spoke non-plussed about who they were with
"Judging by that look on your face, you are either with Fulgrim or Konstance for patrols today." Perturabo said knowing that face from experience
"It is Fulgrim…While I can tolerate Konstance's 'eccentricities', Fulgrim's preening on the other-hand is all together insufferable to deal with. I'd like to see either of you put up with someone who claims themselves 'the emperor's most glorious daughter' and not want to choke them." Jaghatai Kahn replied
"I will pass…Ben and I have fortifications to make to both his safehouse, the area where the ships are being built and our own home to do." Perturabo told the White Scars Matriarch
"I wanna be ready just in case anything pops up while we're out here. You never know if we have bad company coming out way, and the last thing we need is to get blindsided." Ben said in agreement with Perturabo
"That's also why, I'm building some of you guys so extra gear to be safe. You never know when and if you might need the extra firepower." Ben further spoke in following the belief of being safe than sorry
"It is good to see that you practice prudency, and you are right to do so. We may be the only ones on this planet, but that does not mean our enemies from afar cannot find us at any given time." Jaghatai Kahn replied in respect of Ben and Perturabo's ideas to be proactive in their defense
"Well, we won't keep you any longer than you have to, Jaghatai. Good luck with your patrol with Fulgrim and tell her don't be a stranger." Ben told the speed-loving Matriarch
"I will pass that message to her when I get the chance." The White Scars Matriarch said back before taking her leave
"By the way, Perturabo. We're still on for watching Power Rangers tonight, right?" Ben asked the towering Iron Maiden
"Of course, and I will be the first to admit that I did not expect it to catch my attention so easily. However, I will admit that it is enjoyable to watch. Even if their lack of proper armor is something to be desired, although I will respect their organization as a unit nonetheless." Perturabo answered back having enjoyed Power Rangers as a whole so far
"I told you, you would like S.P.D. That one is a classic for a reason." Ben spoke as the two headed off to get started on fortifying the designated areas
"Agreed, I especially like their commanding leader. He is right to be wary of the threats Grumm presents to their version of Terra, when he can so easily summon giant Xenos to fight against them." Perturabo replied in enjoyment of the series so far
"Trust me, you haven't seen anything yet. Just wait until we get into his 2 parter episodes. That's when he really gets good." Ben told a now intrigued Matriarch
"Hmmm, now you have my curiosity and my interest." Perturabo said as the two continued only now with the Iron Maiden curious to see how things would go for the leader of S.P.D
(The next day, Karakinos, 12:35 Pm, June 15th, 950. M30)
On the following day, Ben was currently sparring with Furiosa; who was fighting it out against him as Diamondhead; wherein the World Eaters Matriarch was finding some success against the crystalline transformation was finding it challenging given their abilities to create and manipulate crystals that could hit with the force of a Heavy Bolter.
"I told you that Diamondhead wasn't going to be as easy as you thought." Diamondhead told Furiosa who throughout the spar had been put on her backfoot a few times
"At least I know that you were able to be with skill, not by luck. But let us see how long that lasts, Tennyson." Furiosa said back as she rushed forward with Gorefather and Gorechild in hand
From thereon Furiosa launched after Diamondhead as a towering behemoth wielding chainsaw-axes that whirred and hungered to cut and shred into their chosen target, but that being said the Ultimatrix wielder did not make her path easy as he forced crystalline pillars to erupt from the ground. With Furiosa instead of charging through them like a living battering ram, instead opted to use them as platform to jump and leap offof; increasing the distance of which she could close in upon the crystalline Xenos.
However, in anticipation of such a thing; Diamondhead combined the pillars before him to form a great crystalline fist that came rocketing towards Furiosa like a bolter on crack, yet the World Eaters Matriarch on instinct blocked with both Chainaxes that grinded and sparked against the construct that slammed into her with great force. But what she didn't anticipate were the four smaller yet still sizable crystalline fists that came barreling into her from either side, with Furiosa being able to parry both that came from either side, yet the boot-shaped construct that slammed into her like a rhino sent her careening back into the ground below.
Wherein Furiosa landed with enough force to shake the ground and upon making contact swiftly advanced upon the Crystalsapien with nothing but bad intentions and a look of pure determination, all the while Diamondhead launched himself after her in the form of a crystalline pillar erupting from the ground. But instead of coming in for a punch or kick as she had expected, he had instead transformed into Cannonbolt mere feet before she could attackwith a cleave of Gorefather and gave her an almighty gut check to remember, sending her reeling from the force that nearly doubled her over.
With his then rounding for another go-around as he spun hard enough in place that he left a half-foot deep groove in the ground; before launching off like a bullet against Furiosa who upon seeing the golden sphere traveling at incredible speeds did she brace herself. Wherein the moment it hurtled toward her did she parry Cannonbolt with Gorechild smacking him into the ground where he instead bounced upwards, before rapidly descending down ike a meteor at even higher speeds.
In seeing this, the World Eaters Matriarch leaped into the air to intercept the pillbug-like aliens' fast-approarching impact with both chainaxes, the result was a mighty shockwave that had both of them in a stalemate as they descended ever faster toward the ground. But before they could fully impact the ground another flash of bright green was made as Furiosa was sent rocketing ever faster from a reverse roundhouse kick to the jaw from a surprisingly swift Crashhopper.
However, as she landed with a sore jaw did another flash of green appear in her sight as she braced for impact as the 22 foot tall form of Humungosaur coming in for the meanest body slam imaginable…the large form of it all crashing down upon her with an raucous THHHOOOMMM! But the Ultimatrix wielder instead of feeling her crushed flush against his towering form instead felt something trying to cut through his toughened hide, as he was gradually lifted off the ground by Furiosa who rose to her feet to do so against his great bulk.
But before she could do so completely to try and throw him off of her, he swung his mace-like tail with great force towards her; yet as he did so the Matriarch in question quickly lashed out with Gorefather to block the appendage from slamming into her stomach. However, not even moments after blocking said limb did Humungosaur after enlarging himself another 6 feet swing one of his giant fists to sucker punch her; sending her carrening for dozens of feet, as she was hurtled into a wall hard enough to sound as though a Dreadnought had rammed right through it.
All the while Furiosa was semi-dazed from the hit that sent her through nearly 5 separate buildings, but all the same was in relatively good shape despite her body ringing from the impact, before she eventually found her way back to Ben after recovering her wits about herself. From then on the two had themselves a bit of a lunch break from their raucous sparring match, wherein both felt in good spirits in its aftermath with furiosa glad to do these in feeling more like herself with each one, whilst Ben was just happy to have someone to practice his aliens with.
"You really weren't kidding when you said you were good without those nails in your head." Ben said after he finished drinking his lemonade
"The others and myself included had warned you that we Matriarchs are some if not the greatest warriors in the Imperium…My upbringing prepared me only for battle in the gladiator pits of my homeworld. It was not the most pleasant of experiences, but they were ones that shaped me into a formidable warrior nonetheless." Furiosa spoke as she finished devouring her sandwich as well
"That sounds pretty rough…Actually, you have mentioned your being on this Nuceria place a couple of times. Was it really that bad…I know that it was pretty rough being a gladiator from what you mention about it." Ben replied knowing that a happy childhood or even an average one the Matriarch did not from what little she had told him
"...My masters not only forced me to kill the man I considered a father. They are or were the reason why I had those wretched nails ford into my skull. Even now after so many years, I can still feel them utting open my skull and tearing out chunks of my brain to force them into me against my will." Furiosa replied although the hardened stare and disgusted look in her eyes spoke volumes of those experiences
"Yeeessshh, I am…I am just sorry that all of that happened to you. I honestly don't know what to say except, I am so sorry that you had to go through any of that, Furiosa." Ben said back his heart breaking for the towering woman
"You do not need to feel sorry for me, Tennyson. I have lived with those memories long since they had happened, and even though all of them echo through my skull incessantly. I lived knowing that I survived to carry on the memories of my fallen friends…They are the reason why I continue, to honor their memory, and make sure that another Furiosa, or any of them are never made again." Furiosa spoke as a resolve was set squarely in her golden eyes
'Never again, will I leave anyone to the fate that befell my battle-brothers and sisters on Nuceria. I will not let anyone be denied their chance for vengeance or retribution as I once was by my golden wretch of a 'father'. The Imperium shall never know those days again if I can help it.' Furiosa internally swore to herself as her mind briefly flashed to one of the most important yet fury-inducing moments of her life
"Still, it is pretty fucked to be honest…But what I do want you to know, if it means anything. It's that after we get off the planet and back to wherever home is for you. That I am happy to be with you for the longhaul. You seem like a really good person, Furiosa, and I plan on sticking with you the whole way through as your friend if you'll let me." Ben told Furiosa as said Matriarch let a small grin spread across her face
"Hmph, I would not mind having you as a friend, Ben Tennyson. You are a good man and a respectable warrior…Having you at my side would be rather nice…However, if you are to be my friend, then you will have to contend with my legion as mentioned, and they are ones of extremes as Konstance's is in some respects." Furiosa spoke knowing that her Legion was a handful all things considered
"I'm still sure I can handle them just fine. If I can handle Morganna being in my face nearly all of the time, or Leona giving me the creeps every time she looks at me. Then I'm pretty sure I can handle your Legion too." Ben said confident that he could do just that
"...I think you will do just fine then, with confidence as strong as yours." Furiosa said back
"Thanks…I honestly can't wait to see what my home is like 30,000 years in the future. Hopefully, they still have smoothies." Ben spoke much to Furiosa's confusion
"What is a smoothie? Is it some Terran delicacy that I should be aware of?" Furiosa questioned much to Ben's confusion turned determination
"Ok, when I get the chance I'm making you a smoothie. Because, this just cannot stand!" Ben exclaimed much to the amusement of the World Eaters' Matriarch
However, as Furiosa and Ben were having a good time conversing with each other in the aftermath of their sparring match, it was in the realm of Khorne that the Chaos God of Rage and Strength sat atop his massive throne of skulls. Wherein he had summoned one of his Greater Daemons, a Bloodthirster by the name Ax'akhan who had called him and his host for a task that called for his attention and use, with him sending him the task of testing the strength of this Ben Tennyson and the Primarchs trapped on the planet of Karakinos.
The explicit reasoning behind it being that he wanted to see what someone who was capable of changing the Warp in such a defining manner that not even Tzeentch for all his eldritch knowledge could counter it sundering of a considerable number of his daemons back to his realm bloodied and shuddering, as well as Slaanesh having to halt some of their own degeneracy as their daemonetts were being shunted out of the Material realm and left shredded and battered by the recent Warp storms and solar flares. For if he was strong enough to contend with a Bloodthirster and their entire host, then perhaps he would make for a great addition as one of his potential champions…why settle for a Primarch when you can have someone who can affect change on a scale of this magnitude.
"Now then, Ben Tennyson. Let us see if you are worthy to be one of my champions." The Lord of Blood spoke keen to see how the shapeshifter would fair against one of his generals
(2 days later, Matriarch Base, 3:06 Pm, June 17th, 950. M30)
It would be well into afternoon as Sekhmet in wondering what the sounds of oddly sounding epic music being played in Fulgrim's room, and to her surprise was Ben teaching Fulgrim how to play music from one of his and Grandpa Max's favorite bands.
"Oh, hey Sekhmet, how's it going?" Ben asked the Luna Wolves Matriarch
"It was going well. I was going over plans for the day with Lorna, when I heard music coming from Fulgrims' room, and decided to investigate." Sekhmet answered back
"Ben, here was teaching me how to play one the songs from his time. I was asking him what Terran culture was like, regarding the arts during his time, and he was all too delighted to tell me of how wondrous and expansive their music was." Fulgrim said to her sister
"Being such a avid lover of the arts, I decided to indulge and inquire to Ben on what were some of the most prominent musicians of that time…He went onto tell me of some rather interesting ones such as Metallica, Alice in Chains which is such a fun little name, Soundgarden, and Blind Guardian. However, there was one that he showed to me that caught my interest and wanted to learn to play one of their wonderful songs." Fulgrim further informed her sister
"Really? I should have figured that in one way or another, you two would bond over the arts. Although, I do have to ask, as to how you were able to sneak or much less make a guitar and drums into our home without anyone noticing?" Sekhmet asked in seeing am electric guitar and amps on Fulgrim's side and a fully set up drum-kit that Ben was sitting at
"I made a 3-D printer with some tech I had in my Bag of Holding, and made Fulgrim her own electric guitar and amplifiers." Ben told the Lupercal
"...Your ingenuity knows no bounds, Ben Tennyson." Were the only words that said Matriarch could say
"Thank you, and by the way, Fulgrim is absolutely incredible at learning how to play! We just started learning the song about an hour and a half ago, and she's pretty much got it down in no time. I am legitimately impressed at how quickly you learned it." Ben spoke as Fulgrim couldn't help but naturally beam at the praise lauded to her
"Why of course, I would learn it so swiftly. My prowess when it comes to music, art, and so many things of that nature are second to none amongst our sisters. Even Sanguinius would be hard-pressed to deny my skill." Fulgrim said with a smug grin in knowing her skill could not be denied
"I don't know what a Sanguinius is, but good luck beating you. Because you are doing a great job." Ben replied in genuinely being impressed by Fulgrim's talent
"She is our sister, and I would not bother worrying about her. She is quite overrated when compared to yours truly." Fulgrim said puffing out her chest in seeing herself as the greater between herself and the Blood Angels Matriarch
"Considering that she is regarded as a literal angel, that remains to be seen." The Lupercal spoke which caught Ben's attention at that detail
"Wait a minute, your sister is angel?" Ben asked in confusion
"Yes, but not really…it is complicated to explain." The Lupercal answered back regarding the Blood Angels Matriarch
"Huh, well that's kinda cool I guess. Anyway, unless you wanna stick around to see Fulgrim and I kill it with this Dream Theatre song. Then I think everything's just peachy." Ben said to the Luna Wolves Matriarch
"At the moment, no. However, sometime later this week, I would like to talk to you and Perturabo about fortifications to our base. The two of you, do make a surprisingly proficient team." Sekhmet replied in regards to the dynamic duo that was the Iron Maiden and the Ultimatrix wielder
"Other than Fulgrim, Lorna, Furiosa, and Konstance, she's pretty great to be around once you get to hang around her long enough...Although, she could stand to tone it down a bit when we work together. It is ok, to not go a hundred percent all the time." Ben stated with a shrug of his shoulders
"Furiosa and Konstance, and being great to be around in the same sentence is not what I expected to hear. Then again, you have somehow managed to befriend two of the most dangerous Matriarchs. Although how you accomplish what would take others decades in mere weeks is astonishing." Fulgrim spoke whilst retuning her guitar to be on perfect key for their rehersal/learning session
"Well, its' like I told Furiosa when she woke up after her surgery. I see the good in everyone, and just roll with it if they'll let me." Ben replied
"But other than that, you want to get back to it in getting this song down?" Ben asked the Emperor's Children Matriarch
"Of course, this instrumental of there's is deceptively complex. The musicians of your time are truly remarkable for their musical compositions if they were able to craft something of this degree." Fulgrim answered back in regards to the Dream Theater song in question
"If you think this is crazy, then wait until we get to Through the Flames and Fire by DragonForce. Now that, that is a song that will drive you insane to master." Ben told Fulgrim in remembering the nightmare that was said song to learn on guitar
"Now you have my curiosity piqued. But until then, let us take it from the top once more." Fulgrim said keen on learning said difficult song
"Alright, and let's go for take number 10 on this one, Fulgrm." Ben said back as they began to once more play Honor Thy Father by Dream Theater
'It certainly seems as though, Ben has found a way to bond with yet another of my sisters. Now if only he can help Mortarion to become more sociable, then he truly will be a miracle worker.' Sekhmet said to herself as she left Ben and Fulgrim to their own devices
From there Sekhmet went outside to speak with Morganna on the progress of reaching out to any of their Legions Librarians' when she spotted the odd sight of Konstance Kurze and Lorna Aurellian talking with each other.
"What are you two doing?" Sekhmet asked upon seeing the Matriarchs for the Night Lords and Word Bearers together
"Oh, Ben came up with the great idea of inviting us to learn more about Terran culture from his time. Which is why we are going to depart tomorrow tonight to his safehouse, to begin watching something called the mcu films." Lorna Aurellian informed her fellow Matriarch
"The MCU?" Sekhmet questioned
"Yes, from what Ben told us, they are a collection of incredibly successful superhero movies from his time. He appeared to be rather excited to include us in watch it alongside Perturabo." Lorna Aurellian answered back
"How did he manage to involve Perturabo in watching this? She isn't normally one for social events?" Sekhmet questioned as to how he managed to have Perturabo join them
"When he mentioned something about an Iron Man, she became interested in learning more about it." Was the response of the Night Lords' Matriarch
"If this can capture the attention of someone such as her, then it has my attention…Although, I have to ask what you two were talking about regarding this movie night he has planned?" Questioned the Lupercal to her fellow sisters
"Oh, Ben told us we could bring a plus 1 to the event. I chose to bring Furiosa, Konstance chose to bring Fulgrim. Would you like to come with us tomorrow, it would be an enlightening experience on how Terran entertainment was at that time?" Lorna Aurellian asked of her sister
"I don't see what the trouble could bring. Not to mention, it would not hurt to have a night off from keeping the household together." Sekhmet spoke in not seeing the harm of doing so
"Wonderful!" Lorna Aurellian cheered
"Who are you going to bring with you, Sekhmet…Of all people, please do not bring Leona with you." Was Konstance Kurze's lone question/request
"She was not my first choice…While I do care for Leona, I sincerely doubt she would accept the offer to begin with. Both her and Ben do not see eye to eye with one another, and I would rather not exacerbate things between them." Sekhmet replied knowing that Ben and Leona clashed heavily against each other
"Perhaps, Branwen would like to come. I think that she would enjoy the experience rather well, given her views on heroes." Lorna Aurellian suggested
"Hmmm, that may not be such a bad idea…I will bring the idea to her once she returns from patrol duty with Mortarion." Sekhmet said back in seeing that the gothic Matriarch may enjoy the movie night
"That being said, I will head off to see Morganna and how she is fairing with reaching out to any of our Librarians. Hopefully, she has made a breakthrough." Sekhmet spoke hopeful that the powerful Psyker had made progress yet
"If she has, then her progress must be incredibly lackluster." Konstance Kurze chided
"Konstance, you know as well as anyone that Morganna is doing the best she can. We are Emperor knows how far into deep space, and even that many more light-years away from the Imperium or any planet allied with it…Any progress that she can make is good regardless, and I will not have her efforts sullied." Sekhmet responded in defense of Morganna
"Fine, but when her efforts fall to the wayside, do not say I didn't warn you." Konstance Kurze said back
"That is your opinion, and I can more than respect that. However, if either of you need me, you know where I will be at." Sekhmet spoke before heading off in the direction of Morganna the Red
"Was it really necessary to be that rude, Konstance? Morganna is trying her best." Lorna Aurellian asked
"...I would rather be skeptical and realistic that even with Morganna's prowess as a Psyker, that contact with our Legions is fleeting at best…At least, with Ben and Perturabo, our hopes of finding our way back to the Imperium are something that can be realized." Konstance Kurze answered back in preferring to keep her hopes grounded
"I will leave my hopes for what can be manifested concretely, than leaving it to someone who promises false hope." Konstance Kurze further spoke in a dismissive enough tone that Lorna knew better than to argue further with the Night Haunter
'At least Konstance is acting nicer than what would be normal. Usually, she would have threatened to slice out my tongue, for arguing against her.' Lorna Aurellian noted to herself over how notably if not overtly that Konstance had become somewhat more amiable to be around
(Universe 10, May 20th, 2027, 4:48 Pm, Seattle, Washington)
It would be the month of May for Gwendolyn Tennsyon, as she had finished teaching her class on Advanced Mana theory, and was grading finals papers when almost out of nowhere she was surprised by the appearance of one of Ben's most eccentric friends/mentors and creator of the Ultimatrix, Albedo.
"You could have just knocked, or even called, Albedo!" Gwen admonished the smaller Galvan for teleporting into her office
"That would take too much time and I personally do not care to bother with doors. Too much effort, when I can just use a teleporter to achieve the same effect." Albedo replied uncaring of the fact that he just jump-scared the sorceress
"It is times like these where I am reminded of how you and Ben became best friends. Both of you are chaotic gremlins…Except your a super-genius, and he was incredibly destructive." Gwen said
"I miss Ben as well. He was incredibly great company as far as humans go. If anything, he managed to make me appreciate your lot. Not to mention he managed to give me a few ideas, on some of the projects I had grown proud of in recent memory. One of them being the Ultimatrix."Albedo responded in pride of said creation
"If I am to be completely transparent, I will remember him as one of the potentially greatest of your kind. Had it not been for him, I would have been trapped as one of his dopplegangers…Even now, the possibility of such is chiling to think about." Albedo responded in gratitude of the hero of the Chimera Wars
"Ben always had a talent for seeing the best in others. If he hadn't, then the Highbreed or the Incurseans invading Earth wouldn't have gone as well." Gwen said back knowing that without said Galvan's help things would have been far more down to the wire
"To be fair, as one of the greatest weapons-makers on not just Galvan Prime, but across 6 galaxies. My ability to make anything that can defend and destroy whatever I wish is nearly unparalleled. Even Azmuth, has to give me my due credit for what I can build…Especially, with what I was able to teach to Ben over the years since the Highbreed Invasion." Albedo spoke with pride in his ability to create armaments and weapons of mass destruction that were border unequal in their capabilities
"How could anyone forget when you agreed to take him on as your student. He was practically bouncing off the walls, at being able to learn how to make…just about anything." Gwen replied as her gaze briefly shifted to a picture of her and Ben on his 13th birthday
"And as my student, he will be missed, greatly…But at the very least, I can do him justice and make sure that the systems he risked to protect with his life; will be better than ever…Which isn't too hard after what Vilgax and Aadwaitya had left in their wake." Albedo spoke as the sentiment was shared by Gwen
"Speaking of what that war left in their wake. I see that you are doing better than when any of us last saw you." Albedo remarked
"...It hasn't been easy over the past year and a half since it ended. But, after talking with Grandpa Max after he made a full recovery, and being back home after going from campaign to campaign…I think that I'm finally starting to get through what happened." Gwen told the Galvan weapons-maker
"Good. It would be a shame to let all that power go to waste. We need more people like you out there, with Ben out of the picture." Albedo said to the sorceress
"I think this it the first time in years, that I've heard you say anything nice to me since the war…Are you getting soft, Albedo?" Gwen spoke a bit surprised by the kind words
"Considering that you are one of the strongest magic users across any known sector. That blasted Alpha Rune be damned, even I can acknowledge power when I see it…It would be pretty difficult to argue against someone who can create black holes and use the power of suns to destroy entire planets with modest effort." Albedo replied being more than willing to acknowledge the overwhelming strength of what Gwen was capable of
"After fighting almost back-to-back alien invasions, 3 wars with Ben and Kevin, and going back and forth between Ledgerdomain to learn more about magic. It was either become incredibly skilled with it, or fall behind." Gwen told the Galvan
"And look at you now, one of the strongest Anodites in existence. Not even your grandmother or your cousin can claim many of the feats; you have accomplished." Albedo remarked
"Don't remind me about Sunny. I warned Grandma Verdona that if they kept going after her, that she was going to break bad…Now she's an intergalactic crime lord, who's taken over a third of an entire galaxy." Gwen said in not wanting to deal with her cousin who had in years past turned into a intergalactic Pablo Escobar
"If you know of what's she done, then why haven't you taken care of the issue? You have more than enough resources and power to do so." Albedo questioned
"Between raising Devlin, being a professor to teach the next generation of spellcasters, on top of helping the Plumbers…Going after Sunny is the least of my concerns." Gwen answered back
"That does bring me to another part of why I came to see you…I have begun to build an improved Omnitrix, and someone needs to continue Ben's legacy, who better than his nephew when he comes of age." Albedo spoke catching her attention
"You want to give my 10-year-old son an Omnitrix? Are you sure that's a good idea, Albedo?" Gwen questioned with partial skepticism in her voice
"Gwendolyn, you and I both know that not just your planet, but the galaxy beyond needs another hero. It needs someone who is going to be able to fight against its future threats. Who better than someone who has the capacity to be the epitome of 3 of the greatest heroes across multiple galaxies." Albedo answered back regarding the future of Devlin Levin
"This is…I don't even know how to feel about this, Albedo. This is my son we're talking about, what is something happens and Kevin or I aren't there to help him. I can't let what happened to Ben happen to my only son…I can't afford to lose another person I care about, not after I nearly lost Grandpa Max too." Gwen spoke with a combination of still-present grief and parental worry
"That is why if he accepts the opportunity to wield this Omnitrix. Then I will make sure that he is trained for every possibility that the galaxy and beyond can throw at him…Besides, if he is anything like you or your husband, then I have no doubt that he'll turn out just fine." Albedo spoke as he hopped up to put a hand on Gwen's shoulder
"I would not be making this request of you; if I didn't think it would be for the best. Even more than that, if I didn't make sure that every avenue was covered to make sure; that whoever succeeds Ben will be the greatest candidate possible…You Tennyson's are an unfathomably heroic and wondrous lot, that defy odds and expectations on an unprecedented scale…That is why when I make this offer, that I do this with the full belief and certainty that your son has what it takes to be a worthy successor to his Uncle's legacy." Albedo further spoke with the utmost conviction in his voice
"...If and I mean IF this goes through with mine and Kevin's approval. I want your word that you and whoever is agreeing to this, will make sure that he is trained to be ready for whatever may come. I do not want Devlin to be thrown to the wolves; when he doesn't know what's out there." Gwen said after a few moments of contemplation
With Gwen not knowing if she could handle the loss of another loved one, after losing Ken during the Chimera Wars and nearly losing Grandpa Max and Kevin; alongside Ben being who knows where and potentially dead somewhere across the entirety of the Omniverse. That if anything happened that would cause her to lose Devlin to the forces that still remained across the greater galaxy at large, then Gwen did not know if she would be able to contain her grief and fury, and unleashing it upon every star system in reach of her arcane might.
"You have my word that he will be trained to be nothing short of exceptional. I will not allow any undue harm to come to your nephew or my students' successor…Ben himself would tear open reality; to tear me into a bloody pulp, if I let anything happen to any of his loved ones." Albedo responded
"...Very well, but he is not getting the Omnitrix until he is 18 bare minimum. The last thing I need is for my son to turn into Heatblast for a joyride and accidentally burn down half of Bellwood." Gwen said back in wanting to wait until her son was an adult before allowing him near something that powerful
"That is a more than fair decision, if anything it is a good idea all the same. Given that while Ben was able to handle the responsibilities of the original Omnitrix at your sons' age…From what the records have shown when we salvaged it…he had his fair share of 'dangerously immature' new moments." Albedo spoke as Gwen's turned from serious to a combination of cringe and humor
"There is a reason why we aren't allowed in Las Vegas, and Ben is one of them. I knew letting him get high with Kevin was a bad idea." Gwen groaned at the reminder of said incident
"Indeed…The less incidents of that nature that can be avoided the better." Albedo said in agreement
"Nonethless, if there is anything that you need from me. Use your magic or one of the holo-communicators to speak to me. I am never too busy to make time for you or your family, Gwendolyn." Albedo told Gwen
"With this new idea of yours we will be keeping in touch…Now if you don't mind, I have to get back to grading finals papers before the week is over. This semesters' students are talented, but have been nothing short of a massive migraine to deal with." Gwen replied still having several more classes to grade
"Very well, then. I wish you the best, and for what it is worth. I have no doubt that Ben would be proud of how you have handled things in his absence." Albedo said back as a small smile was brought to the red-headed Anodite's face
"Thank you, Albedo." Were Gwen's only words before the Galvan teleported elsewhere
'...Wherever you are, Ben. I hope that you are doing a lot better than I am.' Gwen said to herself as she went back to grading finals papers for the day
And so as Ben gets to know the Matriarchs more and endear himself to them as their new ally, we also see that the Lord of Rage sends one of his generals to test the might of his potential new champion in said Ultimatrix wielder, as well as Albedo discussing with Gwen; her sons' potentially becoming the new successor to Ben's legacy. So with both ends of the spectrum developing into something potentially greater, how will Ben navigate through the strange new world and time he has found himself in? Well, stay tuned and see in the all new installments of, Ultimate Alien: Primarch Force.
Alright, that'll do it for this one, as I hoped that you guys enjoyed this chapter and what went on it, as things are gonna be ramping up a bit, and I cannot wait to get things underway for future shenanigans! Which is why my thanks and excitement for being able to continue writing this story, goes to all those who have supported it thus far, as every review, favorite, follow and spreading of the story has helped greatly, and for that I wanna say thank you to all of you guys.
So with that being said, this is Pravus666 signing off until next time. What with the next chapter to come is not only Ben and the Matriarchs continuing to be involved in shenanigans with each other, but also preparing for the oncoming incursion of Khorne's forces, so stay tuned for all of that good stuff.
Part 1 Theme Song: Black out the Sun by Sevendust
Random End Song: Shine by Sevendust
Now then onto some of the reviews from the previous chapter.
Skull Flame: Yeah, its gonna be definitely on sight with Ben and the Dark Eldar once he finds out about them, and while he may have difficulties finding Commoragh in the Webway; it doesn't mean he won't try to take them off the map as much as possible if he can find a way. With Leona challenging him to a future duel...I see it as more of a case of if Ben is gonna put that pain on her with either using an Ultimate or using one of his Powerhouse Aliens to just make it an absolute clinic against her. Also, yeah Ben is gonna have Perturabo learn about the wonderful world of mechs and such, as it is gonna be a fun ride in that regard going forward; especially when Ben introduces her to Star Wars (Legends to be specific since that shit rocks so freakin' hard). Also, regarding Z'Skayr in his glow-up the reason he gave Ben so much trouble was due to the fact that at that time he was trying to ascend toward becoming an eldritch god similar to Dagon; luckily Ben was able to stop it before it could get to bad. Lastly, its less the solar flares and such are killing them truly so much as their shunting them back beaten up back to the Warp or to their deities home-plane, so while its not true death its more or less akin to banishment on roids if that clarifies things.
BlitzNeutral69: That's actually a pretty good question you've presented, given that while Orks all on their own are powerful; that Krorks are essentially the prime versions of an Ork as such I would say that if Ben were to scan Ork D.N.A then it is certainly possible that he may just straight up become a Krork instead.
Obsidian Nova Arc: Oh yeah, as while Ben can handle all the issues that Big E has caused (seriously this man deserves an aware for crappiest dad of the century) it doesn't mean its gonna be any easier for him to deal with. Also, I'm pretty sure that at some point Ben might just bring back television just out of sheer boredom; considering that there's only so many things you can do to entertain yourself.
Kourtney Uzu Yato: Yeah, as with a dozen Matriarchs missing, you can't really blame the Imperium and the remaining Matriarchs for working around the clock since that's a lot of your biggest players just suddenly gone. Also, its fun to write out Ben's level of altruism regarding the Matriarchs we do have; given that in the face of the darkness of 30K that being selfless/altruisitic in the way Ben is; is a great way to show that despite it all that the best in humanity can still shine on regardless of what timeline it is in...Also, Konstance is gonna have a field day once they return to Terra because oh boy is she gonna be on the look out for people that are gonna try to steal Ben from her, since them getting torn to shreds at the business end of a chainsword from her is probably the nicest thing she'll do to them; given that Konstance may be getting nicer to people...but she isn't going to be that nice at playing nice with Ben so far. Also with Leona; Ben will probably just leave at 'try it if you want too, it will not end well if you do it' regarding if Leona tries to press him on things, and as for Furiosa's return without the Nails; its gonna be fun given how its also going to have effects going forward for Furiosa beyond just being mentally stable. Also, for Big E...good luck since other than the Matriarchs taking up for Ben, with how our Ultimatrix wielder has heard of how Big E is as a person...I doubt he'll be in a hurry to talk with the master of Mankind.
Remembrancer of Tales: That's fair in regards to their Pride in the context of the 30K/40K universe; doesn't mean its not gonna piss off Ben any less in having to deal with it. Given that on one hand it makes sense because they're trying to save themselves from being eternally damned to Slaanesh, at the same time however its nonetheless by Ben's reasoning going to think of them as massive bastards to be around regardless of them being Craftworld or Drukhari.