Ben 10: What If…?

What if… Ben had not given up on Alien X?

Finale

"So, Ben the Triumphant started using his Celestialsapien form more as a distraction from the fact he couldn't procure a mate?"

Paradox nodded. "More or less. This decision would have its pros and cons. On the plus side, many threats were easily vanquished thanks to his finer control over Alien X. On the downside, Ben's love life would take a hit unfortunately as he devoted most of his free time debating with Bellicus and Serena."

"Why would any being need 'love' when the unlimited power of a Celestialsapien is an option? Ben the Triumphant made a wise decision indeed." The other voice commented.

"You believe so?" Paradox quirked a brow. "Then, why don't we see how this decision would affect Ben's life going forward, shall we?"

'Things are really coming along here.' Ben optimistically thought.

25-year-old Ben Tennyson was standing on a small hill with a pleased smile, overlooking a massive construction project with Mount Rushmore visible in the background.

Standing alongside him was a young man with piercing blue eyes and black hair slicked back to reveal a widow's peak. He wore an expensive attire than consisted of black shoes, designer white pants, and a brown turtleneck with a marron sweater over it.

This was Eddie GrandSmith; an old friend he and Gwen had met at a luxurious underwater resort on the fateful summer he discovered the Omnitrix. His grandfather, Donovan GrandSmith, was an old friend of Grandpa Max's and a real estate mogul who amassed a multi-billion-dollar fortune, becoming one of the top 10 richest people on Earth.

Donovan had sadly passed away some time ago and left his entire fortune and estate to his only grandson, Eddie.

The Ultimatrix user had approached Eddie a couple year prior on joining an ambitious project. It involved constructing a community for humans and aliens to coexist as well as the site for his permanent headquarters on Earth.

He wasn't sure what to name it at first but eventually decided to dub it Omnitrix City. Though Ben didn't have the Omnitrix anymore, he still felt the name was appropriate given everything the device stood for: peace and harmony between all alien races.

Eddie was fully onboard with the project and became the primary financial broker, and even managed to convince many other wealthy people to invest as well. Over the last eight years since Ben had gained the Ultimatrix, despite the efforts of people like Will Harangue, the general populace was warming up to the idea of having alien visitors and immigrants on Earth. Successful businesspeople identified that having a stake in the world's first official human-alien community was a no-brainer. It would take time before it became fully accepted worldwide but having an alien-shapeshifting protector certainly helped move things along in that regard.

"The guys and gals down there are doing good work, Eddie." Ben complimented, crossing his arms over his buff chest.

For the last eight years, Ben's body underwent a noteworthy transformation. While keeping his shaggy brown hair (by choice), he had grown a few inches taller, gained a muscular build (not quite as muscular as his alternate future selves yet), and sported a short beard.

He wore a customized skintight outfit: consisting of a green round-neck t-shirt with a custom white hourglass design in the middle and black outline. The shirt is tucked in his darker green pants pulled up to his waist; a belt with multiple pouches, and black calf-high boots with brown straps on them.

A/N: For reference, his outfit is similar to both UAF Ben 10,000 and Ben's Uniform outfit in the web comic, Five Years Later by The Ink Tank. Kind of a blend, if that makes sense.

"Naturally," Eddie smoothly replied, "the GrandSmiths only hires the best. We have the world's finest engineers, electricians, plumbers, and construction crews onboard with this project – human and alien."

It made sense. If Omnitrix City was going to be a human-extraterrestrial hub, it needed to accommodate the different needs for multiple species. Having alien construction crews to guide the project along was a no-brainer.

"Again, I can't thank you enough for making this happen, Eddie." Ben said sincerely.

"No way I was going to miss out on this opportunity, Ben." Eddie smiled. "I'd be unworthy of my granddad's legacy if I did."

Ben nodded. He could understand the feeling – wanting to live up to a great family member. He'd like to think he accomplished that; after all, Grandpa Max himself had told him how proud he was of Ben and that he had certainly surpassed his legacy. Nevertheless, Ben would always view his grandfather as a better hero.

His focus then shifted to the incomplete tower at the center of the construction zone. "How much longer on my headquarters, by the way?"

Eddie hummed, doing calculations in his head. "I suspect it'll be another six months or so." He turned to give the muscular brunet a sly smirk. "I wouldn't be moving in just yet."

"C'mon. Can you blame me? Of course, I'm excited!" Ben grinned. "I'm getting my own base and everything! This is the kind of stuff I only dreamed of having as a kid."

Before Eddie could respond, a blinding light briefly flashed off Ben's body. He looked at Ben in confusion. What was that? It wasn't Ben transforming as he was still human. The Ultimatrix user himself was also bewildered by the anomaly.

"What was that?" Eddie asked.

"I… I dunno." Ben answered truthfully looking himself over. He then glanced back to Eddie. "Sorry, but I gotta run. You think you can handle things here?"

Eddie smiled, giving him a thumbs-up. "Of course. I'll make sure we stay on schedule."

Ben gave the billionaire a grateful nod before transforming into Terraspin. He stepped away from Eddie while pink light shone off the tortoise-alien. He then chanted, "Abaeo Exorior." In a flash of pink, he vanished into thin air.

Eddie, meanwhile, shook his head ruefully. "Ben's forms will never cease to surprise me."

In Bellwood…

Gwen let out a deep sigh as she sat on a floor mat, legs crossed. She was taking a rare day off today. Her husband and Rook went out together to attend an alien motor show of some kind in Undertown while Ben was in South Dakota overseeing the construction for Omnitrix City. So, what would she spend this time doing? Meditating, of course.

You don't become a Master Magician by slacking off, after all.

From a physical standpoint, the last eight years had been kind to Gwen. She had grown a full inch, still shorter than Ben and Kevin though. Her body had filled out as she sported a nice voluptuous figure that came with genetics and old-fashioned training.

She was adorning a short-sleeved light blue shirt and a pair of tight dark blue pants with a cat-head belt buckle that was based off her Lucky Girl logo. Her long, reddish-orange hair that reached her lower back was tied back into a ponytail.

Gwen was currently residing in a townhome in suburban Bellwood that she and Kevin had bought together after they got married four years prior. While Kevin had claimed the garage (obviously), one of the rooms was designated for magic-related uses only. She had many spell books that she acquired from Hex's old estate, various mystical artifacts, and old papers meticulously organized across the shelves. A bachelor and doctorate degree plaques were visible hanging on the wall.

'Okay… calm your mind… connect with the energy around you…' Gwen calmed herself, taking long and deep breathes to steady her heartrate.

Her eyes suddenly shone pink as she sensed a familiar mana signature coming her way. The spot in front of her was gulfed in pink light as Terraspin appeared.

Gwen disengaged her mana and looked at Terraspin, slightly annoyed. "Ben, really? You couldn't have knocked?"

In an emerald flash, he transformed back to human. "Sorry, Gwen! It's just…" He lowered his head and paused. "… something weird happened just now."

"Oh?" Gwen quirked a brow. She then gestured for him to seat on the mat in front of her, to which he obliged. "What, did a woman hit on you or something? Those warm, tingly feelings you get when that happens are normal by the way, dork." She jeered.

"Ha-ha," Ben rolled his eyes, laughing sardonically. "Very funny, dweeb. But I'm serious right now."

"Okay, was it something bad?"

"I dunno." Ben replied truthfully. "Eddie and I were at the construction site, and then white light suddenly flashed out from my body."

"That's odd. Do you feel okay?" She sounded concerned.

"Yeah, I feel great. The Ultimatrix is pretty good with keeping my health optimal and all."

"What about the Ultimatrix itself? Has it been acting up recently?" She asked, curious.

Ben shook his head, briefly glancing down at the green wristwatch. "No. It's been working fine. Never given me issue. You think you can check me over? Maybe it was something magic related?"

"Hmm…" Gwen hummed. "Alright, I'll examine your aura and search for any irregularities."

The redhead closed her eyes momentarily before reopening them, pink light glowing out of them. Her ponytail floating upward. A faint pink glow shone off Ben's body, feeling a mild tickle course through him. Several moments passed before the light vanished, and Gwen returned to normal.

"Well?"

Gwen opened her eyes, looking at her cousin in bewilderment. "It's strange. I don't sense anything wrong with you per say, but your mana signature has definitely shifted."

"Shifted how?" Ben cocked a brow.

"It… it sort of reminds me of Old George." She revealed.

Ben looked at her, confused. "What does that mean?"

"I'm not sure." Gwen admitted. "I'd have to do some more digging."

Ben rubbed his beard hair while contemplating the situation. His eyes slightly widened as an idea came to mind.

He then stood up from the mat. "Actually, I think I might know two people who would know."

In an emerald flash, Ben assumed the form of…

"Alien X!"

"Right, you do that." Gwen resituated herself in her meditating position. "I'm going to get a few minutes of meditation in. Try to keep your voice down, okay?"

…

…

"Right… almost forgot who I was speaking to." She sheepishly admitted.

Inside Alien X's Mind Space…

Opening his eyes, Ben found himself floating in the seemingly endless void of Alien X that he had grown accustomed to over the last decade. He looked up to see Bellicus and Serena turn their attention to him. Serena appeared to be extra cheerful while Bellicus seemed less irritable given his subdued expression. What was going on?

"Oh, look Bellicus! The Voice of Reason came earlier than expected today." Serena cheerfully noted.

"Well, he doesn't have much of a personal life these days. So, it's to be expected." Bellicus remarked.

'Okay, that was uncalled for.' Ben inwardly muttered.

"Uh yeah, hey guys." Ben greeted half-heartedly. "Listen, something weird just happened to me not even ten minutes ago. And I was wondering if you knew anything about it… or if we could use our power to find out what's wrong?"

Bellicus and Serena shared a knowing look with one another. Serena's smile grew wider while a half-smile crept onto Bellicus's expression. Ben's eyes widened in surprise. Bellicus hardly ever smiled. Something was definitely up.

"You know, don't you?" the Ultimatrix wielder asked.

"Yes! Actually, we have a surprise for you, Voice of Reason!" Serena said animatedly.

Ben cocked a brow, confused. "A surprise?"

"Yes." Bellicus chimed in. "It is the tenth-year anniversary since we started our weekly sessions. You've kept your promise and attended every single meeting and then some. Impressive… for a human. So, a reward is in order."

Ben's eyes slightly widened. They were right. It had been ten years. Wow, time sure flies. But what was this reward they were talking about?

"Ooh, ooh! Can I tell him, Bellicus?" the Voice of Love and Compassion eagerly requested. "Can I?"

"Fine…" Bellicus groaned, but he was clearly feigning exasperation.

"Wonderful!" Serena cleared her throat, despite not having one. "Voice of Reason, on the day of our tenth year together, something amazing has happened. For the first time in what has seemed to be an eternity, Bellicus and I came to a decision on our own accord."

Ben blinked twice. Did he hear that correctly? Bellicus and Serena, two diametrically opposed entities that were always doomed to be at odds with one another actually agreed on something without his aid? That was quite frankly unbelievable.

"That's… shocking. I'm not gonna lie." Ben admitted, dumbfounded. "Just out of curiosity… what did you both agree on?"

Ben didn't know why, but a small pit was forming in his stomach, especially after hearing Gwen's earlier diagnosis.

"Why don't you tell him this part, Bellicus?" Serena offered.

"Oh, very well," He relented.

Ben directed his attention to the grouchy-looking mask. 'Seriously, what's up with them? They seem so excited.' He wondered.

"Ben, as surprising as it is for me to say this, Serena and I have… enjoyed having you in our sessions for the past decade." He exhaled deeply. "Believe me… given my nature it's difficult for me to admit this. Out of all the Omnitrix and Ultimatrix users throughout the multiverse, you are the only one who actually wanted to have anything to do with us when the universe wasn't in danger or for whatever trivial reason. You've really stepped up in your role as the Voice of Reason. So…"

He trailed off, seemingly embarrassed to continue.

Ben was taken aback. He certainly wasn't expecting this much emotion that wasn't apathy or vexation from Bellicus of all people. He was being very genuine. What did they do?

"Oh, you're so adorable when you're embarrassed, Bellicus." Serena lightheartedly teased.

"Come off it!" he snapped.

"Okay, guys. I… I appreciate the kind words. Really. But can we get to the point here?" Ben requested, trying to stir the conversation back on topic.

"Oh, right. You see, human life is very short in comparison to ours. Not even a blip on the cosmic scales. The thought of losing you…" Serena's visage became crestfallen. "… it was just too much to bear. We couldn't allow it."

Ben felt the pit in his stomach intensify, an unsettling possibility entering his mind. 'No… they didn't…' No, he needed to make sure before jumping to conclusions.

"Bellicus… Serena… what did you do?" Unease was evident in his voice.

"Serena and I passed Motion Number 10 Decillion and 10." Bellicus replied.

"Which is?" Ben urged with an edge.

Serena beamed. "To grant you immortality!"

…

…

Had a nonexistent pen fell to the nonexistent floor, it would've echo throughout the vast empty space.

"W-what…?" Was Ben's only reply.

Too caught up in her own joy to notice Ben's mounting angst, Serena continued to smile brightly. "Yes! We halted your aging and reconfigured your human body to stand the test of time and beyond! You'll never catch any pesky diseases either."

Bellicus added on. "The Ultimatrix will continue to keep your genetics at optimal levels as well. Essentially, you'll be the perfect human… from a physical standpoint, at least."

Ben was speechless.

His mind was in overdrive trying and failing to process this monumental, life-altering information that had been dumped on him. He could feel sweat forming on his brow while his breathing increased.

Bellicus furrowed his brows at Ben's state. "What's wrong with you? Aren't you happy?"

"Happy…?" He let out a mirthless chuckle. "… are you kidding me?"

Serena, finally taking note of Ben's distress, frowned in concern. "Ben… is something wrong?"

"This is some kind of joke, right? Ha-ha-ha!" Ben feigned laughter, making the two other personalities glance to each other; both disconcerted.

This… this certainly wasn't the reaction they were expecting.

"Okay, you guys got me. An early April Fool's joke. Nice one!" Ben commented, faking a smile. "Now… what did you guys really do, if you did anything at all?"

…

…

"We're not joking, Ben." Serena gently replied. "What we said is true."

Ben could've sworn he felt his heart stopped.

"Why aren't you excited?" Bellicus demanded, sounding irritated. "We just told you you'll never get sick nor die. Any mortal would be ecstatic to receive such a gift! A human, especially."

"A gift…?" Ben clenched his fists; his ire beginning to boil. "Are you joking? You think watching everyone you know and love grow old and die around you while you remain eternally young is a gift?!" He snapped.

Bellicus and Serena didn't respond.

He then scoffed. "No… of course you wouldn't understand."

"Ben, we-"

"Reverse it!" Ben shouted, startling the duo. "Undo the motion! I never asked for this!"

"We… we can't." Serena hesitantly replied.

The brunet shot the giants masks a piercing look, making them momentarily tense up. "Can't? Or won't?"

"Both, actually." Bellicus responded, regaining his bearings. "Serena and I agreed that Motion 10 Decillion and 10 would be unreversible by any means – including us."

"It's an Absolute Motion." Serena added. "Nothing can break it."

…

…

"Ben… did we do something wrong?" Worry was present in Serena's voice.

"No s# t you did something wrong!" Ben angrily yelled. "You had no right to do this to me!"

"But… we change the very nature of space and time." Serena said, puzzled. "This is what we always do, is it not?"

"We did it so we could continue to have our tiebreaker." Bellicus added. "Without you, we'd be back to debating ad nauseum without any hope of resolution forever4."

Lowering his head, Ben's hair cast a shadow over his eyes. "Change me back." He growled.

"But-" Serena tried to speak.

"DON'T!" He exclaimed angrily. "I don't want to talk to you. Neither of you. JUST… change me back." His tone was stern and resolute which left no room for any objections.

Bellicus and Serena looked to each other, sharing similar expressions of concern.

On the outside…

Gwen opened her eyes and sighed, coming out of her meditation. She stretched out her arms and couldn't suppress a cute yawn.

"That felt good…" Her eyes focused on the Celestialsapien levitating in her room.

It had been half-an-hour since Ben transformed. She wondered what Ben and the other two personalities were talking about.

On cue, Alien X was suddenly engulfed in emerald light as Ben transformed back to human.

"So, how'd it go?" Gwen stood up. "What did Bellicus and Serena have to say?"

…

…

"Ben?"

He remained silent; his eyes glued to the floor.

Gwen took note of the angered despair on Ben's expression. She could practically feel the gloom wafting off his aura.

"Ben… what's wrong?" Gwen was becoming concerned.

"Gwen…" He sniffled, unable to stop himself from pulling his favorite cousin into a tight embrace, burying his face into her shoulder. "GWEN! Dweeb, I… I…" The dam broke as began to sob, tear starting to soak her shirt.

Gwen, of course, was in alarmed shock. Ben… she couldn't remember the last time, if ever, she had seen him like this. He had always had a relatively good handle on his emotions. For him to do this… something terrible must've happened.

For now, Gwen didn't speak another word. She returned the embrace and gently console him. Questions could come later. Her cousin needed a shoulder to cry on now.

As the scene ended, the visual panel disappeared.

Professor Paradox lowered his head with an expression of empathy. "As a former mortal myself, I have some understanding of how Ben felt back then."

"Why would Ben the Triumphant be dismayed by such news? With the powers of Celestialsapien and immortality, he could be a god!" the darker voice questioned.

"Because young Ben never sought to be a god or to be immortal." Paradox answered. "He simply wanted to do the right thing with the great power that was bestowed upon him. This Ben Tennyson was the only one who actually wanted to spend time with Bellicus and Serena, so they wouldn't allow him to die – least they return to eternal argument."

Paradox momentarily paused, with a retrospective look. "It's similar to my situation, I suppose. I never asked to be in this position when I was working on that project… but here we are."

"I doubt I shall ever understand nor care to." The voice indifferently stated. "… What path did the Celestial Champion take from here?"

Paradox smirky wryly. "Ah… taking an interest now, I see? Well, to know that" Clicking the button on his watch, a larger panel appeared to display a different scene, "we will need to make a considerable leap in time forward… by human standards, at least."

It was a clear, sunny day in Omnitrix City. The futuristic city was bustling with human and alien inhabitants alike traversing to-and-fro using various means of transportation; the most popular being flying cars and buses.

At the center of the city was a large, silver tower with a ring around the top with an hourglass-shaped design. Standing atop the futuristic tower on a platform was Ben Tennyson or commonly referred to as Ben 10,000 these days.

Ben was currently surveying the city, looking out for any sign of disturbances. It was rather unnecessary given the relatively low crime rates in Omnitrix City, but one can never be too content as a superhero. With that said, he wouldn't complain too much if a villain suddenly showed up.

'It sure is calm today.' Ben 10,000 mused. 'Man... I hate to say it, but... couldn't somebody just try to rob a store or something? Jaywalk in the street? Anything?'

To his minor disappointment, the Ultimatrix wielder saw nothing of the sort. It truly was a peaceful day. He then closed his eyes and shook his head, internally chastising himself.

"I really shouldn't be asking for bad stuff to happen." Ben berated to himself. "Things could be a whole lot worse. Boredom is a vacation compared to some of the stuff I've been through..."

His eyes then landed on a levitating billboard, displaying a recorded clip from the Earth's Presidential Inauguration yesterday. Standing on a podium located at the White House, Earth's newly elected leader, Georgius "George" Theodore, was sworn in by authority of the World Council.

He was an elderly man with short gray hair and a trimmed beard, wearing an expensive black suit with a pendant of the Earth over his heart. The man placed his right hand over his heart and held up his left hand.

"I, Georgius Theodore, do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the Earth's United Nations against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same-"

A small smile crept on Ben's face as George continued the oath. As a former President of Earth himself, Ben had been present at the event yesterday to witness Sir George's ascension to world leadership. He was confident his old friend would live up to the position; given the wisdom and experience he had acquired after living over a dozen lifetimes.

The Ultimatrix wielder remembered when George had sought him and his team out seven decades ago to help him reformat the Forever Knights. He wished the reformat it into a worldwide humanitarian organization for humans and aliens alike; much to Alien Force's shock.

Given George's status, many knights immediately pledged allegiance to him – but others were not so thrilled over the organization's radical new direction. Therefore, a civil war within the Forever Knight's ranks was inevitable. Eventually, after months of fighting, all the Forever Knight dissenters were promptly defeated and arrested.

Now, after all this time, when people mentioned the Forever Knights, they were seen in the same light as organizations such as the American Red Cross and UNICEF.

It was truly mindboggling to Ben to witness a once xenophobic terrorist organization transform into a peaceful, open-minded humanitarian group in a relatively short amount of time. However, time didn't really mean much to Ben these days.

He sighed deeply, trying to push that stray thought aside.

Ben had wished George all the best, knowing things would work out for him. Nevertheless, he'd have some big shoes to fill with people like Gwen as one of his presidential predecessors. In Ben's humble opinion, Gwen turned out to be a much better president than he could've ever dreamed of being. She had been superior at the day-to-day responsibilities the job required, and it wasn't any surprise she served three straight terms.

Ben deeply exhaled while lowering his head. He sat down and hung his legs over the platform's edge. He looked up to stare at Mt. Rushmore in the distance with the various sounds of the city serving as background noise.

'Can't believe she's gone… they're all gone now.' Ben somberly thought.

After living to the ripe old age of 99, Gwen had passed on not too long ago. She had died only two years after Kevin's death. Grandpa Max, Rook, his parents, aunts and uncles, and friends had also passed on. All the while, he didn't look a day over 25-year-old despite chronologically being 100 years old now.

True to Bellicus and Serena's words, Ben's immortality was irreversible. There had been nothing Gwen, Verdona, or even Azmuth could do to undo it. Neither magic nor technology would grant him his mortality back.

Not all his family, friends, and allies had died, thankfully. Gwen and Kevin's children and grandchildren were still around, and he was happy to be a part of their lives. Their firstborn son, Devlin Levin, had inherited Kevin's Osmosian abilities while their second child, their daughter, Jennifer Levin, had inherited the Anodite Spark.

On her eighteenth birthday, Jennifer had made the shocking decision to take Grandma Verdona's offer to train her abilities on Anodyne with the added condition she would be allowed to visit Earth at least three times a year, to which Verdona agreed.

It was tough to see his niece leave, and he imagined it was even tougher for Gwen and Kevin to watch their daughter go. But Jennifer was determined to reach her full potential and become a powerful force for good, and nothing would stop her. Once her mind was set, she was as stubborn and determined as her parents. Ben imagined the family legacy had heavily influenced her decision as well.

Devlin, meanwhile, had honed his abilities and grew to be a formidable superhero and Plumber officer; even achieving the rank of Magister. Along the way, he started his own family and had been blessed with twins, a boy and a girl, that were both young adults now.

Devlin's daughter, Madison Levin, had inherited her father's Osmosian abilities but was fully content on being a normal human. Though she had learned basic fighting techniques and the basics of using her Osmosian powers, she was fully determined to be a hero her own way by following in her grandmother Gwendolyn's footsteps as a great political leader.

Devlin's son, Devin Levin, shockingly did not inherit any alien abilities. Despite being normal, however, he was eager to join the Plumbers and be a hero like his dad, grandparents, and great-uncle Ben. This made him the prime candidate for Azmuth's new Omnitrix – which Ben had gifted Devin with on his tenth birthday. Ben was happy to train and teach him the basics of using the Omnitrix and his alien forms, but firmly believed Devin needed to discover most of it on his own. Nevertheless, he made sure that Devin didn't repeat the same mistake he made when he was his age.

Devin had surprisingly learned and adapted to using the Omnitrix much faster than anyone expected. He was very efficient in selecting transformations for various situations and methodical in using their abilities in combat. He was well on his way to becoming a formidable superhero indeed. Ben couldn't have been prouder.

All in all, the future of Earth was bright with young heroes Madison and Devin (and eventually Jennifer when she returned from Andoyne) protecting it and old heroes like Magister Devlin Levin and Ben Tennyson to guide them.

Ben's alien allies such as Reinrassic III, Tetrax, and Azmuth were still alive thanks to their species lifespans being much longer than humans. Professor Paradox was an immortal, but Ben didn't see him much unless the universe or timeline(s) was in peril. His grandmother Verdona meanwhile was…

"Hello Ben!" A youthful, energetic voice exclaimed.

'Speak of the devil,' Ben turned to see Verdona in her Anodite form levitating behind him, smiling widely.

Ben stood up and stepped away from the platform ledge. "Grandma? What are you-"

He couldn't complete his sentence as Verdona wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him into a loving hug. Shaking off his initial confusion, he quickly returned the hug. He didn't see his grandmother much so any time he spent with her was cherished. However, Ben's noticed her visits had been more frequent lately than the last few decades prior.

"Why else? I'm here to see my favorite grandson, of course!" Verdona said joyfully.

Ben playfully rolled his eyes. "Grandma, I'm your only grandson now."

"That's beside the point." Verdona pulled away but kept her hands on his shoulders. "How is everyone doing? I haven't seen you in over a year."

"Good, actually. Devlin's retirement ceremony is next week. Devin is off world assisting in a planetary evacuation before its sun goes supernova. Madison is going for her second doctorate at Gwen's old alma mater." Ben smiled. "Couldn't be prouder. So, how's Jennifer's training going?"

"That's good. I'll visit them personally soon. And Jennifer's training is going splendidly! I daresay she'll complete it within the next five years. She truly is Gwendolyn's daughter." Her smile then dropped slightly. "What about you, Ben?"

Ben shrugged. "I'm doing fine, all things considered."

"Are you sure? Today marks a full year since Gwendolyn's passing. I… I just wanted to see how you were handling it."

Ben's expression fell as he lowered his head. "I… won't lie. It's tough to accept she and the others are gone. I wanted to save her, yah know… help prolong her life further. But she wouldn't have it. None of them would, actually."

Verdona nodded in understanding. "I tried to convince Gwendolyn to fully embrace her Anodite side, but alas she wanted to live her life as a human till the end. Although I am saddened by her passing, I can't help but respect her decision."

"Me too." A rueful smile crept on Ben's face. "Before she passed, she told me not to mope around. Find a new goal and purpose. She, Max, Rook, Kevin, and the others wouldn't have wanted me to live the rest of my life mourning for them."

Verdona nodded in agreement. She then paused as if she was deciding how to bring up her next point. "I've told you before that death is not the end, correct? There is indeed an Afterlife of sorts. The souls of Max, Gwen, Kevin, the kids, and all the rest are there.

"Although it may be inaccessible to me and every other living being, I'm sure a Celestialsapien would have no issue traversing there." She not-so subtly suggested.

Ben frowned, shaking his head. "No way, grandma. I haven't turned into Alien X in 75 years. Not since they made me this way. I don't plan on changing into him anytime soon."

"I understand. But it is something to consider." Verdona held her grandson tightly, pulling him closer. "Ben… you know I'm always here for you. I am also considered immortal… at least by human standards. If you ever need anything, please don't hesitate to come to me."

"Thank you, grandma." Ben responded sincerely, holding back his tears. "That means a lot to me."

The two immortals shared another tenderhearted embrace. A moment passed before the two separated.

"So, have you given any serious thought to what you wish to do going forward?" Verdona asked curiously. "Will you remain here on Earth? Or do you wish to venture out into the universe? There's much I can show you, yah know." She offered with a hopeful tone. "Well… once Jennifer's training is complete, of course."

"Honestly, not much." The Ultimatrix wielder admitted. "I'll admit, touring the universe does sound awesome! I'm sure Earth would be safe in the meantime with Devlin, Devin, and the Plumbers stationed here all watching over it. Once Jennifer returns, they'll be even better off."

Ben frowned pensively. "Even though Vilgax, Aggregor, Dagon, Malware, and Maltruant are no longer around to threaten the universe… I fear others will just take their place given enough time."

Verdona nodded. "You're not wrong to think that. Evil will never truly be vanquished, I'm afraid. You must be ready for any conflict that comes. With your abilities, Ben, you can fight battles many beings couldn't dream of fighting. I hope you keep that in mind while making your decision."

"Well, I think I'll drop in and visit the rest of the family." Verdona stepped away. "I'm only here for the day before I have to return to Anodyne. Care to join me?"

"Maybe later." Ben sported an introspective expression. "I've got some serious thinking to do."

Later that day…

Ben was in his bedroom (which was quite large) sitting at the edge of his king-sized bed. He informed the tower's staff he wished to be left alone for the rest of the day unless there was danger to report. Hours had passed as Ben remained frozen in position, starring at a framed picture portraying him, Gwen, and Grandpa Max on the fateful summer vacation when was ten.

Verdona's earlier statement on Celestialsapiens being capable of visiting the Afterlife was stuck in his head. The possibility of seeing his dead family and friends again was too tempting to ignore. If he couldn't reverse his immortality, then visiting his deceased loved ones on the Other Side was basically the next best option.

There was another manner his Anodite grandmother mentioned that resonated in Ben's head. Despite his best efforts, powerful and dangerous villains would certainly arise to threaten the universe and/or multiverse again – if they weren't already and he just didn't know. He needed to be ready and, as much as he didn't want to admit it, he may require Alien X's power when the time comes.

That was a major problem though. Not only did he NOT want to change into Alien X anymore; but, even if he did, he doubted Bellicus and Serena would even listen to him after abandoning them for 75 years.

What would they do to him if he changed back into Alien X? Would they torture him? Ben was certain Bellicus would suggest that option while Serena would be opposed. It's possible they'd elect to just ignore him entirely for an unknown amount of time. Either way, Ben didn't foresee any progress being made with them.

Ben then recalled his self-taught lessons on negotiation from years pass. He needed to stick his foot in the door metaphorically speaking. The only way he could garner both personalities attention was to give them an offer they couldn't refuse. Something that would give them pause and couldn't shoot down immediately.

'What can I offer them though?' Ben contemplated. 'I doubt those two even want to see me. To their point of view, I essentially ditched them after giving me their so-called gift. If that motion wasn't absolute, I'm sure they would've revoked it at this point.'

He then recalled Verdona's words from earlier today. "With your abilities, Ben, you can fight battles many beings couldn't dream of fighting."

'She wasn't just talking about the Ultimatrix. She was also referring to my immortality.' Ben inwardly deduced. 'I have literally all the time in the universe and then some.'

He then remembered a statement Serena made during his first time as Alien X.

"Before you showed up, Alien X was always in a deadlock. But now we finally have a tiebreaker. How could we ever let you go?"

Ben's eyes widened slightly in realization. He knew what they wanted. Something they couldn't refuse under any circumstance.

The brunet felt his stomach twist as the unsettling realization began to brew in his mind. He knew what he needed to do to get back in Bellicus and Serena's good graces; however, he wasn't sure if he had the fortitude to go through with it. If his plan didn't work, he'd potentially have to say goodbye to everything he knew and loved for eternity. But, if by some miracle it did work… he could reach his full potential.

Was it worth the risk?

"It's not just about what you're fighting for, Ben, but more importantly the who. They make the fight worth fighting. Remember that."

Azmuth's words resonated in his mind.

The Ultimatrix wielder continued to sit in silence, tirelessly considering his available options. His serious, introspective expression was almost scary. The only sound was the white noise from the climate-control vents and the faint noise of the city from the windows.

After seemingly hours, Ben finally stood up sporting a resolute visage.

'Time to be the Hero.'

The scene shifted to a large, highly advanced laboratory on Galvan Prime; more specifically, First Thinker Azmuth's Lab. Positioned at the end of the room was an intricate ring-shaped device with quartz crystal incorporated on it and advanced machinery set up around it. A team of Galvan scientists and engineers overseen by Azmuth and Myaxx were working on the unknown device, carefully testing and checking the hardware and systems.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the room, Ben was standing with Verdona and the Levin family.

"Today's the day." Devlin commented, glancing at his older yet younger-looking uncle. "You nervous, Uncle Ben?"

Devlin Levin, a man in his sixties, with greying, short black hair and blue eyes stood to Ben's left at 6'2''. Though in good shape for his age, the wrinkles and hardships of battle were still there. He was wearing the standard Plumber uniform. He knew he didn't have to but, as a Plumber Magister, one could never be too comfortable.

"Heh… extremely." Ben sheepishly admitted.

"It's only natural, uncle." Jennifer gently said, laying a supportive hand on Ben's right shoulder. "Trust me I felt the same way not too long ago."

Jennifer Levin, Devlin's younger sister and the fledgling Anodite-in-training stood at 5'7''. She was currently in her human disguise – giving her the appearance of a woman in her thirties with bright green eyes and shoulder-length black hair with a single pigtail on her left side. She wore black boots, black jeans, and a purple shirt with a V-neck.

"You can still back out, yah know." Devin, Devlin's son and Ben's protégé, implied. "You don't have to do this. There's still much I have to learn for you, great-uncle."

Devin stood at 6'1 and sported long black hair pulled back in a straight ponytail with the sides of his head shaved, and dark blue eyes and pale skin. He was clad in a dark gray short-sleeved hoodie, a black long-sleeve shirt, black pants, and black/white shoes. On his right wrist was none other than the new Omnitrix in all its glory. It looked like a square, light-gray watch with blue highlights, with said highlights converging on the black faceplate to form the intergalactic peace symbol, which resembled an hourglass.

"Yeah, there has to be another way." Madison, Devlin's daughter, chimed in. "Don't yah think this is extreme?"

Madison was the shortest at 5'5'' and clad in a black long sleeve shirt, an orange-and-red plaid skirt, black stockings and dark brown dress shoes. She had inherited her grandmother's green eyes and reddish-orange hair, which was tied up in a ponytail with an orange-and-red plaid ribbon. She wore a pair of red framed glasses.

Jennifer glanced at the two young adults with mild disapproval. "C'mon, you two. I get you don't like it but this is his decision. We need to be supportive."

"It's okay, Jenny." Ben turned to his great-nephew and great-niece (wow… he still felt dumbfounded when he acknowledged that fact) with a confident smile. "Devin, I've taught you all I can. It's time for you to use the Omnitrix the best way you know how to do."

"Yeah, but-"

Ben held up a hand. "No buts. Time to be your own hero."

"C'mon, great-uncle Ben, don't you think this whole plan is a bit much?" Madison challenged.

"I understand you both don't agree with my decision. I get it. But this is something that I have to do. Only I can do it." Ben said resolutely.

"Is this something that really needs to be done though?" Madison questioned skeptically. "I mean, is it even guaranteed that Bellicus and Serena will listen to you after all this time? You said you haven't used Alien X is 75 years!"

"Seventy-five years may be a long time for humans, Madison, but it's hardly a blink of the eye for being like Celestialsapiens." Verdona stated matter-of-factly.

Verdona had assumed her older human form, the same one from when Ben, Gwen, and Kevin had first met her. She resembled a woman in her early sixties with neck-length silver hair, dark blue eyes, and faint wrinkles, with a blue cloak being her only form of clothing.

"Or us Anodites too." Jennifer winked and pointed to herself with her thumb. She then looked at Devlin with a smirk. "Still feel likes yesterday when you had long hair like Devin's – only you were scrawny. Now look at you! All big and strong and… old and gray."

"Nothing wrong with that." Devlin grinned impishly. "The best things in life get better with age."

"I agree to that." Verdona supported.

Ben couldn't suppress a small chuckle, given the fact he was technically in the same boat.

"They're right though. Bellicus and Serena had many, many debates before I ever changed into Alien X. Time is irrelevant to them. Still, I'm sure they still won't be happy with my prolonged absence… But I'll manage."

"That doesn't sound very reassuring." Madison remarked worriedly.

Ben smiled ruefully. The young redhead's pragmaticism and countenance were similar to Gwen, with the only big difference being that Madison did not train her alien abilities to the same degree as she focused mostly on academics.

"Nothing ever is with those two." Ben responded with a shrug. "I just have to take a leap of faith."

"Ben." Turning in the direction of the new voice, Ben was pleasantly surprised to see Eunice standing at the lab entrance.

Eunice's attire consisted of a white dress that went down to her lower thighs with a black collar and a stripe stretching down the middle, black fingerless gloves that went up to her elbows, black knee-high boots with black socks that end at her thighs. Her platinum blonde hair was cut to shoulder-length and wore a black hairband.

"Do you mind if I talk to you for a moment?"

"Sure thing. I'll be right back, guys." Ben walked away from his grandmother and the Levin family.

"Who's that hottie?" Devin commented slyly. "Great-uncle Ben's been holding out on us."

Madison clicked her tongue. 'Pervert.'

"Never seen her before. How does she know great-uncle Ben?" She asked curiously.

"That's Eunice." Devlin answered. "And don't get too interested, Devin. She's a biproduct of the Unitrix, and not on the market for yah, champ."

"Unitrix?" Madison repeated, confused.

"Not on the market?" Devin questioned.

"Guess you kids never heard that story from uncle. Well, we got time. I'm sure Ben won't mind if I share it." The Levin patriarch stated.

Meanwhile, in the corridor outside the lab, Eunice guided Ben to a spot down the hall.

"It's good to see you. It's been over a year." Ben acknowledged. "How have you been?"

Eunice smiled. "You know Azmuth. He always likes to keep me busy. But I've been well, actually."

"He should really let you out a little more, if you ask me. Unitrix or not, you're still human at the end of the day."

"Well," Eunice glanced away and tucked a lock of hair behind her hair, "I certainly wouldn't mind a day off or two… if I got to spend them with you."

Ben's face heated up from that proclamation.

"I-I mean… uh… sorry! As friends, of course." Eunice stammered, her blush portraying her statement.

Ben coughed into his hand, attempting to suppress his own embarrassment. "S-So, what'd you need to talk about?"

"Ben, are you sure about this?" Eunice questioned, worry evident in her tone.

Ben let out a wistful sigh, lowering his head. "I've been getting that question a lot lately."

"Well, it is justified." Eunice pointed out. "What you're planning to do does sound pretty crazy."

"Yeah, yeah. I know. But yes, I am." Ben responded. "I've given this a lot of thought, Eunice. This is something I need to do and, quite frankly, it'd be irresponsible if I didn't. If I truly am immortal and nothing can undo it then I have to accept it. I'll be the hero that only I can be."

Eunice could hear the conviction in Ben's words and nodded in understanding. There was no persuading him when he was mind was fully set.

"You seem pretty determined, so I won't try to talk you out of it." The Unitrix woman said. "I trust your judgement."

Ben gave the blonde an appreciative smile. "Thanks. Oh, uh… by the way," He looked away trying to hide his blush. "It's been a while since we last met up. I, uh thought you were incapable of aging, so… how come you look more… mature?"

Due to being an artificial human, Eunice technically couldn't age. However, he had noticed her body strangely seemed to have matured by a decade. She was more voluptuous and her breasts were slightly bigger. Not that he was staring or anything.

Eunice gave the brunet a sly smirk, placing her left hand on her curvy hip; much to Ben's embarrassment. Even if he was a century old, he still had the body of a young adult male.

"You're just now noticing, Ben? C'mon, I thought you were more astute than that." She teased.

"I actually did… but guys aren't supposed to ask women about their age yah know, so wasn't sure how to bring it up." Ben rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly.

"It's okay, Ben. I'm just messing with yah." She waved it off. "Well, if you must know, I… um… may have had Azmuth reconfigure my human DNA."

"Reconfigure?" Ben quirked a brow. "Why?"

"Well…" She tapped her index fingers together with a tint of pink adorning her cheeks; much to Ben's confusion. "… I wanted it altered enough to where I'd be an adult instead of a teenager… and I wouldn't be your cousin anymore."

Ben blinked twice in befuddlement. He could understand Eunice wanting to age up to be an adult. Why would she want to alter her DNA to the degree she wasn't related to him anymore? It seemed kind of random.

"Why would you – wait…" He paused and stared at her with a look of epiphany upon his face. "E-Eunice, do you… have feelings for me?"

Eunice chuckled lightheartedly and held her left elbow in a sheepish manner. "Truthfully… I think I always have." She then lowered her head, frowning. "But since I'm artificial and can never age, I knew ultimately it could never be. Plus, you already had girls on Earth vying for your attention."

"Eunice…" He couldn't hide his blush.

Ben didn't know how to respond. Ever since the Ultimatrix wielder first laid eyes on the Unitrix girl in that alien pod over eighty years ago, he had felt a special connection with her. And no, her being naked had nothing to do with it! Even after discovering she was an artificial human biproduct of the Unitrix, those feelings never truly went away.

He had suspected she may feel the same but wasn't sure. Regardless, given the fact she wouldn't naturally age and was essentially his cousin, he knew those feelings couldn't be acted on. But now… neither of those were hurdles anymore.

'Wait… this means… I had given up that idea long ago…'

Eunice gave Ben a soft, empathetic visage. "Ben… just know… I'm here for you. As a friend and… if you want, potentially more-"

She was unable to complete her sentence as Ben suddenly pulled her into a kiss. Her eyes shot open in surprise, feeling her heartrate increase from the sudden not-unwelcomed action. Realizing what was happening, Eunice closed her eyes and melted into the kiss. Ben's hands found their way to rest on Eunice's hips as her arms wrapped around his neck, deepening the kiss.

Time seemed to stop for the immortal Ultimatrix wielder and artificial human as both enjoyed the moment; a special warm feeling swelling up inside them.

Minutes passed as they continued their kiss until a set of coughing and snickering snapped them back to reality.

Ben and Eunice's eyes shot open and simultaneously shifted down the hallway. His family were standing by the lab's entrance with amused and proud expressions; much to Ben's embarrassment. Azmuth and Myaxx were also with the group and had expressions. Myaxx had a satisfied half-smirk while Azmuth was highly annoyed with his arms crossed.

They immediately separated and looked away, blushing profusely in embarrassment.

"If you're done smacking lips with MY Unitrix, everything is ready, Tennyson." Azmuth informed, an edge in his voice.

"Oh, lighten up, yah old grouch." Myaxx rolled her eyes. "Let them have their moment. They've both earned it if you ask me."

"No one asked you, Myaxx." Azmuth retorted.

"I'm just so happy Ben found someone." Verdona sighed happily.

"Nice work, great-uncle." Devin gave him mentor a thumbs-up in approval. "You got my stamp of approval."

"Pretty sure he doesn't need it." Madison remarked.

"Honestly, it's about time you two." Devlin commented with his lips curling into a smirk. "I mean, seriously… even I noticed there was something going on between you when I was Devin's age."

"Guess some people are just slower than others when it comes to that stuff." Jennifer said.

Ben and Eunice both blushed profusely as they walked down the corridor, not locking eyes with the group initially. The group then step back into the lab and the machines around the ring-shaped structure are active, indicated by the glowing green circuitry patterns.

"There's no going back once you step through, Tennyson." Azmuth moved his hovercraft closer to Ben.

"Didn't plan on it." Ben said confidently. "We've spent the last few months planning and developing this project. No way I can get cold feet now."

"As long as you're sure. I'm going to run one last system diagnostic." The First Thinker informed. "Now's the time to say your goodbyes. Myaxx," he turned to the female Chimera Sui Generis, "do you mind assisting me?"

"Well, it is in my job description." Myaxx snarked.

As the two scientists proceeded to the apparatus, Ben walked up his family. "Well, this is it. Wish me luck."

Devlin stepped up and pulled Ben into an embrace. Ben smiled and returned the hug to his old nephew. Jennifer, Madison, and Devin also joined in; tears beginning to condense at the brim of their eyes. The Levin family and Ben remained in the embrace for a while; neither side wanting to break it off.

"You gotta promise me us you'll come back, uncle." Devlin almost choked up. "Yah hear me?"

"I will." Ben nodded; his tone resolute. "I promise."

"You better… or I'll find you." Jennifer half-threatened.

"She will, too." Devlin chuckled.

"I may not have mastered my powers yet… but I'm close."

'Definitely wouldn't want to test those waters either way,' Ben inwardly remarked.

The family reluctantly separated and Ben was immediately pulled into a comforting embrace with his grandmother.

"I believe in you, Ben." Verdona sadly declared. "And about the favoritism I showed Gwen all those years ago… I – I'm-"

"It's okay, grandma." Ben rubbed her shoulder blade to comfort her. "I know."

Verdona couldn't stop a few small tears from her eyes. The grandson and grandmother shared the moment a bit longer before pulling away.

Ben then turned to Eunice and she gave Ben a soft, tender look before pulling him into a tight, loving hug.

"Sorry it took so long for me to be forthcoming with my feelings, Eunice." Ben sounded guilty. "I'm an idiot. A dense one at that."

"It's okay." Eunice chortled. "You're not the only one who wasn't forthcoming."

"I promise, when I get back, I'm gonna make it right by you."

"I'll hold you to it then." The blonde gave the Ultimatrix wielder an amorous look before pecking him on the lips.

Ben's face heated up from the exchange and he couldn't suppress his own soft smile.

"Tennyson!" Azmuth shouted. "We're ready to begin now."

The couple reluctantly separated as Ben trekked toward the unknown Galvan machine. He stopped at the control panel Azmuth and Myaxx were standing at.

"Can't thank you guys again for agreeing to do this." Ben said, sounding grateful.

"Think nothing of it. Just don't make me regret it." Azmuth replied. "This is a risky endeavor, after all."

"Even if we didn't agree to help, you'd have done this all on your own anyway." Myaxx mentioned. "You're as stubborn as Azmuth in that regard."

Ignoring his assistant's remark, Azmuth continued, "If you're this insistent on going through with this plan then it would only make sense to have the smartest being in five galaxies aid you."

Ben nodded and then looked at the inactive ring-shaped machine retrospectively. "Can't believe it's all led up to this." He looked back at the Galvan leader. "Be honest, Azmuth, did you ever foresee this happening?"

"Paradox may have dropped some hints here and there of your future. But… even I am astonished over the lengths you're willing to go to achieve it." Azmuth truthfully admitted.

"Can't believe you actually used to be that egocentric brat from all those years ago." Myaxx remarked. "Time sure has a way of changing things."

"He certainly has evolved." Azmuth agreed. "Perhaps there's hope for the universe, after all."

Ben rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly.

"The Omnitrix may not have been intended for you, Ben… but, in the end, it turned out your hands were the best suited for it." Azmuth proclaimed honestly. "I can see now what your grandfather meant when he said you had the seeds for greatness."

Ben was taken aback. "He… he really said that?"

Azmuth nodded in confirmation. "Indeed. It was when you were eleven, actually."

Ben could've sworn he felt the corner of his eyes get misty. He quickly wiped his eyes with his shirt, trying to remain nonchalant. "I… that's…wow." He was a loss of words.

"Surely, you're not that surprised Max would say that about you?" Azmuth quired.

Ben shook his head. "It's not that. It's just…" He paused to collect himself. "It just feels really good to hear that he said that about me. Especially when I was still an immature, selfish child at that time."

'Thank you, Grandpa Max. I won't let you down.' Ben inwardly declared.

Myaxx stepped to the control panel and quickly read the monitor's readouts. "The gateway is ready to activate, Azmuth."

"Then I suppose we shouldn't prolong this anymore than it needs to be. Initiate the activation sequence." He ordered.

Myaxx nodded and tapped a few commands on the panel. As a result, the machinery in the room hummed to life as its Galvanic circuitry illuminated brightly. Blue lightning crackled around the circular structure before a swirling blue-and-white portal appeared inside it.

"Whatever happens know that I'm proud of you, Ben Tennyson." Azmuth boldly stated.

"Thank you, Azmuth." Ben smiled gratefully. Before walking away, he stopped when a thought suddenly occurred to him. "By the way… you never did tell me who else thought I was worthy of the Omnitrix. Care to share before I go?"

Azmuth smirked impishly. "You'll figure it out soon, I'm sure."

Ben cocked a brow in curiosity but decided not to press further. Still, it's been eighty-five years since Azmuth told him that line. Why couldn't he just reveal the answer already? Oh well, he'll find out sooner or later.

Ben stepped up the ledge leading to the portal; his clothing and hair flailing around from the whirlwind produced from it. He paused to turn back to everybody. He gave them his confident trademark smirk with a thumbs-up to ease their worries, if only slightly.

"I'll see yah in a bit."

With that, Ben Tennyson stepped into the portal to an unknown location and time. As soon as Ben successfully passed through that gateway, Myaxx deactivated the machine. The portal promptly lost its size and disappeared out of sight.

Magister Devlin Levin walked up to the First Thinker, and inquired, "How long will he be in there?"

"For us, if all things go according to plan, hardly any." Azmuth answered. "For Ben, he'll have as much time as he needs."

"Uh, come again?" Devin questioned. "How does that work?"

Madison groaned and rolled her eyes. "He's saying that time moves different in whatever dimension great-uncle Ben went to."

"Well, sorry. Some of us aren't geniuses." The young Omnitrix user snarked.

"It's not that hard to comprehend, doofus." Madison retorted.

"Alright, enough." Devlin reprimanded.

"So, Uncle Ben went into a pocket dimension is what I'm hearing?" Jennifer asked.

"The Hyperbolic Time Dimension, to be more precise," Myaxx revealed. "It's an empty void cut off from the universe, and time is completely out of sync in there. A day to us could be a thousand years to him or vice versa. Ben will be completely alone. He shouldn't have to worry about anyone or anything disturbing him."

"The perfect place for him to initiate Plax X." Azmuth concluded with a grim tone.

"Plan X?" Devin repeated.

As soon as Ben stepped into the portal, he instantly transformed into Jetray, one of his transformations that could survive in a vacuum. Upon passing through the swirling blue gateway, he arrived in a vast white void. There was absolutely nothing stretching out for seemingly eternity. It was truly an empty pocket dimension.

'It's completely empty here. Perfect.' Jetray thought.

He looked back to see the blue portal promptly shut behind him, leaving him stranded in this desolate space.

'It's just me here. No one to interrupt and no one who could potentially steal HIS power.' Jetray deeply sighed, preparing himself for the next step. 'No point in prolong it any longer. Time to get started.'

With a mental command, the Aerophibian's body was enveloped in green light. In his place was the reality-warping, celestial humanoid in all his glory.

"Alien X" He announced with three voices.

In Alien X's Mind Space…

Ben opened his eyes to find himself floating in a black, starry space with the giant, green mask manifestations of Alien X's other two personas. It felt surreal for Ben to be back here. He honestly thought he'd never change into Alien X again after what happened, but time has a way of changing priorities.

Serena turned to Ben with an excited look. "Oh look, Bellicus! Ben Tennyson has finally returned to us!"

"Great…" Bellicus grumbled, looking away in disinterest. "Tell me when he leaves."

"Bellicus. Serena." Ben flatly addressed. "It's been a while."

"By human standards, yes." Serena frowned slightly. "Even so, we have missed you, Ben."

"Speak for yourself, Serena." Bellicus remarked.

"Now, Bellicus," She chastised lightly, "you're not being honest with yourself. You've missed him too."

"Have not." Bellicus argued.

"Have too." Serena retorted.

"Have not!"

"Have too!"

"OKAY! ENOUGH!" Ben shouted in exasperation, stopping the two personalities from sinking into one of their arguing matches. "Seriously, enough. I don't care if you've missed me or not. I'm not here to socialize. I've come to bargain."

"Why you!" Bellicus furrowed his brows, angered. "You have some nerve! Serena and I gave you a wonderful gift, you abandon us for 75 years, and now you have the gall to come back and try to haggle with us?!"

"Bellicus-"

"Point of order, I move we ignore Ben Tennyson for ten-thousand years, then set him on fire for a second ten-thousand years, and finally we cool him down by trapping in the frigid core of Planet Neptune for a third ten-thousand years." Bellicus proposed.

"You're angry, Bellicus. You don't mean any of that." Ben calmly countered.

"How would you-"

"But that's not important." He tersely interrupted. "I know we have mixed feelings about each other right now; particularly, me. But we need to put those feelings aside and have sensible dialogue."

"Bellicus, I move we should hear Ben out." Serena recommended. "After all, it's been a while since we've last seen him. And the other alternate Omnitrix users we've talked to since he was last here were hardly the conversationalist this Ben was."

"And why should we, Serena?" Bellicus demanded irritably.

"Because you need me." Ben stated resolutely. "That was the whole reason you both agreed to grant me immortality in the first place, right? So, I wouldn't die and you both wouldn't be in a deadlock anymore."

Bellicus scoffed. "Serena and I were debating long before-"

"And where did that get you? Nowhere!" Ben sharply exclaimed. "How many unresolved motions are in the backlog?"

"Over 10 Decillion and 100." Serena answered.

"It's standard procedure to have unresolved motions here and there." Bellicus tried to reason.

"C'mon, Bellicus. Are you really satisfied knowing there are over 10 Decillion unresolved discussions on the docket?" Ben challenged. "It's eating away at you… both of you. To be unable to come to an agreement on anything."

Bellicus couldn't retort that point. He then narrowed his eyes in suspicion. "Why are you here?"

"I'm here to bargain." Ben answered. "I've come to offer you both a deal I know you can't refuse, but I'm going to want something in return."

"And what would that be?" Serena asked curiously.

"I want full control over Alien X." He responded without hesitation.

Bellicus and Serena were momentarily surprised by the Ultimatrix user's request but quickly recovered.

"Oh, let me guess," Bellicus quirked a brow, "you want us to 'give you the keys to Alien X'? Let you control him while we stay in the background and deliberate, huh?"

"We've been down this road before, Bellicus." Serena placated. "If that's what this Ben wants-"

"No. That's not it." Ben clarified, gaining their attention. "That's not the type of control I want. I can admit that the human mind is limited and there's only so much I can do on my own. I want seamless control over Alien X with both of you acting as my co-pilots. As much as it pains me to say… I need both of you, for better and for worse."

Bellicus and Serena looked at each other, both equally dumbfounded. They certainly had not expected this. The alternate Ben Tennysons' and Omnitrix users had always been so determined to do things on their own without their aid.

"That's… quite the request. And what do Serena and I get in return out of this arrangement?" Bellicus inquired.

Ben inhaled and deeply exhaled. "I'll help you resolve all of your tabled motions."

…

…

"I… beg your pardon?" Bellicus stammered; his eye holes wide in shock at the statement he had thought he heard.

"Bellicus… do my ears deceive me?" Serena was flabbergasted.

"You don't have ears Serena … and no." Bellicus adopted a scrutinizing gaze directed at the brunet. "Are you pulling a twisted joke on us, boy? If you are then-"

"No joke." Ben interrupted. "I'm completely serious. I'll stay as Alien X and resolve all of your debates."

"All of them?" Bellicus repeated.

"Did I stutter?"

"Ben, we have over 10 Decillion tabled motions. For you to resolve all of them… you would have to stay as Alien X for a very, very long time. Are you sure?" Serena questioned; though given the tone in her voice, she could barely contain her excitement.

"Well, I'm immortal now so time isn't really a factor anymore." Ben shrugged nonchalantly. "Plus, when it's all said and done, all the time I lose in here won't matter anyway."

Bellicus and Serena looked at each other, both inwardly contemplating Ben's offer.

"So… do we have a deal?" Ben asked.

"Seconded!" the Voices of Rage and Love respectively announced simultaneously.

Ben subtly nodded with an indifferent visage. "Motion carried. Now, why don't we get started from the top and move down?"

"Y-yes, let's start with Tabled Motion 10 Decillion and 100," Bellicus started, "to alter the backstories of the alien-human hybrids on Planet Earth. I propose we change history to where they were not born through natural means but rather artificially by an ex-Plumber scientist named Servantis for the sole purpose of defeating Ben Tennyson; the young one, of course. I understand this may all seem confusing and convoluted, you two, but please hear me out.

"Let me start from the beginning, the being known as Servantis was once a Plumber scientist who became the Proctor of the Plumbers' black ops wing in the Null Void, the Rooters. He became convinced that ten-year-old Ben Tennyson here was too immature to wield the Omnitrix, believing he may endanger the universe (which he was inadvertently proven correct, by the way); therefore, he sets out to destroy him by any means necessary. To do this, he begins by manipulating his own genetics to make himself a Cerebrocrustacean hybrid. He then-"

'I already don't like the sound of this…' Ben inwardly bemoaned as Bellicus resumed his longwinded exposition of the origin of the Rooters.

1 Decillion Debates Later… (9 Decillion Remaining)

Ben was unaware nor did he have any sense of how much time had passed since becoming Alien X. It didn't matter as time was irrelevant as far as he was concerned. Besides, Ben had determined a long while back it'd be best for his own sanity if he remained ignorant to the passage of time.

Though he was still technically a human (in soul, at least), as Alien X he didn't need to drink, eat, sleep or any of the necessary thing required for human survival. All he did was float and debate on various topics of the multiverse with his alternate personas.

Rinse and repeat.

"Motion carried." Bellicus declared. "And with that, we now move on to Tabled Motion 9 Decillion even."

"Bravo!" Serena cheered. "Well done to all of us! It does feel great to be productive."

"Here, here." Bellicus agreed.

"Sure, beats the alternative, I suppose." Ben said emotionlessly. "So, what does the next motion entail?"

"Oh, already so eager to resume the session. Very well!" Bellicus exclaimed, trying yet failing to contain his own excitement. "Tabled Motion 9 Decillion is, as follows, altering the voice and appearance of First Thinker Azmuth of the Galvan."

"Uh…" Ben furrowed his brow. "Why?"

"I am also curious." Serena chimed in. "Did not one of our brethren already change his voice and appearance before?"

"Wait… this has been done before?"

"Please, both of you, hear me out! I'm sure I can convince you." Bellicus adopted a wry smirk. "Now, as Serena pointed out, yes, First Thinker Azmuth's voice and appearance has been altered before. However, as I stated, I think we can approve upon it. Motion to present what I had in mind?"

"Seconded." Ben impassively replied.

"Motion carried." Serena smiled.

"Good. Here's what I had in mind." Bellicus then summoned a panel portraying Azmuth's new appearance and a recording of his new voice.

Ben was confused. Overall, his appearance didn't seem that much different, minus a few grey splotches around his head. His voice was slightly higher and had less of a growl to it, sounding almost like a human adult male.

'Don't really see the point here. Of course, it seems Celestialsapiens do a lot of things that are ultimately pointless just for the hell of it.' Ben thought in exhausted exasperation.

Ben shrugged in an uncaring manner. "Eh, sure. Why not? Seconded."

Bellicus adopted a proud, smug expression. "I knew you'd come around."

"Motion carried." Serena announced. "Now, let's move onto Tabled Motion 8 Decillion, 999 nonillion-"

'Just gotta muddle through it.…' Ben tried to reassure himself.

Unbeknownst to Ben, his skin began to dimly glow green.

5 Decillion Debates Later… (4 Decillion Remaining)

'~Nothing really matters… anyone can see… nothing really matters… to me~' Ben inwardly sung a verse from the well-known song, Boeheim Rhapsody.

"Tabled Motion 3 Decillion, 999 nonillion, 999 octillion, 999 septillion, 999 sextillion, 999 quintillion, 999 quadrillion, 999 trillion, 999 billion, 999 million, 999 hundred-thousand, and 999 is as follows," Serena expounded, "to prevent the fall of the Jedi Master Luke Skywalker in Universe SW-Beta-001."

"Ah yes, I remember this one." Bellicus nodded in recognition. "Essentially, we would agree to the set events in place that lead to this Jedi Master making out-of-character mistakes resulting in his own fall from grace and his nephew, Ben Solo, turning to the Dark Side and becoming the nefarious villain Kylo Ren."

'Feel like there's a whole backstory and history I'm missing here…' Ben drawled. 'Could ask them to clarify… but I just don't care…'

"Which would ultimately lead to the birth of the girl, Rey, born with the innate strength to overpower Kylo Ren and the reborn Emperor with little to no training." Serena finished happily.

'So she's literally born a Mary Sue? Terrific…' Ben grumbled.

"Right. Well, I am personally against this motion." Bellicus said firmly. "Luke had his time in the spotlight. It's time for a change, if you ask me. With his fall, the girl Rey will be born and she will possess all the necessary strength needed to win with no training whatsoever."

"Well, I think Luke deserves better." Serena gently argued. "He's proven that he's the rightful hero in universe SW-Beta-001. Perhaps we should open a discussion on possible alternatives for SW-Beta-001's future?"

'No, no, no, no, NO!' Ben shouted inwardly. 'We're not wasting time on this!'

Ben sighed deeply. "Does this Rey girl ultimately win in the end? Is the bad guy defeated and the day saved?"

"Well, yes." Serena answered. "But-"

"Don't care. Siding with Bellicus." Ben tersely interrupted. "Seconded."

"Motion carried…" Serena sounded mildly disappointed while Bellicus smiled proudly.

Ben wasn't sure but he could've sworn he felt his manifested form start to slowly shift. He had noticed a long time ago that his skin was glowing green, but didn't pay it any mind. He wasn't sure what was happening but honestly couldn't bring himself to care all that much.

The only thing that mattered was resolving these debates. Nothing else.

'~Nothing really matters… anyone can see… nothing really matters… to me~'

4 Decillion Debates Later… (999 Nonillion Remaining)

"Motion carried." Serena announced. "With that, we are finally out of the decillions! Isn't that exciting everyone?"

"It's just business, Serena." Bellicus responded; though a subtle smirk could be seen on his irritable countenance.

"Indeed, there's still many more discussions to cover. Best to continue onward." A third, floating green masculine mask responded. "Serena, would you care to announce Tabled Motion 999 Nonillion?"

"Of course, Voice of Reason." Serena smiled. "Tabled Motion 999 Nonillion is as follows… to change the voice of the warlord Vilgax back to his original raspy version."

"Another voice alteration, huh?" the Voice of Reason cocked a brow. "Could we please hear what his original voiced sounded like as I have no memory of it… since, well, it had been altered?"

"Seconded!" Serena agreed.

"Motion carried." Bellicus stated.

With that, a panel appeared in the voice displaying Vilgax attacking ten-year-old Ben Tennyson, speaking in his original voice (Steve Blum). Once the clip had ended, the third personality turned his attention back to his companions.

"Bellicus, why don't you give your thoughts first as Serena started us off in the last debate?"

"Right. Well, I am in favor of switching Vilgax's back voice. I find it to be more intimidating and menacing, if you will." The Voice of Aggression claimed.

"I see." The third mask nodded. "Serena?"

"I personally like both versions for different reasons. But I would prefer to keep his voice as is." Serena responded.

"What say you then, Ben?" Bellicus questioned.

The third mask, now revealed to be Ben's new manifestation, hummed in contemplation. It strongly resembled Ben's own human face with glowing green hair that mimicked his hairstyle.

"Well, it's ultimately not relevant since Vilgax is trapped as Alien V for all of eternity." Ben pointed out. "No sense in changing his voice unless you simply wanted to jest with Chasity and Vetis -who are quite busy in their own discussions. I vote to deny the motion."

"Seconded." Serena agreed.

"Motion carried." Bellicus half-groaned.

"Cheer up, Bellicus! We still have 999 nonillion discussions to go." The Voice of Reason winked.

~999 Nonillion Debates Later… (1 Debate Remaining)

The day had finally come. It was almost over. This excruciatingly long, snail-paced journey was about to reach its conclusion.

After what seemed like thousands upon thousands of lifetimes, the final Tabled Motion was within sight. Ben could still remember the days he used to dedicate several hours a week to Alien X. He inwardly chuckled. Those seemed like ancient times now.

Things had certainly changed for Ben over the undisclosed amount of time within Alien X. Not only had his manifested form in Alien X's Mind Space shifted to resemble Bellicus and Serena's green masks, his overall outlook had dramatically shifted as well. He now understood what Professor Paradox felt. For better and for worse, Ben had also reached the same pinnacle of the mind he had.

Pure, unadulterated sanity.

He was now the embodiment of his epithet given by Bellicus and Serena: The Voice of Reason. Though it was debatable if that moniker applied to Ben in the early days, he had more than earned his stripes now.

"We are just about to cross the finish line." Ben stated professionally. "Tabled Motion Number 1. Your first ever debate. Who would like to kick us off?"

"I'd like to. May I?" Serena requested.

"Seconded." Bellicus agreed.

"Motion carried." Ben decreed.

Serena cleared her nonexistent throat. "Well then, Tabled Motion 1 is as follows: Should we allow Ben Tennyson to wield the Omnitrix instead of Max Tennyson?"

Ben nodded in understanding. He had had a feeling this particular discussion would come up eventually. He was mildly surprised that it had been Bellicus and Serena's first debate.

"What do you two think?" Ben questioned with genuine curiosity. "Should I have been allowed to use the watch?"

The Voices of Love and Rage looked at each other and both nodded in silent agreement. "Absolutely!" They unanimously stated.

Ben was a bit taken aback by their resolute response. "Really? I could've sworn we were about have an intense dialogue just now."

"There's no need." Bellicus responded. "With the exception of a handful of alternate Omnitrix wielders, as far as we're concerned, you're the only one worthy to wield the Omnitrix… or Ultimatrix, in your case. Even though you were a brat."

"Seconded. You turned the Omnitrix and Ultimatrix into a true force for good that not even its creator could foresee. You are a hero." Serena proclaimed truthfully.

If Ben were in his human form, he may have teared up slightly from the surprisingly kind words from both personas. "So this is what Azmuth meant, huh?" He couldn't help but grin proudly. "Well then, motion carried."

"And with that, all of our debates are resolved!" Serena cheered. "Oh, how incredible!"

'Yes… it's… it's really over…' Ben knew he should feel jubilant upon finally crossing the finish line, but his emotions were rather tame and controlled. Too tamed.

"With that, Ben's end of the bargain has been fulfilled. Motion to grant Ben full control over Alien X with out added assistance?" Bellicus motioned.

"Seconded!" Serena agreed.

Ben nodded with a small smile crossing his face. "Motion carried."

"The Hyperbolic Time Dimension, to be more precise," Myaxx revealed. "It's an empty void cut off from the universe, and time is completely out of sync in there. A day to us could be a thousand years to him or vice versa. Ben will be completely alone. He shouldn't have to worry about anyone or anything disturbing him."

"The perfect place for him to initiate Plax X." Azmuth concluded with a grim tone.

"Plan X?" Devin repeated.

Without warning, a brief flash of white filled the room and standing in front of the Hyperbolic Gateway was none other than Ben.

"Guess who's back?" Ben smiled widely.

"Great-uncle Ben!?" Devin and Madison didn't waste time in rushing toward Ben and embracing him in a hug. Ben didn't resist and returned the hug to his great-nephew and great-niece.

This was the first human contact he's had in a very, very long time. It felt so surreal yet comforting.

"That was quick." Devlin admitted walking up to the Omnitrix wielder followed by the rest of the group. "You were only gone for like a few seconds."

A rueful smile crept on Ben's face. "For you maybe."

"Well, did it work?" Devin inquired.

"It did." Ben simply replied.

Devin and Madison both backed away and looked at Ben in shocked awe. "Wait? Seriously?" the latter questioned, barely able to contain his excitement. "You actually did it, great-uncle?"

"Took a while but yes," He nodded.

"Full control over Alien X." Azmuth stated in subdued amazement. "Incredible."

'The day has finally come, Paradox.' Azmuth thought. 'The day that he becomes Infinity.'

Verdona and Jennifer both looked at Ben intently. The two Anodites could feel something was drastically different with Ben's aura. It didn't feel human anymore. In fact, it felt like Ben was…

"I'm happy to see you're alright, Ben." Verdona broke her silence. "I am curious though… how long were you in there?"

Ben didn't respond immediately as he gaze shifted to the smooth floor. The rueful smile never leaving his face. "… I'd rather not get into that."

"Why? C'mon, you can tell us." Devin urged.

"Hey, hey. If he doesn't want to talk about it, don't pressure him." Jennifer lightly admonished. The fledgling Anodite then looked back to her uncle. "Well… you have the powers of a Celestialsapien, uncle. What are you gonna do first?"

Ben turned his gaze to Eunice, who was standing in the back with a surprised yet happy expression. She was worried she'd have to go a longtime without seeing Ben. She was grateful her wait had only been a few seconds. Ben calmly walked up to her and took her hands in his own and looked into her eyes.

Eunice wasn't sure but something was definitely different about Ben. He seemed far more… tame? Calm? Stoic? She wasn't quite sure how to put it. In addition, it may have been her own imagination, but it felt like it wasn't just Ben looking through those green eyes of his.

'Maybe I'm just seeing things…?' Eunice wondered.

"I'm taking this beauty out to Mr. Smoothy's and on a trip around the universe." Ben glanced over to the Omnitrix/Ultimatrix creator. "I'm sure that's okay. Right, Azmuth?"

"Fine." He waved off. "Eunice has been working very hard since coming to Galvan Prime. She's earned an excursion. Might as well be with you."

"Are… are you sure, Azmuth? Not that I'm not grateful! But what about my duties on Primus?"

Azmuth looked at her strangely. "Primus? I don't know what you're talking about, Eunice."

"Hmm… can't say I've heard of it either." Myaxx chimed in.

"W-what…?" Eunice was confused. "What're you talking about, it's-"

"Oh! Right…" Ben leaned closer to whisper into Eunice's ear. "One of our debates revolved around removing Primus from the timeline. We agreed that since the Omnitrix and Ultimatrix both act as storage devices for DNA there was no need for it. Azmuth doesn't know what Primus it is since he never created it."

"Then… why do I still remember?" the blonde asked.

Ben winked. "I opted to make an exception for you. As a matter of fact, I got something for you." He reached into his pants pocket and pulled out something.

To Eunice's astonishment, it was an intricate onyx chained necklace with a clear orb hanging from it. Upon closer inspection, inside the orb was black space with a green planet in the center. That planet was none other than Primus itself. She couldn't believe it. Ben had put Primus, her former home and workspace, in a personal necklace for her.

"Ben… I-" Eunice was speechless.

"I know how special Primus was to you. So, I figured it'd only be right if you were able to keep it with you as a keepsake." Ben responded. "Took a hell of a lot of convincing but I eventually managed to win those two over."

"Hey, what're you lovebirds talking about over there?" Devlin asked with a wry smile.

"Knock it off." Jennifer lightly jabbed her brother in the side.

Jennifer looked at her uncle in slight concern. 'He's not in his human form. I can feel two other presences inside his mind.' She then turned to Verdona, who was also looking at Ben keenly. 'I'm sure great-grandma Verdona noticed too but has opted not to say anything. Not now, anyway.'

Ben turned back to the group with a smile. "I am happy to see all of you again. But, if it's all the same to you, would you mind if Eunice and I take our leave? I'll catch up with you soon."

"I don't see any reason why not. Have fun, you two!" Verdona waved off.

"Not too much fun though." Devlin smirked, earning another jab from Jennifer.

"Maybe you can talk to Azmuth later on making a Unitrix just for me?" Devin requested, half-serious.

"Grow up, loser." Madison rolled her eyes.

Ben nodded and, in a sudden flash of white, he and Eunice vanished into thin air.

"Hmm… just as I suspected. Ben is no longer in human form." Verdona stated.

"Wait, what?" the Levin Omnitrix wielder responded, bewildered. "What're you talking about, great-grandma? He was human! I even saw the Ultimatrix on his wrist."

"A totally convincing disguise." Jennifer sounded serious. "Any normal being would never notice. Only Anodites or higher beings would be able to notice something off."

"So… what does that mean?" Madison asked curiously.

"… Uncle Ben may have lost more than we realized during his time as Alien X."

The scene ended and the rectangular panel disappeared.

"And that is where we shall end things, my faithful viewer." Professor Paradox said jokingly.

"Ben the Triumphant achieved the Ultimate Power. He could rule the multiverse. Nothing could stop him. What does he do with his power? Surely, it's not just to impress a machine?"

Before Paradox could answer, a flash of white appeared off to his side to reveal Ben.

"Hey, Paradox. I need your help with… uh, why are you hanging out with Dagon?" Ben cocked a brow.

Paradox smiled and shrugged. "Oh, just keeping his company is all, Infinity. I was showing our old friend that there is another way to spend eternity rather than stewing on his defeat." He then held his chin as a thought occurred to him. "Hmm, actually… since Dagon is forced to simply observe the Omniverse, what if we had him fulfill the role of an Omniversal onlooker? He can watch over all the universes and spectate – reporting to me and you, of course, over anything abnormal?"

"Is this what I am reduced to? A mere watcher? Have I truly fallen this far?" Dagon demanded, disgust present in his tone.

"Do you have any other options?" Paradox questioned, humor present in his tone.

"Restore my power and return me to my universe so that I may conquer it."

"Motion denied." Ben, or Infinity, denied.

"I suppose he still needs some convincing." Paradox sheepishly admitted.

"Well, I'm always around in case he decides to change his mind." Infinity shrugged. "But anyways, the Chronosapiens and Naljians are having disputes over multidimensional trade routes. Care to join me in quelling the madness?"

"Oh, I suppose." Paradox turned to Dagon. "I'll be back shortly. Then, we may observe the second timeline together."

"Wait… what are you showing him?"

In a brilliant flash, Infinity and Paradox both vanished – leaving the chimera alone in the vast, empty voice once more.

"Me? A watcher? How foolish."

A/N: That's the end of the first scenario of this series.

I apologize for the lateness of this chapter. Things were quite busy with work and I rewrote the outline for this chapter several times before I was satisfied with it.

Ben finally achieved true full control over Alien X. However, you could say it came at a One Punch Man-esque cost in a way. Ben has achieved pure sanity and shares a mind with Bellicus and Serena. I didn't explore that aspect too much as I wasn't sure how to write it at the time. Plus, I didn't want to drag out the chapter any further than needed. I'd preferably like to leave these scenarios open-ended like in the MCU What If series.

Apologies if the Ben and Eunice pairing felt rushed but, in my eyes, it was them finally admitting their innate feelings after decades of suppression. In Ben's case, he went decades believing he'd never find romantic love and would be forced to be alone in that aspect. Hearing that Eunice is in a similar situation as he is and that she still has feelings for him… well he couldn't contain himself.

I honestly think it's stupid that Eunice was never brought back in a meaningful way in Omniverse. Only two episodes in Ultimate Alien and she's done? She deserved more than that, Ben 10 writers. Shame on y'all!

My next few updates by the way will be dedicated to my other story, The Man Out of Time. During that time, it'll also give me a chance to decide on the second scenario. Feel free to provide suggestions in the comments or PM me.

Please leave any comments, critique, or suggestions below and let's get this discussion going. Until next time!