Trans-dimensonal Help
[Unknown Location]
Beyond the boundaries of all relative time and space, a spaceship drifted along a central pathway, with a vast expanse of one universe's cosmic scenery on one side and an endless blank white canvas stretching across the known universes on the other. As the vessel floated through this central location, the spatial configurations would alternate unpredictably, creating what Azmuth had named the "White Noise Zone" for inhabitants of one universe, since he thought they would struggle to comprehend its true nature.
In contrast to this zone, Azmuth referred to the parallel universe as the "Prime Universe" from his perspective, although he knew that other dimensions might also claim that title. Keeping this knowledge to himself, he feared that revealing it could disrupt the delicate balance that both universes currently maintained in harmony. Any tipping of this equilibrium could lead to the catastrophic collapse of both universes. Nevertheless, his experiments provided clues about what could be exchanged between these realms. This knowledge allowed him to send the Omnitrix—a device designed for his universe—across dimensions, all while concealing its true purpose. Although protecting it from Vilgax was undeniably crucial, Azmuth also hoped that in case of a cataclysmic event, the Omnitrix could help restore life back to their world.
Azmuth sat at a console, meticulously recording information about this mysterious universe and its inhabitants. He focused mostly on Cosmia and her similarities to Ben—the wielder of Omnitrix from his own reality. In fairness though, he avoided direct comparisons since they had different durations of experience with the device. However, Azmuth observed similar qualities in Cosmia that he once saw in Ben—latent traits waiting to be unveiled throughout her journey. Although Cosmia displayed swifter progress in her training compared to Ben's earlier days, most other aspects tipped in Ben's favor for now—including his dwindling arrogance.
At the moment, Azmuth was intently focused on a series of video recordings sent to him by Coulson, which demonstrated Cosmia's progress with her alien transformations. Although direct communication wasn't currently possible, Azmuth's advanced sensors alerted him each time she transformed. Interestingly, she had shifted into an alien form at least five times within a single day. Azmuth had been informed that some of these transformations were conducted to explore the lifting capabilities of various alien species using a recently discovered hammer.
Azmuth, stroking his chin thoughtfully, mumbled to himself as he analyzed the footage. "She definitely prefers utilizing the Kineceleran form above all others. It's reminiscent of how Ben was fixated on using Feedback right after he unlocked it. Still, she does make use of her other alien forms," he observed. Another distinct transformation in Cosmia's arsenal was the Pturbosurian she named Astrodactyl. Intriguingly, both Ben and Cosmia seemed to assign similar names to their transformations – a noteworthy coincidence that Azmuth had already begun developing theories around. He'd observed Cosmia attempting to lift the mysterious hammer using Astrodactyl's full strength, and though it appeared as if the hammer hadn't budged even slightly, he suspected otherwise.
Continuing his analysis, Azmuth noted further details about Cosmia's transformations: "She may have access to several flying aliens; however, it's apparent that she revels in the exhilaration provided by Astrodactyl's remarkable speed – much like XLR8. Perhaps this gives her a hidden sense of freedom."
As Azmuth considered this thought, a slight chuckle escaped him when he recalled a subtle yet extraordinary feature incorporated into Cosmia's Omnitrix. Unlike Ben's version that always selected the ideal alien for any given situation, hers possessed the unique ability to gauge whether she could devise her own solution, giving her the opportunity to do so rather than always providing the optimal choice. This aspect of Cosmia's Omnitrix served as a subtle reminder of just how intricate and ingenious Azmuth's creations could be.
Within his private laboratory, only one other individual from their universe knew of its existence. In a brilliant flash of light, this person announced himself—Professor Paradox. With a warm smile, he greeted his old friend, exclaiming, "Greetings, old friend."
"Paradox, to what do I owe the pleasure of your unexpected visit amidst this critical experiment?" Azmuth inquired with a hint of frustration, deftly switching to another screen as he pressed a button to swivel his chair towards it. He continued examining the various aliens Cosmia had unlocked and utilized thus far. Like Ben before her, he had initially granted her access to ten aliens—some similar, some distinct. "As you can plainly observe, I am quite preoccupied."
"Azmuth, I comprehend that after discovering Ben's triumph over Malturant and witnessing the birth of the universe, you may believe your work is complete," Professor Paradox cautioned, his eyes glancing at the screen momentarily as he recalled his own visit to that dimension and what future calamities lie ahead. "However, I assure you that troubled times are far from over." Paradox let out a weary sigh before continuing, "Moreover, you are not the only one who has uncovered the existence of the other universe. Your friends at Shield will likely bring this to your attention—Cosmia being the first to do so—but only after confronting the matter head-on."
"Preposterous! My alerts have remained inactive for quite some time. The only anomaly my scans detected was an unusually high concentration of energy within that other universe..." Azmuth's voice trailed off as he furrowed his brow in thought. Promptly pressing the button again to return to his original screen, he scrutinized the data once more. Amidst the new information presented, he spotted a minor detail—a familiarity that could not be ignored. "It seems they must have used that very energy to infiltrate unnoticed... I do hope they can resolve this issue expeditiously..."
"With some assistance–" Paradox began with a knowing smile before being interrupted by Azmuth's abrupt spin and pointed glare. Undeterred, Paradox continued, "Inevitably, you will intervene. After all, who could possibly provide superior guidance than the one who dons it as well?"
"We are both aware that if I decide to send Ben, he won't go unaccompanied. Moreover, given his recent behavioral improvements, it's evident he wouldn't pass up the chance to rescue another universe. Despite these improvements, he can still be impulsive," Azmuth said pensively, stroking his chin. He was well aware that Ben would be an excellent mentor to Cosmia on this mission but would have to adapt to their ways and learn from them. However, with the energy demands for such a venture, it could take years for him to return. Azmuth rubbed his temples and gazed at the expansive chamber used for transporting the Omnitrix. With a heavy sigh, he continued, "I realize this may violate one of your principles, but if I proceed, who else must accompany him... and can we entrust everything will be fine?"
Professor Paradox responded in his signature calm manner, "If you choose not to act, then assuredly nothing will be alright." He pivoted gracefully and strolled towards the nearest wall before pointing at the chamber. "I shall gather those who need to join the mission while you focus on preparing the necessary energy supply. Additionally, an extra device should be included – one designed for integrating a hand into."
"A hand..." Azmuth pondered aloud as Paradox disappeared in a flash of light. The great scientist stared intently at the empty space where his enigmatic colleague had previously stood and couldn't help but wonder: "Or perhaps your own hand?"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
[Revonnah]
The annual nine-day festival had arrived once more, signaling the start of the Amber Ogia harvest season. Rook was excited to invite Ben to join them again, especially since his father had grown to respect Rook's choice of being a plumber and accepted Ben wholeheartedly. However, Rook's sister, Rook Shar, would only be able to attend the festival during its last two days due to her commitments. Their father understood, though he couldn't help but feel disappointed.
Currently, they were out in the field picking the ripe Amber Ogia fruits. This time around, Ben did not rely on his Ultimatrix to transform into other aliens for assistance – he was fully engaged in the harvesting process. Further down the field, Rook's family members were collecting fruit closer to their home.
Taking a moment, Ben grinned as he wiped sweat from his brow and leaned against a harvesting tool. "I know we wanted to explore the universe, but this feels like the perfect vacation after defeating Maltruant," he said while waiting for Rook to finish plucking a fruit before continuing the conversation. "What kind of adventures do you think we'll encounter next?"
Rook chuckled softly and shrugged as he walked over to join Ben, gazing up at the sky pensively. "I'm not sure, but I hope it's something simple for starters," he admitted. "However, given your track record, I doubt our adventures will ever remain simple."
"Hey! It must not always be my fault...right?" Ben questioned aloud, stroking his chin thoughtfully as he grabbed an Amber Ogia fruit, placing it into a nearby basket. After a moment of reflection, his face fell in disappointment. "No, you are right… it does seem to end up being my fault most of the time…"
"What is always your fault?" A young voice chimed in, catching the attention of both Rook and Ben. They turned to see Rook's younger sister, Rook Shi, approaching them. Initially, her name had perplexed Ben, but he soon remembered that their culture placed their family name first and her given name was Shi. Usually, Shi would have received her name when her tail had fallen off; however, hers was still attached. This fact intrigued Ben but he knew it was best not to pry. Shi skipped toward them holding one of the harvested fruits in her hands, her curiosity piqued. "Also, what are you two discussing?"
"We were contemplating possible adventures Ben and I could embark on following the conclusion of the festival," Rook replied with a warm smile directed at his sister. However, to their surprise, she responded with a pout that left both Ben and Rook puzzled. Having limited interactions with her prior, Ben could not anticipate such a reaction from Shi. Concerned, Rook crouched down to her level and gently inquired, "What is troubling you?"
"I wish to join an adventure; I am the only one who has not," Shi explained with a pout while clutching the fruit tightly in her hand. As the only one among Rook's siblings who had never left their planet, she felt envious of even her youngest sibling who had ventured beyond its borders before her. Before Rook could respond to her plea for inclusion, Shi fixed him with wide-eyed puppy dog eyes that she knew her brother would find difficult to resist. "May I accompany you, please?"
"How about you discuss this possibility with our esteemed father and mother first, and perhaps, if they consent, we can include you in one adventure? Is that agreeable?" Rook suggested in his usual formal tone, unable to resist the pleading look in her eyes, and thus redirecting her request to their parents instead. The young girl's excitement was evident as she nodded vigorously before sprinting across the lush field towards their parents who were busily engaged in the harvest. Rook couldn't help but sigh, "I find it rather displeasing when she resolves matters in that manner."
Ben couldn't help letting out a light chuckle as he patted Rook reassuringly on the shoulder, "Hah! It appears not even someone as disciplined as you can elude those puppy-dog eyes!" Ben smirked before continuing optimistically, "Let’s hope my luck holds up and nothing dangerous happens before she gets to experience an adventure with us."
“While not always, a lot of the time you are involved in most essential things within this galaxy,” Professor Paradox appeared from behind the rock as if he was always there, surprising Rook at first while Ben just sighed figuring it was his fault for even mentioning anything. Paradox smiled at the two, “However current circumstances, it’s not your luck…but someone with the same amount of luck, so I’m sure you’d get along with them.”
“Does that mean something is happening that involves us…again?” Rook sighed with a smile, and he figured that maybe they would have time for a break, but evil never rests, “Is our universe in danger again?”
“While not always, quite often you find yourself entangled in the most crucial matters concerning this vast galaxy,” Professor Paradox materialized from behind a boulder, giving off his usual enigmatic aura, startling Rook while Ben just exhaled, blaming himself for bringing up the topic. Paradox grinned at them both, “Nevertheless, on this occasion, it’s not your good fortune at play… but rather that of someone with an equal share of luck. I'm certain you'd get along quite well.”
“Does that mean we are once more part of some significant event?” Rook asked in his measured tone, a resigned smile creeping onto his face. He had hoped for a chance to rest, but it seemed as though evil never took a break. “Is our universe facing another threat?”
“What he said, and also what do you mean by someone with the same luck as me? The only ones I know are my other versions…” Ben chimed in, his voice tinged with both curiosity and concern. Realization dawning upon him, he let out a deep sigh and bowed his head momentarily, pondering the implications. “So… which version of me is in trouble?”
“Oh no, quite the contrary,” Paradox clarified with an air of secrecy. “Although another universe is indeed involved, it’s drastically different from your own. Nonetheless, should anything go awry in either world, both our realities face imminent doom.” He spoke gravely as he strolled away from them towards the edge of a cliff overlooking an expansive landscape beyond. “This situation shares certain parallels with your meeting Rex; however – two crucial distinctions exist: firstly, a key individual will require your full attention – one who wields an Omnitrix bestowed upon by Azmuth.”
Ben raised his eyebrows and muttered dryly, “Why am I not surprised? Azmuth’s handiwork tends to have far-reaching consequences. It must mean he's found a way to interact with both universes simultaneously.” Having gained wisdom and insight over the years, Ben put the pieces together and concluded, “So, this new Omnitrix user needs a mentor – one like me.”
"Excellent observation, Ben. You're already demonstrating why you're the ideal candidate for a teacher," Professor Paradox remarked, his grin wide and winking playfully at Rook, who appeared dubious about Ben's potential as an effective instructor. Professor Paradox reached into his coat pocket, producing a photograph which he handed to the duo. "Her name is Cosmia. Her last name remains a mystery known only to her, so you'll have to earn her trust if you want that information."
As they examined the photograph, it revealed a teenage girl around Ben's age and slightly shorter in height. She had short, shoulder-length brown hair peppered with freckles, and striking green eyes. The young girl wore a uniform bearing an emblem reminiscent of an eagle and the initials S.H.I.E.L.D., suggestive of a different version of the Plumbers.
Rook analyzed the picture with his keen detective eye before commenting, “From her attire, Cosmia appears to be affiliated with a specific group.” Memorizing her appearance for future reference, Rook noticed something odd. “When did she acquire the Omnitrix? It’s absent in this photo.”
Ben contemplated as he slipped the photo into his pocket when Paradox made no move to reclaim it. "It must be a recent development if I'm meant to teach her. If she had it since we were ten, she'd potentially possess knowledge comparable to mine." He couldn't shake off his lingering feeling that there might be a catch to their mission. "What's the second thing we need to know?"
Paradox's tone grew more serious as he shared crucial information. "Due to the complexities of interdimensional travel, sending you both to the other universe will require substantial energy which Azmuth is currently generating. However, this also means it'll take significant time before you can return." He allowed them to grasp the magnitude of their commitment before continuing, "You will remain there for several years. I suggest you say your farewells while you have the chance." Professor Paradox glanced past Rook's shoulder to his family, and Rook understood, walking over to express his heartfelt goodbyes.
"What about me? Are Gwen and Kevin joining us too?" Ben inquired, his voice laced with curiosity. Whenever he had to leave for an extended period, Paradox would typically facilitate communication to keep them in the loop. Ben cautiously set down the harvesting tool, ensuring it wouldn't be damaged if his family needed to retrieve it once Paradox warped them to Azmuth's location.
"Indeed, Gwen and Kevin will accompany you on this adventure. Unfortunately, Max must remain here as a stabilizing force to prevent the universe from collapsing," Paradox affirmed, shedding light on Gwen and Kevin's involvement and Max's crucial role. Ben let out a soft sigh of disappointment; he knew eventually he'd have to face challenges without Grandpa Max. "Oh dear..." Paradox muttered under his breath, staring past Ben with concern in his eyes. Following Paradox's gaze, Ben noticed that while Rook's family appeared somber but accepting of the situation, Shi dashed off in tears, "I anticipated this outcome, yet it remains heartbreaking nonetheless."
Rook seemed inclined to chase after his sister, but restrained himself, recognizing that she likely needed time to process everything. Silently praying that she wouldn't retreat into seclusion during his absence, Rook bid farewell to the rest of his family before regrouping with Ben and Paradox. "So... when do we depart?" Rook asked cautiously, his voice a mix of anticipation and anxiety.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
[Azmuth’s Ship]
In the spacious chamber, shimmering sparks flew from a control panel while Azmuth meticulously worked on the device, wearing protective goggles. It was this very device that Paradox had alluded to before he set off to gather the group destined for a journey across dimensions. At first glance, it seemed insignificant, but instead of exploring alternate versions of their own world, the group would venture into a universe where none of them existed. Shortly after, Ben and his partner Rook materialized within the chamber in a brilliant flash of light, a courtesy extended by Paradox.
"Aww man! I thought we'd get to use the Proto-TRUK," Ben lamented as he took in their surroundings. He immediately spotted Azmuth through the chamber's glass structure and waved at the Galvan scientist. "Hey, Azmuth! Good to see you again! So, um...I thought we were headed straight for your lab. Why are we in this chamber instead?"
"I theorize that it is to prevent you from carelessly wandering and potentially meddling with sensitive equipment," Rook replied with a faint smirk as he observed Ben try to swallow his disappointment. His eyes scanned the lab through the glass partition, curiosity piqued by unfamiliar devices. "However, I must admit that my own curiosity has been triggered as several devices here are previously unknown to me."
"In due course, you shall be enlightened on their functions either prior to your departure from here or during your sojourn in the alternate universe," Azmuth replied with an air of authority as he completed his work on the control panel. He activated a switch beneath the panel with his foot, maneuvering his chair towards a large screen adjacent to the chamber. "In any case, we must await the arrival of your companions before initiating the trans-dimensional journey."
"I presume Paradox has been informing them of the same matters he discussed with us," Ben said, arms crossed, as he and Rook approached the glass panel. Observing the screen, they noticed three familiar alien transformations displayed on it. "Interesting, XLR8, Grey Matter, and Astrodactyl? They look more feminine though… Could these be Cosmia's transformations?"
"It is a possibility, as they each possess an emblem resembling the Omnitrix on their bodies," Rook responded with a nod while examining the images.
In the simulation, Cosmia appeared as XLR8 speeding and dashing along an illuminated pathway, seemingly part of a training exercise. Invisible arrows were launched at her non-lethally as she darted around like a blue blur. Eventually, she halted and revealed a paint-covered arrow clasped in her hand. In another scene, Cosmia assumed her Astrodactyl form as she attempted to lift an unseen object by exerting copious amounts of energy. Suddenly blasted off her feet by an unexpected energy beam from her mouth, she slammed onto the ground.
"Hey, hold on," Ben realized something and pointed accusingly at Azmuth, "I get XLR8 and Grey Matter being accessible to her, but Astrodactyl? I only unlocked that alien after years! Why does she have access right now?”
Azmuth casually explained with a smug expression and a soft chuckle without taking his eyes off the screen as his fingers danced across the keyboard. "Although several transformations are identical to those you obtained when you first acquired the Omnitrix at age ten, I chose to provide her with a different selection given that she is currently approximately the same age as you." The sound of Ben's frustrated groan filled the room while Rook simply chuckled at his friend's misfortune. Briefly glancing over his shoulder at the pair before returning his attention to the screen, Azmuth added, "And no, I will not reveal any other transformations she possesses. You must discover those on your own."
Soon, within another flash of light, Kevin and Gwen also appeared in the glass chamber with Ben and Rook, also lacking Kevin’s car, which would fit the four of them, but guess it wasn’t their vehicle of choice either. It took them a moment to realize where they were before walking over to the two of them, Gwen speaking up first, “So glad I finished my course at college before this happened as I heard we’re going over for a few years…”
In another brilliant flash of light, Kevin and Gwen materialized inside the glass chamber alongside Ben and Rook. Though they were all together now, Kevin's car - which could have comfortably carried the four of them - was nowhere in sight. It seemed that it wasn't their preferred mode of transportation this time.
As they adjusted to their new surroundings, it took them a moment to recognize where they were. Gwen approached Ben and Rook first, her voice full of relief. "I'm so glad I completed my college course before this whole thing started. I hear we'll be away for quite a few years."
Kevin grumbled in agreement, clearly disappointed about leaving his prized possession behind. "It really sucks that I can't bring my car along. It would have been amazing to have it with us." Receiving a disapproving glance from Gwen, he quickly changed his focus. "But honestly, I'm more concerned about Zed's well-being. Who's going to take care of her while we're gone?"
Attempting to ease Kevin's worries, Ben chimed in, "I'm sure either Azmuth or Grandpa Max will look after Zed - probably Grandpa, though." His reassurance seemed to work as Kevin nodded along.
Rook stroked his chin thoughtfully before addressing the group with his usual formality, "How will we travel once we are at our destination? If they do not provide some means of transportation for us, we shall be walking."
Gwen suddenly felt a surge of anxiety as she considered their situation. "So no Kevin's car...no Rook's ship..." She hesitated as fear crept up her spine, mirroring the growing apprehension on Ben's face. Both Rook and Kevin merely exchanged puzzled shrugs.
"And they mentioned that Grandpa Max will be seeing us off here..." Gwen trailed off with a sinking feeling.
An alarmed Kevin jumped to the unwanted conclusion, "You mean we're going to be stuck traveling in the Rust Bucket?" Unbeknownst to them, Azmuth smirked on the other side of the glass, delighting in their predicament.
As though anticipating the cue, the Rust Bucket materialized within the chamber, its wheels screeching as they made contact with the ground. The vehicle quivered ever so slightly upon landing. Simultaneously, outside the chamber, Grandpa Max appeared alongside Paradox and Azmuth, his face a mixture of worry and concern with a tinge of pride.
"Kids!" Max beamed, waving enthusiastically at them as he drew closer to the glass barrier. Paradox casually strode over to where the control panel was positioned.
"Grandpa Max!" Ben and Gwen grinned as they neared the glass to welcome and bid adieu to him for the coming years. Kevin and Rook respectfully hung back together.
Wearing a warm smile, Max addressed Ben first, "I'll be concerned about what might transpire over there since even I've never come across it before. However, I know they couldn't be in better hands with your assistance. Particularly you, Ben—make sure you teach Cosmia to the best of your capacity." Turning to Gwen next, he continued, "And I'm confident that you'll safeguard everyone so that all of you return home unscathed. I trust you'll both make me proud."
"I will not disappoint you, Grandpa!" Ben asserted confidently, placing a hand against the glass as Grandpa mirrored his gesture on the other end. Gwen followed suit, "I will ensure our well-being when we return home."
Grandpa Max's smile broadened before briefly glancing up at Rook and Kevin who were still maintaining their distance. "Rook, Kevin—look after my grandchildren, won't you?"
"We shall certainly do so, sir," Kevin affably agreed as Rook nodded in confirmation.
"Once we initiate this process, there will be no turning back. I will no longer be able to transport you back, as I am also investing my energy into the machine," warned Paradox. They exchanged a glance before nodding in unison. Azmuth proceeded to activate the machine from his control panel. A soft glow emanated from the chamber along with a steady hum. "Alright, then. Here we go," announced Paradox, inserting his mechanical hand into a slot on the panel. Energy surged through him, securing him into position and he added, "Please ensure all five of you return unharmed."
The mention of a fifth person instantly jolted all four of them with tension and concern because they were just four in the chamber – or perhaps one invisible being was present among them. However, they received no clarification on this mysterious statement from Paradox.
Suddenly, the door to the Rust Bucket swung open revealing Rook's bewildered sister Shi who stumbled upon them unexpectedly. Immensely perplexed by her sudden arrival, yet unable to move due to the surging energy from Paradox anchoring them in place; they braced themselves for what would come next.
A brilliant flash of light filled the entire chamber before its occupants were abruptly whisked away.
Outraged and anxious for their safety, Grandpa Max swiftly grabbed Paradox by his shirt collar while Azmuth perched menacingly on Max's shoulder. Both stared furiously at the time traveler demanding an explanation: "What have you done?!"
Paradox replied calmly and cryptically: "What was necessary."