Here it is people! The final chapter of the exploration arc. Man this lasted one chapter longer than I had intended but now we've reached the finale. I hope you enjoy this arc end as it was quite tricky for me to work on. When I started this I wasn't sure about it at first but now I'm glad it's worked out. Anyway with this being the final chapter of the arc I've chosen to close the poll now. It's been decided by the voters with the majority choosing Yes to having Ben reveal new forms based on alien form other shows. I hope you enjoy when that time comes.

There will be an important message after the chapter.

The Past Resurfaces part 5

Ben couldn't believe he was looking at Azmuth's sword. He had thought the sword was still out of his reach in Vilgax's clutches and yet there it was before him. So many questions ran through his mind about what this meant. The fact it was here in this castle indicated that it was here for a long while. Simmons thought it was the sword of Excalibur but he knew differently. After all there was no mistaking the first thinker's creation. The metal it was forged from was still as spotless as the day it was forged. The swords design nearly identical to how he remembered it. The slight tension felt in the air unmistakably coming from the powers of Daigon that resided withing in. Even after all this time he still remembered it well. However, his mind then began to ponder on this discovery and the implications that came with it.

Did this mean that the sword somehow ended up in the past and historically replaced the real Excalibur with it. Was the real sword of legend never forged as a result? These unanswered questions ran through his brain with no one to provide answers. Regardless however he knew one thing, that he couldn't let the sword fall in sorceress hands.

He walked to the imbedded sword and saw a message carved into the stone that held it.

Whoso pulleth out this sword from its resting place, shall prove themselves king. Only those with courage and conviction may prove worthy to claim it. Only by accepted terms may it change hands to those who need it.

"Huh, that's different from what I saw in Disney's Sword in the Stone." Ben pondered in an afterthought before turning to Simmons as another thought occurred to him. "Did you try pulling the sword out?"

"I did… though I couldn't lift it." Simmons said a bit dejectedly before chuckling as she joked. "I guess now I know I'm not qualified to be a queen after all."

At hearing that Ben got a confused look. "That means the sword has somehow been altered with a safeguard to prevent just anyone from using it." He then got a small smile as he answered her. "Hey no sense in replacing Queen Elizabeth when she's still got a few years left in her. Besides I'm sure you'd make a better Prime Minister than queen." Ben said in good humor at her.

"Well why don't you see if you can pull it free?" Simmons remarked.

At hearing that Ben got an unsure look as his mind flashed back to his teenage years.

Recalling a previous case where Kai's grandfather was captured by the Forever Knights. The alien hating organization had been searching for the legendary sword of Excalibur to use as a weapon. He and Rook had joined up with Kai and attempted to rescue her grandfather but ended up captured. They found the sword hidden in a secret underwater vault. The current Forever King had tried to pull the sword out but couldn't even with a serum he took to enhance his strength. That was when he threatened Ben into pulling the sword out for him. He attempted to do so only to find out he also couldn't lift the sword, apparently also being found unworthy. This angered the Forever King which lead to a fight that Ben's team managed to win and come out on top. Two years later Kai would return for it and reveal she was worthy of it when she lifted it. It became her signature weapon since then and many crooks fell to her.

"I don't think I'm worthy either Simmons." Ben said as if he were sure of it.

Simmons blinked. "You haven't even tried yet, why the doubt?"

From what she had seen of Ben so far, he appeared to be a man with confidence, courage and a sense of humor. Now however he seemed to be showing doubt for some reason. That didn't seem like him.

Ben shook his head and got a determined expression. "Yeah, your right."

With that Ben walked towards the sword and reached out to grab it. He stopped just a few inches from it as his mind thought about how he had changed since his teenage years.

He had grown up a lot since then. Not just physically but also mentally as well. Grandpa Max and even Gwen remarked sometimes on how surprised they were about his new maturity. Although that didn't mean he had completely lost his mischief childlike qualities. As evidenced from his pranking at Shield he still retained some of those personality traits. Nevertheless, he also has his seriousness when it's needed, commitment to doing good all the way and more. His ego and arrogance which had some issues in his past was now resolved. He had confidence when facing enemies but was never overconfident anymore. He might make jokes during fights but that was to mess with his enemy's focus. The years that passed have given him new understanding and appreciation of things. He liked to think such thoughts made him a much better person as well.

"Still, the question remains on if I have become worthy." Ben thought to himself as he looked at the sword he once wielded in the past. The sword which apparently now required worthy people to wield it. He idly wondered if the safeguard that was placed is the same one from the Excalibur from his universe.

"Are you going to try or just keep staring at it all day?" Simmons asked breaking Ben out of his thoughts.

Silently he gripped the sword with one hand first. That was when he felt a spark of power course through his entire body before vanishing. The sensation only lasted for an instant, but it left an unforgettable impression on Ben. He recalled this sensation the last time he wielded the sword. However, he also felt that something was off. The power he felt wasn't the same, there was something missing. It still felt as powerful as last time, but it was like something had changed. The startling sensation made him release his grip.

"Are you ok?" Simmons asked when she saw Ben get a slightly startled look.

Ben turned to her. "You said you tried lifting it right?"

"Yeah why?" The scientist not getting why he was asking.

"Did you feel anything when you touched it?" Ben questioned.

"What do you mean?" Simmons confusingly asked.

"So it's just me." Ben analyzed before turning to the sword again.

The alien hero once again gripped the sword, this time with both hands. The sensation he felt the first time not manifesting again for some reason. He then proceeded to try and pull the sword up.

The sword however didn't budge even by a micro inch. It felt like he was trying to lift a ships anchor. However, he wasn't giving up as he began to pull harder on the imbedded weapon. His teeth were almost gritting as veins could be seen on his arms from the stress they were enduring. Even a vein formed on his forehead as he developed a struggling expression from his efforts.

"Ben, I don't think it's going to come out." Simmons said in slight disappointment having thought maybe a superhero could pull the sword out. Then again it did say it required someone with qualities of a king. That's something one doesn't easily possess despite their good intentions.

Ben however didn't answer her as he continued pulling at the sword. His mind was concentrating but it wasn't just on the sword but the Gargoyles, Camelot and Le Fay.

"I can't fail them again!" Ben mentally thought to himself. "I have to defeat Morgan Le Fay to save not just Simmons but the Gargoyles and this kingdom they've protected. I can't let that witch get her hands on his place. I don't know what she'll do with it, but she's clearly proven she doesn't deserve this place!"

Unknown to Ben and Simmons was that small cracks began to form on the stone. They were emitting from the swords implanted spot as if the blade was expanding.

The Omnitrix wielder continued to try pulling the sword out. His body filled with the determination to save those the sorceress wronged. He didn't care if she already defeated him once or if he couldn't take her down in their second match. Giving up was not an option and he was going to keep facing her no matter what. Because that's what a hero does and it's what he will always do now and forever even if he dies.

Simmons was about the tell Ben to stop since he clearly wasn't going to pull the sword free either. That's what she was going to do when she froze before uttering her first word. The reason for that was because she saw the sword seem to get a bit brighter. It wasn't by much as the blade seemed to go from a stainless steel to a silver color that had a small shine to it. That was when she and Ben began to feel a slight trembling in the room as if an aftershock was occurring.

That was when they both heard loud cracks as the large stone began to crumble.

Simmons found herself frozen in awe at what she was seeing as Ben continued attempting to free the sword. The Omnitrix hero continued pulling the sword. He ignored the pain felt in his arms from the strain of his muscles slight tearing from the exertion. His mind and body sorely focused and determined on the task. Azmuth's sword then began to finally rise from its slumber.

"He's actually doing it." Simmons thought in amazement.

Ben felt the upward shift from the blade and began to pull even harder. He had felt the weapon suddenly decrease in weight by just a bit when it budged. He continued pulling and yanking as the blade began to rise one more. As it did the weapon began to develop a glow as every inch it rose made the light intensify like a lightbulb with increasing watts.

A few seconds later the entire room was flooded by a bright light as if from a nuclear bombs flare.

"Where are you!" The sorceress yelled in impatience, almost at her wits end.

After the shapeshifter eluded death from her again thanks to a distraction she had searched the castle. She swore she must've searched all the rooms. So, either they were somehow moving and constantly hiding from her or they snuck outside the castle. Although she doubted the latter was true. Her opponent had made it clear he wasn't going to abandon the Gargoyles to their fate.

That was when she got the thought that perhaps they were moving through secret passages in the castle. With that in mind she had searched for hidden rooms to search for them. So far, she had found a secret escape tunnel, safe room and even an armory but no sign of her prey.

She had grown tired of this resistance. She should've already claimed this castle and begun the next phase of her plans. Instead she was searching for her elusive enemy. It was during these moments she wished she could summon her minions to do this meager work for her. Regrettably however she couldn't due to Merlin's spell preventing her. She could've taken that spell down of course but it would've required too much time and energy. Which would no doubt leave her more vulnerable for the shapeshifter to strike. As such it was better to dispose of him first and then work on undoing Merlin's spells.

The sorceress flew out of another secret passage which turned out to just connect to the escape tunnel she first found.

"When I find them, they shall experience an entire new realm of pain unlike anything seen in the world before." Le Fay remarked as she turned to head for another part of the castle to find other possible hidden chambers. She turned a corner which lead to another room.

Her search however was interrupted when a blast of emerald energy suddenly struck her in the abdomen.

"ARRRGHHH!" Le Fay user cried out in pain as she was blown back and into a wall where she fell to the ground.

"Look no further for here I am, you witch." A familiar voice spoke out.

The sorceress looked up to see her attacker. Only for her eyes to widen in alarm at what she saw.

Before her stood the one who she knew had to be the shapeshifting mortal. His appearance however was different once more. Only this time he wasn't in the form of some strange looking creature. Instead he was now seemingly in human form and wearing a silver colored suit of armor that looked newly made. The armor also had green lining running over it and black patches were seen that seemed to indicate he was wearing a full body black suit underneath. He wore a helmet with a green visor that had an opening showing his jaw which was the only part of his body not covered up. Strangely however his armor and helmet also seemed to incorporate traits from a Japanese Shogun. The helmet had three spikes which sprouted up forming a trident like shape to it. There was shoulder armor that looked multi layered and there were also thigh guards and covers. He looked like a strange mix of a knight and samurai or shogun. However it wasn't the armor that had the sorceress in alarm but the sword he held in hand which glowed with power.

The sorceress recognized that sword. How could she not when it was her wretched brothers prized weapon. The one he used to lead people together in his kingdom. As well as defeat her in battle once before… Excalibur.

"What's the matter, you look like you've seen a ghost?" Ben said with a clear taunt in his voice.

The woman from the dark ages stood back up and gave a hateful glare as she looked in disbelief. "You… that sword… how are you wielding it…?" she questioned in denial at what it must've meant.

"By almost having my arms pulled out of their sockets that's how." Ben said sarcastically, avoiding a clear answer. He then pointed the sword at her. "Now if you don't mind, I believe it's time we got on with the third and final round." The sword began to light up with energy. "Only this time there will be a clear decisive winner and you can bet… it… won't… be… YOU!" he yelled the last part before he swung the sword down on the ground.

A large burst of emerald energy erupted from the blade and went straight at the sorceress. Le Fay brought her hands up and raised a shield to intercept the attack. The blast struck the shield like a flooding tide to a wall. Her defenses instantly struggled to hold the line as it felt like she was trying to hold back a flood with a wooden dam. The comparison soon yielded the expected result when her shield shattered. The blast consumed her and sent her crashing right through the wall behind her. A yell of pain came from her as she skids on the ground a bit when she hit it.

The sorceress grits her teeth as she pulled herself up despite the soreness her body felt after that attack. She looked up only for her eyes to widen when she saw the hole in the wall. Not only that but there was also a large fissure on the ground from where Ben struck the ground with the sword. The same wall and ground that had been protected by Merlin's enchantment were now showing damages. It seemed Excalibur's power was greater than the castle's defenses.

"Hmm seems I went a little overboard with that one." Ben said breaking the sorceress thought as he walked through the hole he made. "I guess I should reel it in a bit to avoid damaging this place."

Le Fay now knew she was in trouble. With that sword in his possession this mortal had a dangerous power under his command. A power ancient like her and one that had triumphed over her once in the past. She shook her mind of the growing terror as she reminded herself of two important factors. This mortal may have Excalibur, but he lacked her brothers experience in using it. Not only that but his knowledge in its full capabilities must also be limited. So she needs to play off those weaknesses and he will be the one to fall.

"You may have Excalibur but even with it, I won't fall to the likes of you." The millennium old woman said in defiance as she raised herself up and took a fighting stance as her magic poured from her hands.

"We shall see about that." Ben challenged before pointing the sword down. "But not in here. I would hate to risk damaging this place any further. So let's take this outside where we first started." He said before he tapped the sword on the ground ever so gently.

Before the sorceress could react the two of them were enveloped in a sphere of white energy as they disappeared.

Outside the castle in the middle of the village the two combatants reappeared. The witch being surprised he was able to teleport them outside. It seemed he had already learned how to do a few tricks with the blade. At least they were outside where she would have more maneuverability in flight. As it was proven she had overcome him easier out here than inside where she couldn't even teleport. Now she just had to dispose of him and then her victory would finally be complete. Not only will the kingdom belong to her but also her brothers prized sword as well. It will make a most spectacular trophy when she gained her true objective.

"Le Fay." The alien user called out breaking her train of thought as she looked to him. "I'm going to give you this chance to avoid more harm. If you return the gargoyles back to normal, I shall allow you to leave this place."

"You insult me by thinking you're in control and the fact your trying for a peaceful solution despite gaining more power only proves your inferiority." She spat out.

The Omnitrix hero shook his head almost disappointedly. "Too bad, I would've preferred to solve this matter peacefully, but you've made your choice." He then slowly raised the sword. "Now you face the consequences!"

With that Ben struck the ground and fired another massive wave of energy across the ground. The concentration of energy tearing across the ground as it headed for her. However, this time his opponent was ready as she simply rose to the air and easily avoided the attack. She then proceeded to swing her energized hands before the ground shook and large tentacle like arms made of stone burst forth. The stone like limbs swarmed towards Ben who brought the sword up and ran at them. He then proceeded to hack and slash the vines with efficient skill while also dodging them as well.

Le Fay was partly surprised by this display of swordsmanship. "So it seems you have some skill wielding a sword."

"You'll see I'm full of many surprises." Ben remarked.

Truthfully however he didn't gain his swordsmanship skills the way she thinks. He gained them through practice using Diamondhead to create crystal sabers. The first time he wielded a sword was back when he was 10. It was when he and Gwen were sucked into his Sumo Slammers video game due to getting struck by lightning. He found a sword for a weapon while Gwen got a large shuriken type weapon that worked like a boomerang also. Ever since that day he has had some practice using a sword and sparing against others skilled in the art. Of course, without a proper teacher he was far from a master swordsman but then again, he wasn't an amateur either.

"It still won't save you." The millennium old woman said before creating a raging storm above her that shot multiple bolts of lightning at him.

Ben braced himself knowing he couldn't block it in time. The bolts struck him and made him grit his teeth in pain. His armor thankfully providing protection as his skin wasn't charred. At best his nerves felt like one big cramp and slightly twitchy. He looked up at the flying witch.

"That stung, but so will this!" He said before aiming his sword at the storm clouds and spinning his arm around. The sword lit up before the clouds seemed to be pulled into a vortex as they descended towards Ben. They began to swirl like a whirlpool before a twister formed around the blade. Not only that but there were also rapid sparks of lightning emitting from it. "What out for today's forecast, witch!" Ben called out before he hurled the twister towards her.

The raging gale force winds of the vortex approached the sorceress. The woman instantly felt the vacuum pull of it trying to drag her into its spinning clutches. She concentrated on the twister as it contained her magic and after a struggle managed to will it to dissipate. With that gone she resumed her attack, this time changing tactics as she recited a spell before the grounds shook beneath Ben's feet. Three columns of earth arose before they began to undergo a metamorphosis of some kind.

The columns began to smooth out and harden as it looked like polished brown marble. They then developed segments that made it look like it they had grown scales. The tops of each one split in the middle, separating as mouths filled with sharp teeth formed on them. A pair of holes formed, each on what soon became serpent like heads. Two devilish horns sprouted from each of their heads aimed forward like a triceratops. The ends of their tails were like a rattle snakes except there were multiple spikes sticking out from it. Their bodies becoming

In no time the three serpent-like creatures turned their attention to Ben.

"Let's see how you fare against these creatures." The sorceress challenged while looking down.

"What's the matter Le Fay, afraid to face me by yourself?" Ben mockingly questioned her sudden change in tactics.

"A ruler always has those serving under them." She simply replied before ordering her beasts to attack.

One of the serpents soared at Ben with its mouth open intending to devour him. The sword wielder jumped to the side to avoid it before the serpent swiped at him with its spiky tail. The hit causing Ben to slide backwards on the ground from his back. He quickly got up and rolled to the side just in time to avoid the second serpents mouth eating him. Ben countered by immediately channeling power into his sword. He then unleashed a large crescent shaped blast of energy as thin as a chainsaw. The crescent energy sliced through the serpent's neck like a knife through butter. Decapitating it as the head and body fell to the ground separately.

Not wasting a moment, he then gathered more power before he swung the sword again. This time in a downward slash instead of sideways. Another crescent shot being fired as it headed for the other two snakes. The twin serpents scattered to avoid their companions' fate as the attack sailed past them.

"Tch missed." Ben said annoyingly before getting ready to try again.

A sound of rumbling stopped him however when he turned to see the decapitated serpents body rise. The headless part began to look like it was bubbling before a new head sprang out. The now restored serpent hissed before turning to look at its decapitator with an angry expression.

Ben groaned seeing this, knowing he was back to square one again. His annoyance soon turned to panic when the revived serpent reared its head back and unleashed scorching hot fire.

"Oh, come on!" Ben said while running for cover "You're a snake not a dragon!" he then turned to look at the horns on its head. "Unless you're a flightless dragon which is lame if you ask me."

He quickly ran for cover but saw none, so he raised the sword and struck the ground. A giant dome formed around him and hid the hero from sight. The three serpents wasted no time in bombarding it with their flaming breaths. The dome holding out but heating up as a result. Inside the dome Ben was pondering his next move. He looked at the sword and felt his mind wander.

This was the second time he was holding Azmuth's sword. The last time more than 10 years ago when Vilgax absorbed Diagon's powers into himself. He had become an almost omni-level being. Naturally, he had won when he used the sword to drain away all the power gained from Daigon. He of course recalled his moment of temptation to use all that power to remake earth into a paradise. It would've been so easy; a simple thought of action would've made it became a reality. The world would have become a place devoid of all forms of pain and suffering. However, despite all this power, despite all the good he had done as a hero and proving his worth. Ben knew that he was no god, as such he did not have the right to force his will on others. So, it was with this decision he simple restored earth to normal and returned the sword to its rightful owner Azmuth.

Now he finds himself with the sword once more against a powerful adversary. A sense of worry running through his mind. He has not had much experience using the sword besides that one time. The swords past where it had caused a planets complete and utter destruction ran through his mind. He knew if he wasn't careful with how much power he unleashed he might cause harm to the planet. However he also knew he wouldn't be able to win this fight if he kept using kid gloves. It was time he removed some restraints and showed them why this sword was to be awed and feared.

The three serpents continued to burn the dome of earth as it was now colored red and yellow form all the heat. They were almost through when suddenly the dome exploded in a flash of green light shinning like a star.

In the center of a newly made crater was Ben, his whole body and armor glowing with a green aura. Even his eyes were completely flashing green with energy. The sword wielder looked to the three serpents before he raised the blade and then swing it forward. What happened next was a colossal burst of energy shooting out of the tip of the blade. The attack was so huge and wide it was like a tidal wave as it enveloped the serpent completely. The stone reptile hissed in agony as its body crumbled almost instantly before it was seemingly reduced to atoms.

The remaining two serpents and even the sorceress were stunned by the power displayed. Taking advantage of their stunned expressions Ben unleashed a second wave of energy that consumed the two before they could react. Their bodies disintegrating to dust particles and leaving Ben once again alone with Le Fay.

"Just you and me again." Ben remarked. "Unless you'd like to continue hiding behind more of your creative minions like a coward, oh great mistress of magic." He added for insult.

As she heard that Le Fay scowled at him with clear contempt in her eyes. "You have been a thorn in my side for long enough mortal. Never before have I ever faced one so irritable as you."

"Thanks, I try my best." Ben interrupted with a smirk.

At that the millennium old sorceress had it up to hear with him. "I've had enough of you and is time I sent you to the afterlife and rid myself of you once and for all!"

All at once Le Fay's body light up with a flaming golden energy as even her eyes glowed. That was when her body began to change when she showed her mouth had suddenly become full of sharp teeth. Her eyes had become devoid of pupils as her body started growing larger. Her smooth skin became pitch black, fingernails grew longer and pointier, her neck extending in length. Her long hair seemingly regressing in her skull as it began to reshape itself. The cloths she wore disappeared exposing her nude body although it mattered little since it was no longer human at this point. Her breasts flattened into a hard-scaly chest while her anatomy had disappeared. The whites of her eyes became a pale yellow as Ben could only continue to look on in shock and slight horror at her transformation. A tail and pair of wings ruptured from withing her as it completed her change.

Before Ben now stood a black dragon that had to be close to 80 feet tall from head to toe. Its wingspan being over 200 feet wide as it looked like it could block out the sun if it were in the air. The beast then turned its gaze downward towards Ben with a look that showed anger and hunger. Her mouth almost snarling as she showed her teeth.

The omnitrix wielder blinked almost awkwardly. "Oooook… I'll admit I certainly wasn't expecting that. So… is this what you really look like or is this form just for those you really despise?"

She didn't answer other than roaring before literally exhaling a giant blast of flaming golden energy at the hero. The flames larger than even Ultimate Swampfires own.

Ben was startled for only a moment before he brought his sword in front of him. A barrier manifested as a transparent green dome shielding him from the flames. When Le Fay stopped her attack, Ben took the chance to drop the shield and fire a blast of energy in return. With a quick movement however, the black dragon avoided it by quickly lowering her body, so she stood on all fours. She saw him prepare to fire again but reacted first by flapping her large wings at him. A powerful gust of wind was created that made Ben stagger backwards his second blast overshot. Instead his attack went right to the ceiling and caused the structure to partially collapse as stalagmites fell from above.

Le Fay saw this and quickly flapped her extended wings and took to the sky avoiding impalement. Ben however simple destroyed any that would've fallen close to him. With his opponent now airborne he knew it would be a bit trickier to bring her down. Although given her current form she certainly presented an easier target.

Speaking of whom she flew around to come back at him. As she soared towards him, she then immediately unleashed her magical flames again. This time scorching the ground in an inferno as the flames swept towards Ben. Seeing this he spun the sword around over his head and encircled himself in a sandstorm twister he raised. The twister of sand blocked and repelled the flames as well as forcing Le Fay to alter her course to avoid hitting the vortex.

The large dragon circled around and waited for an opening. She found it when the vortex began to dissipate. She halted herself in the air and reared her head back a bit before charging up an attack. When the twister was nearly gone, she immediately unleashed a concentrated burst of magic almost like a laser.

However unknown to her was that Ben had seen her even through the dissipating sand twister. He charged up his own attack and fired it right after she fired her own. His own blast bursting through the remains of the vortex as it met hers head on. The two high powered colliding blasts created a large sphere of energy with one halve green and the other yellow. The opposing forces increased in tension and energy output as the ground shook. Neither side gave an inch both combatants increased their energy output. The shift in energy was the final straw as the sphere of energy exploded. The force of the explosion blew both combatants away. Ben was blown back through the wall of a house while Le Fay came crashing down on the ground.

"Urghhh." Ben groaned as he got up and walked out of the house he was blown through.

He looked ahead to see Le Fay roll herself back her belly before standing up. Shaking her head, a bit to clear the spots that blurred her vision, the black dragon hissed at him.

"You know you can get sued by Disney for copying Maleficent!" Ben yelled out for her to hear before he got a puzzled expression as another thought popped into his mind. "Then again considering your more than 15 times the age of Walter and Roy maybe it's you who should sue for copyright infringement. You could net a fortune and then maybe buy or pay someone to build you a bigger castle and forget all about Camelot. Unless of course you're not actually the one and only female sorceress who can turn into a dragon. If that's the case then you don't own sole custody of those rights and therefore…"

"Does your tongue ever cease being insolent." The sorceress turned dragon interrupted him with annoyance.

"Ok first of all its rude to interrupt someone and second that usually depends who I'm fighting." Ben said before Le Fay was back at him again as she soared back into the air. "Time for me to even the playing field."

With that he raised the sword and channeled its energy around him. His body enveloped in a faint green aura before his body rose off the ground.

"Ha it actually worked." Ben rejoiced at having gotten it right on his first try. At least that's one thing he's got down quickly. He knew how he can beat the sorceress turned dragon, only thing is that he needs to get much closer.

The now floating hero in armor flew at the dragon who also took to the air. The two combatants soared above the ground as they faced off once again. He was on the run as Le Fay chased after him close behind. Ben turned and fired a beam from his sword aiming for his opponent's wings to ground her. Le Fay however saw it and tilted her body a bit making the blast pass harmlessly under her wing. She then opened her jaws and fired a large burst of energy at him.

Ben quickly flew straight down at the ground avoiding the large attack before his feet hit the ground. That wasn't the end however as he bent his knees before jumping back into the air. This time at a faster speed as he aimed to stab his sword into her. With a slight panic Le Fay flapped her wings moving her body backwards and narrowly avoiding getting stabbed in the neck.

"Close mortal but not close enough!" She said before swinging her long tail and swatting Ben from the sky.

The armored hero was sent back down and crashed straight through the roof of a home. Seeing him inside a confined space she wasted no time in quickly firing a large sphere of energy at the structure. The blast exploding with ferocity upon impact as if an airstrike hit the small house. Fire burned as it consumed the area and black smoke rose to the air partially obscuring view. The sorceress looked for a moment before deciding to strike again for good measure. She charged up another attack aiming to hit the same spot. The sorceress reared her head back before launching it forward to fire her attack.

Before she fired a powerful blast emerged from the smoke heading right for her. The attack moving faster as it struck her own before the two caused another explosive reaction. This time however the detonation had occurred much closer to the sorceress turned dragon. The two attacks collided when it was only a few short meters away from her. She roared in slight pain as she was blown back a bit. The dragon shook her head as her vision was blurry after that explosion happened close to her face. Her sight switching from clear to distorted as she tried regaining her focus. She soon however saw Ben soaring out of the smog and heading right for her again.

Knowing she needed a little more time to fix herself the black dragon flapped her wings at him. The two large limbs created a strong gust of wind like the kind you'd experience before a hurricane arrived. The fierce winds slowed Ben's approach as he was forced to shield his eyes for a moment to avoid getting picked up sand in them. He quickly resolved that however by lowering his helmets visor to cover his eyes. With that done he forced his way through while slowly regaining some acceleration.

Le Fay tugged in her wings in response the way the Gargoyles were before waking up. As Ben closed in he wondered what she was up to now. The black dragons body then began to light up with energy as it seemed to concentrate in her torso. Only then did Bens eyes widen in alarm knowing what she must've been doing. Too little too late however as she let out a savage roar and quickly expanded her wings. From out of her body came a colossal sized burst of power that erupted from her like an explosion. The burst came forth in the shape of a sphere that contained her body inside before it rapidly expanded outward.

There was no way for Ben to evade this attack as he was struck hard and he let out his own scream of pain. For the third time he fell back down to the ground. His body aching this time as his muscles all felt like one big cramp.

Le Fay saw he was now helpless. The thought of skewering him with her claw popped into her mind. However she dismissed that idea since that would require getting very close to him. The memory of her brother fighting her when she was also in dragon form flashed in her mind. Along with being taking down when he cut her wing off. That accursed memory of her defeat and humiliation still angered her. Well not this time, she wasn't going to risk it. She was going to end this once and for all.

Rising to a higher altitude the black dragon opened her jaws the widest ever as she quickly charged up her finishing move. This attack she was creating would be different. Unlike the others this one would be the most destructive. So destructive in fact that if it weren't for the castles enchanted protection then it would end up decimated by the resulting force she was about to unleash. The village and surrounding wall will no doubt be obliterated but that was fine with her. The castle was the only thing she wanted unharmed.

Ben opened his eyes and saw the sorceress preparing to end him. He tried to raise his right arm only to become alarmed when he couldn't feel the sword in his hand anymore. He turned his head and saw the blade a few short feet from him.

With great effort he forced his body up as he slowly crawled towards it, knowing it was his only chance. The black dragon saw this and finished charging up her attack before quickly hurling it at him. Ben didn't look up, he didn't stop, he just kept going for the blade before he finally gripped the blade in his hands again. However he knew he didn't have time to charge up his own attack to counter. There was only one chance left for him.

The attack Le Fay fired seemed to reach it's target as it light up.

An explosive force erupted like a star that had gone supernova in a self-destruct. The light of the blast shinning like the sun itself as the earth trembled. The ground she struck became fractured as multiple fissures split the land open. The fissures spread so far and wide that some of the homes fell into it. The scene looking like something from a disaster movie on earthquakes.

"Finally it is done." The sorceress turned dragon thought in rejoice as she saw her attack envelope her enemy.

"AND SO ARE YOU!" Ben's voice called out.

The sorceress turned dragon flinched in startled panic. She turned her head around too late to see Ben falling towards her with the sword poised to strike her down.

"NOT SO FUN WHEN SOMEONE ELSE CAN TELEPORT IS IT!?" He shouted out right before he plunged the sword into the dragons back.

"GYYYYYYYAAAAAAAAHHH!" The black dragon screeched in pain. Normally a wound from a blade wouldn't really hurt her but this wasn't a normal sword. Suddenly, her body was filled with agony as she felt like her blood and nerves were on fire. She soon found her strength quickly leaving her body as her vision became blurry and she felt lighter.

Darkness soon overtook her as the pain became too much for her body to handle.

"Urghhh…" Le Fay groaned as she started to open her eyes. Her vision clearing up as she regained her senses. The first thing she noticed was that she was back to her regular human form. The caves ceiling was the first thing her eyes saw when she reawakened. Her body still painfully uncomfortable thought at least no longer at an agonizing level. However, what she felt the most of was exhaustion. Her powers felt so depleted the sorceress doubted that she could manage a simple teleport spell let along anything to keep fighting.

"Nice to see your awake." A familiar male voice spoke out.

The sorceress turned to the voice to see the mortal she fought sitting on a large flat rock. His helmet removed and the sword sheathed away on his waist. His body was now relaxed thought she could see full awareness in his eyes ready to spring back to action if she pushed him. Behind him was the female mortal that came with him. She was looking at her with slight nervousness.

"I was worried that I might've done you a bit too much harm when I stabbed you." Ben said with a bit of concern.

He wasn't kidding either after hearing her screams and seeing her return to human form. Which was before she started plummeting to the ground and he caught her in mid-air to save her. Then of course was the first aid she required as a result of his actions.

"Especially after you were starting to lose all that blood." Ben finished earning a confused look from the woman.

Le Fay lightly raised her head up with some effort and looked to see her stabbed shoulder was bandaged up.

"You… treated my injury? Why would you do that after I tried to kill you?" She questioned not understanding why he would try to save her life after everything.

"Simmons treated you at my request." Ben corrected the sorceress. "As for why, well for starters I prefer to avoid needless bloodshed. You may be the enemy but you're an enemy I would prefer alive and not dead."

"You speak as if you want something from me." The sorceress deduced.

"And you'd be right. As I told you in our first round, I want for you to undo your spell on the Gargoyles and return them to normal." Ben stated earning a look from her.

"And with no residual or side effects whatsoever. Especially making it so their restoration is only temporary." Simmons added wanting to ensure she didn't do anything underhanded.

"Why should I help thee after what ye've done to me?" Le Fay questioned while directly looking at Ben. "Ye've denied me my rightful heritage, defied me at every turn and now you've brought me the shame of defeat. So why would I even consider releasing those who stood against me?"

Ben said nothing for a moment as the two of them just stared at each other. He then slowly stood up and walked towards her. The woman instantly tensed from his approach especially since she knew her body was too injured to resist much. He kneeled beside her and looked her in the eyes.

"You are right that you don't really have a good reason to do this for me." Ben admitted. "However that doesn't mean I can't give you an ultimatum to help with that." With that he pulled out his sword, instantly making her flinch slightly at the action." So here's my offer to you. You agree to undo your spell on the gargoyles and in return I shall allow you to leave this place without further harm."

"And if I don't?" Le Fay questioned wondering if he was going to threaten to kill her. Not that she would cave in even if he did. She might not want to die but she wouldn't cower for her life either.

"You think I'm going to kill you if you refuse?" Ben questioned as if he read her mind. "I'm not since as I told you before I prefer to avoid needless bloodshed." He then gave a smirk that for some reason sent a small chill down her spine. "But that doesn't mean I can't punish you in other more creative ways."

"What do you mean by that?" The sorceress didn't understand where he was going with this. He couldn't possibly be talking about torture, could he? No, this man did not seem like the type who would stoop to that. After spying on him in the trials and having fought him, she got a good understanding of the kind of person he was. A torturer was something he wasn't due to a moral code.

Unknowingly Simmons was thinking the same thing as she didn't picture Ben as a torturer. Then again she didn't know a lot about him so who knows for sure. She could name a few friendly faces who were quite rough on others.

Ben's smirk went to a frown as he moved the blade so that it was over her body. "If you refuse my request then I'm afraid I'll have to strip you… of all your magic and make you fully human and powerless."

At hearing those last six words a jolt of fear ran through the sorceress body. Something she hadn't felt in centuries since before she fought her brother. That was the last time she ever felt fear even for a moment. Now that sensation has returned at hearing his threat.

Simmons was surprised by the threat and even more so to see the renowned sorceress show fear at that.

Seeing implications of his threat setting in, Ben continued. "That's right Le Fay, I'll make you as powerless as the same mortals you've likely killed and outlived in your long life. No more magic, power, status, longevity… you'll become the same as a simple villager. A person who needs protection from others because they can't protect themselves."

"No…" The sorceress thought in horror at the very idea. She would rather die than live as a simple mortal with nothing but the clothes she wore. She prided herself on being descended from the fair folk. To lose that part of her heritage would be unthinkable to her. It would be worse than how she felt when her brother was chosen for the throne.

"He certainly knows how to threaten someone." Simmons thought as she saw the horror in Le Fays eyes.

"It's your choice Morgana, accept your defeat with honor and heed my request to leave in peace. Or refuse and lose all the power you worked hard to gain and master while living the rest of your life in shame." Ben mentioned again.

Silence went on between them Le Fay continued to lie down and weigh her options and possible alternatives. She knew fighting wasn't an option given her current weakened state. Trying to negotiate wouldn't do since he's made his terms clear and wouldn't accept something else. Agreeing and then betraying him wouldn't end well for her either. No matter what she thought of nothing else was plausible for her. There was only one rational choice to make.

"Fine." She finally said with bitterness. "But you should know I am too weakened to lift my spell or myself for that matter. I will need time to regain my strength."

"No you won't" Ben said before he raised his sword over her body again. The blade light up with a faint green glow as what could only be described as stardust seemed to pour over the sorceress body.

Before the sorceress could question his actions, she felt her pain and discomfort subsiding. The glow that befell her also seemed to soothed her mentally as well. When it was over all pain she had felt was gone, however she still felt some exhaustion. She looked to see Ben lower his sword before offering her his other hand. The woman gave it a look of indifference that wasn't pleasant.

"Come on, don't be rude as well." Ben teased playfully.

With great reluctance she took his hand as he helped her up before letting go.

"I don't feel completely restored." She stated.

"Because I wasn't aiming to, I'm not so foolish as to bring you back to full strength." Ben remarked. "Right now I've given you enough power I believe will be more than sufficient to undo your spell. After that I'll give you enough to do a vanishing act but until then you work with what I gave you back."

The millennium old woman scoffed. "So where are the gargoyles? I need to have them in sight to undo my spell."

"One moment." Was all he said before raising his sword once more and lightly stabbing it into the ground. A circle of light appeared a few feet behind them as the gargoyles manifested, still in their petrified state. "Here they are, so now if you wouldn't mind doing your part."

The sorceress raised her hand towards the gargoyles preparing to cast her spell.

"Oh and Le Fay." Ben interrupted her earning attention. "Remember what Simmons said, no side effects or temporary cure. I want them as good as they were before you put this curse on them. Cause let me just tell you right now that I'll know for certain if you do anything underhanded." He warned her with a no-nonsense tone.

The sorceress simply narrowed her eyes. "I already agreed to your request."

"True but I don't know if your the type of person who always keeps their word once they agree to something." Ben countered in response showing he didn't trust her completely.

"Certainly, can't expect a villain to be true to their word so easily." Simmons added.

"Hmp, smart observation." She simply said before reciting her spell. It only took her a few moments to finish her incantation before a swirl of wind began to pick up. The gust of wind ran in circles around the gargoyles like a vortex as their bodies began to crack. Ben was worried for a moment until he saw their bodies nudge down a bit. Immediately after the stone broke off like an eggshell as they all gave a loud roar from their awakening.

"ROOOOOOOOOOOAAAAR!" The clan of Gargoyles all cried out together as they reawakened. A sense of slight dizziness seemed to come over them all a moment later as they got slight vertigo before regaining their balance.

"W-We're awake again?" Goliath almost said in a whispered tone before he and the others noticed the presence of the other three with them.

"Le Fay!" Brooklyn said before lunging at her along with the other gargoyles only for Ben and Simmons to intercept them. Although in Ben's case he had to catch and hold Brooklyn back.

"Woah Brooklyn, guys hold on!" Ben said while keeping him from trying to tear at the sorceress. The others were confused about their actions.

"Why are you two defending her?" Goliath questioned.

As Brooklyn finally stopped trying to get by him, Ben turned to them. "Well you've missed quite a bit of what happened after Le Fay here put a stone curse on us."

That was when the Gargoyles finally noticed the sword on Ben's waist. Immediately all their eyes widened in disbelief at the sight of it. For they recognized it right away.

"Excalibur…" Hudson called out in awe. "How did ye get your hands on that?"

"Believe it or not I pulled out of a stone." Ben said while gesturing to it before turning to look back at Le Fay. "Which I then used to defeat her after a hard battle."

The sorceress lightly glared for the mention of her defeat again.

"How did you break the spell? Or for that matter how did you break yourself out? Cause it seems like you didn't stay as stone like the rest of us did." Angela questioned in confusion on what's happened while they were out.

The Omnitrix hero took the time to explain what had happened after they were all turned to stone. Thought he made sure to skip details of his first two fights with the woman. He mentioned the rest of the details while keeping secret where he had found the sword so Le Fay wouldn't know. When he finished his explanation, the gargoyles were satisfied with the answer but also displeased with one part that they heard.

"So, you made a deal to let her go free if she broke the spell placed on us." Lexington repeated for clarity.

Ben nodded. "It was the only way to get you all back to normal… speaking of which." He then raised the Omnitrix towards them. "Omnitrix run a DNA scan, full analysis for any abnormalities in genetic code."

"Acknowledged." The device confirmed before a green laser light scanned over the bodies of the gargoyles. Their reactions showing surprise at a voice coming from Ben's wrist. After a few seconds, the procedure was finished. "Scan complete, no foreign elements or disruptions detected within subject's genetic material."

"Good." Ben simply said before turning to the sorceress. "Nice to see you kept your word."

Simmons was in slight awe at what she saw. "Your watch can actually run a full genetic molecular scan and detect abnormalities within a subject!?"

"That and a few other things… and no I won't tell you what they are." Ben derailed her when he saw her about to start asking questions like Fitz did when they first met. He then turned his attention back to Le Fay. "You kept your part of the agreement so your free to go."

The sorceress didn't leave just yet however. Instead she looked to the gargoyles and smirked at their looks of contempt aimed at her. She then focused on Goliath. "Still bitter about what happened all those years ago aren't you Goliath?"

The gargoyles leader responded with a low growl as his eyes light up white in restrained anger.

"We'll never forget the injustice you did to us." Angela said bitterly.

"If it's any comfort you can at least take pride that Demona didn't beg for mercy." The sorceress taunted.

That turned out to flip the switch as Goliath and Angela both roared. Their wings rising to their full height and spread as they looked ready to pounce on her. Ben found himself having to get between them again as while also aiming his sword at Le Fay to keep her in check.

"DON'T YOU EVER SAY HER NAME!" Goliath yelled out for her defile.

"Calm yourself you two! And who's Demona?" Ben questioned as it sounded like she was someone close to them.

Angela lowered her wings a bit as she got a look of sadness. "She- she was my mother… and Le Fay killed her." The female gargoyles confessed before it looked like tears started forming in her eyes. Bronx came beside her and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder before she hugged him, trying not to break down.

The Goliath and Angela still remembered the image clearly. The battle that took place over millennium ago when Camelot was attacked. Le Fay had led an army of demonic minions attempting to seize the kingdom. The two of them alongside Demona had fought at the frontline. Their king, Arthur Pendragon had been relocated from the battlefield by Le Fay who had a large demon grab him and fly away to clear the way for her. That left the three of them to face the sorceress since the others were occupied repelling her forces alongside the knights of the round table.

The three of them had fought valiantly but were simply no match for the sorceress. During the battle Angela had been severely hurt and no longer capable of resisting. Le Fay had gone in to finish her off when Demona intercepted the attack. Putting herself in harm's way to protect her daughter. As a result, she was severely wounded but had succeeded in shielding her offspring. Demona then told her mate to get their daughter back to the castle where it was safer. Goliath didn't want to leave her behind but also knew Angela would die if she remained on the battlefield. It was after another yell from Demona that he finally complied and took their daughter to safety. The last thing he saw was his mate getting ready to keep fighting the sorceress. When King Arthur had finally managed to return to the war it was already too late to save Demona from being a casualty. The noble king then fought his sister in a climactic battle that ended the assault when she was defeated by him. Demonas corpse was then found and recovered before given a proper burial.

Sadly however she was not the only one to be buried. Most of the villagers and all the knights of the round table had sadly perished in the war. Arthur knew Le Fay would return one day and attack again. So to ensure their safety he had the villagers depart and gain new lives in another kingdom. He then had the remaining gargoyles become his new knights as the kings old friend Merlin came and used his magic to move them all to a new secret location. The white wizard then took the time to build the chamber connected to the cave they were transported to. In the event the location was discovered the obstacles presented would repel any intruder. Merlin stayed with Arthur as years passed until the noble king passed away. To give him a burial worthy of his status the wizard put him in a tomb that would forever preserve his body from decaying. His youthful appearance also restored so that his image may never be forgotten. The Gargoyles were then put into a deep sleep so they'd only awaken when they were needed again.

After hearing the story Ben turned to the sorceress with a hard look. "So you did all that? You know I wish I'd known that earlier, so I could've thought of a more fitting deal." He said with new dislike for the sorceress before he sighed. "Sadly however our deal is already concluded and unlike you I won't consider breaking my word. So just leave already."

Le Fay looked to Ben giving him one last look before she smirked. "Until we meet again." She said before she cast a spell and a swirling yellow portal opened behind her. She silently stepped into it and then vanished when it closed.

"I won't be missing her." Simmons remarked trying to lift the mood after that tragic revelation.

"I only wish we could've put her in a dungeon." Angela said bitterly at seeing their sworn enemy just getting to walk away. While she was glad Ben got her to reverse what she did to them, it didn't change her hate for the sorceress.

"I know it's hard to see someone who wronged you go free." Ben tried easing ease her anger. "But at least you can take pleasure in the fact that she was defeated and denied what she wanted. Not to mention being forced into agreeing to my terms to keep her powers and dignity."

At hearing that the gargoyles got small smiles.

"Aye that be a well-earned victory indeed. One I hope she doesn't get over anytime soon." Hudson spoke out.

"So what will you do now?" Simmons asked about their plans.

"Our location has been revealed to our enemy. She might begone now but one day she'll be back." Goliath said wisely before looking towards the castle. "We'll need to find to a new safe place to keep our home out of her reach."

The two nodded in understanding, Ben then looked to his sword and thought about something. He then offered the blade to the clan leader. "I think you should take this with you. You might be able to use it to defend yourselves if she ever comes back for you."

Goliath looked to the sword formerly used by his old friend Arthur. He reached to take hold of it but pushed it back instead. "I appreciate the gesture, but I must decline." He rejected the sword. "The sword found you worthy to wield it, so you are its new master. We'll find our own way to stay safe, which is why I must ask you two to leave now."

At that both humans got raised eyebrows.

"So soon?" Simmons questioned.

"I'm sorry my new friends but the sooner we leave the better." Goliath said solemnly as the others did the same.

Angela came forward and hugged Simmons before doing the same to Ben. "It was great to meet you two, I'm glad to see even after all these years there are still good humans like you." She said with sadness as it almost looked like her eyes were getting watery.

Brooklyn was the next to step forward as he offered his hand which the two gladly shook. "Do did well to make it all the way to the end." He simply said not wanting to seem too emotional.

"Aye ye both did and it was an honor to fight alongside you." Hudson said from the back.

"Wish we had more time but sadly we must go our separate ways." Lexington said with sad eyes.

Simmons looked to Broadway who also looked sad and gave a small smile. She then dug into her bag and threw something at him, which he caught. It was another granola bar. "A little something for your trip to wherever it is your going. I recall how much you enjoyed the first one."

"Thanks." Broadway said happily as he wasted no time in digging in.

The two groups said their final goodbyes and Goliath asked Ben to keep what they saw a secret. Ben said that they might not be able to keep quiet, but they could ensure no one comes looking for them. As well as making sure bad folk don't learn about them either. The clan leader accepted that before they departed. Ben and Simmons returned to the top of the stairs while the Gargoyles returned inside the castle. The two humans chose to walk back to savor the sights knowing they were likely not going to see it again. When they did reach the top they looked to see the castle glow as a white magic circle formed undeath and expanded. The sigil spread across the village before the illumination intensified like a burning star. When the light died down the castle was gone along with all the crops that survived the battles.

Unknown Location

The castle of Camelot materialized along with the surviving crops. The kingdom now standing in a new land as the new settler. Inside the castle, in the throne room were the gargoyles, all lined up in an circle with their hands connected to the other. Their combined powers having been used to power the spell that transported them all here. Instantly they all disconnected as a wave of fatigue came over them.

"Huff huff man… that took more out of us then I thought." Brooklyn remarked while holding himself up by the knees.

Goliath who was breathing not as shallow agreed. "Indeed, we shall need a good nights rest to regain our strength."

"I don't know about all of you but I'm going to take that nap right now." Lexington remarked as he walked away to head for the roof to rest.

"Forget sleeping in, I'm going to get a nice tasty snack to get my energy back." Broadway said before turning to his girlfriend Angela. "Care to join me for a bite Angela?"

The female gargoyle thought about the offer before deciding to accept. She hadn't eaten since waking up, so she could go for some nice and juicy fruits. "Sure." She simply said in agreement.

With them gone that just left Goliath, Hudson and Brooklyn alone in the room.

"We'll be save here, right Goliath?" Brooklyn asked.

The gargoyle leader nodded. "Yes this place will keep Le Fay from coming here. Unless she finds a way to overcome the obstacles then she can't get to us anymore."

"It's a good thing that human managed to send her away." Hudson remarked on the close call they had.

Goliath walked to throne and went down on one knee before pushing the throne back. He then grabbed a large stone panel and lifted it off the ground revealing a hiding compartment inside. He then pulled out a square object that was wrapped in a protective cloth.

"Yes it was, thanks to our new friend Ben we managed to keep this out of Le Fay's hands." Goliath said before he unwrapped the cloth from the object.

The object was revealed to be a book of blood red color with bronze colored exteriors on the sides. A large symbol that resembled the letter 'D' was on the cover in the same bronze color as well.

"It would've been disastrous if she had obtained the Darkhold." Hudson remarked as he looked at the cursed book with distaste. "Shame we cannot destroy it ourselves, it would've saved us trouble."

"A great power requires a greater one to destroy it." Goliath wisely said.

"Or perhaps an old friend to hide it." A new voice spoke up.

The three gargoyles were startled and instantly turned around to the intruder. Only for their eyes to widen as they recognized the individual. Their hostile expressions replaced with a friendlier one.

"Professor Paradox." Goliath said warmly. Glad to see a friend from the old days. "Your still alive."

"And look as young as the last time we saw you." Hudson added, secretly a little envious of his eternal youth.

"I'm an immortal time traveler remember. I still age, just not in any way that would be shown" Paradox reminded while looking at his robotic hand. "Anyway, I'm glad to see you're all safe and sound. That Le Fay is quite the wicked woman."

"You were there? And you didn't help us!" Brooklyn said angrily at hearing that.

The time traveler raised a raised in calmness. "Peace Brooklyn, I knew Ben would triumph and save you all from eternal imprisonment in yourselves."

"Hmp, so why are you here then now that the fight is over?" Hudson questioned, knowing the time traveler wasn't here to catch up with old friends.

"I came to offer my assistance in hiding that poorly written book." Paradox said while glancing at the Darkhold.

At hearing that Goliath looked to the book in his hands. "Is something wrong with it here?"

"Let's just say that book shouldn't be in this place. I know what will happen if you keep it in this castle and it won't be pleasant at all." Paradox offered vaguely. "For your safety and survival, you should entrust it to me for safe keeping."

At hearing that Goliath looked long and hard at Paradox. His mind thinking about the request. He knew it was dangerous for anyone to carry the Darkhold but he also knew Paradox was someone who could resist it's influence. Le Fay already found them once and would try again eventually once she figured out a proper way. Perhaps the time traveler could hide it on some remote corner of the world in another timeline.

"Here then." Goliath offered the book to him.

"Thank you, my old friend." Paradox said before taken the relic in his hands. He then turned to leave but stopped for a moment. "By the way how are you enjoying those names I gave you?"

At that the three gargoyles blinked.

Umm well it's really grown on me. I can't imagine myself with any other name." Brooklyn remarked.

"Aye same with me." Hudson simple said with his arms crossed.

"Good to know." Paradox said before he vanished with the book in tow.

CUT! That's a wrap for this arc at last. I bet you were surprised to see that it was the Darkhold that Morgan was after the entire time and that she killed Demona. I included that cause I felt slight pity for her in the cartoon. So I decided to have her be remembered as a caring mother who gave her life for her daughter. At least this way it's better than her being a traitor.

Now however I'm sorry to say I must bear some bad news. I'll be taking a break from writing for while due to life becoming more time consuming now. A few weeks ago my job reopened so that's already less hours for me to write. Thankfully I had most of the chapter planned out and written which I was able to finish for this early month. Second is that I've been feeling some writers block in deciding what will happen from this point on. So I'm taking this break to think and plan my next moves to continue later. Also I'm going to be starting a daily exercise routine which will take more of my time. Lastly was that a few months after early quarantine started I looked up alot of anime I found to look interesting but haven't gotten around to watching yet. So I want to use whatever free time I got to clear my list and who knows maybe I'll get ideas from there.

This isn't goodbye, it's see you later. I hope to return before the year ends.