Ben 10: Earth's Mightiest Heroes

Captain America's eyes fluttered open. He was lying on the ground. His senses sharpened as he became aware of his surroundings. He could hear the ocean nearby. He tried to understand how he had ended up there.

The first thing he noticed was the sky. It was an expanse of blue dotted with fluffy white clouds. Then, he heard soft voices. He turned his attention to a couple sitting on a weathered blanket a few feet away. Their backs were to him. They appeared older, and their faces were lined with age. The man was tall, with hair that was a mix of silver and white. The woman had short, curly hair that resembled the color of autumn leaves. Her eyes sparkled like emeralds.

The couple whispered to each other. The man saw Captain America move and nudged his partner gently. They both turned toward him, shifting from mild curiosity to concern.

"Are you alright, son?" the man asked. His voice was steady, with a hint of a Canadian accent.

Captain America pushed himself onto his elbows. He felt the grains of sand beneath his fingers. "I... I'm not sure. Where am I?"

The woman smiled kindly. "You're on a beach near Vancouver Island. We found you washed up on the shore a little while ago. Do you remember how you got here?"

'So Canada.' He remembered an icy plunge, darkness, and a feeling of being trapped. "I was... on a mission. How long was I out?"

The man shrugged. "It's hard to say. When we found you, you were frozen solid. We thought you were dead until you began breathing again. We were about to call for help when you woke up."

Captain America found his uniform and shield in the sand. He instinctively reached for the shield, gripping it tightly. The familiar feel of the metal grounded him.

"What's your name?" She could sense his turmoil.

"Steve. Steve Rogers. Most people know me as Captain America." His role as America's poster boy was not exactly a secret.

Recognition appeared on their faces. The man nodded slowly. "Well, Steve, you've been through quite an ordeal. Let's get you dried up and figure out what to do next."

Steve gave a small smile. "Thank you... for finding me."

The woman touched his shoulder. "You're welcome, Steve. You're safe now. We'll make sure of it."

Nathan and Donna helped Captain America up. They guided him along a gentle slope as he tried to reconcile what had happened to him.

"Thank you. I appreciate your help. This is all... overwhelming."

Nathan gave him a nod of reassurance. "It's the least we can do, Steve. We're just glad we found you."

Donna smiled warmly. "You must have been through a lot. Let's get you inside and make sure you're okay."

As they reached the top of the hill, a small cottage came into view. It was nestled among the trees, with a garden in front. The home was rustic and inviting.

Nathan opened the front door. The inside revealed wooden floors, comfortable furniture, and walls adorned with family photos.

"Welcome to our home," Donna said. She motioned for Steve to sit on a sofa. "I'm Donna, and this is my husband, Nathan."

Steve sat down. The cushions felt soft against his back. "Thank you, Donna and Nathan. I don't know how to repay you for your kindness."

Nathan smiled and waved off the comment. "Don't worry about that now. Let's focus on getting you settled and figuring out the next steps."

Donna went into the kitchen. She returned with tea and sandwiches on a tray. She set them on the coffee table in front of Steve. "Here. You must be starving. Have something to eat."

Steve realized how hungry he was. He picked up a sandwich and began eating. He sipped the tea, enjoying its warmth.

"So, Steve, what do you remember before waking up here?"

Steve hesitated. "The last thing I remember was the war. Is it still going on? I need to report to the General."

The couple exchanged another look. "If you mean World War II, it ended a long time ago," the man said.

"What? That can't be. I was on a mission. There was a rocket, and then I hit the ocean. Everything went dark."

Nathan and Donna shared a look of sympathy and surprise.

"Steve, I'm not sure how to say this, but it's 2010."

Steve froze. "That can't be..."

"You've been asleep for a very long time."

Steve felt a lump in his throat. Sixty-five years. It was almost a lifetime. He looked around the room. New devices were among the ones he was familiar with.

Nathan scratched his head. "I know it sounds unbelievable. I'm not sure how else to prove it to you. We have some newspapers, but maybe a trip to town would help."

Steve nodded slowly. "I see." He tried to stay composed.

Nathan spoke again. "Let's do that after you've eaten and rested."

"I'd like that. Thank you."

Nathan leaned forward. "Don't worry. We'll help however we can. You can stay here as long as you need."

Tears pricked the corners of Steve's eyes. He blinked them away. There were so many things he had left behind. "I don't know what to say."

Donna placed a hand on his. "You don't need to say anything, Steve. We'll take it one step at a time."

Days Later

The small town near Nathan and Donna's home was a perfect example of rural life. Shops lined the main street, and colorful awnings moved gently in the breeze. The air carried the scent of fresh pine. Steve Rogers walked through the town wearing Nathan's old flannel shirt and jeans. He tried to take in the reality of the new era he found himself in.

Nathan and Donna walked ahead as Steve looked around.

Nathan looked at Steve. "How are you holding up?"

Steve smiled faintly. "It's a lot to process. Everything feels familiar but different." A Honda Civic passed by, and Steve thought, I imagined Stark's flying cars would be here by now. He added, "Thanks for showing me around."

Donna pointed toward a small diner on the corner. "That place has great coffee. Let's start there. You can try some of 2010's finest brew."

A bell rang above the door. The interior had checkered tablecloths. A waitress, a woman in her mid-fifties, greeted them with a friendly smile and took them to a booth by the window.

People talked enthusiastically, and some used small rectangular devices. Nathan told him these were called smartphones. Steve found the technology fascinating and so different from the rotary phones and radios of his time.

Nathan ordered coffee for everyone. The waitress soon brought their drinks in steaming mugs.

Steve drank the coffee and smiled. "This is good."

Donna laughed. "I told you. Some things do get better with time."

For the next hour, they explored the town. They visited several shops. At a bookstore, Steve was amazed by the large selection. Many covered events he had missed. Nathan explained some important moments in history, and Donna pointed out the latest popular titles.

At the park, they watched children play on swings. These simple scenes of everyday life gave Steve assurance that he did the right thing.

Weeks Later

A few weeks passed in the cozy warmth of Nathan and Donna's home. Steve Rogers, gradually acclimating to the modern world, found solace in the peaceful surroundings. He spent his days helping Nathan with chores around the house, learning more about the changes in the world, and occasionally catching glimpses of news broadcasts that hinted at a world still in need of heroes. Hearing about major metahuman breakouts across the globe seemed to cement choice. Seeing the mugshot and name Baron Heinrich Zemo across the TV on the list of most wanted almost made him shatter his mug.

The following day, Steve decided it was time to move on. He knew he couldn't impose on Nathan and Donna forever, and there was a pull inside him to find his place in this new era. After breakfast, he approached Nathan and Donna, sitting on the porch, enjoying their coffee.

"Nathan, Donna," he began, his voice steady. "I want to thank you for everything you've done for me, but I think it's time for me to go."

Donna looked up. "We knew this day would come, Steve. You're not just a soldier but also a good man. From what the news has been lately, the world needs you."

Nathan nodded in agreement. "Do you have a plan?"

Steve nodded, adjusting the straps of the sturdy backpack Nathan had given him. "I'm going to head south and return to the United States. There's unfinished business with an old enemy. I'm not sure how the government will react when they see me. Maybe I'll meet those Avengers."

Donna stood up and embraced him. "Take care of yourself, Steve. And remember, you always have a home here with us."

Nathan shook Steve's hand firmly, then pulled him into a brief, heartfelt hug. "Stay safe out there, and don't hesitate to reach out if you need anything." They helped Steve get a basic satellite phone with only calling available. His odd jobs around town helped him earn enough cash for the journey.

With his shield in a knapsack, Steve set off down the winding road that led away from the cottage.

The Next Morning

Nathan and Donna sat at their kitchen table. The early morning sun came through the lace curtains. The remnants of breakfast were still on the table. When they were alone and secure, they pressed a button on their watches. Their true forms as Nathaniel Richards, also known as Kang, and Queen Ravonna Renslayer appeared.

Kang leaned back in his chair. His face showed a thoughtful expression. "The first phase is complete," he said.

Ravonna sipped her coffee. A serene smile spread across her lips. "This was much more enjoyable than we expected," she said.

Nathaniel nodded. "The adjustments we made to the timestream seem to be working. Steve is heading to the US. If my calculations are correct, he will meet an old friend."

Ravonna nodded in agreement. "Even though he played a role in destroying humanity, he is a kind young man, just as history described him." She set her cup down and reached across the table. She took Nathaniel's hand. "I have to say, this rural home and this time period are a wonderful break from the constant chaos of our Empire Flagship. There is something about it that soothes the soul."

Nathaniel gently squeezed her hand. "Steve Rogers would make an excellent soldier in my empire, but that is not what he needs to be now." He took a sip of his tea. "I also agree about this atmosphere. It helps me forget the wasteland I had to bring humanity out of."

Ravonna looked toward the window. The garden they had cared for together was in full bloom. "Do you think we will ever get tired of this simplicity?" she asked.

Nathaniel looked out the window after her. His face showed deep thought. "Time makes even the most extraordinary things feel ordinary. But this place and this life we created are different. They are a rare kind of ordinary."

"I treasure these moments with you, Nathaniel. I would not trade it for anything."

Nathaniel leaned forward and kissed her hand. "Nor would I, Ravonna. You are right in many ways. This feels like a home. I will do whatever it takes to ensure that our future continues."

They sat together in silence for a few moments. The peace of the morning surrounded them.

"Do you think Steve will be alright?"

"He will be fine. We have the implants in place, and a scouting team is following him."

Ravonna nodded. She seemed reassured. "Now that Steve is on his own, it is probably time for us to return to the ship."

Nathaniel stood and helped her to her feet. He pulled her into a warm embrace. "There is no need to rush," he said. "Steve left the cottage a few days earlier than we estimated."

Ravonna laughed lightly. She took his hand and led him to the couch. Together, they settled down to relax.

Elsewhere

Steve traversed Canada with a mix of hitchhiking and walking. Nights were spent under the stars, the crackling of campfires comforting. His funds were better spent on food than lodging. Time in the military gave him sufficient survival skills in the wilderness. He passed through small towns and bustling cities, meeting people kind enough to offer directions, a warm meal, or a resting place. He worked odd jobs, helped a local farmer with his harvest, and even lent a hand at a community center.

He encountered travelers, and each conversation added a piece to the puzzle of this new world. Soon, he would know that the world was still as strange as it used to be.

#

The small town of Elkford was quiet. Its residents went about their daily lives, enjoying the peaceful ambiance surrounding them. Steve Rogers walked through in a simple flannel shirt and jeans. As he strolled down the main street, he noticed the friendly faces of the townspeople. Children played in the park, and shopkeepers chatted with customers.

Suddenly, a blood-curdling roar shattered the tranquility. Steve's senses went on high alert as he turned to see a massive white beast tearing through the town, its fury unleashed upon everything in its path. Cars were overturned, windows shattered, and people screamed in terror as the beast rampaged.

Instinctively, Steve sprang into action. He dashed toward a group of children frozen in fear near the park, scooping them up and carrying them to safety behind a sturdy brick wall. "Stay here, stay low," he instructed, calm but authoritative. Turning back to face the chaos, he saw a group of figures emerging from the treeline.

The first had a primal appearance. He stood over 6' with a heavily muscled physique. His most distinguishing feature was his wild, mane-like blond hair and sideburns, giving him a distinctly feral look. He wore a tan and black bodysuit with fur accents.

The second was covered in a red and black full-body suit with black patches around his eyes, sides, and shoulders. Only his white, expressive eyes were visible, conveying a surprising range of emotions despite the lack of a visible mouth or eyebrows. He had katanas strapped to his back, various firearms, and an assortment of grenades and pouches.

The third also had a towering figure with a monstrous physique. His skin was unnaturally pale, contrasting starkly with his long, flowing blond hair. His costume was primarily red with silver accents, including a prominent red chest harness and shoulder pads that add to his intimidating presence. The most distinctive feature was the retractable carbonadium tentacles from his wrists.

The last was a tall, slender woman with an athletic build. Her most recognizable feature was her extendable, razor-sharp adamantium fingernails. Her costume resembled traditional Japanese attire with modern combat gear. Her long, dark hair flowed freely, styled in a high ponytail.

"Out of the way!" Sabretooth's eyes gleamed with predatory excitement. He lunged at the Wendigo with his claws extended. Deadpool fired his guns recklessly. Bullets ricocheted off walls and cars.

Omega Red released his lethal carbonadium coils to lash out at the beast. Lady Deathstrike swung her adamantium claws through the air. The Wendigo roared in pain as its attacks grew more frenzied. It fought back with greater aggression. Cars flipped over. Walls collapsed under the force of the battle.

Steve moved quickly to protect the townspeople. He guided a panicked couple out of danger. He then shielded a group of elderly residents with his own body from an explosion. Afterward, he led them into a nearby building. "Stay inside and keep away from the windows," he said.

Steve returned to the fight. Deadpool's voice rose above the chaos. "Hey, ugly! Over here!" Deadpool stopped in the middle of his shootout to strike a dramatic pose. He then resumed firing with enthusiasm.

Steve smiled tightly in spite of the situation. He needed to draw the Wendigo away from the civilians. He picked up a piece of rubble and threw it at the beast. "Over here, you big brute!" he shouted.

The Wendigo turned its blood-red eyes toward Steve. The creature charged at him. Steve braced himself and prepared to dodge. When the Wendigo was about to reach him, he rolled to the side. The beast crashed into a parked truck. This gave the townspeople a few precious moments to escape.

Weapon X kept attacking the Wendigo and held its attention. Their fight caused massive collateral damage. Buildings fell, and the town square was destroyed.

Deadpool jumped off a rooftop and landed next to Steve. "Nice move, dude! You should consider a career in monster baiting. It's all the rage."

Steve gave him a sharp look. "I don't know who you are. Just focus on stopping that thing without hurting anyone else."

Deadpool grinned. "Aw, you do care! Don't worry. I'm a professional. Sort of."

Sabretooth growled. "Time to bring this beast down." He lunged at the Wendigo and cut through the creature's thick fur, drawing first blood. The Wendigo howled in pain and swiped back at him with its massive paws.

Deadpool stood on a rooftop and fired his guns recklessly. "Hey! Have you ever considered therapy? It's great for anger issues!" His bullets caused little more than irritation to the giant creature. "Come on, big guy, just take a little tranquilizer nap, and we can all go home!"

Omega Red extended his carbonadium coils and wrapped them around the Wendigo's limbs. "Hold still, beast." His grip tightened as the Wendigo thrashed. The creature pulled Omega Red off his feet and slammed him into a wall. The Russian mutant held on, and his expression showed cold determination.

Lady Deathstrike moved quickly toward the Wendigo. Her adamantium claws sliced through the creature's flesh. "We need to weaken it," she called out. She dodged a swipe from the Wendigo and slashed again. Her claws targeted vital points. Blood loss was one way they might stop the creature.

The Wendigo roared as the attacks drove it into a frenzy. It lashed out with powerful blows and sent Sabretooth flying into a parked car. The car crumpled like paper. Sabretooth got up with a snarl. "You're gonna pay for that, furball!" he shouted as he jumped back into the fight.

Deadpool jumped off the rooftop and landed beside Omega Red. "Need a hand, comrade?" he joked. He slashed at the Wendigo's tendons with his katana. "Or maybe a coil? Those things are nifty!"

Omega Red grunted as he held on tightly. "Just keep it distracted," he said.

Lady Deathstrike saw an opening and attacked the Wendigo's arms. Her claws struck again and again. The beast howled as blood poured from its wounds. Its movements became slower and less coordinated. "It's slowing down," she said. Her eyes narrowed. "We're close."

The Wendigo roared desperately as it realized it might lose. It broke free from Omega Red's coils and charged through the town square. Debris flew in its wake as it crashed through a line of trees and retreated into the dense forest near the town.

"It's getting away!" Sabretooth shouted. He shook off the remnants of the car that had hit him.

Deadpool turned to the others. His eyes gleamed behind his mask. "What are we waiting for? Let's go, X-Force!" He ran after the Wendigo with his swords ready.

"That's not our name!" someone shouted back.

Omega Red and Lady Deathstrike followed him. They focused on the retreating Wendigo. "This isn't over," Omega Red said. He retracted his coils as he ran. "Not by a long shot."

The four mutants entered the forest in pursuit of the creature. Their mission was to catch the Wendigo, not eliminate witnesses. They weren't ordered to kill the townspeople. Department H would likely step in and begin phase two of the plan.

Steve stood in the devastated town. The destruction was massive, but there were few fatalities. He had protected most of the townspeople from the worst of the chaos. He worked with firefighters to put out a burning building. Townspeople emerged from hiding, showing their gratitude and relief.

An elder approached Steve with tears in her eyes. "Thank you, young man. You saved us all," she said.

Steve nodded. His expression was solemn. "I just did what I could. Make sure everyone gets to safety, and the injured are cared for." He promised to follow the Wendigo and stop it after ensuring the people were safe.

Meanwhile

Canada

The helicopter's rotors sliced through the crisp Canadian air, carrying two passengers over the vast, untamed wilderness below. Inside, a young soldier sat nervously across from another man, his features obscured by the shadows cast by his brown Stetson hat. The soldier glanced repeatedly at the imposing figure, finally gathering the courage to speak.

"Sir, I-I know I'm not supposed to ask questions... but who are you?" His voice wavered with unease.

The man lifted his head slightly, revealing piercing eyes beneath the brim of his hat. "No one you wanna know, kid," he replied, his tone gruff and dismissive.

Minutes later, the helicopter descended over a small town, smoke curling up from several buildings. As the chopper touched down, the scene of devastation became clear: emergency services swarmed the area, fires still being extinguished.

The stranger stepped out, revealing brown leather boots, blue jeans, a black leather jacket over a yellow undershirt, and a brown duffle bag slung over his shoulder. Logan took in the scene with a critical eye, his face stern. "Looks like someone had a bad day," he muttered.

Nearby, an officer spoke into their radio. "Copy. About 95% of the population has been accounted for."

A general in a green uniform approached Logan, motioning for him to walk. The two made their way through the chaotic streets. "It happened about 4 hours ago, just before noon," the general began. "A creature was sighted crossing the US-Canadian border. This is what happened when it reached civilization."

Logan raised an eyebrow. "Creature?"

The general nodded. "The Americans call it the Wendigo. Intel is sketchy. Department H thinks the US military is covering up their major breakout earlier this month."

Logan sniffed the air, his keen senses picking up more than just smoke. In his mind's eye, he saw a monstrous figure roaring and attacking a car. "He smells unnatural. Gunpowder, too." He moved a piece of rubble, uncovering a sign that read, "Welcome to Elkford," among a pile of spent bullet casings. "Well... someone tried to fight back."

The general continued, "The survivors reported that a group of individuals followed the creature into their town, where they confronted it. When asked about their descriptions, the townsfolk were too scared and focused on the creature to care and ran for their lives. The monster and the gunmen came and went like a storm."

Logan surveyed the damage. "Not as many casualties as I expected."

"We were told that a young man intervened and did what he could to evacuate the people to safety. Damn, good job if you ask me."

Logan's eyes narrowed. "Any word from him about the attack?"

The general shook his head. "The people said that as soon as he got everyone to safety, he set out to chase them down."

Logan smirked. "Ballsy son of a bitch."

The general's expression turned serious. "Department H wants you to find these possible mercenaries and stop the Wendigo before he reaches another town or city. And if you can't stop it, kill it!"

Logan's smirk widened into a grin. "Sounds like fun."

Canada

The small plane buzzed low over the vast expanse of the Canadian wilderness, its shadow skimming across the snow-covered treetops. Clad in his rugged leather gear, Wolverine peered out of the small window, his keen eyes scanning the landscape below. The pilot's voice crackled through the headset.

"Sir, I think we got something," the pilot called out, pointing to a swath of forest where trees lay splintered and toppled.

Wolverine leaned closer to the window, eyes narrowing as he saw the signs of heavy destruction. Entire trees were ripped from the ground, and a dark scar marred the pristine white of the snow.

"Do you want us to try for a landing?" the pilot asked, his voice tinged with uncertainty.

"Don't bother," Wolverine replied, his voice a low growl.

He stood up, sliding his mask over his face, and moved to the plane's rear. The pilot opened the door, cold wind whipping through the cabin. Without hesitation, Wolverine leaped out, the wind roaring in his ears as he plummeted towards the earth.

Adjusting his body mid-air, Wolverine aimed for the side of a snowy mountain. He hit the slope with a thud, the impact jarring but manageable. Claws extended, he dug into the snow and rock, using the momentum to slide down the mountainside. Snow sprayed around him as he deftly navigated the descent, finally coming to a halt near the base.

Rising to his feet, Wolverine sniffed the air, catching a familiar scent mixed with something foul and unnatural. He followed it to an impact crater, where the snow had been blasted away to reveal the dark earth beneath. Kneeling, he inhaled deeply, the scent of the Wendigo unmistakable.

He took off into the trees without wasting another moment, moving with a predator's grace and speed. Branches snapped underfoot, and the cold air stung his face, but he pressed on, following the scent trail through the dense forest.

Reaching the edge of a cliff, he paused, scanning the expanse below. A frozen lake spread out beneath him, bordered by more forest. Far below, he could see a waterfall cascading down, its roar faint but distinct.

Descending the cliffside with practiced ease, Wolverine reached the waterfall's base. He knelt by the stream, cupping his hands to drink the icy water. As he drank, a grey wolf emerged from the trees, approaching the stream cautiously. The wolf eyed Wolverine but sensed no threat, joining him for a drink before slipping back into the forest's shadows.

Suddenly, a loud crash echoed through the trees. Wolverine's head snapped up, ears pricking at the sound. Rising to his feet, he followed the noise, weaving through the trees with relentless determination.

He found the tracks in the snow, massive footprints leading deeper into the wilderness. Wolverine crouched, examining the prints closely. The Wendigo was close.

#

As Wolverine began closing in on the Wendigo, he picked up another scent ahead. It was... oddly familiar. Frowning, he stayed low, minimizing the crunch of the snow beneath his feet as he crept toward the possible threat.

Drawing closer past a thick brush, he spotted a broad man leaning against a tree. Strands of blonde hair stuck out from his hood, and he was scanning the forest intently. It would seem this man was also after the Wendigo. If the General was anything to go by, it might have been the civilian from town trying to be a hero.

Moving silently, Wolverine sneaked up behind the man. However, he didn't expect the stranger to whirl around with lightning speed, grapple him, and slam him into the snow. The man was stronger than Wolverine anticipated.

With a snarl, Wolverine forced himself out of the grapple and pinned the man to the tree, extending a claw to keep him in place.

"What the hell was that for? Who are you?!" Wolverine growled.

The blonde man's eyes widened when he saw Wolverine's face. "James?" The man hadn't expected to see a familiar face after so many years. He wondered if Wolverine had been frozen as well.

Wolverine tightened his grip. "Who the fuck is James?"

The man hesitated. "It's me, Steve. Steve Rogers."

Wolverine scowled as he tried to piece together his fragmented memories. The name stirred something in him. "Steve...?" He studied the man's face.

"Yeah, it's me. After everything we've been through, don't tell me you forgot your Captain."

Wolverine didn't answer. He kept his claws poised.

Steve faltered. "James, what happened to you?"

#

A/N: Special thanks to Jebest4781, Charles, vividlearner744, and Seana!

I hope you enjoyed the chapter. If you did, please follow or review/comment. See you guys in the next chapter.

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