Azmuth's arrival was both a surprise and a relief. The greatest scientific mind in the galaxy, the creator of the Omnitrix, standing before them offered a glimmer of hope amidst the encroaching darkness. Ben, still reeling from Paradox's escape and the revelation of the Ultimatrix's evolved state, looked at Azmuth with a mixture of awe and anticipation.
"Azmuth! What are you doing here?" Ben exclaimed, the question hanging in the air.
Azmuth fixed Ben with a scrutinizing gaze, his expression unreadable. "I have been monitoring the situation, Ben Tennyson. Paradox's actions threaten the very fabric of reality. The Ultimatrix… it has reached a critical point. Its potential is now beyond even my initial calculations."
Gwen stepped forward, her mana swirling around her. "The Ultimatrix evolved? What does that mean? How can we use it to stop Paradox?"
Azmuth turned his attention to Gwen, his eyes narrowing slightly. "The Ultimatrix was designed to adapt and evolve, to unlock the full potential of alien DNA. But the circumstances surrounding its creation, the… modifications made by Albedo… have introduced unforeseen variables. This 'evolution' is not a simple upgrade. It is a fundamental shift in the device's capabilities."
Kevin, ever practical, cut to the chase. "So, what can it do? Can it give Tennyson here a power-up strong enough to take down Paradox?"
Azmuth sighed, a hint of weariness in his voice. "The evolution function allows Ben to unlock new levels of power within his alien forms, to push them beyond their known limits. But it is a dangerous process. The energy required is immense, and the potential for instability is significant. One must consider the consequences of using a power that is not fully understood.
Ben stepped forward, his eyes resolute. "I understand the risks, Azmuth. But we don't have a choice. Paradox is rewriting history, destroying everything we know. I have to use this power, even if it means risking everything."
Azmuth studied Ben for a moment, his expression softening slightly. "Very well, Ben Tennyson. I will guide you. But heed my warnings. Control is paramount. This power must not corrupt you."
Azmuth explained that the evolution function required a catalyst, a source of concentrated energy that could trigger the transformation. He revealed that there was a hidden chamber within the Plumber base, a relic from a bygone era, containing a powerful energy matrix designed to amplify alien abilities. The group agreed to teleport to the hidden location to charge Ben's Ultimatrix.
As they ventured into the hidden chamber, they noticed how eerily empty it was. Even though the location was supposed to be a secret, the alarm sensors were tripped. "We're too late! They already came here" said Ben. Just then, Paradox appeared. "It seems you never learn Ben. I admire your persistence. However, it is time for you to fall." Paradox unleashed a time attack that freezes Max, Gwen, and Kevin. However, Ben is still able to move, thanks to his Alien X form. Ben then lunges at Paradox, ready to fight. "You have failed Paradox! It is over." Paradox then smirks. Just then, multiple Paradixes appears. "Did you really think it was me?!" shouts Paradox. Ben is then ambushed by Albedo and Eon. "It seems you never learn! We always come back!" shouts Albedo. Eon and Albedo start attacking Ben. Ben summons two Alien X clones. "Take care of them. I will handle Paradox." But before the clones could even fight, they disappear from existence. "Did you really think those mere clones would be able to beat us?!" shouts Albedo. Eon and Albedo overpower Ben. Ben, still exhausted from the previous battle, is unable to keep up with the power of both Albedo and Eon. Then, just as Ben is about to fall, Max comes and saves him.