Mortal Kombat
Anthologies
Prologue
Silence filled space from the blast of what was destroyed. The fires quenched the screaming halted. Time undone. Nothing but blackness and the distant stars shone within space and time. All that was once made.was lost. All that was once done.was undone. The universe stripped of all things, of all life. Nothing but a never-ending darkness remained, a place of pure shadow.
The Elder Gods had diminished all life in all the realms that once existed. They had now decided to create new realms with new life. And this time, they would be ever careful with how they dealt with the beings they created. Memories long passed of ancient realms and their acceptance and showing towards the Elder Gods were best to be forgotten. This was the dawn of a new beginning.
Hyuga the Elder God of Fire sat upon his throne beside his fellow Elder Gods Ta Tu the Elder God of Water, and Shinnok the Elder God of Wind. There they sat in thought for many a year. It seemed that they spoke without words, using only their mind power to speak with each other. After many years had passed in time, they had finally decided on what was to come next within the space of time.
And it came to pass with the chants they laid before the time of the endless darkness within space, that they created a world and from it three off springs two smaller in size and the other larger. Four realms orbiting a sun which laid before them the luscious rays of light and heat. And then the Elder God Hyuga spoke saying. "Let it be known from this day forth, through the ages of the ages within time, that this world shall be named Zattera. The realm for reptilian creatures, to coincide with the Ancient realm of Arcana which was the dwelling of the race of Larzille. Whom later became the highest known race from the beginning of time. They too were reptilian and much loved by the gods. It is only right that another realm should be made such as theirs in their honour. I place long rivers and great seas, luscious forests and vast plains. Let its beauty shine as that of the Larzille."
With that the world began to shake, as vast plains were made and great forests too. Rivers long and wide stretching throughout the lands and seas that covered much of the world.
Zaterra, Earth, Edinia and Raian were the names of the realms created. Each realm had its own lifestyle and ageing span. The Elder Gods delved into creating the realms each with its own uniqueness.
Years went by as the realms were fully developed and the first beings began to be created upon the realms. Life began to flourish, beings that communicated with intellectual speech were made by the Elder Gods. Each set in a realm befitting of its life form and there the being began to live and meet others that came from him.
As many more years went by the realms were now heavily occupied by beings. Humans occupied the realm of Earth; the realm of Zattera was occupied by the Rapterian race. Another human form occupied the realm of Raian. And a human-like form of beings occupied the realm of Edinia. The Edinian's were very different to their Earthling counterparts. The Edinian's possessed a greater life span then the Earthlings and also endured more hardship. However they lacked the so-called Human spirit. An Earthling in captivity would have more chance of escaping and saving his or her life then an Edinian. This was all through the sheer fact of determination and the spirit to see it come true. Earthlings did not like to be held captive and had a strong will to free themselves when they were in captivity.
The people dwelled peacefully amongst each other each in their own realm and none having knowledge of other worlds existence. They took each day as best they could. Harvesting their crops and caring for their land. The realms were divided in small provinces. The people elected a mayor to keep order in the province as many ill things began to form as the years passed.
The world and time went by in each realm as the Elder Gods willed it to pass. The people seemed to accept their fortunes and fate. The time of the beginning had passed. The beginning had ended. Time had begun and the people were living their lives. The great threads of time had been placed and the realms turned each weaving its own threads in the circle of life, In the space of time.
In a subterranean province of Edinia known as Ordain, deep in the Caves of Argal, within its darkness and stench stood two evil creatures. Before them stood two beings that discussed the future plans for Edinia.
One went by the name of Draxxon. A half-human half-dragon like being. Draxxon was born in the subterranean province of Arran. Being raised there by his dragon father Dorain and his Edinian mother Avail il'sulvian, Draxxon was taught the finest arts of magic and combat from both races. He excelled in all his lessons and soon became a leader of the Dragon order of old.
Beside him stood another being by the name of Caan. He was Draxxon's best friend and most loyal subject. They met in the fields of Urruin long ago when they were young lads. Caan was taught various arts of magic from his parents and had become a sorcerer.
"As you know I will be leaving today for my journey in search of the mystic sword. I must travel deep into the icy lands of the north and find it. Only with that will we be able to take over Edinia. Not even Raiden will be able to stop us."
Caan nodded while smiling at Draxxon. "That fool of a god. He will pay for not joining us. Now he will see the destruction of Edinia, and he'll be powerless to stop us. Am I to come with you my lord?"
Draxxon gave his usual evil smile before he spoke. "No my friend. You will travel forth to the province of Farl and send word to Shadowstalker. I am in need of two loyal servants of his to come here, once they have I will leave with them. You will need to gather our army. You know where you must go. Give this parchment to Shadowstalker, he will know what to do."
Caan took the parchment from Draxxon's hand and bowed. "I will do as you ask my lord." With that he turned and made his way out of the caves.
Draxxon walked over to the two beings, which stood further back listening to their conversation.
"I am glad to have one of each of your races and clans on my side," said Draxxon. "I will need an army. I do not believe the Red Dragon will aid me in this, however, the Oni might. Will you go to your land and try to bring me an army?"
The large being standing there spoke. Its voice rumbling like an earthquake which made the caves tremble. "I shall do as you ask my lord. I will bring you an army befitting of your power."
Draxxon was pleased and bid him to leave for his home. The other decided to go with him since they had become friends.
Draxxon walked over to his throne and sat upon it. His mind was set on that mystic sword. He wondered if it truly would be there, or if Raiden had sensed his longing for the blade, and took it elsewhere. Either way he had to find out for himself. That blade would assure him the overtaking of Edinia.
He sat in thought and waited for the two servants from Shadowstalker to arrive.
Caan had now reached the outskirts of Farl. He made his way for the mountains of mist where he knew Shadowstalker dwelled within the halls of an old castle long abandoned and long forgotten.
As he walked towards the castle through the mountains. He suddenly had a sword at his throat. He didn't know where it came from nor how he could not feel been watched. From the shadows a being emerged holding the end of the sword with its tip to his neck.
"Why haveth thou come here?" asked the figure that stood before him.
Caan swallowed hard before he spoke. The being's voice seemed to send a shiver down Caan's spine and he did not like that. "I was sent by Draxxon to deliver a message to Shadowstalker. You must be one of his servants?"
The figure eye's him closely. "Indeed you have come from Draxxon. I shall take you to him." The being lowered his sword and led Caan through the caves to reach the other side of the mountains. Within the caves Caan saw many been trained in various arts of combat. He stopped for a moment and watched. The being that led him stopped also, eyeing Caan thoughtfully.
"Who are all these people?" asked Caan while looking at them.
The being walked over and spoke as he pointed to a few. "We here are the children of Shadowstalker. We serve our master and no other. They are beings whom have pledged their souls or their loyalty to our master."
Caan nodded though asked another question. "Or? Did you say or? What did you mean?"
"Well," said the being. "Not all wish to pledge their souls to our master. They have a choice. They can pledge their souls. Or they can pledge their lives. Those that pledge their souls to our master are often warriors who have lost something in life. Warriors who seek revenge, Warriors who cannot turn back from the pledge. However.Many seek to be within a clan. Some who only wish to leave the ways of life, as it has not treated them too kindly. Those pledge their lives to our master. Which means they will spend their lives serving our master or die serving him. In many cases when one of them reaches an old age and feels the desire to leave, our master will grant them the pardon. But they cannot leave without the pardon. Those that do are hunted and killed."
"Hmmm. And what about you? Have you pledged your soul to Shadowstalker?"
The being gave him a stern look as to say that was not a question Caan should have asked. And Caan felt exactly that and wished he had not asked.
"I have joined my master from many years ago. I have not pledged neither of the two choices. My master is like my father. You'd do well not do deceive him."
"I have no intention of deceiving him. I come only to bring word and ask for something."
The being nodded and seemed not to be amused at the mention of him wanting to ask for something. Caan followed the being till they reached the other side of the mountain. A large castle could be seen down in the valley. Caan longed for death and decay. However, the beauty of this valley caught his eye and made him stare in complete and utter amazement.
Finally he was led into the castle and into the main hall where Shadowstalker stood before his wooden carved throne. The being walked alongside Caan. As they reached a few steps away from Shadowstalker they both bowed. The being then went and stood beside his master Shadowstalker.
"My father. I have brought you this being named Caan. He comes from the south and brings word from Draxxon."
Caan rose his head and looked at Shadowstalker. Shadowstalker looked back and spoke. "What word do you bring from Draxxon?"
Caan produced a parchment from his cloak and handed it to Shadowstalker who took it and opened it.
I have sent you my servant along with this parchment to request an alliance between our forces. We two have the same goals and I am nearing the founding of the mystic blade. Once I have it I will lay an assault on Edinia like none other. I ask you to join me in this battle as we can both rule Edinia when we are victorious. I need your two finest and most loyal servants to accompany me to the northern lands where the mystic blade dwells. I also ask for assistance. The Oni are massing an army to aid us. I ask you to aid us also in this battle. I will await your reply till the worlds cascade upon the heavens and are viewable from Ordain. I hope for both our sakes that you will join us.
Lord Draxxon
The Black Dragon
Shadowstalker finished reading the parchment and handed it to his servant. "So Draxxon needs my two finest students and an army.So be it. We will aid you." Shadowstalker walked up to Caan and shook his hand as they agreed.
"The servant who brought you in will go back with you. He is my finest. And none in any realm are as loyal as he is. Petros Yanden he is called. He is my son, lightsbane and swordmaster, as he is known".
The other is known as Shantielmo. I will ready my army and we shall meet at the fields of Riel.
With that Yanden was sent to fetch Shantielmo. When all was ready they left with Caan heading back to Draxxon's lair. The alliance had been successful. And Caan was pleased, as Draxxon would soon be.
They journeyed throughout the lands making their way back. Yanden once more saw the outskirts of Edinia. He was more used to his home in Farl. However inside his heart, he had a longing. A longing to see his home. His home of Zattera. To see the fields of his home, to see his people, his family. To speak his language and live his life. He knew that day would not come, but he still thought of his home. Of his family and his loved ones.
Shantielmo was more familiar with the provinces they went through. He was mainly sent on missions within the cities and knew much about secret passages within many cities.
As they reached the caves of Argal they saw Draxxon outside waiting to greet them. "I see Shadowstalker has joined us," he said with a smile.
"Indeed," replied Yanden as Caan widened his eye's in shock. No one replied to Draxxon unless given permission too.
"He is massing our army and will meet you in Riel. Shantielmo and I will accompany you to retrieve the mystic blade."
Draxxon eyed him closely, as he wanted to take all his appearance in consideration. Yanden was cloaked in a form of a ninja suit yet also different. His legs showed the scales of his natural being, as did his hands. "It has been a long time Yanden. Last time I saw you was in Zattera. How have you been?"
"Indeed Zattera.I have been as well as I can be. I do my job and am loyal to my master. Nothing else matters. I suggest we make a move. Before the thunderer finds out our plan."
Draxxon nodded as he turned to Caan. "Gather our army and we shall meet you at Riel when the sun rises on the dawn of the months of heat."
Caan nodded as Draxxon, Yanden and Shantielmo left Argal and made their way to the north. The journey had begun.
Anthologies
Prologue
Silence filled space from the blast of what was destroyed. The fires quenched the screaming halted. Time undone. Nothing but blackness and the distant stars shone within space and time. All that was once made.was lost. All that was once done.was undone. The universe stripped of all things, of all life. Nothing but a never-ending darkness remained, a place of pure shadow.
The Elder Gods had diminished all life in all the realms that once existed. They had now decided to create new realms with new life. And this time, they would be ever careful with how they dealt with the beings they created. Memories long passed of ancient realms and their acceptance and showing towards the Elder Gods were best to be forgotten. This was the dawn of a new beginning.
Hyuga the Elder God of Fire sat upon his throne beside his fellow Elder Gods Ta Tu the Elder God of Water, and Shinnok the Elder God of Wind. There they sat in thought for many a year. It seemed that they spoke without words, using only their mind power to speak with each other. After many years had passed in time, they had finally decided on what was to come next within the space of time.
And it came to pass with the chants they laid before the time of the endless darkness within space, that they created a world and from it three off springs two smaller in size and the other larger. Four realms orbiting a sun which laid before them the luscious rays of light and heat. And then the Elder God Hyuga spoke saying. "Let it be known from this day forth, through the ages of the ages within time, that this world shall be named Zattera. The realm for reptilian creatures, to coincide with the Ancient realm of Arcana which was the dwelling of the race of Larzille. Whom later became the highest known race from the beginning of time. They too were reptilian and much loved by the gods. It is only right that another realm should be made such as theirs in their honour. I place long rivers and great seas, luscious forests and vast plains. Let its beauty shine as that of the Larzille."
With that the world began to shake, as vast plains were made and great forests too. Rivers long and wide stretching throughout the lands and seas that covered much of the world.
Zaterra, Earth, Edinia and Raian were the names of the realms created. Each realm had its own lifestyle and ageing span. The Elder Gods delved into creating the realms each with its own uniqueness.
Years went by as the realms were fully developed and the first beings began to be created upon the realms. Life began to flourish, beings that communicated with intellectual speech were made by the Elder Gods. Each set in a realm befitting of its life form and there the being began to live and meet others that came from him.
As many more years went by the realms were now heavily occupied by beings. Humans occupied the realm of Earth; the realm of Zattera was occupied by the Rapterian race. Another human form occupied the realm of Raian. And a human-like form of beings occupied the realm of Edinia. The Edinian's were very different to their Earthling counterparts. The Edinian's possessed a greater life span then the Earthlings and also endured more hardship. However they lacked the so-called Human spirit. An Earthling in captivity would have more chance of escaping and saving his or her life then an Edinian. This was all through the sheer fact of determination and the spirit to see it come true. Earthlings did not like to be held captive and had a strong will to free themselves when they were in captivity.
The people dwelled peacefully amongst each other each in their own realm and none having knowledge of other worlds existence. They took each day as best they could. Harvesting their crops and caring for their land. The realms were divided in small provinces. The people elected a mayor to keep order in the province as many ill things began to form as the years passed.
The world and time went by in each realm as the Elder Gods willed it to pass. The people seemed to accept their fortunes and fate. The time of the beginning had passed. The beginning had ended. Time had begun and the people were living their lives. The great threads of time had been placed and the realms turned each weaving its own threads in the circle of life, In the space of time.
In a subterranean province of Edinia known as Ordain, deep in the Caves of Argal, within its darkness and stench stood two evil creatures. Before them stood two beings that discussed the future plans for Edinia.
One went by the name of Draxxon. A half-human half-dragon like being. Draxxon was born in the subterranean province of Arran. Being raised there by his dragon father Dorain and his Edinian mother Avail il'sulvian, Draxxon was taught the finest arts of magic and combat from both races. He excelled in all his lessons and soon became a leader of the Dragon order of old.
Beside him stood another being by the name of Caan. He was Draxxon's best friend and most loyal subject. They met in the fields of Urruin long ago when they were young lads. Caan was taught various arts of magic from his parents and had become a sorcerer.
"As you know I will be leaving today for my journey in search of the mystic sword. I must travel deep into the icy lands of the north and find it. Only with that will we be able to take over Edinia. Not even Raiden will be able to stop us."
Caan nodded while smiling at Draxxon. "That fool of a god. He will pay for not joining us. Now he will see the destruction of Edinia, and he'll be powerless to stop us. Am I to come with you my lord?"
Draxxon gave his usual evil smile before he spoke. "No my friend. You will travel forth to the province of Farl and send word to Shadowstalker. I am in need of two loyal servants of his to come here, once they have I will leave with them. You will need to gather our army. You know where you must go. Give this parchment to Shadowstalker, he will know what to do."
Caan took the parchment from Draxxon's hand and bowed. "I will do as you ask my lord." With that he turned and made his way out of the caves.
Draxxon walked over to the two beings, which stood further back listening to their conversation.
"I am glad to have one of each of your races and clans on my side," said Draxxon. "I will need an army. I do not believe the Red Dragon will aid me in this, however, the Oni might. Will you go to your land and try to bring me an army?"
The large being standing there spoke. Its voice rumbling like an earthquake which made the caves tremble. "I shall do as you ask my lord. I will bring you an army befitting of your power."
Draxxon was pleased and bid him to leave for his home. The other decided to go with him since they had become friends.
Draxxon walked over to his throne and sat upon it. His mind was set on that mystic sword. He wondered if it truly would be there, or if Raiden had sensed his longing for the blade, and took it elsewhere. Either way he had to find out for himself. That blade would assure him the overtaking of Edinia.
He sat in thought and waited for the two servants from Shadowstalker to arrive.
Caan had now reached the outskirts of Farl. He made his way for the mountains of mist where he knew Shadowstalker dwelled within the halls of an old castle long abandoned and long forgotten.
As he walked towards the castle through the mountains. He suddenly had a sword at his throat. He didn't know where it came from nor how he could not feel been watched. From the shadows a being emerged holding the end of the sword with its tip to his neck.
"Why haveth thou come here?" asked the figure that stood before him.
Caan swallowed hard before he spoke. The being's voice seemed to send a shiver down Caan's spine and he did not like that. "I was sent by Draxxon to deliver a message to Shadowstalker. You must be one of his servants?"
The figure eye's him closely. "Indeed you have come from Draxxon. I shall take you to him." The being lowered his sword and led Caan through the caves to reach the other side of the mountains. Within the caves Caan saw many been trained in various arts of combat. He stopped for a moment and watched. The being that led him stopped also, eyeing Caan thoughtfully.
"Who are all these people?" asked Caan while looking at them.
The being walked over and spoke as he pointed to a few. "We here are the children of Shadowstalker. We serve our master and no other. They are beings whom have pledged their souls or their loyalty to our master."
Caan nodded though asked another question. "Or? Did you say or? What did you mean?"
"Well," said the being. "Not all wish to pledge their souls to our master. They have a choice. They can pledge their souls. Or they can pledge their lives. Those that pledge their souls to our master are often warriors who have lost something in life. Warriors who seek revenge, Warriors who cannot turn back from the pledge. However.Many seek to be within a clan. Some who only wish to leave the ways of life, as it has not treated them too kindly. Those pledge their lives to our master. Which means they will spend their lives serving our master or die serving him. In many cases when one of them reaches an old age and feels the desire to leave, our master will grant them the pardon. But they cannot leave without the pardon. Those that do are hunted and killed."
"Hmmm. And what about you? Have you pledged your soul to Shadowstalker?"
The being gave him a stern look as to say that was not a question Caan should have asked. And Caan felt exactly that and wished he had not asked.
"I have joined my master from many years ago. I have not pledged neither of the two choices. My master is like my father. You'd do well not do deceive him."
"I have no intention of deceiving him. I come only to bring word and ask for something."
The being nodded and seemed not to be amused at the mention of him wanting to ask for something. Caan followed the being till they reached the other side of the mountain. A large castle could be seen down in the valley. Caan longed for death and decay. However, the beauty of this valley caught his eye and made him stare in complete and utter amazement.
Finally he was led into the castle and into the main hall where Shadowstalker stood before his wooden carved throne. The being walked alongside Caan. As they reached a few steps away from Shadowstalker they both bowed. The being then went and stood beside his master Shadowstalker.
"My father. I have brought you this being named Caan. He comes from the south and brings word from Draxxon."
Caan rose his head and looked at Shadowstalker. Shadowstalker looked back and spoke. "What word do you bring from Draxxon?"
Caan produced a parchment from his cloak and handed it to Shadowstalker who took it and opened it.
I have sent you my servant along with this parchment to request an alliance between our forces. We two have the same goals and I am nearing the founding of the mystic blade. Once I have it I will lay an assault on Edinia like none other. I ask you to join me in this battle as we can both rule Edinia when we are victorious. I need your two finest and most loyal servants to accompany me to the northern lands where the mystic blade dwells. I also ask for assistance. The Oni are massing an army to aid us. I ask you to aid us also in this battle. I will await your reply till the worlds cascade upon the heavens and are viewable from Ordain. I hope for both our sakes that you will join us.
Lord Draxxon
The Black Dragon
Shadowstalker finished reading the parchment and handed it to his servant. "So Draxxon needs my two finest students and an army.So be it. We will aid you." Shadowstalker walked up to Caan and shook his hand as they agreed.
"The servant who brought you in will go back with you. He is my finest. And none in any realm are as loyal as he is. Petros Yanden he is called. He is my son, lightsbane and swordmaster, as he is known".
The other is known as Shantielmo. I will ready my army and we shall meet at the fields of Riel.
With that Yanden was sent to fetch Shantielmo. When all was ready they left with Caan heading back to Draxxon's lair. The alliance had been successful. And Caan was pleased, as Draxxon would soon be.
They journeyed throughout the lands making their way back. Yanden once more saw the outskirts of Edinia. He was more used to his home in Farl. However inside his heart, he had a longing. A longing to see his home. His home of Zattera. To see the fields of his home, to see his people, his family. To speak his language and live his life. He knew that day would not come, but he still thought of his home. Of his family and his loved ones.
Shantielmo was more familiar with the provinces they went through. He was mainly sent on missions within the cities and knew much about secret passages within many cities.
As they reached the caves of Argal they saw Draxxon outside waiting to greet them. "I see Shadowstalker has joined us," he said with a smile.
"Indeed," replied Yanden as Caan widened his eye's in shock. No one replied to Draxxon unless given permission too.
"He is massing our army and will meet you in Riel. Shantielmo and I will accompany you to retrieve the mystic blade."
Draxxon eyed him closely, as he wanted to take all his appearance in consideration. Yanden was cloaked in a form of a ninja suit yet also different. His legs showed the scales of his natural being, as did his hands. "It has been a long time Yanden. Last time I saw you was in Zattera. How have you been?"
"Indeed Zattera.I have been as well as I can be. I do my job and am loyal to my master. Nothing else matters. I suggest we make a move. Before the thunderer finds out our plan."
Draxxon nodded as he turned to Caan. "Gather our army and we shall meet you at Riel when the sun rises on the dawn of the months of heat."
Caan nodded as Draxxon, Yanden and Shantielmo left Argal and made their way to the north. The journey had begun.