Edenia: Two hours after Jade's Abduction
Depression; feelings of severe despondency and dejection.
Edenia's current state exemplified legitimate gloom filling the entire atmosphere as night fell upon the land, news of the events taking place in the Kuatan Jungle spreading like wildfire. The townspeople hoped and prayed it wasn't valid that their fearless Edenian General didn't return from with her battalion and sister. Alas, the writing was on the wall. Everyone who went on the dangerous mission earlier that morning had returned — all except one.
Jade.
The Palace main hall became a quiet, morbid gathering. Sindel did everything possible to calm her grieving daughter who cried nonstop, continually blaming herself for allowing those scoundrels to kidnap Jade. Mileena knew both Edenians were challenging to oppose together. Instead of taking a tremendous chance, the Empress went to a more calculated approach - and it worked seamlessly.
As each woman scrambled to assist the battalion ambushed by Kano's Black Dragon, Reiko appeared out of nowhere to shoulder tackle Jade out of the picture, leaving Kitana to fend for herself. Mileena was ecstatic, advantage on her side and swooped down on her fair sister as Kira stood by her side. Although the Empress never wanted good lackeys dying, they served their purpose well, holding off Jade's battalion long enough to execute the plan.
After being launched out of the jungle, Jade recovered, only to come face to face with her tormentor, Tanya. The sight of her mortal enemy caused the General's blood to boil at an all-time high considering the handwritten note addressed to her. Hate was a powerful word, but Jade will gladly use it to describe their relationship, the feeling mutual on Tanya's end. Before Jade could attack, she felt her neck impaled by a sharp object, a tranquilizer dart strong enough to make a full-sized elephant slumber for eight hours. The serum flowed through her bloodstream and altered the General's equilibrium. Tanya took advantage and performed an airborne tornado drop from about twenty feet to render Jade unconscious.
With their bait captured, Tanya and Reiko took the assassin's body while re-entering the jungle to force a surrender on Jade's army. Kitana couldn't believe her eyes when she saw her sister beaten and subdued, Tanya holding a sharp switchblade to her jugular. Regret hanging on her conscious, Kitana reluctantly ordered the battalion to lower their weapons and consented Mileena's gang to take Jade hostage. Distraught, the Princess broke down in sadness, remaining that way throughout the journey home.
As expected, Jade's disappearance became everyone's top priority, uncaring how long it took. The Edenian General must be found and quickly before something tragic happens.
Raiden was seen discussing amongst his students as well as Sonya, Johnny, Jax, Kenshi, Scorpion and Sub-Zero inside a conference room, the Thunder God in immediate in contact with Lieutenant Blade and her husband, informing them of the terrible news. Both Sonya and Johnny held concern, convinced that Chris would move Heaven and Earth to free his fiancé. After leaving Cassie with Vera and Jacqui once again, the Cages called Jax and Kenshi, both men never hesitating to heed the call before departing for Edenia, Scorpion, and Sub-Zero accompanying them as well.
Chris sat out on the balcony away from the group discussion, lamenting his beloved's abduction. It was easy to see the distress took a toll on him mentally and emotionally more than anyone else. The first thing Chris wanted to do was find Kano; that bastard had to be a part of this wretched scheme. Those thoughts were quickly dismissed as Kitana tearfully revealed the Black Dragon Leader wasn't present during the ambush. That didn't make Chris feel any better, but he refused to berate the Princess for her effort knowing the two sisters always protected each other. Their enemies made good use of this info and employed it against the two assassins. Chris also told her that it wasn't her fault, Kitana grateful he wasn't angry at her but remained concerned about how they were going to bring her sister home.
"Penny for your thoughts?" a voice called out.
Reluctantly, Chris turned around to see Sonya and Johnny standing by the doorway. After conversing with Raiden for more than an hour, the married couple decided to check on their ally, although it took a while to find him as he didn't want to be bothered. Sindel finally managed to settle her daughter down and let Kitana retreat to her room with Liu Kang, obviously saddened by today's mission. Everyone else including the Queen did the same, the latter breaking down in tears over the loss of her new daughter and it was a while before Sindel could drift to sleep. The effects of the kidnapping trickled through the entire Kingdom. Managing without Jade's positive influence throughout Edenia will be difficult.
Earthrealm's savior turned away, his gaze locked onto the starry sky. "They have my fiancé; my life has gone to hell again."
Both Sonya and Johnny cautiously approached, hesitant on how he might react. The couple knew they had to say the right things or Chris could go off in a fit of rage. A recurring nightmare was taking place once again, and Chris realized he couldn't let the same fate of Jennifer and Kate befall on Jade. His entire world would fall apart before his very eyes if it did.
Johnny put a comforting hand on Chris' shoulder. "Hey man, we know you're upset, everyone here is. We'll find Jade. I know it's weird coming from me, but you best believe we'll do our best to bring her home."
Chris turned to the action movie star and gave a small smile. "It's not weird at all, Cage. Thanks." Johnny nodded.
Sonya came up on the other shoulder. "How did it happen? If you don't mind us asking."
Taking a deep breath, Chris began going into detail. "Kitana told me some of Kano's thugs came from the treetops, attacking Jade's battalion as a distraction to separate her and Kitana."
He could feel himself cringe after saying those words. Going into a tree at such a high velocity was guaranteeing a concussion. Luckily, Jade only felt dazed after the collision.
The Earthrealm hero continued. "Kitana tried to help Jade, but Mileena appeared with another female from Kano's group. She had red hair and used these weapons called Dragon Teeth."
Sonya's eyes widened. "That sounds like Kira! Kano's new apprentice!"
Chris sharply turned to her. "Apprentice!?"
"I've done some research on her for the last few months. Kira recently joined the Black Dragon after 'graduating' from Kano's initiation. I've only seen her in person once, but Kira is a skilled fighter and lethal if you're not careful. They must have given Kitana enough problems to last a lifetime," the Lieutenant explained.
"That was the case. Kitana was badly bruised but held them off to avoid being killed and received help from the battalion. That's where things took a turn for the worse." Chris momentarily paused. "Reiko came out of nowhere to demand a surrender. Kitana, of course, would never do such an act, that was until Tanya came out with Jade unconscious in her grasp and a switchblade to her throat," he recalled with difficulty, emotion present in his voice.
Grim looks were on the faces of the Cages, no doubt a cowardly move to hide behind Jade, but it proved to be useful as they escaped captivity from Edenia's forces and returned to their hideout with the General incapacitated.
"This isn't good," Johnny surmised. "Does either Kitana or yourself know why they took her?"
Gathering himself, Chris answered, "Kitana said both Mileena and Tanya gloated that Jade was a huge pawn in their plan. This theft wasn't random; my fiancé was a target. She also said that Shinnok is back and has Mileena's group working for him."
Johnny and Sonya paled when they heard that name, the Fallen Elder God's name itself spread fear throughout the universe, banished for attempting to slay the Elder Gods and take over every realm. However, his dreams never came to fruition due to Raiden's interference. If it's true he's come back, every part of the universe was in grave danger of being enslaved by this madman.
Lieutenant Cage shook her head in disgust. "I knew it; that bastard was biding his time to make a move. We were all so concerned about Onaga, Shinnok slipped under the radar to finalize his plan."
"If I'm not mistaken, Chris, he's using Jade as bait to bring you to him," her husband interjected.
Chris' eyes widened as it all made sense. Shinnok was aware of his battle against Onaga and wouldn't be surprised if the Fallen Elder God sent some of his subordinates to spy from the outside.
A sigh of resignation left Chris. "I honestly thought we put all this behind us, but it seems like the fight will never end. Shinnok wanted my attention; he's got it now."
Sonya put her hand on his shoulder. "I think it's a good idea for you to try and get some rest. You're the most exhausted out of everyone here. We'll figure this out in the morning."
With a curt nod, the Earthrealm savior despondently walked away despondent toward Jade's room, discarding his shirt, his torso bare with a pair of shorts as he climbed into the bed. Sleep will be hard to come by tonight without his fiancé, taken from him by a former Elder God hell-bent on taking his revenge against his associates and enslaving Earthrealm, not to mention all of Shinnok's allies are enemies of Edenia as well. Jade's very life hung in the balance along with the universe. Chris brought the sheets over his body, eyes looking up at the ceiling.
'God, please protect Jade until we find her. I can't lose her like my previous family,' he thought sadly before going to sleep.
Netherrealm:
If there's one place any sane person should never set foot in was the desolate wastelands of the Netherrealm, the birthplace of chaos, destruction, and evil. Unless you worshiped the previously mentioned traits, this wasn't the place for the weak-minded or hearted. Sunlight is never visible, leaving the realm in darkness for eternity. Dark clouds roamed the sky throughout the day as lightning crackled every few instances. Misery befell anyone who traveled to this place.
The foursome of Reiko, Tanya, Mileena, and Kira made their way through the barren ground with an unconscious Jade in tow, bridal carried by the white-eyed ninja as the serum in the General's system hadn't worn off. It still had a few hours left before wearing out and exiting her blood flow. After a long journey, the group finally made it to their destination.
Shinnok's Spire.
Present at the double doors were two demon guards who saluted the group and opened the doors to allow them inside. All the ladies went in last, allowing Reiko to lead the way towards the Throne room. One would suspect fatigue for carrying around Jade's extra weight. However, he never wavered in strength throughout the trip, continuing without complaint. The hallway was vast in width, totaling half a mile in length, numerous chandeliers illuminating the room filled with many carvings of demonic creatures, sorcerers, and warlords on paintings and the walls. Mileena and Reiko were in front of Kira and Tanya, keeping a brisk pace as they neared the throne room.
"I see you and Jade have a heated rivalry," Kira decided to make small talk with the pyromancer.
"That would be an understatement, Kira," Tanya replied, venom detected in her voice. "I hate everything about that bitch; how she looks, what she stands for, and for always getting in my way."
"Interesting," the Black Dragon mistress murmured. "Now that we have Jade, what are we going to do with her?"
The pyromancer shrugged her shoulders. "Your guess is as good as mine. If I had my way, I'd torture her before setting Jade ablaze with my powers. We both want the same man, an Earthrealmer who made that harpy his fiancé."
Kira nodded. "So, Chris is the main reason for your hatred towards Jade."
"He plays a big part, but we've been at each other's throats ever since my betrayal long ago. Jade's never forgiven me, not that I care for her feelings," Tanya went on to explain. "All that matters is Edenia will fall after I slay the royal family and make Chris my slave."
"He's quite the looker from the picture stored on our database. You wouldn't mind sharing him, would you?" Kira inquired with a sultry smile.
Tanya sharply turned her head towards the red-headed female, liking the figure she flaunted. Kira possessed a banging body with breasts damn near exploding out of her top and an ass that was larger than anticipated in her MKD skin. Tanya didn't harbor an attraction to just males. She's experienced her fair share of females and conceded that Kira was even better looking than the women who've laid with Tanya.
'She's filled out in the right places. I might give her a shot,' the pyromancer thought with unpure intentions. "Tell you what, get back with me after tonight's proceedings," Tanya smiled. "I wish to see what you can do."
Kira eagerly nods her head, excited to prove her worth. The group remained silent for the next few minutes before reaching the throne room door. Mileena pushed the entryway open and allowed Reiko to step in, his arms never tiring from carrying Jade for a good forty-five minutes. The Empress and the other two women followed him, two figures awaiting their arrival inside.
"Your mission was successful," a voice stated.
Reiko nodded. "We have the General."
"Excellent work," another voice congratulated.
Out of the shadows came two men thought to have been dead by many. They used the news of their exaggerated demise to recover gradually and uniting alongside Shinnok to claim his rightful place as the sole Elder God, their power of sorcery unmatched.
Quan Chi and Shang Tsung.
Both sorcerers stepped forward, evil grins across their faces as Shang Tsung walked towards Mileena, having not seen his creation since Shao Khan's defeat at the hands of Chris. He stood in amazement by how more powerful she's become over the years thanks to his evil magic sustaining her life force.
Shao Kahn's former sorcerer welcomed his experiment. "It's been quite a while, Mileena."
"I'll say, though I'm astonished you're here to help in our cause," the Empress remarked.
Shang Tsung's humorless smile grew. "But of course. I welcome the chance to see Outworld enslaved and Earthrealm burned to oblivion. Still at odds with your sister it seems."
Mileena's eyes narrowed when he mentioned Kitana. "You have no idea. That little cunt will suffer when I sink my teeth onto that pretty face of hers."
"I expect nothing less. You'll get your chance soon enough." Tsung's attention turned to Tanya. "And what do we have here? I dare say you don't recognize me, Tanya."
"How can I?" Tanya regarded him. "It would be rude on my part. So the rumors of you and Quan Chi surviving that massive explosion conducted by Raiden's sacrifice are indeed valid."
That fateful day didn't omit from Shang Tsung's mind, his apparent anger showing as proof. "That fool will be dealt with in time. I haven't forgotten his blatant attempt to have us killed while trying to stop Onaga," he spat in anger.
"Agreed," added Quan Chi. "He will pay dearly for his betrayal. For now, the master wishes to see you all. Follow us."
Reiko and the ladies did so, the room beginning to illuminate more vibrantly as the group traversed further into the room. After a few minutes, they reached the throne chair.
There sat Shinnok; the disgraced Elder God and King of the Netherrealm.
The years haven't been kind to Shinnok, staying in exile for an extended period will do that even to a former God. Despite deteriorating health, Shinnok's power never diminished while instilling fear into the hearts of foe and ally alike. Kano and Kabal stood on his left-hand side while Black Dragon recruits flanked the other, all given orders to stay in the Netherrealm until the bait arrives.
Rising out of his chair, Shinnok stepped down the stairs towards Reiko, eyes shimmering. Everyone in attendance bowed to their leader. The Fallen God motioned his hand, allowing everyone to stand as he took a good look at his new prisoner, carefully grasping Jade's chin to inspect her face. The General's facial bruises weren't close to being healed as she continued in silent slumber.
"The General of Queen Sindel and Princess Kitana, such a delicate woman." Letting go of Jade's face, Shinnok praised his top subordinate. "You've done a marvelous job, Reiko."
"Thank you, my lord," Reiko accepted the thanks. "What shall we do with Jade?"
After thinking about it, Shinnok replied, "Subdue her in the chamber. I will speak to Jade after she awakens." He quickly turned to Mileena and raised his arm, the amulet rising out of her possession and into his hand.
"What is the meaning of this!?" Mileena shrieked. "Give back the amulet, old fool!"
The Dark God merely shrugged off the outburst. "If I recall Mileena, this is my amulet and belongs only to me." He proved that point by lighting his hand in a purplish glow of evil energy. "And you'll show proper respect if you wish for me not to incinerate you."
Knowing better than to challenge the Fallen God, Mileena bit her tongue and backed off. She cursed inwardly for having the amulet confiscated, foiling her chances of a backup plan in case the original failed.
"WhenReiko situates our guest," Shinnok turned his attention to Tanya, who looked petrified for a slight moment. "I'll allow you to have some fun with her."
Tanya was in disbelief. That meant Shinnok didn't plan to kill her, at least for now. She kneeled on the ground as a show of respect and good faith. "Yes, Lord Shinnok."
Shinnok nodded. "Very well." His eyes shifted to Kano. "Show her your toys while Reiko restrains Jade. You'll depart for Edenia tomorrow morning to send Chris a message," he instructed.
"Consider it done," Kano exuded confidence before turning to Tanya. "Follow me. My toys will have her screamin' for mercy."
Tanya smiled menacingly. 'Finally. Jade will feel all the pain she's inflicted upon me through the years.'
Inner Chamber:
Reiko arrived in the chamber with the unconscious body of Jade, gently setting her down on a table to obtain a set of chains strong enough to restrain her movement. He started by binding Jade's hands above her head then moved down to tie her ankles, locking them with a single key. After inspecting his work, Reiko brought over a metal hook attached to a conveyer belt on the ceiling and hoisted Jade's body, securing the chains binding her hands on the metal hook before suspending her five feet mid-air. Finally, Reiko took a roll of black tape, taping Jade's mouth shut.
'Such a shame we must eliminate a rather elegant woman,' Reiko thought to himself, inspecting his prisoner from head to toe. 'Chris was wise to choose you.'
Left with only inklings of what could have been, Reiko left Edenia's General dangling in despair and closed the door to await more orders from Shinnok.
It was only the beginning of Jade's worst nightmare.
Two Hours later:
Dizziness described Jade's vision while tiredly opening her eyes, the surroundings unfamiliar as she looked around. The room had a few dimly lit lights, enough to let the emerald-eyed woman adjust her sight. A window on the left side presented nothing but pure darkness. Edenia's General became concerned; the battle between her and Tanya the last thing she could remember, everything else registering as a blank. Then, recollections flooded Jade's mind, and it all started to make sense as to how she ended up here.
'That blow dart rendered me defenseless. Tanya knew it was coming; that's why she didn't attack right away,' the assassin deducted.
Jade tried to move but quickly found her limbs immobilized by strong chain links and her mouth covered by duct tape. Her eyes widened in fear, captured inside enemy territory. Instinctively, Jade wigged, but to no avail. Whoever put her in this bondage knew what they were doing. The limited mobility added with both her Bojutsu and glaive missing placed Jade in a confounding position. However, things would only worsen as the door to her dungeon creaked open. Once again, Jade's eyes widened in anger and fury as Tanya entered the room, a wide grin on her face.
"MMMMMM! MM! MMMM!" All Jade could do was let out muffled sounds of displeasure at her visitor while struggling against the metal bondage.
"Nice to see you awake, Jade." Tanya taunted.
The assassin glared hatefully at her nemesis, wanting nothing more than to break through her chains and beat Tanya to a bloody pulp. Now, she was at the mercy of this crazy witch.
"I'm sure you're finding yourself comfortable here in the Netherrealm," the traitor informed the assassin.
Jade's heart stopped beating; the Netherrealm was the last place she wanted to be in captivity. Nothing but horrible things occurred here as evidenced by Shinnok's banishment. Tanya lowered her chained enemy to the floor using a lever right by the door.
"There's nowhere for you to go, and before we begin our fun together, I believe you have something I want," Tanya told Jade.
After bringing Jade down to the floor, the pyromancer stepped forward to her helpless rival. The General tensed as Tanya slowly approached, doing her best to break free, but the chains wouldn't relent. Without any hesitation, Tanya brought her hands over to Jade's left and pulled the engagement ring off her finger. At this point, the assassin was screaming (in this case, muffling) bloody murder as this witch dared to take advantage of her situation and stole the one item that meant more than anything else in her possession. Tanya placed the valuable jewelry on her left ring finger in front of its owner. She looked deep into Jade's eyes, retaining the angry look as she tried to escape confinement.
SMACK!
Tanya's inflamed right hand viciously backhanded Jade across the face. The blow caught Jade off guard as it stung the entire right side of her face and, before she could get her bearings together, Tanya grabbed her forcefully by the chin.
Tanya grinned evilly. "How does it feel to be utterly helpless to defend yourself? You're pathetic, Jade."
'Deceiving whore!' Jade screamed in her mind. 'Wait till I get my hands on you!'
The door to the room opened. Both women looked towards it as Reiko, Kano, Mileena, and Kira stepped inside, the women lining up on the left and the men on the right. Jade was in deep trouble with all the Queen's enemies here to make her suffer.
"We have a surprise for you, bitch," Tanya declared before getting in line.
After the traitor lined up with Mileena and Kira, Jade's eyes widened in horror as Quan Chi and Shang Tsung entered. She thought those two were killed in the explosion when Onaga made his return, the General witnessed the detonation during her mission to locate Kitana but found her sister turned into a revenant from hell. Her day continued to unravel. If they survived, Outworld had more problems than it could ever imagine. Both sorcerers made their way towards the General, their wicked grins showing their evil intentions.
"If it isn't the lovely Jade," Shang Tsung addressed his former assassin. "I heard from my outside contacts that you're engaged to that Earthrealmer."
Jade wanted to throw up. Looking back, she never wanted to work for this vile man or his boss Shao Khan. He was the reason for the creation of Mileena and for Princess Kitana's imprisonment that nearly led to her execution.
Quan Chi stepped forward to join his fellow sorcerer. "Indeed. It seems as though you've taken a liking to him." He then grabbed a handful of Jade's hair, forcing a muffled groan as she tightly closed her eyes. "It's a shame we have to destroy that love. Luckily for you, Chris and his allies will come knowing we have you here."
The assassin's eyes widened. 'They're using me as bait to lure Chris and the others here!'
"It's time for you to meet our master." Quan Chi said with authority.
The powerful sorcerer released Jade's hair as he and Shang Tsung walked back to where their allies stood. Stepping into the dungeon was the last figure, striking absolute fear into the assassin's heart, which was a rarity. Jade was taught at a young age to fear no one, a lesson from her father, who was a great warrior in his prime years. Powerful warlords, wicked sorcerers, and terrible creatures never deterred her courage, but this would be an exception as Shinnok entered the room and stood about ten feet away from the assassin.
"You must be Jade, General of the Edenian army," the disgraced God said.
Thinking Shinnok might kill her if she didn't respond, Jade slowly nodded but trembled when he stepped closer to her prone position, fearing he would violate her in front of his subordinates. Shinnok instead gently removed the tape covering her mouth, allowing the General to breathe more freely. Hesitantly, Jade bore into the eyes of Shinnok. It was like she was staring into the pits of hell. The Fallen God held an emotionless facial expression as he looked the General over, Jade tearing away from his gaze.
Uneasily, the assassin inquired, "Why am I here?"
"Your fiancé is the key to my ultimate plan. His power is unlike anything I've ever seen. I didn't expect an Earthrealmer to destroy two of the biggest threats to my rule. Therefore, I needed a way to lure Chris here," the Dark God told her as he put his hand under Jade's chin. "That's where you came in, my dear. A meeting would be guaranteed if my subjects brought you to me."
"W- What are you going to do to him?" Jade did her best to keep all emotions in check.
Shinnok smiled. "I want to test his skill to see if he's worthy of joining my cause to destroy the Elder Gods. Who knows? Having you here will give him extra motivation to fight. Love is a potent emotion that has its usefulness."
Jade wanted to break down right then and there, Chris and the others were for a brutal fight. She knew her lover was formidable, but this might be a challenge he may not walk away unscathed. Sensing her discomfort, Shinnok removed his hand from her chin and turned to leave the room.
"I beg you, don't hurt him. Please." Jade pleaded with him, her tears finally coming down her face.
With his back turned, Shinnok replied, "I won't kill him, at least in the beginning. Whether he accepts my offer will determine his fate; yours as well. We'll see how much he cares for your safety. In the meantime, Tanya would like to spend some 'quality time' with you."
The Fallen God then addressed his followers. "Return to the throne room for preparations. Kano, be ready for departure at dawn."
Kano bowed. "Yes, my lord."
Shinnok left the room with everyone else following in his path, all except for Kano and Tanya. They stood back, sadistically licking their lips. Whatever they had in mind, Jade knew it wouldn't be enjoyable. Kano moved forward, a dangerously lustful fixation in his eyes. The assassin became revolted with the way he was eyeing her figure. Circling her body, Kano made his way behind Jade, his gaze focused on her plump rear.
"My, my. I know Chris enjoyed tappin' your ass." Kano sneered before firmly slapping the General on her backside. She was livid at the action.
"YOU BASTARD! HOW DARE YOU!" Jade screamed furiously.
Kano took the opportunity to land a devastating punch to Jade's jaw. "Shut up!"
Jade winced in pain after being sucker-punched, surprised her jaw didn't fracture upon impact; Kano's strength on par with Chris. Blood seeped from her mouth as she tasted the copper-like flavor.
"Ok, Kano. Set up the video camera." Tanya ordered. "This will get Chris' blood hot."
"Right away, lovely," Kano replied.
The Black Dragon leader went into a black duffel bag he brought in, pulling out a video recorder with a stand. After taking a few minutes to set up, Kano positioned the camera in front of the prisoner and waited for the device to charge. Paranoia was at an all-time high for Jade as she was unsure what these two had planned.
She had no idea how gruesome things were going to become.
Warning: Torture session. If you are uncomfortable reading, don't. Read at your own risk
The video camera powered on, and Jade found herself front and center on stage. As the camera recorded, Tanya waltzed right in front of the lens with a sexy strut. Kano carefully moved the camera to show both women.
"Hello, everyone. I'm sure you all recognize me as Tanya, former ambassador to Edenia. As you can see, we have your precious General here in the Netherrealm. Our leader, Shinnok, graciously asks for your presence. For now, Kano and I would like to show you how much fun we'll have with our prisoner," Tanya stated before walking off set to retrieve her toys.
Jade now realized that Kano and Tanya planned to make an example of her. Tanya removed herself from camera view only to come back with two items in hand; a taser, and a whip. Jade never saw a stun gun before, not wanting to see what it did to its victims though she wouldn't have a choice in the matter.
Kano stepped into the picture, duct tape in hand and moved over to where Jade was, disgust written on her face. The Black Dragon Leader ignored the nasty glare and tried taping her mouth shut but found it difficult with Jade moving her head around, unwilling to comply. Having enough, Kano effectively stopped her squirming with a gut punch, the assassin feeling a loss of air before the tape shielded her mouth shut. The Black Dragon leader moved away to allow Tanya in front of Jade, excitement apparent in her demeanor.
Tanya grabbed Jade's chin and said, "Get ready for your close up, bitch." It was loud enough for the camera to capture her voice.
Raring her fist back, the Edenian traitor began punching Jade all over her face, ribs, and stomach. Tanya struck her foe like a boxer training against a punching bag, every hit landing with tremendous force holding deadly intentions. Jade's head rocked side to side with every blow, culminating with a massive right hand to her gut. A muffled groan emerged as she tried to regain breath but to no avail. Blood dripped to the floor from the assassin's broken nose and an open wound from her forehead. Then to her annoyance, Tanya pulled on Jade's hair again, the two locking eyes.
"Don't think I'm close to being done with you. Your suffering is just beginning," the pyromancer said before ripping the tape off.
Unexpectedly, Jade spit in Tanya's face. She recoiled from the mixture of saliva and blood, utterly disgusted with what her nemesis did. Tanya removed the spittle and glared daggers at the assassin who returned the favor. A vicious stare down took place between the Edenian rivals.
"Go to hell," Jade growled in a vicious demeanor.
Her retaliation only provoked Tanya to smile before pulling out the taser from her hip. She charged up the device, leaving Jade in a state of confusion and worry.
"By the Gods, what is that?" the assassin asked, knowing she wouldn't like the answer.
"It's called a taser. Kano showed me how it worked while you were asleep." Tanya explained before turning the voltage up. Jade started shaking. Whatever the device did couldn't be good for her. "Imagine your entire body absorbing painful shocks constantly. The device can render someone unconscious if at full power."
The traitor turned back to the camera and exclaimed, "Chris, this is payback for choosing this bitch over me!"
Tanya moved the taser towards Jade's abdomen, the excruciating pain that followed was unlike anything the General ever felt before. She let out a blood-curdling scream, her body in agonizing pain as it convulsed violently, unaccustomed to the high amount of voltage. Tanya let the taser run for a good thirty seconds before pulling away. The assassin breathed laboriously from the most dreadful experience in her life.
"Kano, tape her mouth shut so she won't be able to scream her pain out," she demanded.
Doing what she instructed, Kano sealed the assassin's mouth shut, her erratic breathing out of sorts as Tanya prepared to use her weapon again.
"Ready for round two, Jade?" Tanya asked mockingly.
The assassin couldn't muster up the energy to even glare at her bitter foe. In an instant, her body suddenly jolted forward as the taser shot through her back. The tape held in Jade's painful screams, her mind in disarray from the voltage shocking her system and hitting every single nerve in her body. This time though, Tanya held the stun gun in place for two minutes, laughing at her enemy's anguish. The pyromancer finally removed the taser from Jade's back; her oxygen would fail if this punishment continued.
Tanya moved forward and grabbed Jade's hair again, a pair of emerald eyes barely open. "Don't worry, my sweet assassin. I saved the very best for last," she voiced sadistically.
Putting the taser away, the traitor obtained the very long whip from her waist as Kano pushed up the lever to the metal hook, suspending Jade about seven feet in the air.
"You see, Jade? Had you decided not to interfere with my plans and allowed me to have Chris for myself, you wouldn't be suffering now." Tanya taunted as she prepared to strike Jade's back with the whip. "Now, I'll make you beg for mercy." She reared her arm back. "Scream in agony, harpy!"
With a tenacious swing, the whip connected with Jade's back, eliciting a horrific cry of pain muffled by the tape around her mouth as she arched her back. A visible rope burn was seen on her back, going from her upper back to the base of her spine, the stinging sensation unbearable. With a nod from Tanya, Kano lowered Jade to the ground and harshly tore the tape off her mouth.
Tanya's gleeful smile mocked her rival. "Aww, what's wrong Jade? Does it hurt? Is it too much?"
No words left Jade, affliction all across her body and face. What could she even say or do in her predicament? Her lover has no idea where she is, and Shinnok will end him should Chris make it here. All hope was lost.
"I see, thinking about Chris, aren't we?" Malevolence engraved itself on the Edenian traitor's face. "Too bad!"
Kano switched the lever up again, raising Jade to the same height once again. Now, Tanya was going for the kill. "Suffer in hell, harlot!"
Moving in front of Jade, Tanya reeled her arm back and whipped it forward to strike her prisoner's chest repeatedly. The pain became unbearable and the treatment, unmerciful. Jade's agonizing cries of pain only increased as she braced herself as best she could, the whip leaving scarring marks on her body. Kano smiled at the scene, Chris' fiancé won't be looking so pretty after tonight, and he'll undoubtedly enjoy watching his chum's face when he shows up to Edenia tomorrow. However, Kano must remain cautious as Sindel was sure to have most, if not all her allies at the Palace.
Finally, Tanya finished her torture with one strike to Jade's right temple, the stinging blow knocking the General unconscious as blood instantly ran from the wound. The Edenian traitor and Kano stepped closer to inspect her work; Jade's body riddled with lashes, bruises, and blood. In total, there were over twenty lashes across her chest, back, and face. After admiring her work, Tanya moved in front of their unconscious guest while Kano moved back to the camera, zooming in on the two ladies.
Tanya addressed her audience. "I know you all enjoyed the show, but keep this in mind. I won't stop until Chris willingly becomes my lover again. Should he choose to decline, Jade's torture will only increase. I'll be waiting for you, handsome." Tanya then showed her left land sporting Jade's engagement ring. "By the way, I think I'll keep this magnificent piece of jewelry you got for her. It fits better on my finger. We are at Shinnok's Spire in the Netherrealm and looking forward to seeing you here."
In a bizarre move, Tanya moved near Jade's face and licked a trail of blood running from her forehead. The assassin remained unresponsive, not even so much as flinch. "Until then, fools."
Kano ended the video, thoroughly impressed with Tanya's performance. He was right in letting her join his group earlier in the year, wondering if she'd consider coming back. It was highly unlikely she would, given the fact that Tanya wanted Chris in the worst way while the terrorist wanted him dead. Still, it wouldn't hurt to try, but not right away.
Before the two villains departed, Tanya grabbed the duct tape and closed Jade's mouth to prevent her from speaking, not that it mattered since she was comatose, the assassin dealt a massive blow not only to her body but to her mind as Tanya and Kano took their leave.
Edenia: Next morning
A struggle wouldn't best describe how sleep came for everyone in the Palace. No one could rest knowing one of their own was imprisoned and possibly suffering for all they knew. Today, they will come up with a plan to rescue Jade and put a stop to Mileena's scheme. However, they'll quickly learn that the Empress is merely another playing piece in this game of chess.
Chris awoke with an untold amount of fatigue. No matter how hard the Earthrealm Hero tried, he couldn't get Jade off his mind. His fiancé needed to be found and brought back safely; Lord knows what Tanya and Mileena have done to her. Chris got out of bed and sat on the ground to meditate, something that should've done last night before he went to sleep, closing his eyes in heavy concentration. All unwanted thoughts and memories were pushed aside, helping him focus on only positives. After twenty minutes, a knock occurred at the door.
Slowly opening his eyes, Chris asked aloud, "Who is it?"
"It's me," the voice said on the other side.
Unfolding his legs, Chris got off the floor and headed to the door. On the other side was a rejuvenated Kitana in her MK9 skin. Edenia's Princess took Jade's kidnapping harder than anyone. Only sleeping peacefully with Liu Kang could put her mind at ease. Seeing the Princess relaxed was a positive sign.
"Are you ok?" Kitana asked.
He shook his head. "No, and I won't be until we save Jade."
The Princess nodded in agreement. "Understood. Come, breakfast should be ready."
Chris showed a small smile. "All right, I'll be there shortly."
Ten minutes later:
Breakfast was quiet from the beginning with no one saying anything; everyone eating in silence as they realized there wasn't any time to waste, Jade's life as well as Outworld, Edenia, and Earthrealm at stake. Sonya, Johnny, Jax, Kenshi, Raiden, Liu Kang, Kung Lao, Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Sindel, Kitana, and Chris all sat at the table eating peacefully, their minds focused on the task at hand, the tension unsettling.
Sindel rose from her chair to when suddenly, a voice yelled from the entrance. "Your Highness! You have a visitor!"
The Queen was perplexed along with everyone else. She usually doesn't have visitors this early unless it was an urgent matter. Something seemed off as Sindel approached the young maid.
"Who is it, my dear?" the Queen queried.
"It is a male with a glowing red eye!" the female said in fear.
Everyone jumped out of their seats but no one quicker than Chris who bolted through the door, ready to kick Kano's teeth down his throat. He wasn't going to let this opportunity go by and will be damned if anyone stopped him.
"Chris! Wait!" Sindel yelled but to no avail.
"Come on!" Sonya exclaimed before taking off after her fellow soldier. "Before they tear the place apart!"
They all followed her lead to the Palace entrance. Sure enough, they found Chris there, an inferno in his eyes as he and Kano were locked in an intense staredown, the slightest flinch could trigger a fight, one where Chris didn't care how much punishment was delivered.
Kano smiled at the welcome he received. "Aye, mates. Glad to see you haven't forgotten about little ol' me."
"Save it, you creep! What the hell are you doing here!?" Sonya demanded.
"Come on, ya blonde bimbo! Have some manners!" Kano sneered at the blonde. "I have some info you might want!"
Johnny stepped up, clearly annoyed with his wife being put down. "Watch your fucking mouth! That's my wife!"
Sindel narrowed her eyes and stepped forward. "What kind of info?"
"Yes, you rotten snake!" her daughter interjected. "Where is my sister!?"
The Black Dragon leader smiled and pulled out a small USB flash drive. "It's all right here, your highness."
"How do we know it's not wired to explode once we play it?" Jax asked while crossing his metal arms.
"You don't. If I had my way, this place would be rubble." Kano snidely remarked. "On the drive is a small video we taped last night, and I'm sure my boy Chris is still thinking about his little stripper slut who happens to be on it."
The Forces of Light stood in shock when the Black Dragon leader uttered those disparaging remarks about Chris' fiancé. They all turned to him, and they could see he was five seconds away from snapping. Who could blame him after going through so much hell with the man standing in front of him? From the murder of his previous wife and child to capturing him and joining forces with Tanya.
With alarming quickness, Chris charged forward and speared Kano straight in his chest, taking the air out of his lungs. The other heroes did nothing to stop him from beating the snot out of his hated enemy. Kano could barely put up a guard against the Earthrealm hero's assault despite excelling in CQC as Chris found many openings and made his adversary suffer tremendously.
"YOU STUPID SON OF A BITCH! WHERE'S JADE!? IF YOU DON'T TELL ME, I'LL PERSONALLY SEE TO IT THAT YOU ROT IN THE GROUND FOR ETERNITY!" Chris roared as he continued punching Kano in his face.
"All right! All right! GET OFF ME!" The Black Dragon's leader flutily put his hands up in surrender.
Even though Chris wanted to continue kicking his ass, he couldn't afford to let the chance of finding Jade slip through his fingers. The Earthrealm hero stopped and got off Kano but not before grabbing his shirt with both hands and pulling him up towards his face, Kano's mug damn near mauled to death, his nose grotesquely broken while sporting a black eye and continuous bleeding from his lip, nose, and eyebrows.
Kano weakly held the video in his right hand. "Here; take it."
Chris plucked the video out of his hand but tightened his grip on Kano's shirt. "Listen and listen good, you worthless piece of shit. If anyone has harmed Jade in any way, shape, or form, no one will stop me from taking your head off," he said in a low but threatening voice.
Sindel moved to put a comforting but firm hand on her champion's shoulder. "As much as I would enjoy seeing that, we have more pressing matters to attend to, Chris. For now, he will be moved to the dungeon until we see this video."
The Earthrealm hero nodded. "Yes, my Queen." He turned to the married couple. "Sonya, do you or Johnny happen to have a laptop and a video projector?"
"We do. I'll get it out of my bag in our room." Sonya confirmed before heading off to her room.
"In the meantime, Jax, could you please help my guards escort Kano to his cell?" the Queen asked the former military grunt.
Jax moved forward and did everyone a huge favor. "With pleasure, your highness."
With one strike, Jax knocked Kano out cold before carrying him to the cells with the help of the guards. Everyone watching was relieved that headache sorted itself out.
"Good riddance." Chris voiced his approval.
Meeting Room:
After Kano was put to sleep by the right arm of Jax, everyone converged into the hall to view the video. Anxiousness couldn't begin to describe the emotions flying around. Especially Chris, who took a while to calm down after nearly killing Kano ten minutes ago. Afterward, he helped Sonya and Johnny hook up the laptop and projector. The room didn't hold much light, making it easier to view the video. Sindel and Kitana were taken aback by the technology exposed to them.
"Goodness. Your Earthrealm technology is amazing." Kitana said in awe.
Johnny smiled. "Thanks. It will give us a clear picture of whatever Kano said was on this file."
"I hope it isn't a trick. Otherwise, Kano will have a lot to answer for." Sonya said while setting the projector up.
"I agree," Chris interjected while preparing to press play on the remote as everyone situated themselves. "Well, here goes nothing."
Start of the video:
The video camera turned on, and everyone gasped in horror at the sight of Jade chained by her ankles, arms, and hands. The sight appalled the entire group.
'Oh, God! Jade!' Chris thought to himself.
As the camera recorded, Tanya waltzed right in front of the lens with a sexy strut. Chris' blood pressure went straight through the roof. Sindel and Kitana looked pissed while everyone else narrowed their eyes. The camera rotated to show both women as Tanya began speaking.
"Hello, everyone. I'm sure you all recognize me as Tanya, former ambassador to the Edenian Empire. As you can see, we have your precious General here in the Netherrealm. Our leader, Shinnok, has graciously asked for your presence. He would also like to make an offer to you, Chris and will tell you more when you all arrive. For now, Kano and I would like to show you how much fun we'll have with our prisoner," she stated before walking off set to retrieve her toys.
Silence emerged in the room at the mention of the disgraced God, but that was the least of Chris' worries as Tanya removed herself from the view of the camera, only to come back with two items in hand; a taser and a whip. Chris balled his hands into fists, his anger reaching new heights at what took place last night as he and the others slept.
Kano stepped into the picture with duct tape in his hands and moved over to where Jade was, disgust on her face. The Black Dragon Leader ignored the look and tried taping her mouth shut but found it difficult with Jade moving her head around, unwilling to comply. Having enough, Kano effectively stopped her squirming with a punch to her gut. The assassin groaned in pain before the tape sealed her mouth shut. Chris wanted to yell in retaliation but realized he couldn't do anything now. The Black Dragon leader moved away to allow Tanya in front of Jade, the excitement apparent on her face.
Tanya grabbed Jade's chin and said, "Get ready for your close up, bitch." It was loud enough for the camera to capture her voice.
Raring her fist back, the Edenian traitor began punching Jade all over her face, ribs, and stomach. Tanya struck her foe like a boxer training against a punching bag, every hit landing with tremendous force holding deadly intentions.
"That despicable traitor!" Kitana screamed in anger as she rose from her seat. Sindel instantly grabbed her wrist and slowly brought her back down.
Jade's head rocked side to side with every blow, culminating with a massive right hand to her gut. A muffled groan emerged as she tried to regain breath but to no avail. Blood dripped to the floor from the assassin's broken nose and an open wound from her forehead. Then to her annoyance, Tanya pulled on Jade's hair again, the two locking eyes.
"Don't think I'm close to being done with you. Your suffering is just beginning," the pyromancer said before ripping the tape from her rival's mouth.
Unexpectedly, Jade spit in Tanya's face. She recoiled from the mixture of saliva and blood, utterly disgusted with what her nemesis did. Chris lightly smiled, knowing Jade was a fighter and wouldn't lay down. Tanya removed the spittle with and glared daggers at the assassin who returned the favor. A vicious stare down took place between the Edenian rivals.
"Go to hell," Jade growled in a vicious demeanor.
Her retaliation provoked Tanya to smile before she pulled the taser from her hip. Sonya and Johnny both had worried looks when they saw the device. Even Chris felt afraid.
"By the Gods, what is that?" the assassin asked, knowing she wouldn't like the answer.
"It's called a taser. Kano showed me how it worked while you were asleep." Tanya explained before turning the voltage up.
Jade started shaking in fear. Chris' heart thumped hard against his chest, not wanting to see his fiancé suffer a harrowing experience in the form of a taser.
"Imagine your entire body enduing constant voltage. If the device is at full power, it could render someone unconscious."
The traitor turned back to the camera and said, "Chris, this is payback for choosing this bitch over me!"
After shouting her threat, Tanya moved the taser towards Jade's abdomen, and the excruciating pain that followed was unlike anything the General ever felt before. She let out a blood-curdling scream, her body in agonizing pain as it convulsed violently, unaccustomed to the amount of voltage it was receiving. Kitana instantly teared up, her sister tortured in such a gruesome manner. Sindel had a hard time calming her down while keeping her own emotions in check. Jax watched in disbelief as he would've lost his mind if his wife Vera or daughter Jacqui underwent this torment. Tanya let the taser run for a good thirty seconds before pulling it away. The assassin breathed hard from the most dreadful experience in her life.
"Kano, tape her mouth shut. This time, she won't be able to scream her pain out," she demanded.
Doing what she instructed, Kano taped the assassin's mouth shut. Her breathing was erratic and out of sorts as Tanya prepared to use her weapon again.
"Ready for round two, Jade?" Tanya asked mockingly.
The assassin couldn't muster up the energy to even glare at her bitter foe. In an instant, her body suddenly jolted forward as the taser shot through her back. The tape held in Jade's painful screams, her mind in disarray from the voltage shocking her system and hitting every single nerve in her body. This time though, Tanya held the stun gun in place for two minutes, laughing at her enemy's anguish. The pyromancer finally removed the taser from Jade's back; her oxygen would fail if this punishment continued.
Tanya moved forward and grabbed Jade's hair again, a pair of emerald eyes barely open. "Don't worry, my sweet assassin. I saved the very best for last," she said sadistically.
Putting the taser away, the traitor grabbed the very long whip from her waist as Kano pushed up the lever to the metal hook, suspending Jade about seven feet in the air. Chris wanted to strangle that bitch. She has now stooped to an all-time low. Not only would he kill Kano for his role in Jade's torture, but he'll deal with Tanya.
"You see, Jade? Had you decided not to interfere with my plans and allow me to have Chris, you wouldn't be suffering now." Tanya taunted as she prepared to strike Jade's back with the whip. "Now, I'll make you beg for mercy." She reared her arm back. "Scream in agony, harpy!"
With a tenacious swing, the whip connected with Jade's back, eliciting a horrific cry of pain muffled by the tape around her mouth as she arched her back. Overcome with emotion, Chris felt tears coming down his face, distraught as he couldn't help his fiancé in her time of need. Johnny saw the look on his face and put a comforting hand on his shoulder. A visible rope burn showed on her back going from her upper back to the base of her spine, the stinging sensation unbearable. With a nod from Tanya, Kano lowered Jade to the ground and harshly tore the tape off her mouth.
Tanya's gleeful smile mocked her rival. "Aww, what's wrong, Jade? Does it hurt? Is it too much?"
No words left Jade, affliction all across her body and face. What could she even say or do in her predicament? Her lover has no idea where she is, and Shinnok will end him should Chris make it here. All hope was lost.
Reluctantly, Chris looked back up to the video, his heart tearing in two as Jade's bruises were enough to make him go off the deep end. Before long, something snapped inside Chris as he felt the similar power he used to defeat both Shao Khan and Onaga. His eyes started to turn all the way white, and everyone in the room felt the energy radiating from his body.
"I see, thinking about Chris, aren't we?" Malevolence engraved itself on the Edenian traitor's face. "Too bad!"
Kano switched the lever up again, raising Jade to the same height once again. Now, Tanya was going for the kill. "Suffer in hell, harlot!"
Moving in front of Jade, Tanya reeled her arm back and whipped it forward to strike her prisoner's chest repeatedly. The pain became unbearable and the treatment, unmerciful. Jade's agonizing cries of pain only increased as she braced herself as best she could, the whip leaving scarring marks on her body. Kano's horrid smile didn't go unnoticed by the Earthrealm hero. There will be hell to pay for this debauchery.
Finally, Tanya finished her torture with one strike to Jade's right temple, the stinging blow knocking the General unconscious as blood instantly ran from the wound. The Edenian traitor and Kano stepped closer to inspect her work; Jade's body riddled with lashes, bruises, and blood. In total, there were over twenty lashes across her chest, back, and face. After admiring her work, Tanya moved in front of their unconscious guest while Kano moved back to the camera, zooming in on the two ladies.
Tanya addressed her audience. "I know you enjoyed the show, but keep this in mind. I won't stop until Chris willingly becomes my lover again. Should he choose to decline, Jade's torture will only increase. I'll be waiting for you, handsome." Tanya then showed her left land sporting Jade's engagement ring. "By the way, I think I'll keep this magnificent piece of jewelry you got for her. It fits better on my finger."
That did it.
Chris let out a tremendous yell, startling his fellow allies as the power he held within his soul increased exponentially. Sindel felt every single emotion in his spirit; rage, sorrow, vengeance, and justice. Even the vengeful Scorpion was amazed at the amount of power the Earthrealm hero exhibited.
'His power is enormous!' thought Sindel.
"We are at Shinnok's Spire in the Netherrealm and looking forward to seeing you here," Tanya said before she moved her face near Jade's and licked a trail of blood coming from her forehead. The assassin didn't even flinch as she remained unresponsive. "Until then, fools."
End of the video:
Mercifully, the video ended, concern etched on all our heroes' faces. Not only for what they just witnessed but also for the destructive amount of power coming from Chris' body. He's displayed outrage before but nothing quite like this. The two people he despised physically and mentally tormented his fiancé. Chris knew that if he lost control, there might be no chance for him to return to his usual self. Right now, he didn't give a damn. He was going to save Jade - or die trying.
Raiden looked at Chris on the ground with his head down. The power he gave off was astounding, but the surrounding circumstances were far from it. Both Sindel and Kitana hugged him as he cried bitterly. His fiancé suffered indescribable abuse to the point where she was rendered helpless. This time, Tanya has gone too far in assaulting Jade while showing no remorse.
"This is very unfortunate and grave," Raiden said solemnly. "Jade is in trouble while Shinnok has returned. I fear this will be a deadlier fight than during Onaga's resurrection."
Sindel nodded while trying to console Chris. "I agree, Lord Raiden. We must rescue my General or risk her impending execution."
A palace guard came bursting through the door the moment Edenia's Queen finished her statement. "Your Highness! We have an emergency! Kano has escaped!"
Every warrior jumped out of their seat at the news of Kano's escape. Kitana and Sindel were livid; not with their guards because they were the finest in the land of Edenia. However, Kano was a whole new breed of criminal.
"How did he escape!?" Sindel asked in anger.
"He had help from the Edenian named Tanya!" he stated.
You could've seen smoke coming out of Sindel's ears. That traitor had the nerve to invade Edenia and break a notorious criminal out of her dungeon. Kitana was especially infuriated. Everyone headed down to the basement of the Palace where the prison existed, but by the time they reached Kano's cell, all that remained were a few dead guards along with the melted chains that shackled the Black Dragon leader, their traces going cold.
"They're gone." Liu Kang said.
"We have a real problem on our hands." Kung Lao added.
In a fit of frustration, Chris turned to a wall and launched a vicious punch, creating a huge hole. Everyone stood surprised at this feat as his rage reached its apex. Time was running out - for Jade and the entire universe.
