Jaune Arc multiverse: the reaction

by Arcanus the scribe

A spin off of the 'Jaune Arc Multiverse.' Team RWBY and NPR, as well with some others, are brought to the temple of the scribes. They are brought there in order to witness the full potential of Jaune Arc. At the same time, learning about a calamity coming to their world and how Jaune Arc fits in all this. [Slow Chapter Update]

7. Mortal Kombat part 4

Jaune Arc Multiverse: The reaction.

Disclaimer: This is a fictional fan-made story. I do not own any of the properties and/or characters that are shown, or read, in this story. The only characters I claim ownership are the ones that I have created for narrative purposes, i.e. OCs. They all belong to their respective owners, though I suggest you check out these properties to both quench your own curiosity and to support the creators. If you see any spelling, grammatical, or narrative errors please let me know. I also allow constructive criticism because it allows me to improve my writing skills and to make this story better. If you have some requests please let me know and I will go over them, but don't go overboard with the requests. So please, DON'T BE A DICK IN THE COMMENTS and say my story is crap, thank you and enjoy.

A/N: I am only going to skip most of the fights for this MK chapter only. The reason why is because I'm lazy and this chapter is going to be way too long. Sorry not sorry.

Chapter 6 part 2

The scene cuts to the Kuatan jungle, where Team S-F have now reached. Takeda is speaking to Kenshi through his communicator.

"We're all in one piece. No one seems to be tailing us." Takeda said.

"Have you been able to determine where D'Vorah was headed?" Kenshi asked from the other end.

"We think she's headed for the Sea of Blood." Takeda said.

~

"That sure sounds relaxing." Qrow said sarcastically. His former teammates, family, and those that know rolled their eyes at his antics. Though Robyn let out a quiet chuckle.

~

Another voice is heard over the communicator.

"Damn!" Jax cursed over the radio.

"Dad?" Jacqui asked in confusion.

"She's coming here. To Quan Chi. There's a secret portal near the Sea of Blood. Quan Chi had it built when we were gettin' ready to invade Outworld." Jax explained over the comm.

"Great." Cassie said sarcastically.

"Dad, what are you doing? Why are you in the Netherrealm?" Jacqui asked in great worry.

The scene cuts to the Netherrealm. Jax is walking along the Krossroads with Kenshi and a squad of Special Forces soldiers, speaking into the communicator.

"Well, now who's being overprotective?" Jax laughed.

~

Yang, Ruby, Qrow, and Tai let out a laugh. So did Jonathan, Angela, Saphron, and Terra. Both patriarchs of their respective families always have the tendency to be overprotective. More so for the Arcs. Oh the many people they sent to the hospital when they disrespected and/or hurt their babies.

~

Chapter 8 Jax

"I know you think you have things to make up for, but--." Jacqui tried to say but was cut off by her father.

"I'm doing this for Sonya. She's family." Jax explained.

"That's why I'm worried." Jacqui said.

"I'll be fine. You stay safe, y'hear?" Jax said.

"You stay safe too. I love you. Briggs out." Jacqui said.

"Briggs out." Jax replied.

He switches off the communicator.

"Feeling better? Or worse?" Kenshi asked.

"Not sure. Maybe both." Jax said with a shrug. Kenshi chuckles and places a hand on Jax's shoulder.

"They'll be fine." Kenshi reassured him.

"Question is, will I be?" Jax asked.

They walk over the Krossroad's bridge to the landscape before it. Several soldiers have set up a perimeter behind cover, facing outward into the hellish landscape beyond.

"We have a good crossfire position. But why is it that Quan Chi travels by conventional means?" Kenshi asked.

They walk over to another person - one of the Netherrealms' more known denizens - for their answer.

"He seems unable to fully use his magic. He's weaker than when I was... in his service." Sareena said.

"Sareena's dead on. He doesn't have Shinnok as a power source. He's still Quan Chi, though." Jax said.

~

"Keep in mind students, a warrior in a weakened state should not be underestimated." Wisely spoke Ozpin. His students all nodded in agreement with the headmaster.

Raven scoffed at his words. 'This Quan Chi isn't a threat to me. In fact he would die the first minute.' You sure about that Raven?

~

Kenshi nods at this. The three of them take up a position behind some rocks as cover.

"I realise you agreed to guide and observe. But you are welcome to assume any role you wish." Kenshi said.

"I'm too rusty. I don't wanna jeopardise the mission." Jax said.

Kenshi silently accepts this. Sareena looks into the distance beyond their cover.

"He approaches." Sareena stated.

The soldiers around them ready their assault rifles. Jax and Kenshi crouch with Sareena behind cover, Jax with a growing dread visible on his face.

The scene cuts over to the hell-horses galloping toward the ambush at full speed. Quan Chi leads the group. All of the available soldiers take cover and aim their weapons directly at the approaching horde. Accompanying Quan Chi are Liu Kang, Kung Lao, Kitana, Sindel, Kabal, Stryker and Nightwolf. Kenshi waits a few moments before giving his command.

"Now!" Kenshi ordered.

The soldiers open fire. They don't score any immediate hits, but the barrage is enough to spook the hell-mounts. They rear up on their hind legs and refuse to go forward. One soldier aims his gun and shoots a hell-horse on its shoulder, causing it to rear up and throw Kung Lao from his saddle. Seeing this, Sindel and Kitana both jump off their mounts and take cover. Jax notices this, looking very concerned.

Sindel shoots off a blast of purple magic from her palm that hits a soldier near Jax. He falls to the ground, either unconscious or dead. Stryker aims a pistol from his mount and fires, blowing a hole through the skull of another soldier.

A bullet fired from another soldier clips Quan Chi's mount in the neck. It drops dead, falling on it's master's leg in the process. Liu Kang immediately dismounts from his hell-horse to assist Quan Chi. Two more soldiers shoot at Kabal's horse, and he responds to their poor aim by charging them. As the horse approaches, Kabal pulls his hook swords from their sheaths, readies one in his hand and decapitates a soldier as he gallops past.

Kenshi comes out of cover to assist, and Jax realises that the skirmish is going to end badly.

"Shit…." Jax cursed.

~

"Agreed." Spoke Qrow.

~

As Kabal takes the head off another soldier, Kenshi pulls out Sento and yells out in Japanese, losing off a telekinetic push that shoves Kabal off his mount. As he rushes in to engage Kabal, Liu Kang finishes pulling Quan Chi's leg out from under the hell-horse carcass. Several soldiers run up to engage them, and Kang lets loose one of his fireballs - which now looks more like a black hole encased with dark red energy. The fireball lands dead centre of the soldiers, exploding into flames and roasting them instantly.

With the way now clear, Liu Kang takes his master by the arm and escorts him through the ambush, with Kung Lao following close by them. They rush past Jax's hiding spot, not noticing him as they move towards the Krossroads. Realising that no one else can stop them, Jax takes a second to ready himself and stands up from behind cover, charging after them. Kung Lao turns around and spots Jax approaching, and moves to intercept him.

"Do not interfere, Jackson Briggs. Go back into hiding." Kung Lao said.

"Hiding. I guess I have been." Jax said.

They fight. Kung Lao proves to have lost none of his speed and skill in undeath and the battle is a difficult one for Jax to go through. But his strength and power have not left him, and his cybernetic arms are as reliable as they always were. After a fierce melee, Jax manages to overpower the former Shaolin monk and leave him unconscious.

"That knocked some of my rust off." Jax said.

~

"That was so cool!" Ruby and Nora said in awe. Their friends and the rest of the audience were surprised by the skill of this retired fighter.

"Huh, wonder if I could learn a thing or two from him?" Yang asked herself. Meanwhile Taiyang felt a blow to his fatherly pride.

~

On the other side of the Krossroads, Liu Kang and Quan Chi have taken cover behind a large rock. More S-F soldiers shoot their assault rifles at them, not hitting but forcing them to stay in cover. Liu Kang shoots off a dark fireball that kills one, but the others keep steady… until Liu Kang shoots another fireball that immolates them both.

With the soldiers dead, Kang motions to his master and they make a break for it. Hot on their heels, Jax scoops up an assault rifle. He takes aim, but a banshee scream and the purple soundwaves it produces - courtesy of Sindel - knock him not just off his feet, but into a roll that takes him right off the Krossroads bridge. Jax only stops himself from plummeting into the lava below by grabbing the edge of the bridge with one hand.

Sindel walks over to where he hangs on, laughing with glee. She stomps on the hand, trying to force Jax to let go. He hangs on but his metal fingers are strained by the action, especially when Sindel grinds her heel in.

~

"Bitch." Kali and Angela muttered under their breath. They did not like Sindel one bit.

~

She rears her foot back for another stomp, but at the last moment Jax lunges up, grabbing her by the ankle. Taken off balance, Sindel is dragged off the edge of the bridge along with Jax. Instinctively, she whips her hair out and manages to latch it onto the giant rock seen earlier. The effort stops them both from falling l into the lava.

Jax keeps a death-grip on Sindel's legs, preventing her from kicking him off. With no choice - and an increasing pressure on her neck - Sindel draws herself back onto the bridge by her hair, taking Jax up with her. As Sindel's hair loosens itself from the rock, they both quickly get to their feet, Jax in a fighting stance, Sindel with her arms open and ready to hug him, bizarrely enough.

"Welcome home, Jackson Briggs." Sindel said.

"This hell is not my home." Jax said.

"Then why be foolish enough to return?" Sindel asked.

"I got a family to protect." Jax said.

"Quan Chi reunited me with my family. He will do the same for you." Sindel said.

They fight. Facing off against the woman who killed him is yet another giant challenge for Jackson Briggs, but whatever power Sindel possesses in life has been considerably weakened by her years in the Netherrealm. As such, Jax is able to fend off Sindel's attacks and take the fight directly to her, which ends with her down and defeated at his hands.

"Quan Chi's not helping you." Jax said.

Behind Jax on the ambush spot before the bridge, Kenshi is engaged with Sento against Kabal's hook swords, and Sareena is fighting Kitana. She throws two roundhouse kicks that Kitana evades and blocks a fan strike, but takes a punch across the face. She staggers back and tries to reason with Kitana.

"It is possible to escape Quan Chi, Kitana. I can aid you as Bi-Han aided me." Sareena said.

"You became too familiar with Bi-Han. Allow emotion to corrupt you." Kitana said accusingly.

~

Raven couldn't help but somewhat agree. Emotions are a weakness that can get you killed or screwed over. After all she left Yang and Tai so she can have no such weakness.

~

"Emotion freed me!" Sareena exclaimed.

She punches Kitana in the face. Kitana swipes low with her bladed fans, but Sareena backflips to avoid them. She throws a crescent kick that Kitana catches, but lashes out with an enziguri kick with her other leg, sending the former Edenian sprawling. Sareena skips up as Kitana gets back to her feet, but she takes a moment too long and eats a flying kick to the chest from the revenant that knocks her out.

Kitana stands over her unconscious frame and prepares to finish her, but Jax calls out to her as she readies her fans.

"I don't understand, Kitana. I mean, I hate the things I did here. But you enjoy being a revenant!" Jax stated.

Kitana steps away from Sareena and into Jax's path.

"It suits me. I am a victim, no longer." Kitana said.

~

Yet again Raven couldn't help but agree with the Revenant of Kitana. However, her brother, Qrow, ended up slapping her up across the head

"What the hell?!" Raven glared at the man.

"You better not go on with that "strong survive and weak perish" bullshit. It's a bunch of nonsense and you know." Growled Qrow.

"It is not 'Bullshit', the strong live while the weak die." Raven sneered.

"If that's true then you should be dead three times over. Cause Johnny and Jay kicked your ass multiple times. And they were holding back." Qrow said.

Raven glared at her brother and wanted to retort but kept her mouth shut. She turned back to the screen.

"That's what I thought." Qrow said as he turned back to the screen.

~

She charges at Jax and somersaults over him. Jax turns around quickly and staggers her with a right hook. She falls back into a fighting stance.

"Yeah, I know what you mean, but this ain't the way to assert yourself." Jax said.

They fight. Once more, Jax finds himself taking on an enemy with speed and skill superior to his own, but with his confidence restored in his previous bouts, Jax allows his strength to truly shine through here. It isn't long before Kitana also finds herself in the same condition as Sindel and Kung Lao; unconscious.

"I gotta believe there's hope for you." Jax said.

Jax turns around to the ambush site and assesses the situation. The S-F troops have repelled the rest of the revenants, but many are dead and those who've survived look in need of hospital beds. Jax walks over to Kenshi and Sareena. Kenshi is resting near a rock, and Sareena is crouched near a badly injured soldier who's helmet looks like charcoal.

"Mother o' God…." Jax said silently.

"We've lost many. The rest are wounded." Kenshi explained.

"And our "friends"?" Jac asked.

"The tide turned against them. They fled." Sareena said.

"How are you two doing?" Jax asked the two.

"I'm fine." Kenshi said. As he says this, he staggers. There's a large wound on his right leg that has gone straight through his armor to the flesh below.

"That's what I thought." Jax said.

He turns around toward the Krossroads.

"Where are you going?" Sareena said.

"Gonna bag me a sorcerer." Jax said.

"Alone?" Kenshi asked in disbelief.

"You'll be killed!" Sareena argued.

"Wouldn't be the first time." Jax said. He walks down the bridge.

~

Everyone grimaced at the reminder.

~

The scene cuts to Quan Chi's fortress. Liu Kang stands over Quan Chi, who is seated on a throne.

"In your weakened state, is it possible for you to release Shinnok?" Liu Kang asked.

"I am more than capable." Quan Chi said with determination.

"And D'Vorah? Are you certain she is capable?" Liu Kang asked in obvious doubt.

"She WILL bring the amulet to me." Quan Chi said with reassurance.

"And I'll be waiting for her." Jax said as he entered the room.

Liu Kang turns around at the new arrival.

"Jackson Briggs. A pleasant surprise." Quan Chi said.

"Nothing pleasant about it." Jax said.

As Jax approaches, Liu Kang gets into his fighting stance.

"So you return to Raiden? The fools follow fools." Liu Kang said angrily.

He throws a dark fireball. Jax sidesteps it and walks forward.

"Raiden did his best. He saved Earthrealm!" Jax exclaimed.

Liu Kang charges up another fireball.

"HE MURDERED ME!" Liu Kang shouted in anger.

~

The entire audience raised an eyebrow at what Liu Kang said. Raiden murdered him? Some parts of them were uncomfortable about it but realized that they don't know the whole story. So they would put their thoughts to the side. For now.

~

Liu Kang throws it, but Jax ducks the projectile and continues forward.

"That isn't true!" Jax shouted back.

Liu Kang throws another fireball. Jax dodges this one as well.

"You were not there! He stole EVERYTHING from me!" Liu Kang shouted once again.

Once more, Kang throws a fireball. Jax doesn't bother dodging this one; he bats it away with his mechanical arms. He's now reached Liu Kang, much to Quan Chi's surprise.

"You do not deserve to rejoin us." Liu Kang said.

Jax only chuckles at this. Liu Kang throws two last fireballs, but each one is knocked away by Jax, who pounds his fist into his palm, ready for battle.

"Instead you will learn... there are worse things than death." Liu Kang threatened.

They fight. The battle proves to be one of the toughest of Jax's life. The former Champion of Mortal Kombat has all of the speed, strength, stamina and skill he had when he was alive, and he's every bit the fighter he was when he defeated Shao Kahn. But Jax's own skill and courage give him the strength he needs to keep fighting, and even though the fight is close, Jax manages to take Liu Kang down.

"I wish I could help you, Liu Kang." Jax said.

With no more bodies to help him, Quan Chi rises as Jax approaches, seemingly to reason with him.

"Jax, there is no need for hostil--." Quan Chi tries to defuse the situation.

"Just stop talking!" Jax said.

He punctuates his point by uppercutting Quan Chi square in the mouth. The sorcerer is thrown high into the air and crashes into a wall of skulls. He slumps down, KO'ed in one hit.

~

Everyone couldn't help but smile at Quan Chi getting knocked out.

~

"S'good to be back." Jax said. He switches on his communicator. "Kenshi. I got 'im." Jax spoke into the communicator.

"Excellent work." Kenshi said.

"I'm staying here. D'Vorah's on her way. You need to get Quan Chi to Sonya. She'll make 'im spill his guts." Jax said.

Chapter 9: Scorpion

The scene cuts to the refugee camp. Quan Chi is now in handcuffs and chains, being escorted by Kenshi and Johnny Cage. They drag him into an open shipping container.

"Sit." Kenshi said.

Quan Chi is forced down on a chair. Two soldiers cuff his legs together in chains as well.

"I'm guessing it's not your first time in cuffs. What's your safeword?" Johnny asked in jest.

~

Yang, Nora, Tai, Qrow, and Robyn let out a laugh at what Johnny said. The rest either let out a smirk or an eye roll.

~

Quan Chi gives Johnny a death glare in response. Smiling to himself, Johnny exits the container, followed by Kenshi and the soldiers. The doors are slammed shut. The moment they are, a slight smirk comes to his face. Over this scene, we hear Sonya speaking.

"Advise Secretary Blake that Quan Chi is in custody. We'll be moving him to the supermax facility at Fort Charles within the hour." Sonya ordered.

The scene cuts to Johnny and Kenshi walking up to Sonya, who is relaying the orders to one of her soldiers.

"Yes ma'am." A soldier replied.

As they approach, Sonya turns to face them.

"You two stand guard. Prisoner transfer will be here in twenty." She ordered the two.

"Oh, NOW she trusts me to babysit." Johnny said sarcastically.

~

Jonathan and Angela let out a laugh as there was a similar situation at some point in their marriage.

~

Outside of narrowing her eyes at Johnny, Sonya doesn't respond to the bait. She instead puts her communicator to her ear.

"Cage, report." Sonya commanded.

Cassie's voice is heard on the other line.

"We haven't caught up to D'Vorah. We had her tracked to the Makeba Cliffs, but then her trail went cold." Cassie replied on the other end.

"Damn." Sonya cursed.

The scene switches to behind some shipping containers. Unseen to the soldiers or refugees, several ninjas creep in and hide behind some crates.

"Jacqui thinks D'Vorah's unique physiology may allow us to pinpoint her location. She's retooling her smart-comm to track D'Vorah's pheromones." Cassie said.

The lead ninja holds one hand in the air as he crouches down. His subordinates stop and take cover from him.

"How long?" Sonya asked.

"On my command only. Wound. Do not kill." Hanzo ordered his men.

~

"This will not end well." Qrow said.

"Agreed." Ozpin said.

~

"She has to write the code. We're looking at... two hours?" Cassie said.

"Sergeant, your team doesn't have two hours. We need her found immediately!" Sonya exclaimed.

"Sonya!" Johnny quickly chastised.

She turns to look at him. He tilts his head and nods angrily. Sonya sighs and takes a moment to calm down before she resumes talking.

"Cassie, I appreciate what you're trying to do, but there isn't time. Bring your team back here, we need to re-group and re-deploy." Sonya said in a more calm voice.

"Yes ma'am." Cassie said.

Sonya hangs up.

"They're doing their best." Johnny told her.

"I know." Sonya responded

Kenshi looks into the middle distance and - despite his blindness - notices someone approaching.

"General. We have a visitor." Kenshi spoke.

Sonya and Johnny turn to see Hanzo Hasashi approaching them in full ninja garb.

"You two are friends, right? He told you he was coming?" Sonya asked.

"Nothing." Kenshi said.

~

"Definitely won't end well." Jonathan added. Causing Qrow, Tai, Ironwood, Glynda, and Ozpin to nod in agreement.

~

Sonya walks up to Hanzo, who bows before her.

"General." Hanzo simply said.

"Master Hasashi. I hadn't received word you were coming." Sonya said.

Behind Sonya, several of her soldiers walk closer to the two of them, guns idle in their hands.

"I will have Quan Chi." Hanzo stated his intentions.

"We have things under control. You can--." Sonya spoke but was cut off.

"He must die." Hanzo said.

~

"He wants vengeance." Blake spoke up. Knowing the look on Hanzo's face is the same look he had.

"Quan Chi must've done something horrible to him." Ren speculated.

Weiss turns to the silent boy. "Well he did enslave Hanzo as an undead Revenant."

"I think it's much more than that Ice Queen." Yang spoke up.

~

"Raiden needs him. Without Quan Chi we can't restore Liu Kang and the other revenants. You'd leave them trapped? Like you were?" Sonya explained to Hanzo. However, her words fell on deaf ears.

"Only Quan Chi concerns me." Hanzo stated again.

He motions to walk past her. Sonya puts a hand on his shoulder. Kenshi pulls out Sento from its sheath and Johnny walks forward, ready to fight. Several soldiers surround Hasashi and point their weapons directly at him.

"Don't do this, Hanzo. I'll put you down." Sonya threatened. Hoping that the former specter stands down.

"Then we are at an impasse." Hanzo said.

He holds up two fingers and calls out a command to attack in Japanese. The Shirai Ryu ninjas charge out from behind cover and engage the soldiers. Hanzo bats away Sonya's hand and punches her in the face. He blocks her attacks, but takes a roundhouse kick to the face. He retaliates with a right cross that strikes her across the cheek.

~

"Oof. That's got to hurt." Yang said.

~

"Quan Chi is mine." Hanzo said.

They fight. Despite no longer being a wraith, Hanzo is still capable of tapping into his hellish powers, and he brings these to full bear against the General of the Special Forces. Combined with his own fighting skill and prowess, it isn't long before Sonya is overwhelmed and knocked unconscious.

"I wish you no harm, General Blade." Hanzo said.

Two of the Shirai Ryu drag Sonya away. Hanzo walks over to the shipping container holding Quan Chi. His ninjas have successfully restrained the guards on post there. However, Kenshi sneaks up behind Scorpion and unleashes a telekinetic shockwave from Sento, slamming Hasashi into the container doors. Kenshi then levitates him into the air.

"Call off your men, Hanzo!" Kenshi ordered. Hanzo remains calm in spite of his incapacitation.

"If you value our friendship, you will give me Quan Chi." Hanzo said.

~

"Quan Chi REALLY must have done something horrible." Blake said.

~

In response, Kenshi throws Scorpion across the campsite. He smashes hard into the side of a humvee. He looks up to see Kenshi charging at him and throws his chained kunai, which Kenshi slides to evade. As Kenshi rises, Hanzo tackles him, knocking the sword from his grasp. Kenshi pushes him off and they both roll to their feet.

"Withdraw. Without Sento you are vulnerable." Hanzo said.

Johnny Cage takes this moment to tackle the ninja from the side.

Hanzo pushes Johnny away from him, but the movie star comes back with a backhand. Hanzo evades it, blocks several more blows from Johnny and catches him on the chin with a palm strike.

Johnny comes in again with a right hook. Hanzo once again blocks the blow and several more that follow, landing a jump kick that catches Cage in the chest and staggers him backwards. Johnny takes a moment to get back into a fighting stance, and Hanzo follows suit.

Johnny tries landing a strike to the kidney this time, but Hanzo intercepts it. Again, Hasashi fends off multiple punches from Cage before grabbing his leg off a failed kick, sweeping the other out from under him. Johnny pounds the ground with a fist in frustration and stands up once more.

"Just like old times!" Johnny said.

They fight. Johnny Cage has lost none of his fighting skill over the years, but the youthful agility he possessed in his earlier bout against the ninja has not fared so well. The fight is intense and close, but in the end it is Hanzo Hasashi who proves the victor this time around.

"Only Quan Chi's death will abate my anger." Hanzo stated.

With Cage down, Scorpion turns back to the shipping container. Kenshi is still down on one knee, but he tries to reason with him.

"Hanzo, no! You've earned great trust for the Shirai Ryu. Do not squander it by murdering a withered sorcerer!" Kenshi pleaded.

"That withered sorcerer is the architect of my suffering." Hanzo said.

A ninja grabs Kenshi and restrains him as Hanzo continues toward the container.

The scene cuts to an outside table on a snowy mountain top, complete with two bowls and a kettle. The caption "Five Years Ago - Lin Kuei Temple" reads at the bottom of the screen. Hanzo Hasashi walks toward the table, eyeing it suspiciously. He turns around at the sound of someone approaching - who turns out to be Kuai Liang. Hanzo says nothing, but does not look pleased to see him approach.

~

"They must have a really bad history." Ruby said.

"Most likely Rubes." Yang said.

~

"Master Hasashi. I am grateful that you've come." Sub-Zero said.

He bows before Hanzo.

"Speak your mind. I do not wish to linger here." Hanzo spat out.

Kuai motions toward the table. When Hanzo does not move, he walks around him and kneels by it.

"You re-establish the Shirai-Ryu as I reform the Lin Kuei. We both seek to shed our clans' dark pasts. Dedicate them to Earthrealm's protection." Sub-Zero began to talk as he grabbed one of the bowls. He puts some flavouring inside the two bowls.

"Our common purpose gives us a chance to end old rivalries. To start anew." Sub-Zero said.

"You'll confess what you've long denied? That your clan's hands are soaked in Shirai-Ryu blood? In the blood of my family?" Hanzo said, with obvious but unreasonable doubt.

"...Our honour is indeed stained. Please. Sit." Sub-Zero said as he gestured to Hanzo to sit.

~

Everyone leaned closer to the screen. All of them wanted to know the history between these two.

~

Hanzo finally complies with the request.

"After you and I were freed from Quan Chi's control, I sought out my clan. I had hoped rebellion from within would have quashed the Grandmaster's plans." Sub-Zero began to explain. Kuai pours the water from the kettle into the bowls. "But Sektor had realised his father's vision. The Lin Kuei had been fully cyberized. I pledged to kill Sektor and his followers. Re-form the Lin Kuei and restore our honour."

"I am not interested in Lin Kuei politics, Sub-Zero." Hanzo interjected.

"When I finally killed Sektor, I discovered the Lin Kuei had not sacrificed it's honour with the Cyber Initiative. We had abandoned it long before." Kuai finished.

~

James was slightly disturbed about this cyber initiative. He didn't know why.

Back in their world the council tried to get a program started up. The program was to have healthy and unharmed soldiers to become cybernetically enhanced. Though luckily it was shot down in favor of the Atlesian Knight program. Though that doesn't mean people do so illegally.

The only reason he is was because he lost an arm.

~

Liang passes Hasashi the prepared bowl of soup. Before he can take it, Hanzo hears the sound of an ice attack being prepared. He dodges in the nick of time, and an ice blast destroys the table. Hanzo rolls to his feet to see a female Lin Kuei - who uses ice powers just like Sub-Zero - walking toward him with the intent to fight.

"There will be no peace, Scorpion!" Frost yelled.

"Frost!" Hanzo exclaimed before turning to Sub-Zero. "The Lin Kuei are still without honour!"

~

"Aw shit." Qrow said.

"Frost?! What the hell is she doing?!" Blake asked. Her friends began to wonder the same thing.

~

He charges Frost, blocks two strikes from her, punches her in the face and downs her with a roundhouse kick.

"Master Hasashi, wait!" Sub-Zero pleaded.

"For what? More treachery? I will have your head!" Hanzo shouted.

~

"Aw shit indeed." Tai said. He and most of the audience looked on with wide eyes.

~

They fight. As has been the case with their many fights before, Scorpion and Sub-Zero are equally matched in skill, strength, speed and powers. However, Hanzo Hasashi takes the advantage with his opponent's reluctance to fight. After a back and forth exchange, the Shirai-Ryu knocks the Lin Kuei to the floor.

"Our story ends here, Sub-Zero." Hanzo stated.

He pulls one of his ninjato from his back and prepares to decapitate Kuai Liang. However, Frost charges him once again, this time brandishing an ice dagger. As Hanzo turns to kill her instead, an ice blast from Sub-Zero freezes her solid. Scorpion turns around in confusion to find Sub-Zero standing once more.

"What is this?!" Hanzo demanded to know.

"I did not bring you here for treachery. Frost is strong, but lacks judgment. She cannot see the wisdom of peace. I will deal with her." Sub-Zero said.

As soon as he said this Jaune quickly ran into the courtyard. Looking confused at what happened. He soon realized what had happened and looked to his master. Sub-Zero nodded as Jaune was heading to Frost.

~

"A little late there Vomit Boy." Yang muttered.

~

Hanzo is still suspicious of these words, and of Jaune especially, but he does consider them. The scene cuts to inside the temple. Hanzo and Kuai walk up into the main chamber together, Hanzo having put his sword back in its sheath.

"You spoke of the Lin Kuei's lost honour." Hanzo brought it back up.

"For years, I had thought you had unfairly blamed the Lin Kuei for the deaths of your family and clan." Sub-Zero said.

They stop by a table. The cybernetic arm and head of Sektor lie on it, both hooked up to some sort of battery.

"But Sektor's cyber-preserved memories revealed the truth." Sub-Zero said.

He presses a button on Sektor's arm. From a projected light it reveals a hologram of Quan Chi.

~

Once the hologram was turned on, the audience sat straight and paid attention to the screen.

~

"The Lin Kuei need to abide by their agreements, Sektor. The Grandmaster gave Shinnok his word." The hologram of the sorcerer spoke.

Sektor's recorded voice replies in response. "Shinnok's currency is lies. As is yours." Hissed Sektor.

"Payment is due. I exterminated the Shirai-Ryu as promised." Quan Chi said.

"Hanzo Hasashi lives. He's your spectre, Scorpion." Sektor stated.

"I created Scorpion from Hasashi's soul AFTER he died. We observed the agreement." Quan Chi emphasized.

"The letter, not the spirit. You are owed nothing." Sektor spat.

The hologram fades. Hanzo's face now shows pure horror at the words he just heard. "Harumi... Satoshi…." Hanzo whispered. He bows his head forward in shame.

~

Everyone was shocked at the information they had just heard. As soon as they processed the information they all began to get angry. Angry at this bastard...no monster for taking away Hanzo's family.

~

"Had I known of my clan's complicity in the Shirai-Ryu's extinction, our history would be different." Sub-Zero said.

"I killed your brother because I thought... he--." Hanzo tried to apologize.

"Quan Chi is responsible for Bi-Han's death." Sub-Zero said.

A newfound determination enters Scorpion's eyes and he raises his head.

"Sektor was wrong. There is a debt to be paid - and Quan Chi will pay it." Hanzo said.

~

"Damn right he will." Yang muttered under her breath.

Ozpin had heard this and looked at Yang with concern. Yes he like everyone else wanted the man to pay but he knew that vengeance is not always the answer. He needed to have a talk with her.

~

He puts a hand to his chest in a salute. Kuai Liang returns the salute with his hands clasped together. The two former rivals bow to one another.

The scene cuts back to the refugee camp. Quan Chi has been dragged out of the container by two Shirai-Ryu. They throw him to the ground before Hanzo Hasashi. Johnny, Sonya and Kenshi watch all of this from their knees, restrained by the ninjas who have successfully defeated their forces.

"Unbind him." Hanzo ordered his men. One of them undoes the chains on Quan Chi. The sorcerer remains on his knees.

"Scorpion, we can--." Quan Chi spoke as he got up. Hanzo backfists him in the face, knocking him to the ground.

"MY NAME IS HANZO HASASHI!!" Hanzo shouted in anger. He grabs Quan Chi by the scruff of his neck. "You killed my wife! My son! And then you burrowed your way into my head! Misdirected my VENGEANCE! COST ME MY ONE CHANCE TO HAVE THEM RESTORED!"

~

Ozpin couldn't help but sympathize with the man. His mind goes back to when his daughters were alive and how broken he was when they died. He would do anything to get them back but he knew that doing so has serious consequences.

~

"Your family... I--." Quan Chi tried to speak.

Scorpion hauls him to his feet, roaring in rage.

"Quiet, sorcerer! Nothing can help you now!" Hanzo exclaimed.

They fight. At his weakest and without any help forthcoming, Quan Chi suffers the beating of his life. Nothing he can do subsides the rage of Hanzo Hasashi, who relentlessly pounds him again and again and again. The one sided battle ends with Quan Chi facedown in the dirt.

"At last, you feel my pain." Hanzo said.

As Quan Chi struggles to rise, Hanzo kicks him in the face, knocking him on his back. Hanzo slams Quan Chi's head into the ground and then punches him some more.

"Scorpion, stop!" Sonya pleaded. Trying to get out of her bonds but one of Hanzo's men put her back down.

~

"Let him." Yang growled.

"While I agree and understand your anger, Miss Xiao Long, however, vengeance is not the answer." Ozpin said.

"But headmaster that bastard murdered his family." She argues.

"I understand, but listen. They need Qaun Chi to restore the other Revenants to the living without him; they will be forever cursed." Ozpin explained. Yang was about to speak but Ozpin interrupted her.

"How would you feel if Miss Rose, your father, or your uncle were turned into Revenants and you needed Quan Chi to restore. But you let your anger blind and murder him in cold blood. Leaving you with no way to save your family? Vengeance might bring you momentary peace but it will never fill the hole in your soul." Ozpin continued as he slipped from his mug.

Yang closed her mouth and pondered on his words. She didn't give a response and looked back at the screen.

~

A portal opens before them. Hanzo looks up and spots D'Vorah approaching.

"Quan Chi!" D'Vorah exclaimed.

Hanzo rushes her with his sword at the ready. D'Vorah parries his blows with her stingers. He manages to cut off one of them with his sword, but as he tries an overhead chop, she stabs him in the chest with the other stinger, bringing him down to one knee. D'Vorah rushes to Quan Chi's side.

"Amulet…." Quan Chi said weakly.

D'Vorah pulls it out, but a chained kunai impales Quan Chi through the chest before he can take it.

"GET OVER HERE!" Hanzo said in his most iconic catchphrase. The sorcerer is dragged back to Hanzo's side.

"No!" D'Vorah said.

Hanzo yanks Quan Chi by the chain embedded in him to a seated position. He's still barely alive though, and holds his hands towards the amulet, chanting a dark spell in a Netherrealm tongue. In slow motion, D'Vorah throws the amulet to his outstretched arms, while Hanzo brings his ninjato down towards his neck. Just before the blade cuts into him, Quan Chi finishes the chant and grabs the amulet.

An instant later, his head is sliced clean off his shoulders.

"Blood for blood. Your debt is paid." Hanzo stated.

He throws down the headless corpse. Shinnok's Amulet rolls to a stop on the ground... and erupts with dark purple energy and hellish fire. Shinnok's form is faintly visible within the energies.

~

Everyone went wide eyed. Shinnok had returned.

"Ah fuck." Cursed Yang. None of her family and friends scolded her as they felt that this was an exception.

"You said it." Blake agreed.

~

"Oh shit." Johnny cursed.

"Free us! Now!" Sonya said to the ninjas.

They realise the situation has gone to hell and comply. The amulet finally stops dispelling energy, and it's owner picks it off the ground in triumph.

"Shinnok." D'Vorah said in mild awe.

Behind Shinnok, Scorpion roars in anger and swings his ninjato at him. The fallen Elder God turns around and blasts him with the amulet's magic, knocking him unconscious. Johnny, Sonya, Kenshi and the Shirai-Ryu ninjas charge at him next, and all receive the same treatment.

"How small they are." Shinnok said.

D'Vorah walks up to him and bows.

"This One greets Lord Shinnok." D'Vorah said.

"Quan Chi chose his servants well. He was wise to restore me in Earthrealm, behind their defenses." Shinnok said.

"Quan Chi deceived them. Allowed himself to be captured. He knew they would bring him here." D'Vorah said.

They look toward the sorcerer's dead body.

"A pity he did not live to see his work completed." Quan Chi said.

Johnny Cage starts to wake up, groaning as he does so. Shinnok turns to him.

"There will be no surprises from you, Mister Cage." Shinnok said as he turned to D'Vorah. "Bring him."

Another portal opens, bringing forth the revenants Liu Kang, Kung Lao, Kitana, Sindel and Smoke. They stop before Shinnok and bow to him.

"Praise be to Lord Shinnok." Liu Kang said.

"Let us be on our way." Shinnok said.

"There is an Earthrealm force in Netherrealm." Liu Kang told Shinnok.

"I am aware. They will be neutralised." Shinnok waved off.

He and his followers leave through a portal. Once it closes, Sonya begins to awaken. Team S-F arrives through a portal of their own as she tries to sit up.

"Oh, shit!" Cassie cursed.

She rushes over to Sonya, while Kung Jin rushes to Scorpion and Takeda and Jacqui run to Kenshi.

"Mom!" Cassie yelled. She takes Sonya by the shoulders. "Where's Dad?" Cassie asked her mother.

"Shinnok…." Sonya said weakly.

"Mom, mom, where'd they go?" Cassie asked. Worry began to fill her body and voice.

Sonya passes out again.

"Mom?!" Cassie asked in great worry. It is Hanzo Hasashi who answers her. Her head turned towards him.

"Your father... Shinnok's prisoner... at the Sky Temple." Hanzo said weakly.

~

"He plans to corrupt the Jinsei once again." Ironwood said. He leaned forward as he placed his elbows on top of his thighs. His hands clasped together in front of his mouth.

~

The scene then changes to the sky temple. Jaune Arc walked towards the sky temple's doors. He stops, sensing someone next to him. Jaune quickly drew out his sword and swung it at the person beside him. An old warrior stood behind him- this was Bo'Rai Cho, one of Jaune's teachers- the blonde smiled as he put away his weapon.

~

Everyone was happy to see Jaune appear once more. Though they were also surprised to see another teacher of Jaune.

~

"Master Bo'Rai Cho. It has been a while." Jaune said with a soft smile.

"Too long. I see your skills are as sharp as ever." Bo'Rai Cho said as he handed out his flask.

"No thanks." Jaune politely declined.

"What brings you here Jaune?" Bo'Rai Cho asked as he took a swig.

"Master Sub-zero sent me here when we got word from General Blade on what was going on." Jaune explained.

Bo'Rai Cho nodded in understanding.

"No word from lord Raiden yet?" Jaune asked. As he and Bo'Rai Cho walked to the entrance.

"No. I worry that with the events unfolding before us. He might be captured or worse.." Bo'Rai Cho said.

"Raiden will be okay, he's tougher than he looks." Jaune said.

"Yes. But let us talk about you and the news I have heard!" Bo'Rai Cho Said in a joyous tone.

"I… I don't know what you mean." Jaune tried to deny it.

"Ah. You are too humble my boy! Still, not many are worthy to lead the Lin Kuei." Bo'Rai Cho said.

~

All of the blonde's friends and family were in shock at this news. This version of Jaune is next in line to lead a group of assassins.

~

"Ah that news." Jaune said in an unsure tone. His gaze looked away from Bo'Rai Cho. Something he noticed.

"What is wrong?" The drunken master asked.

"Nothing, just I am not sure if I'm worthy of leading the clan." Jaune said.

"You always doubt yourself Jaune but you are a great warrior with a heart of gold." Bo'Rai Cho said as he placed his hand on Jaune's shoulder. Jaune looks at him with a grateful smile. His smile soon turned into a frown.

"Do you want to talk about it?" Bo'Rai Cho asked. He knew full well what Jaune was thinking about. Jaune looked at his master with a hesitant look.

~

Those that knew Jaune grew worried and concerned. Whenever the blonde had a look like that on his face then it meant something was wrong. Or this was something that bothered him.

Though they did have to agree with Bo'Rai Cho on Jaune having self doubt. It was an unhealthy habit he had developed.

~

The scene cuts to the Lin Kuei temple. The caption "1 year ago" appears on the bottom of the screen. Inside a training room of the temple, Jaune Arc and Sub-Zero stood across from each other. Both of them had their eyes closed and hands clasped together. Masks on their faces. Their eyes then they suddenly shot open. The two Lin Kuei warriors got into a fighting stance. Jaune and Kuai rushed at each other. They trade punches, however they both block each other's blows. Parrying every second. Jaune threw a kick at Sub-Zero, the cryomancer grabbed his foot. Jaune then flipped and kicked Sub-Zero in the jaw. Sub-Zero stumbled backwards while Jaune landed on his feet. Jaune soon round kicked Sub-zero in the chest.

~

Teams RWBY, NPR, Ironwood, Glynda, Qrow, Raven, and Ozpin were impressed at the skill of this Jaune Arc. They had seen the blonde fight and it was lackluster but he has made improvements.

Ozpin meanwhile felt pride swell him for some reason. Though he had to guess it was because he was right about Jaune having potential. 'And if I remember correctly, Arcanus is our Jaune to be trained for the upcoming calamity.' He thought.

Raven on other hand was very impressed by the skill of the blonde knight. 'It is decided then, I will recruit the Jaune Arc of our world and train him to be the best.' She thought.

~

The cryomancer fell to the floor while Jaune stood over him.

Sub-Zero quickly sweeped Jaune's legs and quickly got up.

Luckily for Jaune he caught himself and got up. The two traded blows once again, however this time Jaune was landing more blows quickly then Sub-Zero. Who was more busy dodging Jaune's attacks. Jaune then kicked the Grandmaster in the face. The blonde then threw a right throw. This caused Sub-zero to stumble a bit forward. Jaune finally uppercutted him, sending Sub-zero to the fall.

Sub-zero struggled to get back up but was put back down by Jaune with his foot.

"Yield." Jaune said coldly.

~

Those with crushes couldn't help shuddering in pleasure with their faces heated. The way he spoke mesmerized them.

Everyone else gave the three of them a weirded out look.

~

Sub-zero looked up at him, with narrowed eyes. Soon he began to let out a chuckle as he relaxed his body.

"I yield." Sub-zero replied.

The two smiled under their masks and soon got relaxed. Jaune extended his hand to him, which Sub-Zero accepted.

"You have fought well, Jaune." Sub-zero said as he stood up. He took off his mask as he spoke.

"Only because I have a great teacher." Jaune said with a bow. Sub-Zero smiled at the boy, who he had seen as a son.

"Still, after nearly five years, you have proven yourself to be skilled. Unwavering. Loyal. Kind. And fearless. One of the greatest warriors of the clan." Sub-Zero began to praise Jaune. "As such, my decision is clear."

"What decision?" Jaune asked in complete confusion.

"To make you my heir. That is if you accept." Sub-zero said as he placed a hand on Jaune's shoulder.

At this news, Jaune simply stared at his master with wide eyes. Shock filling up his being. Not knowing what to say. He soon calmed himself down and gave his answer.

"I… I accept your offer, Grandmaster. I promise to make you proud." Jaune said as he bowed.

"You already have." Sub-zero said with a smile.

~

Jonathan couldn't help but look on with sorrow. He felt like he failed as a father though not without reason.

~

Unbeknownst to the two of them, someone was listening in on them. Someone very, very angry.

The scene cuts to Jaune making his way outside. He was met with a gentle breeze, despite it being freezing to most. Jaune walked up to the statue of the first Grandmaster of the Lin Kuei. Jaune stopped in front of the statue and stared at it. The blonde took off his mask and knelt down. Placing his mask at the foot of the statue. Jaune stayed on knee in front of the statue, not moving.

Many thoughts raced through his mind, not knowing how to process them. However, before he could continue with his thoughts he heard someone approach him. He recognized the footsteps, he knew who she was. He could only guess why she was here.

"Frost, I know you--." Jaune said as he began to stand up. However, he dodged an ice shard being thrown at him.

~

"What is she doing?!" Ruby yelled in shock.

~

"I'll kill you!" Frost yelled as she shot several more shards at him.

Jaune dodged them with ease. The blonde moved a bit closer to Frost as he did. Eventually Frost simply decided to create daggers out of ice and charge at him. Jaune caught her hands and kicked back. Frost stumbled backwards, holding her stomach.

"What the hell are you doing?!" Jaune yelled.

"Killing you and Sub-zero. Taking my place as rightful Grandmaster of the clan." Frost revealed her plan.

"Are you insane?!" Jaune asked in disbelief.

"You drove me to this! You chose that blonde whore over me! That stupid old man chose you over me! Even the Thunder god chose you!" Frost shouted as tears trailed down her face. Freezing and shattering in the process.

Thus made Jaune look with great concern.

"Frost, just calm down an--." Jaune said as he tried to calm her down. However, as soon as he got close Frost slashed at his chest.

"No! I will no longer allow you to outshine me! Today you die!" Frost yelled as she got into a fighting stance. As did Jaune.

~

The blondes family began to worry for his safety. As did his friends and the girls with crushes.

They all knew that this Jaune was skilled in fighting but that didn't mean they weren't worried. (Sorry for repetition.)

~

The two of them fought it out, the battle was long, hard, and bloody. Despite the two of them having the same teacher and a part of the same clan. Even when Frost has powers over the ice and cold. Jaune managed to overpower his closest friend, who was almost an eighth sister to him. As Frost laid unconscious on the floor, Jaune relaxed himself. His body was covered in cuts and bruises.

"I'm sorry Frost." Jaune said somberly.

The scene then cuts back to the present with Jaune and Bo'Rai Cho. Both of them are now sitting on a bench.

"After that, I took Frost to master Sub-zero and explained what happened." Jaune said. "As a result, Frost was demoted to the lowest ranking in the clan. She didn't take it well and left as soon as she could. I didn't even get to say goodbye." He finished somberly.

"Jaune, what happened to Frost is not your doing. It is solely on her." The drunken master said.

"I know." Jaune said. Though his voice was still somber.

~

"Jaune." Pyrrha said with a somber tone. Nora and Ren placed their hands on the spartan's shoulders. She looked back at the two of them and gave them a thankful smile.

~

Chapter 10: Raiden

Bo'Rai Cho and Jaune continue to sit on a bench outside of the main temple doors. Having finished their talk, are While they are waiting, he opens a hip flask and drinks from it. He handed it to Jaune who kindly refused. A few moments later, Raiden teleports next to the doors.

"Raiden! Raiden, my old friend!" Bo'Rai Cho said in a joyous tone.

"Greetings lord Raiden." Jaune greeted.

Bo'Rai Cho walks up to Raiden and shakes his hand. While Jaune simply bowed in front of him.

"Master Bo'Rai Cho. I am pleased to see you. It has been many years. It is also good to see you, Jaune Arc. I hope you are well." Raiden said.

"I am lord Raiden." Jaune replied.

"Too long, yes, too long. We old warriors need to stick together, eh?" Bo'Rai Cho jested.

"Define old warriors." Jaune said sarcastically. This caused both Raiden and Bo'Rai Cho to chuckle.

~

Everyone let out a brief chuckle at this.

~

Raiden then turned his head to his old friend and Jaune.

"Most certainly. I presume recent circumstances precipitate your arrival?" Raiden asked.

"Yes, yes. I'm concerned that Shinnok may return. I've been trying to contact you. I feared the worst." Bo'Rai Cho said.

"Master Sub-zero feared the same, that is why he sent me." Jaune said. They walk into the temple.

"When Kano misappropriated Shinnok's Amulet, he left behind a snare. Disabling it required that I travel to many strange realms. I must retire to the Jinsei Chamber. Regain my strength." Raiden said.

The scene cuts to the three of them walking in the underground tunnels leading to the Jinsei Chamber.

"You are close to recovering it, then? Shinnok's Amulet?" Bo'Rai Cho asked.

"I do not know. Disabling Kano's snare demanded my full attention. Once I am rejuvenated, I will confer with General Blade." Raiden said.

"If only we could have destroyed Shinnok during the last war. If only he were mortal." Bo'Rai Cho said.

"Would've saved everyone a lot of trouble. that's for sure." Jaune said.

~

Everyone felt a bit worried by what he said.

~

They reach the chamber. Raiden charges his hand with lightning, but does not release. Instead, the chamber doors respond with the Japanese incantation on them lighting up and they open. The three of them take a moment to bask in the cool light of the Jinsei before walking into the chamber.

"Such beauty. Like gazing upon the Elder Gods themselves." Bo'Rai Cho said.

"I'll say." Jaune whispered to himself.

"I hold out hope that we can turn this crisis to our advantage." Raiden told them.

"How so?" Bo'Rai Cho asked as he and Jaune looked on with confusion.

"Quan Chi's magic binds the souls of many we hold dear. Capture him, and we can force him to release them." Raiden explained.

"Liu Kang and Kung Lao restored?" Bo'Rai Cho asked in surprise. Jaune looked on in surprise as well.

"I suppose it is possible. I mean Raiden did manage to restore Master Hasashi, Master Kaui, and Jax." Jaune said.

"You are correct, Jaune Arc. As long as Quan Chi lives. Restoration is possible." Raiden said.

~

As soon as Rqiden said that, it cause almost everyone to suck in their breathe. If only they knew what happened to Quan Chi.

~

He hangs his head down for a moment, before looking up into Bo'Rai Cho and Jaune's faces.

"I've long regretted losing our comrades' souls to Netherrealm's evil. Kung Lao and Liu Kang... they were like sons. I would move the Heavens to bring them back into the light." Raiden said somberly.

~

Most of the older audience couldn't help but feel bad for Raiden.

~

The scene cuts to the Outworld Kove. The caption "Outworld - Twenty Five Years Ago" reads at the bottom left of the screen. On the docks, Shaolin monks are being loaded onto a waiting ship by Tarkatans. Raiden crouches behind cover with Kung Lao and Liu Kang, looking obviously more youthful and not undead.

"It is as Master Bo'Rai Cho said. The Shaolin masters are aboard that ship." Kung Lao said.

"Bo'Rai Cho said two ships." Liu Kang said.

"The other has disembarked. We need to determine its location." Raiden said.

"They will talk. I will see to it." Kung Lao said.

"No extraordinary means, Kung Lao." Liu Kang reprimanded.

"They raided the Wu Shi Academy! Killed Master Wen!" Kung Lao yelled.

"Even with Tarkatans, there are boundaries we do not cross." Raiden said.

~

"Weaklings." Raven whispered to herself.

~

"Yes, Lord Raiden." Kung Lao said.

"I still cannot believe Shao Kahn would order such a brazen attack." Liu Kang asked.

"It demonstrated Earthrealm's vulnerability. Shao Kahn knew we would have no choice but to agree to a new tournament." Raiden said.

"Liu Kang defeated Shang Tsung. He will beat Shao Kahn." Kung Lao said.

"In good time, Kung Lao. First we free the Shaolin." Raiden said.

They get out of cover and make for the docks. Over on those same docks, a Tarkatan punches a bound monk down to his knees. Behind them, another Tarkatan smashes a monk in the face and drags him forward. D'Vorah walks behind them, stopping to talk to Baraka, who leads this force.

"All are aboard? This One leaves with the tide." D'Vorah said.

"We are ready." Baraka replied.

"Shao Kahn demands the hostages be unharmed." D'Vorah said.

"Their wounds are not fatal." Baraka said.

"I would hope, Baraka. For your sake." D'Vorah said.

"For yours as well." Raiden said.

D'Vorah and Baraka turn to face Raiden, walking toward them with Liu Kang and Kung Lao behind him.

"If you harm them, you answer to me." Raiden said.

Baraka orders his soldiers to attack in the Tarkatan tongue. They charge toward the Earth Realmers. Raiden ducks under a blade swipe from a Tarkatan and punches him twice in the face, knocking him from the docks. Kung Lao punches another in the stomach and throws him off, before hitting another in the face with a roundhouse kick that sends him splashing into the river.

As Kung Lao runs his fingers across his razor sharp hat, Liu Kang charges in with a flying kick on another Tarkatan that knocks him across the docks, unconscious from the hit. Raiden punches and kicks two more Tarkatans into the water and approaches D'Vorah and Baraka in a fighting stance.

"Tarkatans are beaten so easily?" D'Vorah said to Baraka.

~

Everyone couldn't help but chuckle at this. They all had similar situations at one point in their lives.

~

Baraka growls in anger. He charges Raiden, just as several more of his species charge in from behind. Liu Kang and Kung Lao decide to engage them, leaving Baraka to Raiden. He ducks a punch from the Tarkatan leader, blocks a kick and catches his arm off a failed elbow. When Baraka extends his blade, Raiden pushes it away, then blocks an elbow smash from his other arm. Baraka manages to knee Raiden in the stomach and punch him in the face, but the Thunder God dodges a stab attempt, slaps Baraka's arm away and dissipates into thin air with a crackle of electricity. Raiden reappears to Baraka's side and punches him in the face. Baraka tries a backward slice that is dodged, and then tries to impale Raiden with both his arm blades. Raiden blocks the attack, grabs Baraka's arms and electrocutes him, sending him staggering back.

Raiden barks out a threat in Baraka's own Tarkatan language.

"Empty threats, Raiden. You will not see the tournament!" Baraka said.

They fight. Despite being a vicious brawler equipped with arm blades and a battle rage that knows no fear, Baraka is not able to stand against the God of Thunder. The battle is fierce, but it ends with the Tarkatan facedown on the docks amongst his kinsmen.

"You will return to the Wastes with no prize." Raiden said.

He walks toward the docked ship. Liu Kang and Kung Lao are still fighting the Tarkatan horde behind him.

"Step aside." Raiden said to D'Vorah.

D'Vorah replies with two swift punches. Raiden blocks them both, ducks a third and hits D'Vorah in the face with a punch of his own. He throws another, but D'Vorah ducks this one and punches him in the stomach. She follows through with two more punches to the face and tries a kick. Raiden blocks it, dodges one of her stingers and teleports away when she fires off all four at him.

He reappears behind her. D'Vorah is quick to react, and yells out a chant in the Kytinn tongue, unleashing a swarm of insects from her belly. Raiden summons lightning from the heavens that strikes the ground between him and D'Vorah, disintegrating all the insects that pour out of her. They both break off their attacks and regard one another.

"Such power. What are you, Raiden?" Asked D'Vorah.

"I am of truth and light. I protect Earthrealm." Raiden said.

"This One cares not for Earthrealm and worships no gods." D'Vorah said.

They fight. In spite of her unique powers and fighting skill, not even D'Vorah is a match for Earthrealm's protector. While she puts up a determined effort, she is unable to overcome Raiden's godhood and is eventually knocked unconscious.

"When a god speaks, heed him." Raiden said.

~

"If only Salem had heeded." Ozpin said to himself as he sipped from his mug.

"What was that Oz?" Qrow said as he turned to the immortal.

"Nothing. Just thinking out loud." Ozpin quickly stated.

Qrow looked at him with a strange look. "Alright then." He then turned back to the screen.

~

By now, Liu Kang and Kung Lao have now defeated the Tarkatans. The Shaolin monks approach the Thunder God.

"They were not so vexing. All sneers and growls." Kung Lao said.

"Let us free those aboard this vessel. Then you will find the second ship." Raiden said.

"Where will you go, Lord Raiden?" Kung Lao asked.

"The tournament begins soon. Join me as soon as you are able." Raiden ordered them.

They walk toward the ship.

"We will succeed, Lord Raiden." Liu lang said

"Of that I am certain." Raiden assured them.

The scene fades into Raiden in the present day, embathed inside the Jinsei itself. He remains hovering in the depths of the blue light for several moments, until the chamber itself begins shaking and rocks fall from the ceiling. Realising something is wrong, Raiden looks up to the roof and spots Bo'Rai Cho desperately reaching toward him from a hole created in the ceiling. Behind him, laughter is heard and Cho is dragged away as quickly as he appeared.

"Bo'Rai Cho!" Raiden yelled.

~

This got everyone, except Raven, to sit up straight and worry. Especially Jaune's friends and family; if Bo'Rai Cho was getting attacked, that means Jaune is too.

~

In the Sky Temple courtyard, Bo'Rai Cho is thrown to the ground and blasted by the magic from Shinnok's Amulet, causing him to cry out in agony.

Jaune meanwhile, struggled to get back up. The yells of Bo'Rai Cho got him motivated.

Jaune quickly rushed at Shinnok with an aura infused punch. The punch connected with Shinnok's face. Once it did, it caused the fallen elder god to spit out blood. However, he doesn't move, only moving his head really.

Jaune was about to punch him again but was stopped by D'Vorah. The Kytinn stabbed him in the leg with her appendage. Quickly retracting it after she stabbed him.

"Aah!" Jaune yelled out in pain as fall to the ground. Holding his injured leg.

~

The blonde's family grew worried as they Jaune got injured.

"Bwg wady weave uwncle waune alone!" Adrian said which shocked everyone. Including his mothers as he was supposed to be seeing something family friendly. Terra and Saphron looked at each other as they realized that Adrian had been seeing this entire time.

~

"Interesting." Shinnok said as he turned to Jaune. The elder god then turns to D'Vorah. "Bring the Aura user as well, his soul will be beneficial to me." Shinnok ordered. D'Vorah did as she was told as she grabbed Jaune.

Raiden runs out into the courtyard, and soon finds himself surrounded by the revenants Liu Kang, Kung Lao, Kitana, Sindel and Smoke. D'Vorah stands next to Shinnok, holding Johnny Cage and Jaune. captive.

"Yet another of your allies falls to me. When they die, I will claim their souls." Shinnok said, referring to Bo'Rai Cho and Jaune.

~

"Bastard." Jonathan growled as he gripped the armrests of his seat. His wife tried to calm him but no avail as she too began to get angry.

~

"You know not their power. Their souls cannot be subjugated." Raiden said.

Shinnok and D'Vorah walk into the temple, D'Vorah dragging Cage along for the ride.

"Shall we kill him, Lord Shinnok?" Liu Kang asked.

Shinnok turns around to his minions, smiling at this question.

"Not yet. He will bear witness as I conquer his realm. Then I will imprison him as he did me." Shinnok said.

He turns back toward the temple and walks in.

"I would not boast of victory prematurely." Raiden said.

"I have already won, Raiden." Shinnok said smugly.

The temple doors are closed behind Shinnok, leaving Raiden with the revenants. They circle him and lightly push him, goading him to attack. He eventually fires out with a kick that forces them back. Smoke attacks, but Raiden blocks a punch and kick from him and knocks him back with a knee to his chin. He blocks a punch from Kitana and electrocutes her face. This leaves him open to Liu Kang, who punches him in the face from the side.

~

"Come on Raiden, don't let them beat you." Blake said in anticipation. She hoped that the thunder god would be able to defeat all of the Revenants and stop Shinnok. As well as save the man she loved. Even though in this universe, Jaune was betrayed by her and now hates him and he was now taken. But to each their own.

Little did she know though, Ruby and Pyrrha were thinking the same thing. All three of them hoped that their blonde knight would be okay.

~

Liu Kang follows through with his bicycle kick, knocking Raiden to the ground. As he gets to his knees, Kung Lao pummels his face with his fists. As Raiden falls, Lao kicks him in the face, and Liu Kang jumps on his back as he rolls over onto his stomach. Kang, Lao, Kitana and Sindel all mercilessly kick Raiden while he is down, while Smoke recovers and stands back to his feet.

Beaten to the ground, Raiden can do nothing as Kung Lao picks him up and wraps him in a sleeper hold. The other revenants watch with glee as Raiden chokes and struggles for breath. Even in a nearly helpless state though, the Thunder God manages to charge up with electricity once more and fights free.

Kung Lao realises something is wrong and breaks the sleeper. He leaps up and grabs a roof section of the temple in the nick of time, as Raiden cuts loose with a lightning attack directed through the ground. The other revenants are caught by the attack and rendered unconscious. Kung Lao jumps back down as Raiden stands back up and puts on his hat.

"Kung Lao, desist!" Raiden ordered.

The former monk runs his fingers across his hat in response.

"I serve Shinnok and the Netherrealm." Kung Lao said.

"Because Shao Kahn murdered you!" Raiden argued.

Lao points his finger at Raiden.

"Something YOU allowed to happen! I will not be so passive in your demise!" Kung Lao argued back.

They fight. Raiden discovers to his dismay that Kung Lao has lost none of the speed and skill that carried him to victory many times in life. But even with that and the beating he suffered against him earlier, Raiden is still the God of Thunder and he proves it by taking the fight to Kung Lao. After an exhausting battle, Raiden leaves the revenant unconscious.

"You deserved a better fate." Raiden said.

Almost immediately following the fight, Liu Kang runs up behind Raiden and rabbit-punches him in the back of his head. Raiden still has the awareness to block an elbow strike, and he manages to kick Kang in the stomach. He blocks two more strikes from Liu Kang and kicks him in the side, ducks another punch, but takes a barrage of blows to the sternum.

Raiden rallies with an overhead strike, but Kang catches both his arms. For a moment, the two kombatants struggle to break the other's grip. Liu breaks first - to pummel Raiden in the side repeatedly. He then lands a right hook that staggers the Thunder God, then a roundhouse kick that takes him to his knees. Raiden struggles back to his feet, clearly not at his best.

"This is not your destiny, Liu Kang." Raiden said.

"More visions, Raiden? Do you still see the future?" Liu Kang asked mockingly.

~

Everyone was simply confused by Liu Kang's proclamation. Raiden can see the future? If that was true then why didn't he use it earlier?

~

"The visions are gone, but I know what should be." Raiden said.

"I was put here by your hand." Liu Kang pointed out angrily.

"An accident, which haunts me to this day!" Raiden said.

~

'Aw.' Everyone thought as they now knew that this 'future sight' was gone. Though they now had some context to the death of Liu Kang.

~

Liu Kang considers this for a second, but launches into a charging punch. Raiden teleports behind him and hits a rabbit-punch of his own. He pummels Kang in the side, blocks several counter-attacks, lands two punches in his stomach and a final spin kick to his abdomen that knocks him away. The former Mortal Kombat Champion struggles to his feet.

"I should thank you. You freed me. The Elder Gods you blindly serve? I will help Shinnok end their rule!" Liu Kang said.

They fight. The battle proves to be one of the toughest the Thunder God has ever endured. Weakened from his recent ordeals, Raiden struggles greatly against the one man who has fought him to the same limits as Shao Kahn once did. Even though he takes several serious blows in the melee, Raiden hurls every last bit of his strength against the revenant Liu Kang... and just barely manages to defeat him.

"I regret our paths have led here." Raiden said somberly.

~

Ozpin couldn't help but feel sympathetic towards Raiden. There were times where he was forced to put down former allies turned enemies. Some of which he grew very fond off.

~

As he turns toward the temple, Raiden grimaces in pain. His various wounds have caught up with him, including a serious one in his right side. Nonetheless, he bravely walks into the temple.

The scene cuts to inside the Jinsei chamber. D'Vorah is spraying another noxious liquid from her mouth onto Johnny Cage and Jaune Arc. This particular liquid acts as a cocoon that Johnny and Jaune has become completely trapped in. Behind them, Shinnok has walked onto the floating rocks surrounding the Jinsei itself. He slowly reaches a hand into it and gives an ecstatic smile as the magic from his hand begins to corrupt the Jinsei, turning it from a light blue hue to a viscous red. Raiden manages to reach the chamber, even though walking is clearly paining him.

~

"Come on Raiden! You can do it!" Ruby and Nora cheered the Thunder God on. The others did as well as they hoped that Raiden stopped Shinnok.

~

"You will not defile the Jinsei, Shinnok!" Raiden shouted.

As Raiden approaches, Shinnok nonchalantly raises his hand. A skeletal palm is summoned and it grasps Raiden firmly, knocking his hat from his head and crushing his bones. Raiden screams in agony, and those screams are only amplified as Shinnok clenches his fist, causing the skeletal hand to crush Raiden further, flowing with the dark energies of Shinnok as it does so.

~

"Damn it." Cursed Qrow and Ironwood. All of them watched in horror as they saw the fallen elder god beginning to corrupt the Jinsei.

~

Each time the grip hardens, the magicks scorch Raiden's body, blackening his clothing and skin.

"We have battled for eons, Raiden. Now finally, it ends." Shinnok said.

Shinnok fully floats into the Jinsei. He spends a few moments absorbing it's essence before roaring out loud, changing its colour from blue to fully red. The red cloud of corrupted Jinsei bursts through the roof of the Sky Temple, reaching out to the clouds above and corrupting them with their blood red hue. Over at the Lin Kuei Temple, Sub-Zero rushes out to find the corruption spreading just over the mountaintops beyond. It takes less than a few seconds before the clouds above the temple are enveloped as well. He watches it all with dismay.

In the refugee camp, the Outworlders and Special Forces soldiers all rush for cover as the corrupted clouds spread towards them like wildfire.

Inside the corrupted Jinsei, Shinnok breaths it in, slowly turning into another being before the awed eyes of D'Vorah. His voice deepens and his laughter turns more demonic. His face swells into that of a hellish skull with horns where his ears should be, no visible nose save a point of light, and that same white light emanates from his eyes and throat. His hands sport three enlarged claws instead of five fingers, his skin tone changes from porcelain white to charcoaled grey, and yellow scars of light adorn his now muscled form, the biggest going vertically down the center of his chest to where his amulet resides - in his abdomen. He has now become as corrupted as the Jinsei.

"Yes... Tremble before me, Elder Gods, as I absorb Earthrealm's power." Shinnok exclaimed.

~

"Oh no!" Screeched Nora.

~

Even though he is barely alive at this point, Raiden still finds words to speak that go unheard by the corrupted ruler of the Netherrealm.

"No, Shinnok. Even now... others come to defeat you." Raiden said weakly.

Chapter 11: Jacqui Briggs

The scene cuts to Team S-F at the cockpit of their plane, currently in the air and heading towards the Sky Temple. Jacqui and Takeda are in the pilot's seats, with Cassie and Jin at the computer screens just behind them.

"We land in fifteen minutes. We'll enter the Sky Temple from the terrestrial entrance." Cassie said.

"Why not go straight there?" Takeda asked.

"It exists in a different quantum state, slightly out of phase from our reality. It can't be reached by conventional means." Kung Jin said.

~

"Which means that it will be difficult for them to reach the temple in time." Clarified Winter.

This causes team RWBY and NPR to groan in despair as the team won't probably make it in time.

The Arc family fared no better as they prayed to whatever god was listening. In hopes that they would save their son/brother.

~

Takeda breaths out a heavy sigh, which Jacqui notices.

"What?" Jacqui asked.

"It's just us. No one's coming to help. We either pull this off or--." Takeda began to explain.

"We WILL get it done." Cassie cut him off with reassurance.

Warning buzzers sound off through the plane. Before it looms the clouds that have been corrupted by the Jinsei. Cassie and Jin get out of their seats for a closer look.

"By the... what is that?!" Kung Jin asked in shock.

"Dunno. But it's headed right for us." Takeda replied.

"Elder Gods have mercy." Jin said.

As the cloud looms closer, it produces turbulence that rocks the plane.

"Buckle up, people! I gotta put her down." Jacqui said.

Cassie and Jin race back to their seats. The scene cuts to the forest near the temple. Jacqui has landed the plane without crashing, and Team S-F have exited without issue. The corrupted light from the clouds above them has given the forest a distinctly red hue.

"Looks like the temple entrance is fifteen clicks that way." Jacqui said.

She points off to the distance.

"A moonlight walk in the woods. Another time, it'd be relaxing." Takeda said.

"I wouldn't have pegged you for being outdoorsy." Jacqui said.

"My mother and I lived near a forest a lot like this. Really takes me back." Takeda told Jacqui.

Jacqui smiles at this - it's quite clear she's warming up to Takeda's charm.

"After we wrap this up, we should go." Jacqui said.

~

"That's nice but worry about that later and save my brother!" Yelled Saphron.

"Saph, calm down. It'll be alright okay. Have faith." Terra soothed.

Saphron looked at her wife and reluctantly let out a sigh. She nodded and then hugged Terra.

Adrian noticed his mother's sadness and gestured to her to pick him up. Which she did. Adrian began to giggle as he played with Saphron's hair. This caused the blonde to let out a smile as her son had brightened her mood.

~

He looks at her and smiles back. They spend a brief moment staring warmly at one another, before looking over to Cassie and Jin standing on one of the plane wings, repairing the motor. Cassie slams down her tools in frustration.

"Fuck me! We're grounded. That shockwave fried the leads." Cassie said.

"Then let's get going. We're almost outta time." Jacqui said.

A portal opens up behind them. Kotal Kahn emerges, flanked by Erron Black, Ermac, Ferra/Torr, Reptile and several of his soldiers.

"What are they doing here?" Kung Jin asked.

"Looking for the amulet, I bet." Jacqui said.

"We have to tell them about Shinnok. Call a truce." Takeda suggested.

Kotal spots Team S-F and does not look happy to see them. He points in their direction with his macuahuitl and addresses his soldiers.

"Bring them to me!" Kotal barked.

His soldiers roar out battle cries and charge forward.

"Or not." Cassie deadpanned.

"The woods! C'mon!" Jacqui ordered.

They flee. The scene cuts to Kotal's forces walking through the woods, searching for their prey. Cassie and Jacqui hide behind two large trees as the search party walks past.

"They quiet. Sneaky." Ferra said on top of Torr.

"Ermac?" Kotal asked as he turned to the crimson spectral ninja.

"We sense them. But the forest teems with souls." Ermac said.

"Yes... So close." Reptile hissed.

Explosions suddenly rock the forest around Kotal's forces, throwing them into disarray. Two trees fall down, crushing several soldiers beneath them. Cassie chucks some grenades at the trees, Kung Jin shoots their bases with arrows and Jacqui uses her gauntlets to shoot plasma blasts at the tree bases. The end result is the trees continuing to fall on Kotal's forces.

One of Cassie's grenades lands at Reptile's feet. He notices and leaps up into the air, just narrowly avoiding the explosion. The fallen trees catch fire, giving Kotal's forces more issues to contend with. Ferra shrieks in fear at the flames.

"Divine fire and earth!" Kotal yelled in shock.

~

Everyone had no idea what Kotal said.

~

He looks over the battlefield and spots Kung Jin shooting off arrows. Meanwhile, Reptile scurries high up a tree and spots Jacqui. She has her back to him and continues to shoot plasma bolts at Kotal's forces.

"I see you…." Reptile whispered.

Takeda runs up to Jacqui and spots Reptile.

"Jacqui, look out!" Takeda shouted.

His warning comes too late. Reptile leaps from the tree and lands on Jacqui, pinning her to the ground. Takeda charges towards him, but Reptile notices and spits a glob of acid into his face. Takeda screams in agony and clasps his face in his hands as the acid burns into it.

~

"Oof, that's got to hurt." Winced Qrow.

"You said it." Tai said in agreement.

~

Reptile turns back to Jacqui, who is still struggling in his grip. He raises one claw to smash her face in, but Jacqui rallies and punches him in the chest. She follows up with a headbutt and throws Reptile off her. They both rise to their feet.

"You hurt him, you answer to me!" Jacqui said with determination.

They fight. While the Zaterrean's speed and fighting abilities are not trivial threats, Jacqui fights with a rage that he is unable to overcome. Utilising her specialised gauntlets to their full potential, she unleashes a beatdown on Reptile that does not stop until he is unconscious at her feet.

"Go crawl back under your rock, Reptile." Jacqui said.

With Reptile down, Jacqui rushes back to Takeda, who's still trying to wipe his face with his hands.

"Stop! You need water." Jacqui said.

She produces an emergency hip flask.

"Lean your head back." Jacqui ordered.

He does so and she pours the water onto his face. It does the job of clearing his eyes.

"Can you see?" Jacqui asked.

"Yeah, yeah. It's fuzzy, but--." Takeda said.

She pours more water on his face.

"Better?" Jacqui asked.

The scene switches to show from Takeda's perspective. The blurry visage clears up quickly into a close up of Jacqui's face.

"Beautiful." Jacqui replied.

~

"Not the time and nor the place." Tai said.

~

As the scene shifts from his perspective, their tender moment is interrupted by Ermac - levitating a considerable distance above ground level - uprooting the tree that Takeda was resting by.

"Hold that thought." Jacqui told Takeda.

They flee just as Ermac brings the tree down where they were standing. He flies after them, shooting blasts of soul energy as Takeda and Jacqui dodge as best they can. After a while, it seems like they manage to outrun him - but then they come face to face with Kotal Kahn and his soldiers. Ermac soon floats into view behind them.

"Lady's choice." Takeda said.

"I've got Ermac." Jacqui said.

As Takeda rushes Kotal, Jacqui charges at Ermac. She shoots off a plasma bolt that hits Ermac to no effect. In response, he telekinetically lifts her into the air and slams her into a tree. She struggles to rise as Ermac floats down to ground level.

"You are the spawn of Jackson Briggs." Ermac said.

"And damn proud of it! I know what you did to him." Jacqui said.

"We took your father's arms. We will take all of you." Ermac said.

They fight. The battle proves to be one of the toughest of Jacqui's life, as Ermac brings the power of a thousand souls to bear against her. But hardened by resolve and the will to avenge her father's maiming, Jacqui takes the fight to the Outworld construct. After a fierce battle, she manages to emerge victorious against Ermac.

"That was for you, Dad." Jacqui said to herself.

~

Yang smiled in agreement with Jacqui. As did everyone else. Though Yang did so even more as she felt a strange kinship with the girl.

~

As Jacqui rushes back to where Takeda is fighting Kotal, Ferra/Torr jumps into her path. Ferra laughs and Torr roars, taking a massive swing at her with his meaty fists. Jacqui dodges two swipes and barely escapes as Torr almost pounds her into the ground. He manages to grab Jacqui and lift her into the air with both his hands around her waist.

"Squeeze, squeeze, Torr!" Ferra said.

Torr complies, and Jacqui's bulletproof vest begins to crunch under the strength in his hands.

"Your eyes, so bright." Ferra said in fascination. She readies the metal claws on her wrist. "Gonna carve 'em out!"

She slowly brings the claws towards Jacqui's face. In the nick of time, Jacqui's gauntlets finish charging up. She unleashes a plasma blast that rocks Torr backwards, letting her loose of his grip. He doesn't fall though, and neither does Ferra.

"Trickery! Deceit!" Ferra shouted.

Jacqui shoots off a plasma bolt, but it isn't charged and doesn't faze Torr. He throws two more meaty punches that Jacqui barely avoids. She gets into a fighting stance.

"No more tricks. Just a straight up beatdown." Jacqui said.

They fight. The sheer power and brutality of Ferra/Torr force Jacqui to use all of her kickboxing skill to avoid their mighty attacks. She proves to be up to the challenge, and with the help of her charged gauntlets she lands multiple blows on the two Outworlders. After a long brawl, they eventually fall unconscious at her feet.

"Two for one. I'll take it." Jacqui said.

~

"I like her." Yang stated.

"Of course you would, she has a similar weapon to yours." Weiss rolled her eyes.

"Probably." Yang simply shrugged in response.

~

Back with the rest of Team S-F, Kung Jin blocks the sword of a charging soldier with his staff, and Cassie kicks him in the side, staggering him long enough for Jin to put an arrow through his brain. He swings his staff around just in time to parry a sword blow from another soldier trying to cut down Cassie, allowing her to kick him in the stomach and smash her knee into his face, knocking him out.

A third soldier charges Jin, who again blocks the sword strike with his staff-bow. Cassie punches the soldier in the kidney twice and knocks him down with a right cross, and Jin swings his staff-bow around and fires an arrow straight through the head of a fourth soldier, causing him to backflip from the force.

Meanwhile, Takeda is still fighting Kotal Kahn one on one. He smashes Kotal in the face with a right hand, but the Osh-Tekk kicks him in the stomach, forcing him back. Takeda holds back for a moment, allowing Kotal a chance to speak.

"We know D'Vorah is here. Where is the amulet?" Kotal demanded.

"Kotal Kahn, the situation has changed--." Takeda tried to explain.

"Do not fling your spittle at me." Kotal cut Takeda off.

He charges at Takeda and attacks. Takeda blocks his punches, but takes a kick to the chest that knocks him down. He rolls to his feet and fires off one of his whips, ensnaring Kotal by the wrist. Kotal merely takes a firm grip on the whip and pulls, whirling Takeda around him. Takeda manages to stay on his feet, but is forced to retract the whip. Jacqui runs up to them both.

"You tell 'im?" Jacqui asked Takeda.

"Not yet!" Takeda answered.

"He needs to kno--." Jacqui tries to say.

"Busy!" Takeda cut her off.

"I will kill you both." Kotal said.

"Shinnok's been freed. He's at Raiden's Sky Temple. He's already infected Earthrealm's life force." Jacqui revealed.

She gestures to the sky. Kotal looks up at the red clouds and realises the truth of her words.

"The heavens boil... Earthrealm is lost!" Kotal exclaimed.

"Not if we hang together!" Jacqui said.

Kotal draws his macuahuitl from the scabbard on his back and readies it for kombat.

"I will appease Shinnok. Bring him your heads. Gain time to bolster Outworld's defenses." Kotal said.

~

"Oh for fu…." Qrow quickly turned to Adrian who was being rocked by Saphron. "Freak's sake!" His nieces and his brother-in-law, even Raven, let out a laugh at the man trying to curse in front of a baby. Even though he and some of the others already cursed in front of him.

~

He swings the weapon at Takeda, who barely ducks in time. Kotal backhands it towards Jacqui, who blocks with her gauntlets. Kotal holsters the macuahuitl as Takeda throws a punch that he blocks, before he punches him in the kidney and kicks him in the ankle, knocking him to the ground. As Takeda rises, Ferra/Torr charges straight towards him. Takeda ducks under Torr's attempted grab, but the behemoth slaps away his follow up kick.

While Takeda fights Ferra/Torr, Jacqui now goes up against Kotal Kahn alone. She deflects one of the Kahn's punches and one of his roundhouse kicks with her gauntlet, and shoots off a blast of plasma that stuns him for a moment.

"You need to help us, Kotal Kahn!" Jacqui yelled.

"It is too late for Earthrealm. Shinnok is now it's master." Kotal said.

They fight. With both kombatants fueled with desperation for their realms, the battle proves to be a long and hard one for Jacqui. The Emperor of Outworld brings everything he has to the fight, and Jacqui only barely manages to defend against it. Calling up on her last reserves, she throws everything she has right back at Kotal Kahn and amazingly manages to defeat him.

"You shoulda been with us." Jacqui said.

~

Everyone in the audience nodded in agreement with Jacqui. If Kotal had simply listened to them then perhaps they could've teamed up to stop Shinnok. But alas, not all is meant to be.

~

Kotal rises to his feet, growling impatiently. Erron Black steps in, flanked by soldiers, and aims one of his revolvers right at her.

"That's enough." Erron Black said.

Kotal's forces slowly back Jacqui, Cassie and Jin towards each other in a clear part of the forest. Cassie tries to shoot her pistol, but she's out of bullets. She holsters the gun and readies her fists.

"Fuck me!" Cassie exclaimed.

Ferra/Torr stomps back into the fray, with Takeda's bound body in Torr's arms. Torr lifts him up and throws him toward the clearing. He lands hard as Ferra laughs, and Jacqui helps him to his feet. Team S-F are now completely surrounded on all sides, and have all backed into one another.

"Don't know about you guys, but I'm living the dream." Jacqui stated.

"You have odd dreams." Takeda said.

~

"Kinda like Nora." Yang pointed towards the pink bomber.

"Excuse me but my dreams are awesome and epic!" Defend Nora.

Her friends simply rolled their eyes and chuckled, they were all used to her antics by now.

~

"Chattel. You die tonight." Kotal said.

He calls to his soldiers in the Outworld tongue and they begin to close in. Ferra/Torr charge forward... and are frozen solid by an ice blast. More blasts follow, freezing the soldiers who come too close to Team S-F.

~

"Yes! Sub-zero for the rescue!" Cheered Ruby.

"Kick their butts!" Nora joined in.

Those that knew them simply rolled their eyes though they couldn't help but join in the cheering.

~

Sub-Zero walks into the clearing, flanked by his Lin Kuei disciples. The warriors charge into battle without hesitation, forcing Kotal's forces to engage them. Team S-F break free and make a run for it, stopping as Sub-Zero walks towards them.

"You stood together against formidable odds. Lesser warriors would not have fared so well." Sub-zero said.

"Thanks, Grandmaster." Cassie said. Though she was confused on why Jaune wasn't here.

"I will remain here to push Kotal Kahn back to Outworld. Proceed to the Sky Temple. Earthrealm's fate lies with you." Sub-zero said.

They head off as Sub-Zero walks toward the battle.

Chapter 12: Cassie Cage

The scene cuts to the Sky Temple. Team S-F creeps up behind a wall overlooking a crevice as D'Vorah speaks with Liu Kang, Kitana and Sindel.

"Lord Shinnok is nearly finished. Soon the Jinsei's corruption will be irreversible." D'Vorah said

~

"Damn it." Ironwood cursed out loud.

~

"The invasion can then proceed. Raiden and his allies will be unable to offer resistance." Kitana said

Kung Jin missteps, and some stones crumble under his feet and fall into the crevice below them. Takeda and Cassie stop Jin from falling.

"Once the realm falls, our path to victory will be clear. Advise Lord Shinnok that the Oni and Orochi are ready. At his command, we'll unleash them on Earthrealm." Liu Kang said.

D'Vorah nods and walks into the Sky Temple. Kung Lao and Smoke walk up to the rest of the revenants.

"Have you found Raiden's portal to the Heavens?" Liu Kang asked.

"Yes, but his wards protect it. We can't break through." Kung Lao revealed.

Team S-F peer over the wall at the revenants.

"That is unacceptable. After Earthrealm is destroyed, we must complete Lord Shinnok's vengeance; invade the Heavens and destroy the Elder Gods." Kitana said.

"Come." Liu Kang said to Smoke and Kung Lao. The three male revenants walk off.

"Make war on the Heavens?! If Shinnok can take down the Elder Gods--." Takeda whispered.

"End of the universe. Got it." Jacqui nodded.

~

"Well, they got this. I have total faith in them." Ruby said cheekily.

"Yeah they do." Agreed Yang.

~

"Kung Lao... to see him like this…." Kung Jin said.

"We'll all be hangin' 'round the Netherrealm water cooler if we don't pull this off. C'mon." Cassie said.

As they creep along the wall, a rock comes loose from where Takeda puts his foot. Unlike Kung Jin before him, the rest of Team S-F are unable to catch him and he falls, just barely grabbing into the crevice edge in time.

"Takeda!" Jacqui exclaimed.

She reaches her hand for Takeda to grab. Sindel and Kitana notice the noise. Realising they've been spotted, Cassie motions to Jin and they spring out of cover, running forward and engaging in kombat.

Kung Jin swings his staff at Kitana as Cassie fends off Sindel's strikes. Kitana gets through Jin's staff swings, punches him in the stomach and kicks him in the face as he bends over, staggering him. Cassie punches Sindel, who blocks two more strikes from her and sends her reeling with a punch of her own. Cassie begins to retreat as Sindel advances on her.

"Has your mother ever told you what I did to her friends? Killed them all in the blink of an eye." Sindel gloated.

"And your own daughter. Are you proud of that?" Cassie asked with a frown.

~

This revelation causes Angela and Kali to start growling in anger. This woman, no, this bitch murdered her own daughter. Her own flesh and blood.

If they had a chance they would tear this bitch a new asshole.

~

"We are bonded in death. You will join us and I will give you a proper upbringing!" Sindel exclaimed.

They fight. Without the magic of Shang Tsung and his consumed souls in Sindel's body, she is unable to bring up the same power and strength that killed so many of Earthrealm's warriors. That is why she finds herself unable to take down Cassie so easily and that allows the leader of Team S-F to rally and beat her down, eventually leaving her unconscious on the ground.

"Nice offer, Mommy Dearest, but I'll pass." Cassie said.

~

Angela smiled with glee as her future daughter‐in-law beat the shit of this bitch. (Sorry if I curse too much.)

~

Jacqui is still trying to reach down and pull Takeda up from a sticky end at the bottom of the crevice the Sky Temple rests on. They both strain to reach each other's outstretched hand. Takeda suddenly loses his grip and falls... but Jacqui leans down and grabs his hand in the nick of time. Both of them struggle for a few moments, but eventually Jacqui pulls Takeda back up.

"I owe you one." Takeda told Jacqui.

She pats him on the shoulder.

"I'll remember that." Jacqui said with a smile.

Kung Jin yells out as he is flung backwards, crashing into the large gong in the temple courtyard. He passes out from the collision. As Kitana moves in to finish him, Cassie calls out to her.

"Back off, princess!" Cassie yelled.

"You think mere words can stop me?" Kitana asked mockingly.

Kitana turns as she spots Takeda and Jacqui running toward her. The three of them surround the revenant.

"Thanks for the assist." Cassie thanked Jacqui.

"Any time." Jacqui replied.

"Tick tock, ladies." Takeda said in a rushed tone.

Kitana blocks strikes from Cassie and Jacqui with her fans, kicking Cassie away at the same time she punches Jacqui backward. Takeda lands two punches across her face, but she blocks a third and counters with a roundhouse kick that staggers him. She then levitates him and Jacqui into the air with her fan-nado attack and chucks both of her fans into his abdomen. She follows up on Jacqui by throwing her remaining fan into her shoulder. With them both down, Kitana recalls both fans to her and twirls them around, turning to face Cassie.

"No!" Cassie yelled.

"You wish to die first? So be it." Kitana said coldly.

They fight. Kitana proves to be a huge test for Cassie, as her speed and skill in battle matches and surpasses the young Earthrealmer. However, Cassie shows that she has tricks of her own up her sleeve, and these allow her to remain in the fight and take it to the revenant. After a fierce battle, Cassie manages to emerge victorious.

"You're not killing anyone." Cassie said.

As Kung Jin pulls himself to a seated position, Cassie rushes over to Takeda.

"Help Jacqui!" Cassie yelled to Kung Jin.

Realising the situation is dire, Jin does as he's told for once. Cassie helps Takeda to his feet. He's favouring his abdomen, which is bloodied up from Kitana's fan.

"Messed you up pretty bad." Cassie said.

"Ugh, great bedside manner. I can fight." Takeda joked before becoming serious.

Cassie puts his arm around her shoulder to support him. They walk over to Jin and Jacqui, who's sitting down and favouring her shoulder.

"Jacqui?" Cassie asked in concern.

"It's nothing. Just like Kurdistan." Jacqui said.

~

"I wonder what happened in Kurdistan." Mused Winter.

~

Team S-F hears someone call out in Chinese. They turn to spot Liu Kang, Kung Lao and Smoke rushing toward them.

"You two go. Jacqui and I'll handle them." Takeda said to Cassie and Jin.

"What?" Cassie asked in surprise.

"We'll just slow you down." Jacqui explained.

"Forget it!" Jin argued.

Cassie realises the truth in their words. She looks at them and pulls out her pistols.

"Damn it. Keep your heads down. I'll see you on the other side." Cassie told the two.

She nods to Jin and they take off into the Temple. The scene cuts to Shinnok in the Jinsei Chamber. He has now completely corrupted it with his presence. Raiden is still trapped in the skeleton hand, barely conscious. D'Vorah is with the cocooned Johnny Cage and Jaune Arc, watching as her insects slowly eat into his face. Though they had a little bit of trouble trying to eat Jaune's face.

"They taste your flesh. Burrow deep. Inside you they will grow. Gnaw your innards." D'Vorah said.

~

"That bitch!" Angela growled as her motherly instincts went into overdrive. All she wanted to do was go there and beat the shit out of D'Vorah.

Saphron wanted to do the same thing as well. No one messes with her little brother. No one!

~

Johnny is still fully conscious during this horrific ordeal, but he refuses to cry out in pain. Meanwhile, Jaune tries his best to shake them off but to no avail. Cassie and Jin rush into the Jinsei Chamber.

"By the gods!" Jin exclaimed in shock.

Cassie was in shock as well. However, what really got to her was the sight of dad and boyfriend tied up.

"DAD! JAUNE!" Cassie yelled.

D'Vorah turns around at their voices and engages them in kombat. She blocks a kick from Jin and a punch from Cassie, kicking her in the stomach and forcing her backward. She blocks a punch from Jin and extends one of her stingers, stabbing him in the chest. She coldcocks him with her fist and ducks a right hand from Cassie. Once more, D'Vorah launches her

stinger, but Cassie catches the appendage. She blocks D'Vorah's strikes as best she can, but is forced backward by a punch to the face.

"First father, then daughter. Will they taste the same?" D'Vorah said.

They fight. Under normal circumstances, the fighting prowess and powers of D'Vorah would have been too much for Cassie to handle alone. But now the daughter of Johnny Cage fights with an aggression and strength unknown to her before. She relentlessly pummells the Kytinn, not stopping until she is well and truly unconscious at her feet.

"You're the bug? I'm the windshield." Cassie quipped.

~

"That actually sounds cool. Might use that one later on." Yang mused to herself. Everyone either nodded or ignored her and focused on the screen.

~

Outside in the Sky Temple courtyard, Takeda is fending off attacks from Sindel and Kitana as best he can, while Jacqui is busy fighting off Liu Kang, Kung Lao and Smoke. Takeda catches a break by punching Sindel backwards, but Jacqui gets pummelled by Liu Kang and Smoke. Kitana lays into Takeda with some punches and Sindel hits him with a roundhouse kick as Jacqui manages to uppercut Liu Kang.

Back in the Jinsei Chamber, the insects burrowing into Johnny and Jaune's faces have all died once D'Vorah fell unconscious. He looks up to find his daughter trying to free him and Jaune from the cocoon.

"Hey... Punkin…." Johnny said weakly.

"I'm a little old for "Punkin"." Cassie replied.

"Hey Cass." Jaune greeted weakly as well.

"Hey babe." Cassie said as she cupped his face.

~

Ruby, Pyrrha, and Blake immediately began to glare at the screen again. More specifically at Cassie as this hussy has the gall to call their man 'babe'. They should be calling Jaune that not her!

The three of them realized what the other was thinking and started to glare at one another.

This made their friends and family sighed once again. Oum, that kid is going to have a lot to handle.

'Monty, I hope whatever girl tries to date my son doesn't have to deal with these three.' Jonathan thought to himself.

~Elsewhere~

Meanwhile, in a training room a girl with beautiful black hair, gorgeous grey eyes, and a cute face let out a sneeze.

"You okay Nem?" Jaune asked as he placed his hand on her shoulder.

"I'm fine, Jaune. Probably just some dust or something." Nem shrugged off.

"Okay then." Jaune was quiet for a moment as he and Nem had already finished training. "Want to get something to eat?" Jaune asked with a faint blush on his face. Something Nem had noticed.

"I'd like that." Nem said with her own blush. The two of them then proceeded to exit the room in order to get some lunch. 'Even after all this time he's still the same. I pray to Chaos that in time he will remember me.' Nem thought to herself.

~Theater room~

"Oh well." Jonathan shrugged.

~

She then turns her attention to the cocoon. The cocoon proves to be tough for Cassie to open, but she still goes at it.

"No... Get... Shinnok." Johnny said.

"But--." Cassie tried to argue but was cut off by Jaune.

"If… if Shinnok… succeeds,… all will be… lost." Jaune said as he looked at Cassie.

Cassie looks back at him but they quickly turn their attention to Johnny. Who let out a groan.

"I love you." Johnny told Cassie. He falls silent and his eyes close.

"Dad?" Cassie asked as she felt tears build up and her heart sinking.

Before she can check if Johnny has died, the corrupted form of Shinnok descends from the Jinsei onto the chamber floor itself, looking toward her.

"So you are the issue of Johnny Cage. Fitting that I exterminate his entire line. Including the life of the Aura user." Shinnok threatened.

~

Angela gritted her teeth at this bastard's words. No one hurts her baby boy. No one.

~

Cassie's fear at the sight of the fallen Elder God is quickly replaced by determination and resolve.

"You want them, you're gonna go through me." Cassie said with firm determination.

~

'Hmm. I like her, definitely better than that slut. I wonder if there's a version of her in our world?' Robyn thought to herself.

~

As Shinnok strides towards her, Cassie lets rip with several punches that he effortlessly blocks. One slips through, but it doesn't faze him. She throws a supergirl punch, but only hurts her hand when she punches his skull. Shinnok throws a light jab that almost floors Cassie before grabbing her by the throat and lifting her into the air. He throws a measured punch to her face that sends her flying across the chamber, just barely conscious.

"Yes, that's better. Watch, Miss Cage, as I rend your father's and friend's flesh." Shinnok said

He summons magic into his palm and blasts Johnny and Jaune square in the face with a red beam of power. This time, Johnny is unable to keep from screaming

in pain. Jaune grunted as his aura protected him. However, no later than a few seconds his aura gave way. The blonde soon joined Johnny in screaming out in pain.

Cassie looks up and struggles to her knees as Shinnok breaks off the spell.

"This is what awaits those who defy me: excruciating, exquisite death." Shinnok said.

He blasts Johnny and Jaune again in the face with his magic, prompting more screams from the two.

~

"No!" Angela screamed as she tried to rush towards the screen. Only to be restrained by Jonathan and Robyn.

"Honey, calm down." Jonathan said to his wife.

"Don't tell me to calm down! That bastard is hurting my baby and he's going to pay!" She shouted. Angela was grabbed by Robyn, who looked at her in the eyes.

"Ange, calm down. Look I know that you want to protect Jaune, I do too, but there's nothing you or I can do." Robyn said

Angela stared at her for a brief moment before letting out some tears.

Robyn and Jonathan continued to stare at Angela for a few seconds before bringing her into a hug. They were like this for several minutes before sitting back down, with Jonathan holding his wife.

~

Cassie gets back to her feet and charges forward.

"You son of a BITCH!" Cassie yelled.

As she runs at Shinnok, the same green energy that surrounded her father twenty-five years ago envelops her as well. As Shinnok blasts her with his magic instead, she puts up her hands to block it. Like Johnny before her, the magic has no effect and she throws off the blast. She takes a moment to look at the glow on her body.

"Holy shit, it does run in the family!" Cassie exclaimed in surprise and shock.

"Your father's power will not save you. You cannot hope to survive!" Shinnok shouted.

They fight. The battle is truly epic, with neither the empowered Cassie or Shinnok getting any clear advantage for the majority of it. For what seems like an age, the daughter of Johnny Cage and the

fallen Elder God fights with everything they have, but eventually Cassie Cage gains an advantage and with one final assault, she knocks Shinnok to the ground.

"You got Caged." Cassie said proudly.

~

"That's a good one." Chuckled Yang. Her father nodded her head in agreement. Though the rest of the audience simply groaned out in annoyance.

~

As Shinnok rises, Cassie throws a knee that he blocks, but hits a kick that connects to his stomach. She follows through with a punch to his abdomen, an overhead punch to his head, a low roundhouse kick to his crotch and a knee to his face, staggering him. With a battle cry, Cassie lands one more punch to Shinnok's face and finishes him off with a somersaulting kick that leaves the fallen Elder God knocked out for the count.

With Shinnok defeated, the green glow of power surrounding Cassie fades out.

~

"Woah. She did it." Robyn said in awe.

"Yeah, she did." Angela replied to her. Robyn was silent for a moment before turning to her. "Does she exist in our world?" She asked.

"Not to my knowledge no. Why do you ask?" Angela looked at her best friend with a raised eyebrow.

"Nothing, just thinking how this Cassie girl is good for Jaune. If she did then I would have approved of her." Robyn shrugged.

"Yeah you're right. She is and I would too." Angela said with a smile.

~

Kung Jin picks himself off the floor and walks over to her, noting that Shinnok is out like a lightbulb.

"That you? Nice." Jin said.

"Cassandra Cage…." Raiden called out weakly.

Raiden is still imprisoned by the skeleton hand, which has since blackened slightly with Shinnok's defeat. Cassie and Jin run up to him.

"Put me... in the Jinsei." Raiden said.

"What?" Cassie asked in confusion.

"But you're-- it-- it'll kill you!" Jin argued.

"Must... be... cleansed. Hurry." Raiden pleaded.

Together, Cassie and Jin support Raiden and walk him onto the floating rocks leading up to the Jinsei. He floats into the corrupted Jinsei and starts chanting in Japanese. His arms charge up with lightning that envelops his body. As Cassie and Jin look on with concern, he blasts Shinnok in the chest with a lightning bolt, lifting his unconscious form into the air.

The lightning acts as a conduit, and Raiden begins to absorb the corrupted essence of Shinnok into his own body. He begins to grimace in pain, but does not stop the spell. Shinnok's demonic form is eventually restored to his original self, still unconscious and now no longer holding his amulet.

With the power gone from Shinnok, Raiden cries out once more and blue essence expels itself from his body, back into the Jinsei. The chamber is completely filled with white light, so bright the entire screen whites out.

~

Everyone in the audience let out cheers of victory as they saw the heroes save the realm.

~

Outside of the Sky Temple, the revenants have been unable to beat Jacqui and Takeda. Everyone stops fighting as the corrupted cloud pouring out of the Jinsei Chamber dissipates, and the clouds above it begin to lose their blood red hue.

"We must withdraw." Liu Kang told his fellow Revenants.

Jacqui and Takeda look to the sky, smiles on their faces as sunlight breaks through once again. They only notice too late that a portal opens up that takes the revenants back to the Netherrealm. Nonetheless, this does nothing to their current joyous mood. Takeda puts a hand on Jacqui, and they both walk over to the temple, sitting down near the giant statue of Raiden, completely exhausted.

"That moonlight walk... can it wait?" Takeda asked.

"No walks. Poolside. Umbrella drinks." Jacqui said with her own offer.

He puts his hand on Jacqui's.

"Deal." Takeda said.

They look at each other and smile, and Jacqui rests her head on Takeda's shoulder.

~

"Aww that's nice." Kali cooed before turning to Blake. "So when are you going to stake your claim with your Jaune? I still want some grandkids." Her blunt words cause everyone to have very different reactions. Qrow and Tai laughed. Glynda shook her head in annoyance. The Schnee sisters were shocked. James looked impassive to this. Raven couldn't care less. Nora laughed out loud while Ren simply sighed. Ruby and Pyrrha simply glared at Blake with murderous intent. Robyn couldn't help but smile at this whole thing. Angela was thinking the same thing as Kali was. Jonathan felt another headache coming up while staring at Ghira. Saphron and Terra chuckled at this while giving Adrian a sweet.

"Kali!" Ghira roared. He still didn't want the Arc boy to get anywhere near his daughter. Though he can't do anything about it without pissing off the boy's father.

Blake meanwhile felt her brain shut down for two reasons. One was because of how her mother embarrassed her in front of everyone. The other is because she began to fantasize about starting a family with Jaune. She could see it, an older her and Jaune sitting in the living room with two children. One was a boy with black hair, blue eyes, and cat ears while the other was a girl with blonde hair and amber eyes. All of them were sitting on the couch watching TV while Blake was gently stroking her swollen belly. Pregnant with their third baby.

Blake soon snapped out of it and covered her face in embarrassment.

~

Back in the Jinsei Chamber, the lifeforce of Earthrealm is back to its regular blue hue. Cassie Cage and Kung Jin both hold Raiden up and walk him back to the chamber floor. Raiden has fallen motionless from the ordeal and they set him down as gently as they can.

"Is he alive?" Cassie asked.

"Barely. I'll help him. Help your father and Jaune." Jin said.

Cassie runs back to Johnny and Jaune, still cocooned but alive. Johnny smiles as he spots her.

"And to think... I was worried when you started dating." Johnny laughed.

"A little too late for that." Cassie joked before turning to Jaune.

"You okay?" Cassie asked.

"Yeah. could we postpone our date till a little later?" Jaune asked as he turned to Cassie. Cassie nodded before pulling him into a kiss. After a few seconds they broke the kiss.

"You know this is not what I expected this day to end. Getting tied up and kissing my girlfriend after she beat up a fallen Elder God." Jaune laughed.

"Maybe next time we could do it somewhere private." Cassie whispered with a smirk. Jaune smiles back at her.

~

Cassie's words to Jaune and his to her caused the girls with crushes to blush madly. Their minds automatically show them all tied up with Jaune giving them much needed 'punishment.' Very intimate punishment.

~

"Come on guys. I'm still here." Johnny groaned.

~

Everyone let out a chuckle at this. However, Ruby, Pyrrha, and Blake were still currently living their fantasies in their head. Though they soon snapped out of it.

~

"Sorry." They both apologized. They all turned to see someone coming.

"This way! In here!" Sonya yelled out.

Sonya arrives in the chamber, flanked by Special Forces soldiers.

"Isolate Shinnok and D'Vorah. And get the Medic!" Sonya ordered her men.

She runs up to Cassie and Johnny, finally looking at her ex-husband with concern.

"We'll fix you up. Help is on the way." Sonya reassured him.

"You shoulda seen Cass. Wiped the floor with Shinnok." Johnny said.

"I believe it. And you... you did a great job with your team, Johnny." Sonya said. Johnny let out a chuckle before turning to his daughter.

"You hear that, Cass? She called me "Johnny"." Johnny said.

"I thought she might." Cassie said.

"General Blade." Greeted Jaune.

"Jaune." Sonya replied.

"That's an improvement." Jaune laughed.

"Don't push it." Sonya said with a smile. All of them let out a laugh.

As the Cage family, depending on how Jaune fits in, smiles at one another, the camera pans up to the Jinsei, restored to all its former glory.

Cut to black.

The final scene - partway through the credits - opens in the Netherrealm. Raiden stands in the throne room of a gigantic fortress, but it's not the Raiden we've seen earlier. He wears darker attire, his skin tone is darker, his eyes glow red instead of blue and most tellingly of all, Shinnok's Amulet is now worn on his chest. Who he is speaking to is not

shown.

~

"Is he wearing the amulet?" Blake asked in shock.

"Yeah." Yang stuttered. She and the others were also surprised by this.

~

"Too long have I allowed Earthrealm to endure the horrors of war. Time and again we've defeated our enemies. But we've exacted no retribution. Demanded no remuneration. What have we gained for our mercy? More intrigue. More senseless violence. As the new rulers of the Netherrealm, heed me. No longer will simply defend Earthrealm. I will seek out and destroy all who threaten it. No mercy will be shown. No quarter given." Raiden explained.

He opens up a satchel that he has been carrying and throws out the contents. It is the severed head of Shinnok - still alive and in terrible pain. "Shinnok was an Elder God. Impossible to kill. There are fates worse than death." Raiden threatened.

~

Everyone in the audience was taken back from the sudden aggression from Raiden. They were also shocked by Raiden's appearance and new attitude. Some even sick at the decapitated yet still living head.

Meanwhile Ozpin couldn't help but agree with what Raiden said, albeit reluctantly since Raiden became dark. His curse made it impossible to feel the sweet relief of death. If only for a very brief moment. The immortal closed his eyes and let out a sigh.

~

He teleports out of the fortress. The camera pans around the decapitated head of Shinnok to the people Raiden was speaking to - Liu Kang and Kitana, the Emperor and Empress of the Netherrealm. They both regard the head in silence. The screen then cuts to black.

~

"Well… that was something." Qrow said.

"Indeed it was." Ozpin replied as he took a sip of his mug. His mind is still focusing on what Raiden told Liu Kang and Kitana.

~Unknown Location~

Jaune was currently napping on top of a cot. Tired from all of his training for the day. However, instead of being relaxed he was starting to sweat profusely.

~Dream~

Rain poured down as Jaune laid on the ground in pain. He had no idea where he was or what he was doing. Jaune looked around him to find himself in a mud field.

"Always the noble one eh cousin?" A deep and hoarse voice spoke out. Jaune turned his head to the left to see a man that was horribly wounded. His skin was pale and lifeless. his eyes sunken and tired. He had dried black hair and a light beard, dressed in a black toga with hints of armor.

"T-tenebrous." Jaune spoke out. He didn't know why though. The blonde didn't know who he was or his relationship to him. But he knew him nevertheless.

"Fighting is pointless. You know this, but you do it anyway." Tenebrous said as he knelt down next to him. He then cupped Jaune's face. "I truly feel for you." He said with a sad smile.

Jaune looked at him with great confusion before he felt someone over him. The blonde turned to see an unholy being towering over him. It was hulking with greek armor but it looked much more demonic. With wings made of metal. The body is an ethereal red mist. Its face was not even visible or noticeable, obscured by a helmet, the only thing that was visible was a pair of blood red, glowing eyes.

The being materialized a giant black sword. It then lifted the blade above its head and swung it downwards. Directly at Jaune. Who closed his eyes in preparation.

~Real World~

Jaune violently woke up screaming. He began to breath out raggedy and heavy. Sweat drenched his body, making him hot and uncomfortable.

Jaune soon calmed down as he realized that he was fine. He calmed his breathing, inhaling and exhaling. He then took off his jacket and shirt to cool himself. Which worked for a brief while.

"It's just a dream." Jaune whispered to himself. He was about to go back to sleep when he saw something that caught his eye. In the mirror across from him was his reflection. Usually this isn't strange, what was strange is that his scar was now smaller. The scar that was a reminder of when Jaune almost died was fading away.

The blonde traced his now smaller scar. He was so confused about what just happened. He shook his head and decided to go back to bed. Hopefully he could dream of something better.

The End.

I hope you enjoyed this new chapter, cause I won't be posting for a while. More so than I am already doing. I am currently busy at a new job. However, I'm currently working on ALL of my stories both old and new. So except sometime in the future a lot of stuff will be posted at once. Anyways stay safe and enjoy.