Chapter Nine
Outworld – 9 Months Ago
Sometime after the Universal War had reached Earthrealm, members of the cyber clan, the Tekunin, had made their way to Outworld with their own portal in order to get close to the Outworld Forces. The clan had remained neutral in the war, biding their time to see who was most worthy to side with.
The more time passed, the more the clan came to realize that the Outworld Forces' war against the universe meant the extinction of everything living, both organic and those who were the synthesis of human and machine. No one and nothing was safe. Like they always did since the Blood Tournament ended, the clan members laid low in order to remain undetected.
Once the war was over and the surviving members of the Outworld Forces disappeared, the Tekunin emerged from hiding and began scouting the area. For weeks, they searched the land and scouted for anything that could be of use back on Earthrealm despite Outworld being behind on advanced in technology than their world was. Foreign tech had been known to make its way here before however, especially in the past when the presence of the Black Dragon arrived here. Even some items from the Tekunin were brought here in secret as recent as the Blood Tournament.
For a while, it seemed like nothing worthwhile was found. Then, they stumbled upon a portion of the wastelands close to where the Blood Tournament had taken place a year before...
It was here that they discovered remnants of a recent battle... dried blood stained the broken statues that scattered across the land. Small, torn piece of clothing laid where they fell in the dirt, which only began to cover the footprints and craters most guessed were made by fallen bodies. In the distance, branches and trinkets marked the graves of those who died on this field.
At one point, a member of the Tekunin noticed pieces of bones spread all around and formed a circle as though the body it once belonged in combusted. Burn marks scorched the bones, but that wasn't what caught the cyborg's attention. Amongst the bones were what looked like parts to something electronic or mechanical. Some parts seemed have to survived intact, but despite that, it was hard to tell exactly what it was and why it was mixed in amongst the bones.
It was then that the cyborg found a black object the size of one's fist. Deciding to investigate, the clan member trekked over to the object before kneeling down to pick it up. The cyborg used an eye scanner to identify the object. It only took a few moments, but the results that came back surprised him... it was the kind of tech that was unseen in Outworld and was most definitely Earthrealm-related.
The clan member turned his head to face the leader of the Tekunin. "Sektor," the cyborg called out. "I found something."
Walking to where the clan member was, the red cyborg Sektor gazed over his minion's shoulder and noticed the black object. "What is it?" he asked.
"My scanner identified it as a perpetual power generator," the cyborg replied. "Completely intact. I'm attempting to analysis exactly where it came from."
"Let me see it," Sektor said while grabbing the generator from his minion's hand. Using a scanner, he tried to figure out it's origin.
As he turned the generator in his hand, one of Sektor's fingers ended up pressing a button he didn't know was there. Suddenly, his scanner was flooded with images as though he was looking at the memories of someone else... he saw the faces of scientists, memories of war, death, and rebirth. He saw a fight with the Manji Clan and even a battle against their leader, Yoshimitsu. He also saw how the generator's tech worked as well as the mechanics that accompanied it within the body of it's owner. At some points, he could hear the sounds of the owner's sadistic, maniacal laugh, especially when he overpowered his enemies in battle.
Sektor was astonished by the discovery. Not only was this generator still working, but it had once belonged to a cyborg, but not the kind that graced the Tekunin. This cyborg's mechanics were all on the inside of their body rather than also being on the outside as well. Though the Tekunin's technology has been much more advanced since Sektor volunteered for the cyber initiative when he was once with the Lin Kuei clan, he had yet to see this kind of tech applied to any cyborg before.
This suddenly inspired Sektor... if he could smile, he would in this moment. When the Tekunin returns to Earthrealm, a new project would be at hand... rebuilding this cyborg to their original state based on the generator's log. It would be the perfect way for Sektor to learn more about this cyborg's mechanics.
If all worked out to what he can envision, this new tech may serve as the future to the Tekunin Clan.
Present Day...
A computer began to read off data...
Rebuilding process complete. It is now safe to awaken the subject.
For nine months, Sektor had worked around the generator to rebuild the cyborg who owned the mechanic. Using a recently deceased body that was the best replica of the original that could be found, the Tekunin used their own tech to rebuild this cyborg the way they were before. The generator had been a large part in the process, and it was still such an amazement how it's core memory remained intact despite the original body exploding into pieces.
The body, of course, was largely remade from the inside with new organs, devices, and mechanics. There was even some reconstruction done to make the new body close to the original as possible, even adding the scars the cyborg had initially. Sektor liked to think the new body was about ninety-eight percent close to the original. The original was a bit more bulk in muscles, but he imagined that it would be worked on overtime.
After the computer deemed things safe, Sektor removed the few life support plugs connected to the cyborg, which was done as a precaution. Then, the leader of the Tekunin simply waited until the subject stirred, which lasted for a few moments before the man at the table opened his eyes, revealing dark blue irises.
The subject blinked a couple of times as though trying to take in their surroundings. Eventually, he squinted them as his vision gazed at the red cyborg standing a few feet away from the table he was laying on.
"The hell..." the subject grumbled.
"You are within the compounds of the Tekunin clan in Japan," Sektor explained. "First... do you remember your name?"
Sektor actually knew the subject's name based on the information from the generator he and his clan found in Outworld, but it was important that he heard it from the subject himself. He needed to know for sure that memories from the generator were still working from within after all this time.
Still getting his bearings, the new cyborg uttered his name. "Bryan... Fury."
Good, Sektor thought with a nod. "What's the last thing you remember?"
At this point, Bryan was slowly sitting up from the table while rubbing the bridge of his nose, trying to get his mind focused after what felt like years of sleep. "I... I was fighting in a battle in Outworld... with the Black Dragon..."
Sektor did remember the Black Dragon log... Bryan had joined the clan for his own reasons two months before his 'demise,' but that part wasn't important right now. "What battle?"
"Something about... chosen ones," Bryan uttered. "Doesn't matter... I was fighting the Manji Clan leader... Yoshimitsu... and then... he dealt a final blow when-"
He then suddenly realized exactly how he died in the first place. Suspicious, he removed his hand from his face and turned to gaze at the red cyborg. "How the hell am I alive?!"
"My clan was scouting Outworld nine months ago when we found your generator," Sektor began to explain. "The generator was still intact with all of your memories, thus we rebuilt you using the information provided. You have new mechanics, new organs, and a new body that's as close as possible to the original. We even took the time to add the scars you originally had on you before you combusted."
Upon hearing that, Bryan couldn't help but let out a low, dark laugh as though amused by something. Sektor folded his arms at that. "What's so funny?" he asked, unamused.
"When I got this generator a while back," Bryan began. "Dr. Bosconovitch said my original body was too complex to replace when I required a new one." Another laugh escaped his throat. "Congratulations. You proved that it was possible."
"The Tekunin have advanced technology not available to the general public," Sektor mentioned. "I am uncertain of the kind of tech access this Dr. Bosconovitch may have."
"Doesn't matter," Bryan said as he swung his legs over the table, but remained sitting. Looking down, he saw that the clan that rebuilt him had taken the time to place on blue pants and black combat boots on him. The only thing missing now were his utility belt for his guns, bullets, and grenades, black finger-cut gloves, and a red bandana over his left arm. Once he got those, he would feel much more at home.
He then remembered something as he reached his hands to his neck, but Sektor knew what he was thinking. "Yes, your tattoos are there," he said. "They're the exact replica of the originals."
"Good," Bryan said. He then gazed up at the clan leader suspiciously as another thought came to him. "What's the catch? Clearly you have a reason for bringing me back to life..."
"The Tekunin have an interest in your tech," Sektor replied. "The rebuilding process of your mechanics is the exact replica of the original and we merely wished to study it for our own advancement as part of the Tekunin's future."
"How come I've never heard of your until now?" Bryan asked. "I'm sure you figured out in my generator that I used to be a military soldier and a cop for Interpol back in my... human days. I know every clan that exists."
"Our clan is fairly new, only a couple of years old," Sektor explained. "For the most part, we've been laying low and biding our time, so we're not as well known like... the Black Dragon."
"That's in the past," Bryan mentioned, knowing why Sektor mentioned the clan to begin with. "I was merely using them to get close to Yoshimitsu and the Manji Clan."
"As I suspected," Sektor said.
"If you plan to recruit me, then you can-"
"That's not our intention," Sektor cut in before Bryan could finish. "However, since we did bring you back to life, we only ask for one favor in return... one that I think will benefit both of us."
Sektor walked a couple of feet closer to the table Bryan was sitting on. "I imagine you want to test out your new body... and the clan would like to see how the mechanics work. The Mishima Zaibatsu are hosting a new tournament that begins in just over a week, and I think this tournament will be the best place for the both of us to get what we want."
"Another King of Iron Fist Tournament?" Bryan guessed.
Sektor shook his head. "The last one came and went while you were still a rubble in Outworld. No... this one is a bit different. They call it the Shikoken Tournament, and it'll be hosted on Mishima Island about six hours from our location. The reason for the tournament is because there's a bounty on the Zaibatsu leader's head – Jin Kazama. He's giving fighters a chance to claim the bounty in the middle of a current war on the world that Kazama created three months ago."
Bryan had heard the name before. "Huh... makes me wonder what else has changed during my... absence. Who put the bounty on his head?"
"G-Corp."
Bryan scowled at that. "Figures..." He then gazed up at the Sektor. "So that's it then... you just want me to test out my mechanics at the tournament?"
"Precisely," Sektor said. "And at the same time, you satisfy your lust for carnage. Rumor has it that Manji Clan members will be there. They've been fighting against the Mishima Zaibatsu since this war began... and if such a prestigious clan will be there... I imagine their leader will participate in order to see the end to the war himself... then, you may have the chance for vengeance, if you so desire."
That earned a smirk from Bryan. Already, he was very confident in Sektor's assumption. The Manji Clan always fought wars in order to obtain peace, so this would be no different. And already, he was looking forward to seeing Yoshimitsu again... and end his life for good.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
There was barely any light within a small bar in the middle of the city, the only illumination provided were from the TV playing above the bar table, and the neon signs that advertised the products the bar sold. Still, the lack of brightness didn't bother the lone figure sitting alone at the bar table with a bottle of bourbon and one shot glass in front of him.
Wearing a dark blue sweater with the hood over his head, a former American boxer named Balrog only paid attention to two things... the TV, and his drink. Sometime ago, he requested the bartender to not speak to him and only keep the drinks coming until he signaled that he was finished.
However, Balrog was still feeling annoyed. All the news on the television had talked about was the war, and he was getting really sick of the constant repeated reports about it. It wasn't like anything was going to change by the hour anyway. As far as he was concerned, the Universal War had been more fun than this... at least he saw enough action to keep his blood lust satisfied.
More than two years ago, long after joining Shadaloo after his fall from grace in the boxing industry, Balrog made his way to Rio de Janeiro and had called it home ever since. When Shadaloo fell, Balrog quickly moved in and stole a large sum of money from one of the organization's bank accounts and made a run for it before anyone noticed.
Balrog lived lavishly since then. He surrounded himself with the finest trinkets, clothes, and liquor, beautiful women, and seemingly endless parties. He kept raking in more cash through gambling, which was done underground due to the practice being illegal in Brazil.
However, due to recent gambling losses, the money was now close to running out. Sure, he still had enough to at least keep his new home for a few more months, but any other luxuries he was enjoying would have to be given up... and that was the last thing he wanted to do.
There was hope, however, and he nearly forgot about it until now when the TV decided to play a repeat of the Mishima Zaibatsu's announcement of the Shikoken Tournament in Japan. One-hundred million dollars... that would surely set Balrog for life!
Just imagine what else I can do with that amount of money, he thought to himself. I could create my own gambling empire with that and get even more back!
That reminded him that he should use the money he did have left and book a flight and hotel. With that in mind, Balrog took a quick shot his drink, placed the glass done, and made his departure while the bartender was busy with another patron. He didn't bother to leave behind payment...
Quan Chi's Fortress, Outworld
The New Outworld Forces gathered on the platform in front of the Inner Sanctum Chamber in the back of the room. On the steps leading up to the chamber was Quan Chi himself
"As you know," he began to address his minions. "We've secured an alliance with Kazuya Mishima and his organization, G-Corp, on Earthrealm. This will involve us in their war against the Mishima Zaibatsu, but it is a necessary step for our plans of finding a way to unlock the Temple of Azazel... and using the powers within to conquer the universe for ourselves.
"Generals... step forward."
His seven generals, all who have chosen to join his side after taking over the throne, stepped forward. They included the Centaurian leader, Motaro, who stood proudly in front of his fellow men who joined him in this gathering. There were also the two Edenians, Rain and Tanya, the former Shadaloo henchman Vega Fabio De Cerna and his lovely Anna Williams, the Red Dragon second-in-command Mavado, and the former Black Dragon assassin Kira.
Once the generals stepped forward, Quan Chi turned his head to the left, where three others stood on the steps next to him. Only one of them was a man with black hair with white streaks, pupil-less eyes, and black paint going up and down his eyes. Another was a woman with blood red hair tied back into a ponytail with some strands left loose over her pale face, and she wore a mask on the bottom half of her face, it's color matching her hair.
"I'm sure you all remember General Reiko and Skarlet. They understandably kept themselves low after the Universal War since they were in Seido when the war ended. Thanks to my assistance, they were able to escape Seido. I imagine they have their reasons to fight in this war in Earthrealm."
In response, Reiko smirked while Skarlet's gray eyes narrowed. Quan Chi then gazed over at the third person with the others, a woman with long red hair tied into two ponytails who wore a white fox mask that only covered the top half of her face while exposing her ruby red lips and some scarring alongside the edge of the mask.
"However," the necromancer proceeded. "I imagine none of your have met Kunimitsu. She's former member of the Manji Clan who happened to have been murdered by the clan leader himself over twenty years ago. Her skills as a ninja assassin were proven to be useful in our campaign, thus earning her resurrection. I can assure you that she will be valuable in our cause.
"We will be departing for Earthrealm in four days. The Shikoken Tournament will proceed not long afterwards..."
When the meeting with the New Outworld Forces ended, Rain could only roll his eyes as he heard Motaro address his fellow Centaurian warriors. As the Centaurian seemed to always do, he gave his soldiers a seemingly impelling speech about their species' honor and how they will prove themselves to be the most superior, especially over their natural enemies, the Shokan.
If I didn't know better, Rain thought. I'd say he was giving the same speech every damn time, but said in different words to make them think otherwise...
"Thinking it might've been better if the Shokan joined this cause instead?" question his fellow Edenian Tanya as she joined his side.
"They're all savages to me," Rain mentioned to her. "As far as I'm concerned, their so-called 'honor' is misplaced."
"Well, whatever," Tanya shrugged. "As they say, what's done is done. Honestly, I'm surprised either one of them were willing to join any side at all."
"Probably because they realized that they're nothing without Shao Kahn," Rain said. "Honestly, it's not our problem."
"Perhaps not," Tanya said. "But either group may be of use to us once you and I finally achieve our goal in taking over Edenia for ourselves."
The mention of Edenia reminded Rain of something. "There is that offer we both received from the Rebels..."
"I know... but you and I both agreed to remain with Quan Chi since he provides the greatest chance for us to achieve our goal... for now at least. And it's not like we said 'yes' to them anyway."
"We didn't say 'no' either," Rain reminded her. "Remember, we're expecting them to follow us and show up at the tournament on the side of the Mishima Zaibatsu."
"I know," Tanya said. "And that will give us plenty of time to decide what to do."
"Indeed," Rain agreed. He then took a step closer to Tanya before murmuring into her ear in a lower pitch than it was before. "Now that the day is over, perhaps we can go up to my quarter, and..."
Tanya gave him a small smile. "To be honest, Rain, I'm pretty tired. I was just thinking it might be best if I head to bed right now."
The Edenian woman didn't miss the hint of disappointment in his brown eyes, but she didn't care. What she cared more about right now was her beauty rest. As far as she was concerned, the purple-clad warrior could wait for one additional night before they shared a bed again.
"As you wish," Rain ended up saying after a moment of silence.
"Good night, Rain," Tanya replied and began to leave before she gave Rain the chance to respond. Yawning, she thought about the past year since the two of them began seeing each other as much more than allies. There was sexual tension between them when they were working to merge Edenia with Outworld during the Universal War, and there was fire between them when Rain kissed her for the first time on the outskirts surrounding Shao Kahn's Fortress when they were hunting her mortal enemy, Jade.
Tanya sometimes wondered if the excitement of war and danger kept that fire going. Especially during the past few months, and she wasn't exactly sure at what point it happened... the fire that that was there seemed to have extinguished, at least for her. Even she wasn't sure why she remained intimate with her fellow Edenian with these kinds of thoughts in her mind. Perhaps because she was busy with serving the Outworld Forces? Or perhaps because during downtime, she wanted someone to serve as her personal consort... even if they were merely satisfactory.
Maybe things will get better later on now that they were going to get involved in Earthrealm's war... she'll have to see.
Meanwhile, at the sleeping quarters, Vega and Anna walked side by side as the two of them began heading back to the room that they shared together. As they did, Vega briefly brushed his fingers over the titanium mask that was created for him last year. It was very similar to the old, porcelain mask his used to wear over his beautiful face in order to keep it flawless.
Anger boiled in his blood as he recalled the porcelain mask being smashed into his face by his mortal enemy, Maxi, towards the end of the Universal War. He swore to make the Keisei native pay the next time they ran into each other, especially for the pain and scars he had inflicted upon the former matadar.
At least now, the scars were gone thanks to Quan Chi's magic... it was what convinced him to work alongside the necromancer after all...
Vega's angry suddenly relaxed as he heard Anna speak to him. "So, we'll finally see Earth again in a few days," Anna mentioned to him as they reached the door to their sleeping quarters.
Throught his mask, Vega gazed down at the young woman, who gave him a sweet smile, her stunning blue eyes looking up at him with loving adoration. Vega reached one hand out to caress his fingers over her cheek, feeling the softness of her milky-white skin. In response, Anna shifted her head a little so that her face rested more in his hand.
Two years together... and his dear Anna was still as beautiful as ever. Sometimes, he wondered how she was able to forgive him with his sudden outburst after his face was nearly ruined over a year ago...
"Yes, we will be seeing Earthrealm again in a few days," Vega soon replied. "Looking forward to it?"
"Maybe," Anna said as she began to unlock the door to their room with a key. "It may actually give us a chance to finally get some of our personal agendas done for once."
Vega knew what she meant by that. For her, it was her rivalry with her older sister, Nina, who she longed to kill for a while now. For him, it was another enemy of his; Sagat, his former ally who he once served alongside during their Shadaloo days. Both had joined the Outworld Forces during the Blood Tournament while it was still under the rule of Shao Kahn. Shao Kahn himself had assigned Vega to assassinate Sagat during the Universal War.
Vega didn't necessarily have much of a reason to kill Sagat personally... he just liked the idea of challenging and eliminating him for good. Now Maxi, however, was a different story... too bad he wasn't from Earthrealm.
Then again, Vega thought. There could be a chance that he may be brought to Earthrealm for the tournament But then the former matador shook his head at that impossible idea. Probably not.
"I bet it will," Vega finally said as they both entered their room. He turned to her just as she closed the door behind her. "So, my dear... since everyone seems to have been given the night off, what do you want to do?"
Anna gave him a knowing look as she approached her lover. Gently, she reached her hands to his face before moving the mask up to let it rest on top of his long dark blond hair, which was currently tied loosely in a braid behind his back.
"What do you think?" she murmured almost seductively. Vega smirked as her hands carefully reached up to brush the tip of her fingers over his cheekbones... he simply responded by closing his eyes, letting himself enjoy her gentle touch.
Quan Chi did a great job healing you, Vega remembered her whispering the night after the necromancer healed his wounds and she saw his face for the first time since. You were always beautiful... but now you're even more so.
These days, Anna was the only person in the entire universe who Vega let touch his flawless face. That, to Anna, spoke volumes of not only his trust, but his love for her. He trusted her fingers to caress his face with tender care, and that alone was a privilege she dared not to take for granted.
Neither were sure how much time passed, but Vega soon leaned down to claim her lips with his, and Anna instantly returned the kiss with equal fervor. She moved her hands to dig into his hair while his wrapped around her slender waist, feeling the silky fabric of her blood red dress underneath his touch. He was already looking forward to removing that barrier to feel her soft skin against his.
Nothing was going to disturb them tonight...
One floor below the fortress, Mavado was addressing the members of the Red Dragon. "Quan Chi agreed that most of us will return to our main base in Charred Mountain. I'll be personally selecting some of you to accompany me to Mishima Island for the tournament. I'm sure Quan Chi and G-Corp will want some of us to infiltrate Mishima Zaibatsu by any means. Until then, return to your assigned posts."
"Yes, sir," one minion called out before they all departed for their overnight posts. Once he was sure they were all gone, Mavado began to head upstairs to the sleeping quarters. His room was only two doors down to the left from the staircase, so it didn't take him long to reach the door. Taking out his key, he unlocked it before going inside and locking it back up behind him.
"There you are," a female said suddenly said from behind him. Not expecting that, and always on alert, Mavado quickly pulled out one of his hookswords from behind and whirled around to face whoever spoke to him. His dark eyes soon laid upon a red-haired woman sitting at the foot of his large bed, her legs crossed and hands resting casually on top of her thighs.
"What the hell, Kira?" Mavado grumbled after he took a moment to relax.
Kira raised an eyebrow at him. "What?" she began, sounding innocent. "Did I give you a good spook or something? You're usually a lot more... calm."
Mavado shook his head as he straightened himself up. "No one saw you come in here, did they?"
Kira rolled her eyes. "After over a year, I think you'd know by now that stealth is my specialty. And I always pay attention to my surroundings. I'm sure I'd be dead already if that wasn't the case."
"You'd be surprised," Mavado mentioned as he walked over to the wardrobe closet at the corner of the room. He opened the doors before placing hung his two hookswords on the hangers on the other side. "No matter how careful you are, anyone could potentially be watching."
"Maybe I'd be more worried if the likes of Reptile was still here... invisibility and all," Kira mentioned. "But lucky for me, he joined the rebels."
"I'm surprised you didn't join the rebels when you had the chance," Mavado mentioned as he removed his trenchcoat and hung it up in the wardrobe closet.
"I have my reasons."
Mavado knew why... her former clan and his clan's biggest rival, the Black Dragon, were amongst the rebels fighting against Quan Chi and the new Outworld Forces. The Red Dragon clan had joined Quan Chi's cause as part of a bargain their leader, Daegon, had made some time ago. The clan would serve Quan Chi and help with the Universal War in exchange for not only receiving information about the new Black Dragon, but also receive the opportunity to finally reach the clan's goal in dominating Earthrealm.
One thing Mavado did not expect, however, was to become intimate with Kira, a former Black Dragon who left the clan prior to their first meeting. Mavado found it a shame, really... Kira proved time and again that her fighting skills and discipline would've been perfect for the Red Dragon ranks, but that possibility was tainted by her past with the Black Dragon no matter how much she despised them.
This reason alone, even over a year later, was why their liaison remained a secret. One could only imagine the chaos that would befall them if anyone from the Red Dragon... or worse, Daegon, got wind of the Second-in-Command's personal affair.
"We know we're expecting to run into the Black Dragon when we get to Earthrealm," Mavado reminded her.
Once again, Kira rolled her eyes. "I know. To be frank, they're not my main concern. I'm sure I'm still on the Most Wanted list for one thing."
"You're actually worried you'll get caught?" Mavado asked in confusion, knowing that this wasn't usually the red-head's way of thinking.
Kira snorted. "More like I'm looking forward to them trying. They didn't exactly do a good job of it during the Universal War. I doubt it'll be any different during whatever war they're fighting now."
That's better, Mavado thought with some amusement. He chose then to sit next to her on the bed, leaving a few inches of space between them.
"The only thing I wonder," the red-haired woman continued. "Is this temple Quan Chi is interested in. What kind of powers lay within it and why the interest in the first place?"
"I'm certain Quan Chi's interest lies within the power of Azazel," Mavado mentioned. "Enough of it to dominate the universe based on the legends foretold. I imagine Quan Chi wishes to use his sorcery to harness its powers."
"Sounds like something the Red Dragon would be interested in as well."
Mavado smirked on that. "You're right about that." His smirk faded then. "Sometimes, I've wondered if I've told you too much about the clan's goals."
"Oh come now," Kira groaned. "Your clan has made it pretty obvious from day one. Any person with good observation skills would have figured it out. Besides, I've told you before, I have no interest in the clan's affairs... though I'm sure they'd be interested in our affair if they ever found out."
Mavado chose that moment to reach his arm out to gently brush his fingers up along her spine. However, it didn't last long before Kira moved to get up from the bed. At first, Mavado thought she'd walk away, but instead, she moved in front of him and placed her hands on his shoulders and she straddled her legs on either side of him before settling herself down onto him. In response, the clan leader placed his hands around her lower back.
Mavado smirked. "I assume-"
"Cut the talk," Kira quickly advised right before leaning down to kiss him. Mavado didn't hesitate to return the gesture roughly... and neither one of them wasted much time as they moved themselves further back into the bed...
Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
The soft glow of lights illuminated a small restaurant called Chanko Paradise, where a few patrons enjoyed the various meals offered during dinner hour. The walls within the building were painted a dark yellow and were decorated with artwork and trinkets associated with sumo wrestling.
Wearing a brown suit over a white shirt and black tie, the owner of the restaurant, Ganryu, looked over his business with a satisfied smile. Though there weren't too many people in the main dining area, the squared bar in the middle of the establishment had quite a number of people enjoying themselves with their drinks while watching a baseball game on the TV screen that was suspended above one corner of the bar. He took a deep breath as the smell of chankonabe wafted in the air.
Chanko Paradise was one of the few things in Ganryu's life that he felt he did right for once, even though business hasn't quite taken off as he wanted to just yet. A string of poor decisions and bad luck had followed him throughout his adulthood, which included getting himself suspended from sumo wrestling for his immoral style, and his gambling habits. Worse was the one time he joined the criminal world which led him to a brief stint with the Mishima Zaibatsu, ruled under Kazuya Mishima at the time, as a bodyguard.
After leaving the Mishima Zaibatsu and ashamed by his poor decisions, Ganryu did what he could to put himself back on the right track in life. He saw one dream come true when he opened up a sumo stable here in Hawaii, something he always wanted to do. He established enough good business there to be able to open this restaurant up in the first place.
Thankfully, life wasn't completely filled with just poor decisions and bad luck. If there was one thing Ganryu was most known for, it was that he was the youngest person to ever earn the sumo rank of Ozeki. Perhaps he could have gone for the title of Yokozuna and become the youngest person to ever achieve such a title... but that chance was blown due to, once again, his poor decisions.
These days, Ganryu liked to think that his experiences humbled him. Although he's still trying his best to curb his gambling habits, he was still better about it than he was twenty-five years ago. Last year, the Hawaiian Islands had been evacuated during the Universal War, and Ganryu himself stayed behind to fight off the Outworld Forces while making sure to get the civilians to safety at the same time. In all honesty, however, Ganryu couldn't truly be sure if he would have done the same thing twenty-five years ago considering the darker path he was on then... but it didn't matter anymore. What matter is that he did help in the fight against the war, and was later hailed as one of many heroes here in Honolulu.
Ganryu still remembered those first few days after the war was over. He had been at a bar celebrating with others while the television was playing the news. Ganryu found himself watching at one point when the reporters were attempting to interview those who had been in Outworld – those who ultimately saw the end to the war. At one point, they tried to interview a young woman with brown hair tied in two braids, red-rimmed glasses, blue jeans with a matching jacket over a white shirt. Despite the questions being asked, all she would say to them while walking was, 'No comment.'
The retired sumo wrestler had recognized her from the previous King of Iron Fist Tournament that took place more than two years ago – Julia Chang, the most beautiful woman he had ever laid eyes upon. Oh sure, he was a good thirty-five years older than her, but the way he saw it, age was just a number. Besides, there were plenty of relationships that strived successfully with even larger age gaps than theirs.
Over a month later, Ganryu would see her on television again. Julia mentioned wanting to help with restoring the world's forests with the Reforestation Project, which she worked hard on for more than three years, as part of the recovery and rebuilding efforts after the war. However, her data had been stolen by the Mishima Zaibatsu while it was still under the rule of Heihachi Mishima.
That was when Ganryu decided to also attend the tournament. He believed that if he could retrieve the data, he would surely win Julia's heart.
In the end, Ganryu actually did retrieve the data... his old Mishima Zaibatsu access codes hadn't been deactivated at that point, which surprised him, especially since he got lost at one point and stumbled upon the facility by accident. Once that was done, he sent an anonymous message to Julia and asked her to meet him at a pier in Tokyo. She met him there and he promptly gave her the data disc.
"I... I can't thank you enough," she had said to him. Remembering how grateful she was still warmed the sumo wrestler's heart to this day...
Once he told her his feelings, he had hope when Julia seemed taken aback, and Ganryu had taken it as a good sign. He remembered how his heart fluttered when she gave him a small, beautiful smile. Then she said those words he would never forget...
"I'm flattered, but... I'm already spoken for."
Even long after she left, Ganryu remained frozen in his place; on bended knee, a ring he brought for her in his hands, and slacked jawed... right there at the pier, his mind trying to process her rejection... at least she was nice about it. He didn't leave his spot until dawn.
Though his feelings for Julia remained, Ganryu went on with life as always with both his stable and his restaurant. At times, he could only wonder who the lucky man was who managed to win her heart. Most days, Ganryu was a man about it and imagined a day when they met and he tells the lucky man to take good care of her. Sometimes, especially when he was having a bad day, he would groan and think to himself, What does he have that I don't?!
Ganryu's thoughts were suddenly disrupted when a commercial cut into the baseball game on the TV over the bar. The commercial was actually about the upcoming Shikoken Tournament and what participants may expect once they were on Mishima Island.
Ganryu had already planned to attend the tournament, having booked a flight to his home land just last night. Initially, he was attending for the bounty, but the more he thought about it, the more he found that were much better reasons to attend. Not only would be prove to the world that he's 'still got it' as a sumo wrestler, but considering how the tournament would be broadcasted around the world, Ganryu found it to be the perfect opportunity to advertise Chanko Paradise in hopes of bringing in more business to his restaurant.
And maybe, Ganryu started to think. Just maybe I can get far into the tournament and impress Julia.
Realizing what he just thought, the restaurant owner shook his head. Closing his eyes, he waved a hand. "No no no, you fool... she's spoken for, remember? Sure, it did hurt less than my last heartbreak..."
Briefly, Ganryu remembered that last heartbreak... presenting flowers to a woman he fell in love with twenty-five years ago – Michelle Chang. He never forgot the scowl on her face as she quickly turned her back and left in a huff. He hadn't realized it until years later, but she had an intense hatred for the Mishima Zaibatsu... and Ganryu was Kazuya's bodyguard for the corporation at that time... it made sense that she would reject him so harshly then. These days, Ganryu wondered if Michelle would have accepted him after he redeemed himself...
"Huh... they have the same last names..." Ganryu mumbled as the suddenly realization of the coincidence between Michelle and Julia. He then shook the thought out of his head and focused on the tournament itself. "No... you're going to go out there and show the world what you're made of and even at fifty-six years old, you're still just as good as you were when you were an Ozeki! And before you know it, BOOM! Chanko Paradise will see more business than ever before, and-"
Ganryu suddenly stopped when he realized he was talking to himself out loud... loud enough for all the patrons to his restaurant to stop what they were doing and stare at him. The perplexed gazes they gave him told him that they were unsure whether to not they would have him sent to an asylum.
I seriously need to stop thinking out loud, he thought.
He managed to give everyone a smile and a wave. "Um... enjoy your meals!" he called out. He then ran into the kitchen, decided to stay back there to help with cooking for the rest of the evening.
Unnamed Nation on a large island somewhere in Europe
In part of Europe, there were some places that were not marked on even the most modern maps of the world. One of those, a large, uninhabited island in one of the many seas of Europe, was the perfect place for a man named Rolento Schugerg to see a lifelong dream come true – to create a utopian-style nation to call his own.
In this nation, currently with no name, there would be a strict military regime, but the soldiers and their families would still have the freedom to carve their own fates. Rolento would recruit anyone he deemed worthy, even former criminals such as though who once served the Mad Gear Gang... the gang he himself once worked under.
The soldiers of his army had assisted in the fight against the Outworld Forces during the Universal War. However, current conflict initiated by the Mishima Zaibatsu was a war Rolento and his military refused to participants in. Although it was clear that the Mishima Zaibatsu were the enemies, and would have gladly fought against them, they refused to side with G-Corp. He had personally sent their recon scouts to one of their European bases and found some unflattering information on some unknown operations. That information was enough for Rolento to decide to keep away from this war unless provoked.
Despite this, however, a new plan had emerged, one that would now get his military involved in the war... a plan that Rolento was going to announce today.
As the afternoon sun began to descend towards the sea in the distance, Rolento's soldiers gathered together and stood at attention. Each soldier wore the nation's military dress consisting of red berets, yellow uniforms, and leather brown boots. Behind Rolento on the stage he stood on was their nation's flag – a rifle and sword crossing over each other in an 'x' form over a red background.
Loudly, Rolento began to address his men. "Our new mission is nothing less than to save the world! Initially, we chose to take no sides against this current, needless war started by the Mishima Zaibatsu!"
He started pacing the stage, never taking his eyes off his unit. "It would make sense for us to fight against them, however! That would mean siding with G-Corporation! As you know, our intelligence recently proved that G-Corporation's actions are more than just suspicious! Despite their 'well-good intentions,' they are only out for themselves! With all this in mind, I have made the decision about what we will do in this war! We will fight to stop both parties and end this conflict ourselves! And we will start by attending the upcoming Shikoken Tournament!"
Rolento then stopped his pacing and turned to stand at attention like his men. "I will handpick a team to accompany me to the tournament! This tournament will bring us one step closer to both groups and end this needless war once and for all! Once we are there, every man will be expected to give a hundred and ten percent! Do I make myself clear?!"
In response, the soldiers saluted to their superior. "Yes, sir!" they exclaimed in unison.
Rolento nodded to them with satisfaction. "Good! Now head back to your homes! I will be in contact with those who will accompany me tonight! We will depart in three day's time!"
With that, the soldiers began to take their leave with Rolento remaining at the stage. Once most of them were gone, he turned to face his nation's flag, which waved gently in the light wind.
Perhaps if we succeed in this mission, Rolento began to think. I can finally give this utopian nation a worthy name to be proud of...
Interpol Headquarters, Hong Kong, China
The beeping sound of the microwave within a small office alerted Detective Lei Wulong that his late lunch was ready. Upon popping the door open, steam immediately emitted right out. Obviously, his cup of instant noodles were piping hot, just the way he liked it.
Looking inside the cup, Lei sighed with relief once he saw the condition of the noodles. Not burned! he thought in triumph.
Sitting back in his chair, Lei quickly took out a pair of chopsticks from the top draw of his desk. He then spoke to the young woman who was sitting quietly next to him in her own chair – a brand new client of his who happened to be connected to his current case on the Mishima Zaibatsu. "Hope you don't mind my enjoying my lunch while we get down to business, Christie," Lei said to her. "This the first chance I've had to eat all day."
Christie Monteiro shook her head in response. "Not at all. I'm sure you've had a very long day."
"I always have long days in this job," Lei mentioned to her. He quickly ate a couple of pieces of noodles before he turned his attention back to Christie and gave her a friendly smile. "Until last year, I used to be so busy that I actually would forget to eat until my stomach was begging for mercy. It's not the healthiest way to live, so I highly do not recommend it."
Christie chuckled at that. "What helps you remember now?"
The detective's smile turned fond. "More like 'who.' My wife. Even when she's out on the field, she'll find the time to text me everyday just to say, 'Don't forget to eat!'"
Using the tip of his chopsticks, he pressed a couple of buttons on his keyboard, bringing up a few pictures on his computer screen. The pictures contain various buildings located in either Asia or Europe.
"Now," Lei began, pointing at the screen with his chopsticks. "All these pictures here contain every facility that we at Interpol know for sure is owned by the Mishima Zaibatsu one-hundred percent. Unfortunately, most of them are military buildings, and it's unclear if any of them have medical wings inside. That pretty much means your grandfather could be in any one of those buildings."
Christie sighed at that news. She felt a small pang of both discouragement and disappointment, but she quickly reminded herself that she only just began her investigation into finding her terminally-ill grandfather. An anonymous letter that was stamped with the Mishima Zaibatsu insignia, sent to her a month ago, was the first clue she had received about where he could be after he disappeared.
Around the same time, Christie's Capoeira mentor, Eddy Gordo, who was once a student of her grandfather's while they were both in prison a few years before, had also vanished. The young woman knew that the fact that it happened around the same time was not lost on her, and she was certain that there was a connection.
At least now, she knew of her grandfather's possible whereabouts mentioned in the letter – a medical facility owned by the Mishima Zaibatsu to receive treatment for his illness with their highly-advanced technology. But then where was Eddy? He had disappeared before more than three years ago to look for the man who killed his father years prior. He reappeared briefly around the time of the King of Iron Fist Tournament 5. The murder of his father was an event Eddy rarely talked about to her, and she wondered if her mentor was still on that mission to find that killer to this day.
"We're still looking into your friend Eddy's whereabouts," Lei mentioned to Christie, his voice cutting through her thoughts. "We did find an airline record dating back less than seven months ago leaving Rio de Janiero for London. Eddy's name appeared in the record." Pressing a few commands on his keyboard, Lei brought up the flight record for Christie to look at. As she leaned forward in her chair, the detective proceeded. "There was even a Mr. Montiero, with a different first name, on that same flight, but records indicate that their seats were placed in different parts of the airplane. Mr. Montiero's trail went cold in London, but Eddy went on to take a flight to Bucharest. His trail went cold after that."
"Less than seven months ago? That was around the time he and my grandfather vanished," Christie mentioned. "Are any of the Mishima Zaibatsu facilities you've shown me located anywhere near London?"
"As far as we know, there is no known facility anywhere in the United Kingdom. However, there is a facility located over an hour north of Montpellier in the southern part of France. That's the closest facility to London that we have on file right now."
"Is there a way we can get a closer look at that facility... at least to see if there's a medical wing inside at all?" Christie asked with uncertainty, knowing that whatever answer she received, it was most likely going to be a negative.
"That's a bit more complicated than it sounds," Lei informed her. "The thing about every Mishima Zaibatsu base is that it's very heavily guarded. Even the recon scouts from the Manji Clan have been having a lot of difficulty getting in... and they're considered the best recon scouts known to man. However if it helps, I'll put this place on the priority list. If there's even the slightest chance that this place may even begin to give us more clues on what happened to your grandfather, or Eddy for that matter... we'll give this place a shot."
Feeling satisfied by that answer, Christie felt a little more relaxed. "Thank you, Detective. I'm really glad I came to you when I realized I needed help with my investigation. All those who recommended you were right... you do your job to the best of your ability."
Lei beamed at that. He always enjoyed hearing praise over his reputation as it always boosted his pride. "Always glad to hear that," he admitted.
Before Christie said anything, there was a knock at the door, and the two of them turned their heads over to the direction it came from. "Door's open!" Lei called out.
The door opened, and Lei and Christie noticed Detective Chun Li walking into the room. Adjusting one of the black ribbons in her ox-horn hairstyle, she smiled at them both once they noticed her. "Glad to see you remembered to eat today, dear," she said.
"My stomach gave me a nice reminder earlier, honey," Lei mentioned as Chun Li leaned sideways against the front of the desk. "Aside from that, what brings you here?"
"Well, there is something worth mentioning, but I'll save it for later," Chun Li replied. "How's your side of the investigation?"
"Well we have a few clues here and here, but unfortunately, nothing solid enough to warrant any raids," Lei replied. "We just have to continue with going through records until we do find something worthwhile."
"I see," Chun Li said.
"If I may ask," Christie cut in. "How long how you two been married?"
"Technically or legally?" Lei said.
Chun Li chuckled when she saw the confused gaze on Christie's face. "I'll explain. We had a little quick wedding in a realm called Edenia a few days after the Universal War. However, we both realized that a marriage in another world performed by a Captain of a ship wasn't exactly going to be recognized here on Earth, so... when we both had the chance, we had another wedding here to make it, well... legal. We even got our rings for that occasion."
"But we kept the blue silk cloths we used in our Edenia wedding as mementos," Lei added.
Christie smiled at this. "That's sweet. Do you both plan to have children someday?"
"Too busy!" they both exclaimed at the same time.
"Maybe when one of us retires," Lei added. "But that's not going to happen anytime soon. And maybe by then, we might be too old, especially me."
"Speaking of 'children,'" Chun Li began to bring up. "I spoke with Yun and Yang earlier today. It turns out that they, along with Maki and Mika, are going to be leaving for Japan for the tournament on the same day as we are."
"After that certain meeting we had a few days ago," Lei said. "I'm not surprised. Are they leaving here at the same time as we are?"
"Not really. Same airport, same airline, but different flight time. The three of us will be leaving for Japan about three hours before they do. They booked at the same hotel that we'll be staying in Nagato before we depart for the island, so I figured it would be nice if we all met up once they arrived for dinner. I think the place had a French restaurant within the hotel if I remember correctly." Chun Li then turned her head to the Brazil native and smiled. "Hope you don't mind tagging along with us. We'll be in this tournament for the long-haul, so now's a good time to start getting acquainted with our friends."
Christie shrugged a little. "Not at all."
Lei then used his computer mouse to get rid of the pictures from his computer. "That's all I really have for right now for your case," he said to the young woman. The two of them stood up from their seat as the detective continued. "I'll call you if anything new comes up between now and when we leave for Japan in four days."
"I'll do the same," Christie said as the two shook hands. "Thank you again, detective."
"Anytime."
With that, Christie took her leave but not before acknowledging Chun Li with a smile, and the latter did the same in return. Once she stepped out of the room, Christie closed the door behind her.
Now alone, Chun Li turned her head to her husband with a smirk as she raised an eyebrow and folded her arms. "She's a pretty girl," the detective mentioned. "How did you manage to find her?"
"Actually, she found me and-" Lei started, but then suddenly stopped as he realized something. He felt panic suddenly rise in his throat and he couldn't help but show his terrified expression. "Oh no, honey, it's not like that-"
Chun Li laughed almost hysterically at that as she unfolded her arms. "Calm down, dear, I was just teasing! I just wanted to amuse myself by seeing your reaction, Mr. Gullible."
Lei let out a loud sigh with relief as he sat back down in his chair. "Don't do that to me! For a second there, I almost thought you were actually jealous of my client! I just had these flashbacks of those typical jealous wife scenarios on all those TV shows from back in the nineties!"
"Believe it or not, I remember those days," Chun Li said as she went around to desk to sit down at the chair Christie occupied moments before. "Don't worry, I know it's all professional, and I trust you, so there's nothing for either of us to worry about."
"I'll tell you though," Lei began as he wrapped an arm around his wife's shoulders. "That girl is really passionate about finding both her grandfather and her mentor. It almost reminds me how lucky I am to have you."
Chun Li smiled at that. "Charmer," she said before giving him a brief kiss, which Lei returned.
"If you don't mind getting down to business for a minute," Lei started. "You mentioned there was something 'worth mentioning' and I'm guess you were just waiting until Christie left for the day."
Chun Li sighed as she turned to Lei's computer to type in a few commands. "You remember how we figured out that the Mishima Zaibatsu hacked into Interpol's system a little while back?"
"How could I forget?" Lei said. "That large hack made me so glad I don't use our work computer for personal use."
"Well it's a good thing your large digital collection of Jackie Chan movies are safe now, is it?" Chun Li teased, knowing how much he cared about his movie collection.
"There was no way I was going to risk them stealing them, especially my personal favorite, Jui Kuen."
"Of course," his wife chuckled, knowing how much he loved that movie since it was the one that inspired him to learn martial arts in the first place as a child. "But anyway, after combing through everything, based on the hack activities, we realized that the Mishima Zaibatsu have taken a personal interest in some of Interpol's Most Wanted files."
That confused Lei. "What for?"
"We're not sure," Chun Li sighed. "But three them, personally, are a cause for concern. One is bad news for me, one is bad news for Major Blade, and one is bad news for Brigadier General Guile."
Pressing a couple of commands on the computer, Chun Li brought up the three Wanted files up to the screen. Leaning forward in his chair, Lei got a good at them. He recognized the only female in that bunch; Juri Han. Lei had a little knowledge on that case, so of course he knew that she served as 'the bad news' for Chun Li personally... especially since it was Juri who injured Chun Li to the point of sending her to the hospital during a pursuit months prior to the Blood Tournament. That memory alone nearly caused Lei to clench his fists in anger, even though he didn't know what happened to her until long after she got out of the hospital.
"The Mishima Zaibatsu extracted files from these three more than any other," Chun Li mentioned, her voice getting Lei back on focus. "Aside from that, the only other thing they have in common is that, well... they're wanted criminals on the run."
"Who are the other two?" Lei asked.
"The one with the, um... eye... is Kano, a mercenary and former member of the Black Dragon. Major Blade mentioned him to me a few times before during the Blood Tournament. From what I've gathered, he's been a thorn on her side for years. I've already sent her the report earlier this morning.
"The others is Hans Holger, though he actually goes by 'Doctrine Dark' these days. He actually used to work as a recon for Guile before an... incident almost killed him. He developed severe PTSD and started killing innocents for unknown reasons until he was finally arrested. He, along with Kano, were serving time in San Quentin in the United States since that's where they were caught... but the second wave of the Universal War assisted in their escape. Neither one of them have been seen since... so it's interesting to see that both their files happen to be extracted at the same time."
"Does Guile know about this?" Lei asked.
"I already sent a message to him this morning," Chun Li informed them. "Though with he and Sonya being busy fighting this war right now, I imagine it'll be some time before either one of them receive my message."
"I'd say they'll receive them before we all get to Mishima Island for the tournament," Lei guessed.
"I imagine so, too," Chun Li agreed. She then frowned a little. "I just hope everything turns out for the better rather than having everything go to hell..."
"Why?" Lei asked with concern.
"When the new Protector of Earthrealm asks you to fight against some new threat that will be detailed to us in just a few days, you can't help but worry after all that's happen during and after the Blood Tournament."
Lei wrapped his arm around his wife again. "I'd like to think we've gone through the worst of it with the Universal War. At least this time, we're well aware of what we're up against..."
"Kazama..." Chun Li sigh with a small shake of her head. "What do you think happened to him that caused him to go down this path?"
"I'm not sure," Lei said. "All I know is that he's now a criminal, and we'll all see to it that he's brought to justice." Now it was his turn to shake his head. "Somehow... I doubt that would be very easy to do..."
A/N: The next chapter will be the last of the character introductions!