A/N: Although it's a small thing (and one I'm sure more have forgotten already, but I'm noting it here in just in case), I've decided at the last minute to cut out the minor Soulcalibur character, Xiuqiang, from the fic. With so many characters in this arc of the series to begin with, I found myself more than once forgetting he's around since he's listed as a 'minor character' in my notes. Weirdly enough, he's the only character this has happened with me.
I've erased any mentions of him in previous chapters, and the plan I initially had for him, which was meant to affect a few major characters, has been moved to Part 4 of the series. Either way, the decision will not affect the overall story.
Chapter Thirteen
Mishima Island
The man-made Mishima Island was mostly known for its downtown resorts which provided plenty of restaurants and entertainment for visitors. However, that wasn't just what the island possessed. Not only was there a hiking trail going through parts of the island, but there were also plenty of places in the forest for those who wanted to have some peace and quiet.
Sometimes, when one looked at the trees, grass, and even the large hill that looked over downtown and the Sea of Japan, it was hard to believe that this island was man-made at all...
Keeping himself out of the way for now but still remaining close, Liu Kang observed the scene before him. Two rows of picnic tables lined the small open field the trees surrounded, their leaves providing shade against what remaining of the rays of the setting sun. Despite the sun's setting, light still remained thanks to the bright, multi-colored paper lanterns made from fire retardant material to protect itself against the candles used to light then. Each lantern was strung up on the branches and hung just a foot below each branch with thin, wired strings, providing a look that made them seem like their were floating on their own.
On the picnic tables, a large offering of various Japanese food was offered, consisting a mixed array of sushi and sashimi. Also on the table were grilled salmon teriyaki, yakitori, various vegetables served as is or in tempura form, and udon noodles with tofu and spices. Drinks were either water, tea, club sodas, wine, or sake.
With the exception of Ivy and Scorpion, every previous chosen one and their allies were accounted for. Aside from Liu Kang as well as Zafina, the returning chosen ones in their midst consisted of Ryu, Ken, Chun Li, Cammy, Guile, Guy, Cody, Maki, Yang, Yun, R. Mika, Dan, Sakura, Sagat, Ruby Heart, Lita, Karin, Juli, Juni, Kenshi, Jade, Sub-Zero, Ermac, Smoke, Sonya, Li Mei, Ashrah, Kitana, Sindel, Cyrax, Kung Lao, Sareena, Bo' Rai Cho, Kilik, Maxi, Siegfried, Xianghua, Cassandra, Seong Mi-na, Hwang, Yoshimitsu, Julia, Lei Wulong, Asuka, Paul, Raven, Steve Fox, Marshall, Hwoarang, King, Marduk, Dragunov, Feng Wei, Alex Walker, Scott Wagner, and Matrik.
In addition to the returning chosen ones, their new, current allies consisted of Haggar, Fei Long, Abel, Elena, Makoto, Blanka, Lucia, Johnny Cage, Jax, Kai, Hilde, Yun-seong, Talim, Lili, Baek Doo San, Christie, Forest, Xiaoyu, Xiaoyu's best friend Miharu and her pet Panda.
Even with the number of them now, Liu Kang still wondered whether or not it was plenty. It didn't hurt to have more allies on their side, but it would have to be a judgment he would deal with later.
"Seventy-eight," Lei Wulong suddenly announced to those within hearing distance.
Confused, his wife Chun Li gazed up at him. "Seventy-eight what?"
"There's seventy-eight of us here, and I'm counting Liu Kang regardless," Lei explained.
"Hmm... I believe it," Chun Li said. "Just try to remember everyone, dear," she concluded before popping a sushi roll into her mouth with her chopsticks.
"Well, it's a good thing Liu Kang's a God now, is he? Or else who else is qualified to keep track of all of us and remember everyone's names at a time like this?"
"You'd be surprised how many mortals actually have that capability."
"How many were there from the start?" asked a curious Christie before she took a bite of her yakitori.
"I think it was no more than thirty five of us, but I can't remember the exact number," Lei mentioned. "I'm currently trying to see if anyone we knew from the past is missing, but... it's not that easy to figure out at the moment."
It was then that a new, male voice cut in. "It's been a long time, Chun Li. I figured you'd be part of this gathering."
Quickly recognizing the voice, Chun Li turned up to see a familiar face she hadn't seen in a while... except in movies, of course. "Fei Long!" she greeted with a smile. "It has been a long time! What are you doing here?"
Hearing that name, Lei suddenly dropped the sushi he attempted to eat with his chopsticks back on his plate. His eyes widened in surprise as he looked up at the actor, whose movies he was a big fan of. "Y... y... you're the Fei Long?!"
Chun Li laughed. "Don't mind my star-stuck husband. I've mentioned to him before that you used to train under my Dad's tutelage, but that was a while back."
Fei Long also laughed. "It happens. And I did hear from a mutual family friend that you got married last year. Congratulations!"
"Thanks." Chun Li then noticed a second person next to Fei Long. Even with their sunglasses on, it wasn't hard for her to recognize them. "Is that who I think it is? Johnny Cage?"
"That's me!" Johnny called out with a large grin while pointing at the Interpol detective. Chun Li resisted the urge to roll her eyes as the American actor continued. "I assume you've seen plenty of my movies."
"The only movie I saw of yours is Citizen Cage," Lei mentioned just as the two actors proceeded to sit down with the couple and Christie.
"Did you like it?" Johnny asked the detective.
Lei didn't answer right away as he shoved a sashimi into his mouth. Actually, it was a good, brief distraction to avoid answering the question right away while he tried to think of a response that didn't involve how he really felt. The last thing he needed right now was for Cage to knock his teeth out less than two days before the tournament began.
After swallowing his food, Lei finally answered. "It's... not bad," he managed to say, though in the back of his mind, the answer really was for the tasty tuna sashimi he just ate.
"Yeah, the great thing about it was that I personally coordinated all the fighting sequences in the movie," Cage mentioned.
"Anyway," Chun Li cut in before pointing to the young woman with them. "This is our friend, Christie Monteiro. Lei's helping her out with a personal investigation that has connections to this tournament."
"Hello," Christie greeted almost shyly.
"Hi," the two men replied, though Johnny gave her another one of his large grins to her and Christie could only respond with an unsure smile.
"I assume you two were invited by Liu Kang to help out with whatever is going on," Lei guessed.
"That's right," Fei Long confirmed. "He came to us not long after the tournament was announced to help out. Actually, I probably wouldn't have known about this meeting at all if it wasn't for Liu's association with Mr. Cage here."
"Liu and I go way back when we both fought in the Mortal Kombat tournament on Shang Tsung's island under Raiden's," Johnny explained.
"If you were under Raiden's guidance then, I'm curious to know why he didn't have you attend the Blood Tournament two years ago," Lei wondered.
"He asked me to watch over Earthrealm during his absence instead," Johnny replied.
"I recall Kung Lao mentioning doing the same thing for Raiden last year," Chun Li mentioned. "It's not far fetched for Raiden to have a handful of strong warriors to remain behind to look out for Earthrealm."
"Apparently, part of the reason he had me stay behind is because of the powers within me, one that pops up every once in a while," Johnny guessed. "Unfortunately Raiden never went into details about it, but I'm hoping Liu Kang will when the right time comes."
The actor then quickly changed the subject. "Any who, even with this threat, I think the tournament experience will be fun in itself. Now only will I meet new faces, but from the looks of things, I'll even reunite with a few old friends..."
Looking to his left, Johnny happened to notice Sonya sitting across the picnic table about five people down. She had been in a middle of a conversation with Jax when she turned her head and noticed the actor staring. She gave him a blank expression at first, but before he gave her the chance to react, Johnny gave her a soft smile, the kind he used to always reserve for her over the years since they've known each other. To his surprise, Sonya gave him a tiny smirk back before it faded as she turned back to her conversation with Jax.
Well, it's a start, Johnny thought... then recalled that it wasn't the first time those words popped into his head.
"Uh... guys," Lei started unsurely right before he pointed over Christie's shoulder. "Am I seeing things, or is that a panda bear sitting casually at the end of that table over there?"
The other four looked over where Lei was pointing. Just like he said, there was a literal panda bear, wearing a pair of neon pink bracelet around its wrists, happily enjoying its meal with everyone else. The five of them could only stare at the animal, unsure of how to feel about its presence amongst them.
"...Well I'll be damned," was all Johnny could utter.
"You think that panda's an actual chosen one?" asked Chun Li while scratching her head.
"You know..." Lei started. "That's a very good question..."
At that very spot they were staring at, Xiaoyu was explaining to those who were in close proximity on how she obtained Panda. "A little over three years ago," she started. "Well... let's just say I became a ward at a local industrial college thanks to the CEO that owned the place. It's a long story, but the CEO was fond of me enough to provide me with Panda. She serves as my bodyguard and has practically been my best friend ever since." In response, Panda bared her teeth while giving a single nod. It was her way of conveying how proud she was of being Xiaoyu's bodyguard.
"Apparently, I've been replaced by a panda," Miharu half teased.
"I can vouch that she's been great to have around every time we all hang out," said Asuka. "She's very good about keeping perverted weirdos away."
"You said it!" agreed Sakura.
Makoto took a bite of her shrimp tempura before speaking up while still chewing her food. "She once gave me a ride to college after I missed the bus. I actually got to class early for once."
"Makoto, didn't I mention not to talk with food in your mouth?" Elena reminded her in a light-hearted tone.
The Rindo-kan fight rolled her eyes before she swallowed her food. "Yes, mother hen."
Listening in on the stories were Mika, Maki, Yang, Yun, Dan, Blanka, and Cassandra. Maki couldn't help but smile. "That's so sweet... it almost makes me want to acquire my own panda to have as a bodyguard."
"Um, Qīn'ài, I don't think we have room in the apartment for one," Yang brought up.
"We can create a habitat on the rooftop if Maki ever comes home with one," Yun mentioned with a grin.
"Don't give her ideas, Yun," Yang growled under his breath just loud enough for his brother to hear.
Makoto then pointed at Blanka with her chopsticks. "What's your story?" she asked him. "Like, has your skin always been green, or did it change at some point?"
Blanka didn't answer the question right away as she shifted his eyes to look at his unfinished plate of food. "Um... I..."
"It's all right, buddy," Dan encouraged his friend, nudging his arm with his elbow. "She's only curious."
Blanka took a deep breath before he looked up at Makoto, who sat across from him. "Well, I remember I used to have skin like Mama's," he said. "But it changed while I was growing up in the jungle. This doctor said that it might have been because of the green plants I was eating to survive."
Makoto nodded. "That makes sense."
"How did you end up in the jungle if I may ask?" questioned Elena.
"There was this plane crash that happened when I was ten years old," Blanka answered, deciding to be brief about the event. "I ended up being the only survivor and lived in the Brazilian jungle for years... that's where the plane crashed. It would be fourteen years before I'd see my Mama again."
While the conversation was going on, Asuka happened to turn her head when she noticed Karin close to where she said. She was about to get her attention when she quickly realized who Karin was talking to just to the left of her.
"I must say," Lili De Rochefort began. "The food is quite... how do I put it... somewhat satisfactory at best. However, I'm thinking maybe it might be better for Sebastian to cook my meals during our stay on the island."
"Ishizaki is planning to cook breakfast tomorrow morning if you wish to join me," Karin offered.
Lili smiled at the idea. "That sounds marvelous."
Asuka nearly puked over the conversation, especially with what Lili said about tonight's meal. Ungrateful brat! ...And how in the flying hell did Lili of all people end up as a chosen one?! Asuka thought with anger. There has to be a mistake, there just has to be!
Her thoughts were cut off as she heard Mika ask, "Say Cassandra... since our Keisei friends are here, what has been their reaction to Earthrealm technology so far?"
Cassandra couldn't help but grin in reply. "It's been... very interesting to say the least."
"Too bad your sister Sophitia couldn't join us this time around," Mika mentioned. "You think she would've liked Earthrealm?"
"I'm sure she would've reacted the same way as the others," Cassandra replied. "However, I think she would've liked this dinner gathering tonight. The decorations are really pretty."
"I agree," Sakura said with a nod.
Just a couple of seats away, Cammy, Juni, Lita, and Steve had chosen to sit with Guile, Wagner, Juli, and newcomer Abel during the feast. For a while, the eight of them discussed what they were allowed to talk about pertaining to their fight against the Mishima Zaibatsu's war. Once they were able to talk about what they could, it was Guile who decided to get down to business.
"Once we get the full schedule of the tournament," the Brigadier General started. "I'm planning for all of us military soldiers to get together for a meeting as a way to combine what we know into one report to share amongst us."
"That feels like a throwback to all the meetings we had in Outworld two years ago," said Cammy. "At least this time, we have the technology to keep all the files together."
"Still, I guess the discussion we just had condenses the time meeting then," guessed Lita.
"The stuff mentioned before was all non-classified," Guile reminded the weapons expert.
"Aaand you know how lengthy the classified stuff can get," Wagner mentioned.
Lita sighed at that. "Yeah... I do... I once spent a day reading a five-hundred-page report on a mission, a successful one, too. I would've rather have spent the day doing laundry."
"I'm curious," started Juli. "I know I'm technically a secretary at the Air Force base, but would I be allowed at the meeting?"
"Initially, if this was just us soldiers here, no," Guile replied. "But since we're all going to be sticking together throughout the whole tournament, it's best to combine the reports, and then share what we can to everyone here." He then pointed at both Steve and Abel with a quick wave of his hand. "That means you two can go to the meeting too, if you wish."
Abel sighed. "I'm honored, but I don't think I'll be of any help at the meeting."
"Maybe not," said Steve. "But it would be good for the both of us to gain the combined knowledge of what we're up against. I learned a lot about Outworld and what we were up against in the Universal War thanks to my time at the MI-6 base. I don't think I would've been as prepared as I was once we arrived at the realm."
Abel nodded at that. "I suppose that's a good reason."
Wagner then thought of something as he turned his head to face Cammy. "There's something I've been wanting to ask you since we got here."
Knowing that Wagner was staring her way, thus the upcoming question he had in mind was destined to be directed to her, Cammy turned to glare at him. "If your 'question' has anything to do with how I 'feel' about the 'instigator' of this bloody war, I have news for you... surrogate brother or not, it's none of your damn business!"
Wagner's eyes widened as he was taken aback by the bitter tone of her voice. He raised both hands up to shoulder level as though read to deflect a physical attack from her. In a way, her response might as well be one. "Holy hell, Cam, way to jump the gun! I mean, yeah, I've wondered about that, but I know better than to ask you. It was never my intention. Remember, I've matured since those crazy days at age nineteen."
Cammy took a deep breath, now feeling about about her short outburst. "I'm sorry, Scott... I admit, I've been a bit on edge knowing that someone here is going to eventually ask me that. I haven't been looking forward to this feast because of it, to say the least."
"I don't blame you at all," Wagner replied. "But my actual question to you is... you didn't happen to bring those Toxic Waste sour candies with you, have you?"
Cammy gave him a baffled gaze for a moment before she shook her head. "I didn't, but... don't they sell them in the States? It's not like they're exclusive to England or anything."
"Yeah, but they're hard to find these days."
While this was going on, Juni happened to pull out her smartphone and began to browse for information on what restaurants were in downtown. Using an app, she would save any place that interested her and to review again at a later date.
At one point, however, she felt someone practically looking over her shoulder just to her right. With a raised eyebrow, Juni glanced up from her phone and saw that the person staring at her – or rather her phone – was Xianghua. Next to her, Kilik and Talim were leaning forward on the table trying to get a look at the phone as well while Maxi. Hwang, and Yun-seong, sitting across from them, did the same.
Juni shifted her eyes at all six of them before timidly asking, "Are... you guys... okay?"
"Oh yeah... we're fine," uttered Hwang without looking away from the device in Juni's hand.
"What is that thing, anyway?" Maxi ended up asking. "I've been seeing people around here holding those in their hands ever since we got here, but I haven't had the chance to ask exactly what it is."
"I thought it was some kind of compass at first," said Kilik as he tilted his head with interest. "But then I noticed the... window? Didn't show directions at all, at least on the one I got a close-up on."
Juni was utterly confused as first as she pointed at her device. "You mean my phone?"
"Is that what it's called?" asked a surprised Yun-seong. "I thought someone said it was a 'smart cell' or something."
"Well, it can also be called a smartphone... or a cell phone," Juni mentioned. She then leaned forward so that she can give her Keisei friends a closer look. "There's a lot you can do with it, and it even connects to the internet if there's WiFi in the air."
"Now the internet I've heard of from Mi-na," said Hwang. "Like an encyclopedia, only you get information faster."
"Exactly!" Juni exclaimed. "And Kilik, you're kind of right about it being a compass. You can actually use it to bring up a map and find directions to where you want to go."
"That sounds amazing," said Talim in awe. "What else can it do?"
"A lot of things," Juni started. From there, she began to show the six Keisei natives the features she had on her phone. While this was happening, Seong Mi-na and Hwoarang couldn't help but glance on with amusement.
"How much do you wanna bet your friends won't want to go back to Keisei after this?" Hwoarang mentioned.
Mi-na snorted. "Maybe not for a while, but eventually, they'll miss Keisei like I did. I remember someone saying once that 'home is where the heart is.'"
"That may be true for you, but not for everyone," Hwoarang replied. "For some, like me, it takes years to find that home... of course, sometimes you just want to get the hell out of the house and go somewhere else... and don't say it's not true since you've done that before."
"And yet you did return eventually, my student," Hwoarang's teacher, Baek Doo San said from across from the duo. "As Mi-na did last year. Sometimes, it takes one to leave home to realize where they truly belong. That's the lesson I believe she got out of her experience more than a year ago. You should keep it in mind for the future."
Hwoarang sighed, realizing that the older man was right. "Maybe."
"Speaking of lessons," Baek began. "After this feast is over, it's best that we head to bed early. I'd like to get in some practice bright and early tomorrow morning."
Once more his student sighed. "Of course."
"If it's all right," started Mi-na. "I'd like to join you for practice. It'd be nice to brush up on what I learned from your Tae Kwan Do lessons."
"Of course, Mi-na," said Baek. "I'm glad to hear that you're still eager to learn."
With that, Mi-na turned to Hwoarang, who had a scowl on his face as she expected. In response, Mi-na spat her tongue out at him, which only caused him to roll his eyes before turning his attention back to his meal.
Even after months have gone by, some things never change...
"Free wine for everyone!" Ruby Heart suddenly called out nearby as she held a bottle of red wine in her hand while walking in between the two long picnic tables. They caught the attention of a handful of chose ones including "All paid for a hefty sum by yours truly!" the pirate called out.
"I'm good, thank you!" Bo' Rai Cho replied from next to Baek. He then pointed at his own flask. "I already have my wine right here."
"Suit yourself!" Ruby Heart called out as she walked away.
Kung Lao couldn't help but laugh once the pirate was out of earshot. "I'm glad to see that some things haven't changed since the end of the Universal War."
"That's what I was just thinking!" Mi-na mentioned.
"Guess I'll get a taste of what's to come sooner or later," said Kai.
"Hopefully the good times at least," said Li Mei. "The other stuff, however..."
"It can be fun," Kung Lao said to the newcomer. "But you also need to remember why we're all here in the first place. I'm sure once Liu Kang shows up, the reality of this meet-up with hit us."
"This is true," agreed Kai.
Nearby, the mention of Liu Kang caught the attention of Princess Kitana, who was sitting near the group along with Sindel and Jade. Sindel was talking about the weather comparison between Edenia and Earthrealm to Jade, a conversation Kitana found to be a bit boring (and she also couldn't understand why Jade seemed fascinated, unless it was her way to appease the Queen).
"That's just very comforting right about now," mumbled Hwoarang.
"We would not be here otherwise, Hwoarang," Baek reminded his pupil.
"Weeell," Bo' Rai Cho began to bring up. "There was this plan to have a reunion, but I guess this is the closest we'll be getting for now. Perhaps another time when the entire universe is at peace."
"Perhaps maybe next year," said Mi-na.
"Shame really," the Outworlder sighed. "I was wondering what this gathering would be like when everyone gets a taste of Outworld liquor."
"I admit," Baek started. "Mi-na here was telling me about the infamous drink while she was my student. I've been meaning to try some myself for a while."
Bo' Rai Cho gave a hearty laugh before patting the Korean teacher on the shoulder. "My good man, you haven't lived until you've had Outworld liquor... though your rice wine puts it to shame by a mile! Still, I've brought plenty of the stuff with me for this trip. Come by anytime for a taste."
"Just... only have a shot of it... or less," Mi-na warned Baek. "Trust me on this one."
"So I was wondering," Hwoarang started. "About Liu Kang... I mean... I know he took Raiden's place as Earthrealm's Protector, but what is he actually like as a person? I've heard plenty of things about him, but more as a champion than anything."
"One of the best students I've ever had the pleasure to teach," Bo' Rai Cho said fondly. "Not that my other students have been bad, but there's something about one of your students winning a tournament that decides the fate of the universe that resonates pride within me."
"He's also been a great teacher to me," added Kai.
"And a great friend," Kung Lao said.
Unknown to anyone, Kitana whispered, "And more," to herself upon hearing Kung Lao's statement.
"Are you all right, Kitana?" Jade's voice suddenly cut in through her thoughts.
Shaking her head, Kitana turned her attention to her best friend. "Yeah, I'm okay... just trying to get used to the environment change."
"I was just mentioning that," Sindel said with amusement. "And I was just wondering if there's some kind of vitamin for that."
"They seem to have vitamins for everything these days, mother," Kitana replied. "That's one thing we seem to have in common with Earthrealm."
"That's true," the Queen agreed with a nod.
That was when yelling was heard at the other table and most everyone who heard it recognized Marduk's voice. "Now that we finished dinner, I think it's time you and I finished what we started in Edenia, Sagat!" he declared.
Across from him, Sagat nearly laughed, knowing what Marduk was talking about. "Right now?"
"Heck yeah!" the Vale Tudo fighter called out. "You've said it yourself last time... anytime, anywhere!"
In response, Sagat, placed his right elbow on the table, his hand in the air, fingers spread open, and ready. "That was you who actually said that, but in any case, you're on."
"Or at least until the actual meeting starts," King reminded them.
"All right all right," Marduk agreed as he grabbed Sagat's hand with his own. From there, the two began their arm wrestling match, but like last time, neither of one of them budged as they tried to overtake the other, forcing their limbs to shake.
King happened to turned to Feng Wei, who sat across from him. "How much do you want to bet this will go on for the next five days?"
"I actually bet that it'll never end," Feng Wei deadpanned with an answer that surprised even the luchador.
A few others happen to be watching the arm wrestling match, including Paul, Marshall, and Forest. Paul suddenly pulled out a yen bill worth a US ten dollars from his pocket and slammed it down on the table. "Bet Sagat's got this!" he called out.
It was Marshall's turn to put down his own yen money. "In that case, I bet Marduk's got this!"
"I'm with Paul on this one," Forest suddenly said as he added his own yen into the growing pile.
Marshall gave his son a faux hurtful gaze. "You're betting against your old man?"
Forest couldn't help but sheepishly grin. "Sorry, Dad."
"Let me add to that," Yoshimitsu suddenly said as he approached them and put down a bill worth one-hundred American dollars. "I'm on Team Marduk for this one."
It was Marshall's turn to grin as Paul slammed a fist on the table, shaking all the nearby tableware. "No fair, man! And here I thought your kind rob from only the rich!"
"Not when you're willing to gamble," Yoshimitsu said in a matter of fact.
"...I hate you."
Next to him, Raven couldn't help but shake his head. And here I thought we're supposed to be serious over why we're here to begin with, the agent thought. He then happened to spot Dragunov on the other side of the fiasco and, despite being subtle, it wasn't hard to note the ghost of a smile on the soldier's face as he looked on at the arm wrestling match, one that seemed as though it wasn't going to end any time soon.
Great... even Dragunov's amused by all of this...
Meanwhile on the other side of the table, the group consisting of Ryu, Julia, Ken, Kenshi, Alex Walker, Siegfried, and Hilde listened in as the enigma Ermac began to explain to them in detail what happened to him immediately after the Universal War. It had been one of the few remaining mysteries of the war's aftermath and the group remained quiet as they let their ally talk.
"We believe that the demise of Shao Kahn severed whatever bond remained with him despite our disassociation the year before," Ermac explained. "That is what we mean when we became 'unbound.' Without that bond..." He pointed to his own sternum to emphasis his next words. "The souls within this vessel began to fight for dominance... but it has been a long battle. Many of the souls have been quelled, but hundreds still try to fight to this day. The battle has... ravaged the vessel over the months."
That explains the weight loss, thought Alex.
"The more the souls quelled, the easier it was to regain the unity we once had," the enigma continued. "For months, we remained within the Outworld Wastelands in order to keep our distance. Eventually, we wandered and ended up in the nearest city called Z'unkahrah. By the time of our arrival, the city had became the main base of operation for the caring of refugees; Outworld survivors of the war. It had once served as one of the main city of operations for the Emperor, thus it became one of the few cities to remain standing after the war. We... remembered our oath to atone for our past atrocities, and we chose to stay in the city to assist the refugees. It is where Fujin found us when he came to ask for our assistance in your war."
"If there's one thing I always remembered since the Blood Tournament under Raiden and Rose's leadership," started Ryu. "Is that those who become a chose one have the right heart and soul to join us no matter what their past atrocities were." He turned to his allies. "I think you're right, Kenshi... if Fujin, or Liu Kang, truly knew that something was wrong, Ermac would not be here with us right now. The turmoil within Ermac remains, but I like to think that the souls with good intention seem to be winning whatever battle is happening."
"You think that we may pose a danger?" Ermac questioned.
"There's no doubt that there's confusion within," Kenshi started. "And the souls are without the proper guidance, or bond, that you initially had before the end of the war. But with what Ryu explained, well... if you did pose any kind of danger, Fujin would've sensed it when he visited you in Z'unkahrah."
"In short, everything's fine," said Ken. "We trust you and we think you'll do fine in this latest adventure of ours."
Ermac simply gave him a single nod in appreciation.
Hilde found herself shaking her head after hearing this. "It's amazing how there's so much that happened in the Universal War. Everyone has a different tale to tell."
"I can agree with that," nodded Julia.
"How is Outworld after the war?" asked Siegfried.
"Still recovering," Ermac explained. "Though there has been activity near where Shao Kahn's former palace is."
"What kind of activity?" asked Julia.
"A war between the surviving Outworld Forces and a rebellion. However, if the rumors are true, the rebels are not refugees, but those who once served the Emperor."
"Sounds like someone's trying to takeover and some people don't agree with it," guessed Ken.
"That's what we assume," Ermac agreed. In the back of his mind, he knew exactly who took over as Emperor of Outworld, but at the moment, Ermac wasn't sure whether or not to share this information just yet, at least not before the meeting got underway.
"Do you think this war – the one in your realm I mean - will affect the refugees in Outworld?" asked Alex.
"At this time, no... but it would not surprise us if it did in the future..."
Nearby, Ashrah was sitting with Sub-Zero, Smoke, Cyrax, Matrik, and Sareena as she discussed what she was up to since Sub-Zero and the cyborgs last saw her two years ago. Just as she did with Fujin more than a week ago, Ashrah told the Lin Kuei group how she was given a mission months before the Universal War to slay the demons living in Keisei. Her isolation from the world caused her to have no inkling of what was going on with the rest of the universe until the war reached Keisei. She tried to get to Lee Dynasty to help, but the war had ended before she reached the city of Chili-san. In the aftermath, she continued her quest to slay demons for the next year until Fujin summoned her to rejoin her allies to fight against this latest threat.
"Sounds like you've been keeping yourself busy," said Sub-Zero once the huntress was finished.
Ashrah nodded. "When you wish to atone for what you've done as a Netherrealm demon, you work hard to remove yourself far from your past."
That sentence got Sareena's attention. "You were once a Netherrealm demon?"
Ashrah nodded again. "Yes, and... I was going to ask you about your Brotherhood markings," she mentioned as she pointed at Sareena's two Brotherhood of Shadows. "I imagine you're one of good intentions if Sub-Zero himself had let you stay amongst the Lin Kuei."
Sareena sighed at that. "Yeah... I've been meaning to get those removed."
"If it helps, I once served the Brotherhood ages ago," Ashrah explained. "Until the day I discovered my kriss and began to free myself from my own atrocities. I've been working on reaching full ascension ever since."
"I'm surprised you two didn't know each other then," mentioned Smoke.
"There were many of us who served under Quan Chi," Ashrah said. "It's easy for one to not meet every member of the demonic clan." Sareena confirmed this with a nod.
As the two women talked, Matrik turned her attention to her two cyborg comrades. "It's almost similar to what we've been through... having been forced to serve our masters in the past."
"Perhaps," Cyrax said. "But at least one of us has worked on physical improvement since then." He then pointed to Smoke.
"It's worth it for sure," Smoke said. "Of course, you'll still have some machine within, but with the exception of the eyes, it's not all that apparent."
"Perhaps maybe if I knew for sure that I'd be completely human again, I'd take the chance," Cyrax decided. "But maybe I'll change my mind later."
"Maybe someday, they'll have better tech to completely reverse it," Smoke said with some hope.
"I wouldn't mind getting the same procedure in the future," Matrik mentioned. "But I'll hold off for now... until I learn more about myself and who I was before I became a cyborg."
"I recall you said the same thing last year," said Smoke.
"And I meant it when I said those words."
It was then that everyone mostly stopped what they were doing the second a burst of flames appeared near the end of both picnic tables. Naturally, it startled most of those there, but they soon relaxed once the new Protector of Earthrealm, Liu Kang, appeared from within the flames, which soon dissipated. Everyone realized in that moment that the true reason for this meeting was about to begin.
Liu Kang then turned to someone within the crowd and nodded to them. Before anyone could figure out what that was about, a young woman, clearly new to the group, stood from her seat and walked over to where Liu Kang stood. Once she was next to him, the two ended up whispering amongst each other, clearly preferring to discuss whatever it was about in private.
"Who's the girl?" Cody suddenly asked just loud enough for Guy to hear.
Guy answered with a shrug. "Obviously a new chosen one... must've worked with Liu Kang in the past by the way they're regarding each other."
"I see," Cody said before he nudged the Bushin warrior's arm with his elbow. "She's kind of cute, don't you think?"
Guy turned his head to his long time friend before he glared at him. "Really, Cody? At your age?"
"Oh come on, Guy," Cody called out. "I was just-" But then he stopped mid-sentence as he turned his own head and saw that Haggar was glaring at him, his facial expression neutral.
"Eh... hello, sir," Cody uttered while giving him a mock salute. Both Guy and Haggar merely shook their heads before they turned their attention to Liu Kang and the young woman standing next to him. Lucia, who was sitting next to Haggar, suppressed a giggle, which was not lost on the blond-haired hero.
"What are you laughing at, Morgan?" Cody uttered to the cop.
"Nothing, Travers," Lucia replied innocently. "Let's just say that it's a good thing Miss Haggar isn't here."
"What?"
"Shhh!" Haggar quickly hushed them. It was hard to tell whether it's because he wants to hear the start of the meeting, or because he didn't want to hear any more of the two bicker about his daughter, who wasn't at tonight's feast.
Once everyone quieted down, Liu Kang spoke up loud enough so that everyone could hear him. "I'm glad to see all of you here at tonight's feast, especially since I'm sure that you have a lot of questions on what's going on. Of course, we are all here for the tournament... but as you know from your meetings with either myself or Fujin prior to your arrival here, the tournament represents a more sinister threat than anyone realizes. This fight is more than just stopping the Mishima Zaibatsu's war against Earthrealm.
"I've known some of you for years, long before my ascension. Many of you here as those I'm meeting for the first time, but from what I understand, most of you have known each other since either the Blood Tournament or the Universal War. Some of your are joining up as chosen ones for the first time. Still, even now, I sense a strong unity between us all, and I feel that this is what's going to help us in the fight ahead.
"I appreciate your patience and understanding when Fujin and I didn't mention about what this threat is right away. But as promised, you will get your answers tonight. And also as promised, if you still wish to return to your homes once all is explained, please do let me know as soon as possible so that I may make the arrangements."
Liu Kang finally turned to the young, dark-haired woman standing next to him. "This is Zafina. It was she who discovered this sinister threat that looms over this war. She has volunteered to explain everything to all of you." He then nodded to her, letting her know that she could now take the stage, so to speak.
Zafina sucked in a slow, even breath before she took one step forward, prepping herself mentally to address the chosen ones. It wasn't the first time she would be speaking to a crowd, but she suddenly felt a bit strange over explaining everything she's known all of her life to a group of strangers as well as what she recently learned from her Guru. However, she reminded herself that many of those here were heroes who've helped to protect mankind in the past.
"Long ago," Zafina started, speaking up as loud as Liu Kang was before so that everyone could hear her. "My ancestors sealed away a demon named Azazel within an ancient temple in the deserts of the Middle East. I grew up near this temple and have learned many of its secrets over the years. I also became one of the most trusted guardians of the temple in order to protect it from being opened. That is my evening job. My psychic abilities, passed down from my family line, has afforded me my day job as an astrologist. It is this ability that has shown me visions of what could happen if this war continues as it is now...
"The visions I've received seem to serve as bad omens of what's to come. A couple of weeks ago, I sought advice from my village Guru to see what he thought of these visions. That day, he shared a secret with me that few knew, and knowing what was to come, he has allowed me to share this with all of you tonight so that you have the knowledge to fight this threat.
"Azazel, who some may call Majin Seiryu Ki, is a demon who possesses the power to destroy all mankind and all of existence if he were to ever be released from the confines of the temple. It is why the temple has guardians as it's important to make sure that no one ever unleashes him from his prison. It was lucky that the Universal War never came close to my village and potentially discover the temple. This time, however, the Mishima Zaibatsu's war is indirectly causing Azazel's awakening, increasing his powers each day this war continues.
"There is a prophecy connected to Azazel... it is said that when two evil stars fight each other long enough, their demonic energies within their genes will eventually awaken Azazel from its slumber. Therefore, our main priority within this tournament is to find a way to end this war however we can, so that we can stop Azazel's awakening from occurring, especially the two evil stars."
"So what you're saying that Jin is one of the two 'evil stars' who's unintentionally causing some ancient demon to power up within the confinements of a sealed temple and eventually awaken once he's in full power?" asked Hwang.
Zafina nodded in confirmation. "Yes, that is correct."
"Then who's the second evil star?" asked Ruby Heart.
Zafina knew that most didn't know the answer to this just yet, but thanks to her abilities, she was going to give them that answer. "G-Corp's CEO – Kazuya Mishima."
"Holy shit!" Wagner called out suddenly as everyone started murmuring amongst each other over the news. Everyone who was present in Keisei during the Universal War knew of the tense relationship between Jin and his father Kazuya. "This explains friggin' everything and why G-Corp is interested in being 'saviors' of the world in the first place."
"We've been trying to figure out who G-Corp's CEO was for weeks," mentioned Sonya. "It's no wonder it's all been a secret – no one would have believed them to be saviors if they knew it was Kazuya running the show."
"After my experience dealing with the guy, I believe it," mentioned Maxi.
"Question," called out Marshall. "This big revelation... I mean, everything we've learned today... should it be shared with the world in order to prepare ourselves in case Azazel escapes from his temple and all hell breaks loose?"
"I doubt anyone would believe it," Zafina replied. "So unless we have new recruits joining our cause, it is best to keep this information to ourselves unless it calls for it."
"Huh, we're practically growing our one army here at this point," Lei quipped. "But anyway, I have a question too... what happens if this Azazel hits full power? Do we have any way of stopping this thing before it wrecks the universe? Again?"
That was one question Zafina, unfortunately, didn't have the answer to right away. She thought of her two tantos that her Guru gave her – the keys that would open the temple. He had told her that she would know when the time came to unlock the temple.
If this war grows worse, so will the power of Azazel, her Guru told her. The more his powers grow, the worse the outcome will be if he escapes. She knew from those words that the decision had to be made before Azazel reached his full powers, but also not while he was most vulnerable either. As the Guru said, there would be no point if they opened the temple now. It was indeed a decision that couldn't be taken lightly, and Zafina knew that this was something she would have to rely on herself with no one's help.
"Let us hope it doesn't come to that," Zafina sighed, choosing her words carefully. "But if it's any comfort, Liu Kang and I are discussing a second plan now. We will inform you of what we plan once we have a solid idea."
Liu Kang chose that moment to speak up. "Unfortunately, there's more..."
"Isn't that how it always goes?" Hwoarang mumbled, which was promptly followed by Baek quickly shushing him.
"And it's one that you may be familiar with, especially to the Manji Clan," Zafina continued. As she said this, her brown eyes gazed over to where Yoshimitsu sat. Yoshimitsu nodded to her, knowing what she was about to bring up next.
"For the last year, there's been activity from outsiders near our village. Over a month ago, a dome was erected some thirty miles away from the temple site. As far as I know, no one has able to get close to the dome to see exactly what it is. We do believe, however, that it has something to do with the 'visitors' we've been dealing with for the past year..."
"These visitors are the remaining members of the Outworld Forces," Yoshimitsu announced to everyone as he stood up from his seat. "For unknown reasons, they have an interest in the temple and wish to unseal it. My guess is that they're interested in Azazel himself. We've been working alongside Zafina and her fellow guardians in protecting the temple for months. Lives has been lost in the effort. However, as far as we can tell right now, none of them have found a way to unlock the temple."
"Oh that's just great!" grumbled Paul. "And here I thought Jin's war was bad enough. Now Outworld of all places decided to come right on in and go, 'Surprise!'"
"Did you know about this Azazel threat too?" asked a curious Sagat to the Manji Clan leader.
Yoshimitsu shook his head. "This is news to me. All this time, I assumed the threat Liu Kang and Fujin informed us about had to do with the Outworld Forces. I didn't realize Majin Seiryu Ki was involved in this lingering threat that's been hanging over this war.
"As for Outworld, it's through our work that we discovered that the sorcerer Quan Chi has taken over the throne of Outworld... he is the realm's current Emperor."
"I can confirm this information as well as Li Mei," announced Bo' Rai Cho.
"As do we," Ermac suddenly said aloud, catching everyone's attention. "Quan Chi took the throne not long after Shao Kahn's demise. Since then, Outworld has been experiencing a civil war of its own. However, the war has been between Quan Chi and his minions and the rebellion – former members of the Outworld Forces if the suspected rumors are correct."
While Ermac was explaining all this, Liu Kang happened to turn his head and spot Kitana in the crowd. Most of the time, she focused on Zafina when she spoke, but while Ermac was speaking, he happened to notice her looking in his direction a few times. He wanted to acknowledge her and give her a smile, but what stopped him was the confuse gaze her eyes gave away every time she saw his face. This only caused him to frown as he wondered what that was about. He knew there would be time to speak to her once the tournament was underway... hopefully he'll have answers to his questions soon.
No doubt she had questions for him as well...
"So any other great news?" asked Smoke sarcastically once Ermac was done.
Liu Kang snapped out of his thoughts to address the Lin Kuei member's question. "That's really all the information we have right now, but it's inevitable that we'll learn more overtime during the tournament. As of now, our main priority is to find a way to stop this war so that the powers increasing within Azazel ceases to grow through this tournament. Are there any questions?"
"Just one, though it's more of a curiosity," Johnny Cage spoke up. "Doesn't anyone here find it an interesting coincidence that those from Outworld happen to show up on Earthrealm and get interested in this temple around the same time that... Majin Azazel whatever, starts to gain more powers?"
"I know what you mean," replied Zafina. "But keep in mind that Outworld's presence was felt long before the Mishima Zaibatsu's war. I also didn't start receiving these omens until the last few months and they've increased more and more since the war began."
"In other words, we do not think there's a link between the Mishima Zaibatsu's war and the presence of Outworld," Liu Kang added. "Though there is a chance that what's happening within the temple may benefit Quan Chi and his followers. Keep that in mind on the off-chance that they will take advantage of it.
"Now that we've covered everything, is there anyone here who doesn't agree with the mission and wishes to return home? No one will be judged for the decision and we will understand your reservations."
To his delight, no one spoke up and most of the group shook their head, letting him know that they were staying. After a long silence, Chun Li smiled. "I'm pretty sure we're all going to stick around for this."
"Now that you know what's going on," Zafina began. "I want to mention that before I left my village, my Guru specifically wished for me to meet with The Four – the ones who defeated Shao Kahn last year. I understand that Jin was one of them and that Shao Kahn's former Empress was another. I'd like to meet the other two if they're here tonight."
"That reminds me," Liu Kang suddenly spoke up. "Before we do that, Zafina, there are two chosen ones who have joined our cause, but are not present at this time. Under Fujin's suggestion, and I know not everyone will agree... Ivy is one of them."
That immediately got a mixed reaction from the chosen ones. Some surprised, some not sure what to think, and others were either annoyed or angry at the decision.
"You really think that's a good idea?" asked Chun Li.
"Why not?" asked Siegfried.
"Don't you remember what she did? She helped with that war Shao Kahn created!" exclaimed Jade.
"But she's one of The Four," pointed out Julia. "Does that not count for her atoning for her deeds?"
"Enough!" Liu Kang yelled out, causing everyone to stop. He took a deep breath before proceeding. "I'm aware that not everyone would agree to this, but we need all the help we can get. Besides, you won't see her around all that much, unless it's either as a tournament contender or pertaining to the main mission. She's aware of the mixed opinion of her from this group and has chosen to keep her distance as much as possible."
"Probably for the best," said Cammy.
"Who's the second person?" asked Cody, deciding that they should move away from the subject of the former Empress before they start arguing again.
"A few of you may know him," Liu Kang started. "But he goes by the codename Scorpion. He will also keep his distance, but will be around when needed."
That immediately earned looks from the Lin Kuei to their Grandmaster. It was a name Sub-Zero had not heard of in a long time, and the last time he saw Scorpion was when the spectre defeated him in the Blood Tournament almost two years ago. Even after Scorpion found out that Quan Chi was responsible for the murder of his family and clan, they didn't exactly become pals afterwards, but the ice warrior liked to think that things are a tad bit better between them.
Ryu also recognized the name, having run into him twice in the past two years. The first was when they ran into each other in the woods during the Blood Tournament, though he wasn't sure whether they actually battled or sparred to this day. The second time, right before the end of the Universal War, was when Scorpion assisted Ryu in his battle against his nemesis Akuma, the one responsible for his master's murder. With this recent announcement, Ryu couldn't help but be curious over exactly who this hellspawn was, especially since he has been worthy enough to join the chosen ones as far back as two years ago.
Raiden once mentioned that he invited Scorpion to join us at the Blood Tournament, Ryu remembered. Scorpion declined the offer then. I wonder what changed his mind now?
Ryu's thoughts were cut off then when Xiaoyu quickly spoke up, going back to an earlier subject. "Jin was one of The Four? That's... that's-"
"Hard to believe, I know," Liu Kang said, noting the young girl's shock. "He saves the universe only to plunge Earthrealm into war. I'd like to know the whys myself, and hopefully we'll know the answers to our questions once one of us gets close to him."
Xiaoyu frowned as she sulked in her seat. "Yeah... I'd like to know, too..." was all she uttered as Panda sympathetically gently patted her head with her paw.
"Speaking of The Four," Liu Kang continued. He gestured his hand towards the two of The Four present tonight, both who were coincidentally sitting across from each other. "Zafina, the two you were looking for are Ryu and Kenshi."
It was Ryu who slowly stood up almost reluctantly while Kenshi chose to stay in his seat. This did help Zafina to spot the two more easily and began to walk over to them.
Just as the young woman reached them, Ryu couldn't help but give her a sad smile as a thought came to him. "I'm sure if Dhalsim was here now, he would've wished that he found The Four as easily as you did."
It came to Zafina what he meant by that. "Dhalsim was the one who discovered the prophecy that helped to destroy Shao Kahn."
"Yes, it was a prediction passed down from his ancestors long ago," Ryu explained.
A voice suddenly entered Zafina's head, nearly startling her. Dhalsim was the true hero of this war. Always keep that in mind.
She knew that someone was telepathically speaking to her then, but it took her a moment to realize who sent the mental message to her. The young woman turned her head to the blind swordsman sitting across the table from her. Even with his crimson blindfold over his eyes, he gave her a knowing look that told her the words in her head came from him.
You... you're a telepath? Zafina thought, feeling baffled since she wasn't expecting anyone in the group with this kind of ability.
Yes, but I can only convey words in this manner with other psychics, Kenshi responded. You're the first I've had the chance to actually have this kind of conversation with. The environment of Outworld affected the abilities of one of our former leaders, Rose, and Dhalsim and I never really had the chance to interact like this.
I see, Zafina transferred back. This may prove useful later down the road.
Kenshi very slowly nodded at that in order to not draw attention to the others around them. The only thing I ask is that you don't call Ryu and I 'heroes.' Even after all this time, we still don't feel like one... and frankly, we don't like to draw attention to ourselves on the subject.
I understand, Zafina replied. But for the sake of show, I'll keep this brief. She then spoke aloud. "It's nice to meet you both, finally. It's a shame about Jin..."
"It is..." Ryu sighed. "But as Liu Kang said, hopefully we'll know why he's caused this war..."
"If we ever find out at all," Kenshi added aloud.
A half hour later, not only was the meeting over, but everyone began to disperse and head back to their hotel rooms at the bottom of the hill they were on. Before leaving, Yoshimitsu had taken a couple of plates and began to pile on any leftover sushi and sashimi that weren't touched.
Don't want this to go to waste, the clan leader thought to himself. Besides, I'm sure Ukon, Sakon, Zivis, and Tajna would appreciate some snacks to munch on.
Just as he put a salmon nigiri onto one of the plates, Yoshimitsu suddenly heard a family, amused voice from behind him. "First you rob money, now you rob food."
Yoshimitsu chuckled as he turned to face his ally, the Edenian Jade. "Well, one can't let all this good food go to waste," he explained. "Besides, it's for my fellow clan members to snack on tonight. Their names were unfortunately not on the invite list. At least they had a plan for their own meals tonight, so at least they're not completely starving."
"That's a good thing," Jade replied. "Speaking of clan members, Heiwa sends her regards. She and the other clan members were worried about you these past few months. I did inform her about the war once Liu Kang spoke with me, Kitana, and Sindel."
"Yeah, I figured that would be the case in all the other realms," Yoshimitsu sighed as he gazed up at the lantern decorations above their heads. "As you can imagine, it's been hard to get the word out to the other posts outside of Earthrealm." He then turned his attention back to her comrade. "How is Edenia?"
"Still rebuilding," Jade replied. "Your clan has been a big help in rebuilding. I don't think the Edenian Knights could've done it without their help... without your help, I mean since it was you who sent Heiwa and the team there."
Yoshimitsu nodded in acknowledgment. "How are their supplies?"
"Heiwa thinks they have two months' worth. Of course, that was almost a week ago. I told her I couldn't guarantee anything, but she was hoping you could help set up a provisions box for me to bring back to Edenia once this tournament's over.
"I'll see what I can do," Yoshimitsu offered. "I'll still have contact with the rest of my clan in this realm during our stay on the island. I can have them gather supplies the closer we get to ending this mission... hopefully, this won't last more than two months."
"I appreciate that," Jade said. She then remembered something and chuckled. "I almost forgot. Heiwa requested that you include a bottle of Daigingo in the box of provisions, but only after all the important items are gathered."
That made Yoshimitsu laugh. "She would request sake for herself. Well, again, I'll see what I can do."
He then was about to ask the Edenian a question when someone called her name. Both them turned to see who it was, and it was Jade who smiled as she spotted to familiar Keisei native.
"Hello, Kilik," the green-clad woman greeted. "I thought I saw you across the way during the meeting. How are you enjoying Earthrealm?"
"It's... overwhelming to say the least."
"It was for me too when I first saw it years ago," Jade explained. "But don't worry, you'll get used to it sooner than you think."
While this was going on, Yoshimitsu couldn't help but feel amused, especially when he saw the way Kilik smiled at her. Even after a year, he's still infatuated with her.
Mishima Zaibatsu Headquarters, Unknown Area
Settling himself on a chair in front of a small table, Jin Kazama leaned forward so that his arms rested on top of it. Once again, his two bodyguards, Eddy Gordo and Nina Williams, stood on either side of him; close enough to be nearly within arm's reach, but also far enough so that they didn't appear through the camera lens set up in front of them.
Jin gazed at the man behind the camera. "This one is to be broadcasted to those on the island for the tournament," he said.
The man nodded. "Got it," he said before he spoke quiet into his headset to those controlling tonight's broadcast. The plan was for the broadcast to play for the next twenty four hours, every half hour, on all channels available on Mishima Island. The broadcast would also be leaked off-island so the media anticipating the tournament would receive their latest news to report to the world.
Two minutes went by before the cameraman turned his attention to the CEO. "Okay, sir, we'll be airing in five... four... three..." He fell quiet as he finished the last two digits of the countdown with his fingers. Once done, he pointed his index finger to Jin, indicating that they were now on the air.
Jin cleared his throat before he began to speak. "Greetings. This message is for those on Mishima Island, specifically those attending my tournament. On behalf of myself and my staff and soldiers of the Mishima Zaibatsu, I welcome you to Mishima Island as well as the Shikoken Tournament.
"I'm sure by now that you have settled into your hotels. You may have already enjoyed your dinner for the evening and are ready for a good night's sleep before training in the morning. At the same time, you may be wondering how this tournament works. That's what this broadcast is all about. If your allies attending the tournament happen to miss this message tonight, do let them know that we'll be re-airing this every half hour for the next twenty four hours.
"I imagine that many of you are here for your own reasons, though the majority of you may be here because of the bounty offered by G Corporation. That is why I've announced this tournament to begin with. But some of you may be here for more than just the bounty... and I can only imagine what those reasons are.
"No matter your reasons, I am interested in seeing which team will face me in the final round of the tournament. Let me clarify that... this tournament involves two on two matches, or rather... tag teams. The first rule of the Shikoken Tournament is that every participant must have a tag team partner in order to fight in the tournament. Starting at seven in the morning until eleven o'clock in the evening tomorrow, the official tag team sign-ups will begin at the lobby of the Mishima Hotel. If you have no tag team partner by the time registration is closed, you will not be allowed to participate in the tournament. Depending on the amount of tag team registrations, the tournament is expected to go through eight rounds before facing me in the final round. The round count will be made official on the start of the tournament in two days.
"In addition, the tournament meeting point will take place at the Mishima Casino on the west end of the island in downtown. There, our teleporting technology has made it possible for every match to take place anywhere around the world. Each location is selected by tournament officials and the two tag teams facing each other will be sent to those locations at random. Droid cameras will broadcast the matches to not only those in the casino lobby, but also for the viewing pleasure of those in their hotel rooms and even off-island. All locations will remain secret prior to the matches as, again, they are chosen at random.
"Now that you are aware of the tag team aspect as well as how tournament locations work, I will now go over the tournament's official rules, which are fairly simple. At the start of the match and for the first five minutes, only one person per team can fight in the ring at a time. Tagging their partner for the switch can be done at anytime. After five minutes, either sideline partners can jump into the match either against each other or intervening the current fight. However, this move will permanently void the tagging aspect of the match and all participants are to stay on the designated fighting floor, so it is highly suggested that you make your choices wisely.
"To determine the winning team of each match, the losing team must have the same or a combination of one of the three following; loss of consciousness, voluntarily conceding, or not getting up from a knock-down after ten seconds. The droid cameras watching will determine the victors as well as the tournament officials judging the match.
"Finally, death of one's opponent, accidental or deliberate, will result in the immediate disqualification of the offending team.
"All rules will be posted in the lobby of the Mishima Casino as reminders. Until then, enjoy your stay on my island..."
Just as the camera turned off after his speech, Jin's cell phone alerted him to an incoming call. Right on time, he though as he took it out of his pocket. He then pressed the 'on' button before bringing the device to his ear.
"Yeah?" he answered. The person on the other end was a member of his Tekken Force, who went on to inform of him of news he had been waiting for all day. A ghost of a side smirk appeared over his lips.
"Good," Jin replied after the soldier finished his statement on the other end. "Tell them to meet me in the Gargoyle's Perch. I'd like to address them personally."
After shutting off his phone, Jin nodded his head just before he began walking, indicating to his two bodyguards to follow him. Eddy and Nina didn't hesitate to follow their boss out of the broadcasting room, the two of them sticking close behind.
"You want us to escort you to the perch?" Eddy asked once the three of them were alone in the hallway.
Jin smirked as he leaned his back against the wall. "Only if you wish to meet our new allies from Outworld."
This was the first time his two bodyguards had heard this news. While Eddy was clearly confused by his statement, Nina's eyes briefly widened. After the events of the Universal War, as well as the Blood Tournament, this was the last thing she expected to hear.
"You mean to tell me that you invited Outworlders to your cause?" Nina questioned with a raised eyebrow. She placed a hand on her hip. "Care to explain?"
Jin paused briefly before he responded to her question. "Believe it or not, they were the ones who approached me with the news that G-Corporation allied with other Outworlders for their own benefit. Clearly, G-Corp are that desperate to defeat us. Our new allies offered to assist, and I figured this would be our way to fight fire with fire."
Nina shook her head at that. "Something tells me that may be too much fire you're fighting with, Kazama."
"If the end justifies the means..." The CEO then turned his head to look at the two bodyguards. "Besides, you need to remember that Shao Kahn is dead... thanks to me and three others, including his own Empress. He and all of his most powerful allies are dead."
"Except Quan Chi, if I recall."
She got him there. "Yes," Jin started with a small sigh. "Last year's conversation with Yoshimitsu did mention him being a powerful nemesis... all the more better for our new allies to join us since the sorcerer himself did join with G-Corp... and they also confirmed to me that he is the new Emperor of Outworld."
"And you've only decided to tell us now?" Eddy asked suspiciously, his voice slightly hardened. "Why the big secret?"
"Because I need to make sure they actually keep their word," Jin explained. "Their arrival alone is proof of that. The secret will no longer be kept from you."
"And how do you know they won't turn their backs on us later?" Eddy demanded.
"Because they're part of the rebellion against Quan Chi. They have no intention in taking over Earthrealm. They don't even have the right resources to perform such an act." He glared at Eddy. "Do you not trust my judgment?"
It was Eddy's turn to glare at his boss. "It's them I don't trust. This sort of thing is something we should handle ourselves. We shouldn't have to rely on outside help."
"I understand your logic, Gordo," Jin said. "But G-Corp didn't give me much of a choice when they decided to ally with Quan Chi and his crew. Their presence serves as a threat of its own. To ally with Outworld who are against Quan Chi... they will serve as a distraction against Quan Chi and his crew. They'll handle them, and we can focus on what we've been doing from day one. Do you understand now?"
Eddy didn't respond, but instead let out a long exhale through his nose in frustration. The last part of what Jin said did wake him up a bit to why his boss allied with Outworlders to begin with. Still, the Brazil native had a bad feeling about this new alliance, but at least, from the way it sounded, it was only going to be a temporary thing, just until they got rid of the Outworld allies of G-Corp... at least he hoped that was the case.
"Understood," Eddy grumbled.
Sensing some doubt within his bodyguard, Jin took a step closer to him. "You wanted me to save your master's life. I did my share..."
Eddy sighed, his mind relaxing at that as he knew his boss was trying to remind him why he was here in the first place. "I know. I'll continue to uphold my end of the deal until the war is over."
Jin smirked at him. "Glad to hear it." He then started to walk forward. "Perhaps it would be good to have both of you escort me to the Gargoyle's Perch."
While Jin's back was turned to them, Eddy and Nina stared at each other for a moment with the latter giving him a brief shrug before she started to follow her boss. With a small shake of his head, Eddy soon followed.
000
Qīn'ài = Mandarin for 'dear.'