"Good. Shao Kahn will be please. Now we must head to his fortress." Rain said.

The two sorcerer's teleported all three of them back to Shao Kahn to find him still in his chair, starring off into the barren wastelands.

"Report" He said.

Rain bowed. "Master, I have brought the two sorcerers here as you asked. They have both agreed to work together."

"Good. Then my plan has begun."

"What is your plan master?" Rain asked curiously.

Shao Kahn had kept most of his plans to himself and revealed very little to Rain, or to anyone.

"You'll see. My plan will reveal itself in time. For now, focus on your mission and find Reiko."

Rain gave another bow and headed off to find Reiko. He had a good idea of where to find him: Shao Kahn's throne room.

Shao Kahn turned his gaze to the two sorcerers standing before him.

"Alright Shao Kahn,'" Shang Tsung said impatiently. "We're here, now what did you want with us?"

"I've asked you two here because I need you to build me a powerful army." Shao Kahn said.

"You plan to take over Earthrealm again?" Quan Chi asked.

"Not quite. I plan to invade, but that's merely a distraction for the earth warriors." Shao Kahn replied.

The two sorcerers looked at each other coldly, and then turned back to the emperor, bowed, then teleported to begin their task.

Rain continued to walk down the corridors. There had been rumors that Reiko had occasionally put on Shao Kahn's helmet. Though this enraged his emperor, no one could prove this fact to be true. He eventually came across a long, narrow hallway lit by torch light, with a steel door at the end. This was the hallway lead to Shao Kahn's throne room. As he walked closer to the door, he noticed the door ajar, and he could hear a voice inside, but he couldn't make out the words.

Inside Reiko was in another one of Shao Kahn's chairs, wearing his helmet.

"One day," He said to himself, "I will become the emperor of Outworld instead of Shao Kahn."

Suddenly he heard the door open. Someone's coming in he thought. He jumped out of the chair and took off the helmet, quickly putting it back in its original spot just as Rain entered the room. Rain looked around the room before looking at Reiko.

"What are you doing here?" Rain asked suspiciously.

"I…I," Reiko stuttered. "I was guarding this room to make sure no traitor comes in.' He said.

"Why would you waste your time doing that?" Rain asked.

"To prove I am the most loyal general to Shao Kahn." Reiko said proudly, hoping that Rain would leave any moment.

Rain gave a look of disbelief on his face.

"What do you want?" Reiko asked, changing the subject.

"I've come to tell you that Shao Kahn has a mission for us. He has asked us to first go to Edenia to gather information on the royal family's plans. Then we must go to Earthrealm to spy on the earthrealm warriors, and then report back."

Reiko gave a small grunt. "Fine," Reiko said heading for the door. "Let's get going then."

The two generals left the throne room and headed off to the Nexus.

Earthrealm

Meanwhile, back at the Special Forces agency, Sonya, Jax, Kenshi, and the rest of the agents sat around the large table for an early morning meeting.

"So," Sonya said, "Have there been any new reports on the Black Dragon, or Red Dragon?"

"Not even a trace." Kenshi said.

"What about Outworld? Are there plans that we know of to attack Earthrealm?" She asked.

"No. So far there haven't been any attacks made by Outworld or any organization. So far everything's been peaceful." The blind swordsman replied.

"That seems a little unusual, especially since what went on in the past." Sonya said.

"Maybe for once everything's as it should be." Jax said crossing his arms over his chest.

"I suppose so. Well if there haven't been any disturbances then this meeting is over." She said, sounding slightly disappointed.

Everyone left except for Jax, Sonya and Kenshi. Jax walked up to Sonya with a concerned look on his face.

"You seem disappointed. Why?" He asked.

"It's just that I'm used to having to deal with the Black Dragon and people who want to take over the world."

Jax laughed. "You can't expect chaos like that everyday, can you? I know that's normally what happens, but you shouldn't be so worried. It's nice to have peace and quiet for once."

"I know, but it's too quiet out there. That just doesn't happen around here. Something's up, I just know it."

"Jax is right, Sonya. You shouldn't be so suspicious. If anything happens, we'll handle it." Kenshi said.

"Come on," Jax said, putting his arm across Sonya's shoulders. "Let's all go out for some morning coffee. This time it's my treat."

Back at the Wu Shi academy, Liu Kang and Kung Lao were having a friendly spar. Lui attempted a slide kick at Kung Lao who jumped high into the air. Liu jumped up and landed a hard kick into Kung Lao's side. Kung Lao did a few flips once he landed on the ground just in time to avoid Liu Kang's ground punch. Lao landed a flying kick into Liu's stomach, sending him staggering back.

He was about to land a hard punch to finish his opponent off when Raiden suddenly appeared in between the two. Kung Lao gasped as he stopped dead in his tracks, an inch away from Raiden.

"Raiden," Liu Kang said. "You really have to stop appearing like that.'

"Yeah," Kung Lao replied. "I almost hit you."

Raiden chuckled a little. "Sorry," He said. "Had I known that you two were sparring, I would have appeared on the side line."

"So what brings you here, anyway?" Liu asked.

"Yes. It must be important if you're here." Kung Lao said.

"Oh it is." Raiden replied. "I came here to tell you two that I've seen the two sorcerers Quan Chi and Shang Tsung building an army in Outworld."

"Working together?" Liu asked, astonished.

"Yes. I believe they're working for Shao Kahn but I'm not sure why, but I suspect he's planning to invade Earthrealm." Raiden replied.

"Well shouldn't we go to Outworld and see what's going on?" Kung Lao asked eagerly.

"No. That wouldn't be wise. It's far too risky. Earthrealm will need your help, and the others. We can't risk losing anyone right now. I will go and inform the others." Raiden replied.

"I'll go to Edenia and warn Kitana." Liu said.

Raiden nodded. "I will also speak with the Elder Gods." Raiden said as lightning surrounded him, and in a flash of light, he was gone.

Raiden teleported to a movie set where he found Johnny Cage, yelling at the actors as usual.

"No! That set goes over by that wall. Come on, people! Lunch time is over! Hurry up! I haven't got all day!" Johnny yelled. He was hoping to get his new movie done by next week.

Raiden walked over beside him. "It's difficult trying to get people in one place, isn't it?" He asked.

"Yeah it is! How hard is it getting a group of people to one place?" Johnny asked, sounding completely frustrated.

"It's harder than you know, trust me." Raiden replied. "In fact, I'm trying to do the very same thing right now."

"Is that so?" Johnny said, quickly glancing at Raiden then to the set, but glanced back again before he jumped out of his chair.

"Whoa! Raiden, you have to stop doing that! You scared me!

"Well now you know what it feels like when I try to gather you guys in one place."

"Anyways, what brings you here? I don't suppose you've come to help me make these actors move faster?" Johnny asked.

"No. The reason I came here I because I have something important to tell you, but I need you to come with me."

"Why? Can't you tell me here?" Johnny asked.

"It will be easier if I tell you and the others at the same time." Raiden replied.

"Oh, ok. Hang on. Alright people! That's a wrap for today! This movie is delayed until further notice!"

Everyone at the set waited for Raiden and Johnny to leave before they muttered "Thank god."

Back at the coffee shop, Sonya, Jax and Kenshi were sitting at a table enjoying some coffee.

"So, Sonya, do ya feel relaxed now?" Jax asked.

"You're not going to let this drop, are you?" Sonya replied.

"No. Not until you're relaxed. Well, are you?" He asked again.

"Yes! I'm not worried, I'm relaxed. So there's no reason for you to--."

She was cut off by Raiden and Johnny's appearance.

"Raiden, Johnny!" She gasped. "What are you two doing here?"

"Apparently Raiden has an important message." Johnny said.

Johnny pulled up a seat next to Sonya. The two had been dating for about a year, but hardly had time for each other due to their busy schedules.

"I'm afraid I have some bad news. I've seen both Shang Tsung and Quan Chi building an army in Outworld. I suspect they're working for Shao Kahn."

This, of course, took everyone by surprise. Kenshi frowned. Shang Tsung was his mortal enemy. It was because of him that he was blinded. Not only that, but the sorcerer also took his ancestors souls. He clenched his fists. He'll pay for what he's done, Kenshi thought.

"This is bad news. How are we supposed to prepare for something like this?" Jax asked.

"I'm not sure," Raiden said, "But we must be ready to fight when the time comes."

"I knew this was too good to be true." Sonya said under her breath.

Raiden carried on. "Liu Kang has gone to Edenia to inform Kitana and Sindel. I will go to the Elder Gods and seek the answers to my questions. Until then, I want you all to be careful and stay here in Earthrealm."

Everyone nodded. There was no sense in arguing with the thunder god. Raiden teleported to the temple of the Elder Gods while everyone tried to devise a plan to fight against the army's of Shao Kahn.

"Shao Kahn's army is going to have the strongest warriors and the best generals."

Kenshi said. "We'll just have to stick together and fight them the best we can."

"I hope Raiden finds out what's really going on." Sonya said.

"Don't worry, he will." Johnny said as he put his hand over hers.

Edenia

Liu Kang stepped out of the Edenian portal. It was beautiful. In fact, it looked a lot like Earthrealm.

The sky was blue with no clouds in sight, the sun was shining brightly, and children were playing in the villages. Waterfalls could be seen in the distance. Lui walked through the forest towards the palace. There were flowers and trees all over. Up further was a waterfall to his right that flowed into the river. Near it sat a small pond. The sun sparkled off the water which was crystal clear. He continued to walk as people smiled at him. 'Good to see you again Lui' one villager said.

"Hello Liu Kang. It's so good to see you again." One man said.

"It's good to see you too." Liu replied.

"Off to see the princess again?" The man asked.

"Of course I am."

The man smiled. "Well then I won't keep you any longer. Goodbye."

"Goodbye." Liu replied.

He continued to walk until he reached the palace.

"Who goes there?"

It came form one of the guards. He pointed his weapon at Liu Kang.

"I don't recognize you. Identify yourself stranger!"

"Do not be alarmed. I mean you no harm. My name is Liu Kang. I've com from Earthrealm."

The guard's eye widened with shock. "Liu Kang! Forgive me; I was merely doing my duty."

"Don't worry," Liu said. "It's quite understandable."

"What brings you here?" The guard asked.

"I've come here to see princess Kitana."

"Oh. Then go on right ahead." The guards stepped aside so Liu Kang could pass.

"Thank you," He said as he passed the guard.

He walked down the stone path where the guards opened the doors to the palace. He walked in and saw queen Sindel sitting in a chair.

"Hello Liu Kang. We weren't expecting you." She said.

Liu smiled. "I know. Is Kitana here?"

"Yes she is. She should be out on the balcony."

Liu Kang bowed. "Thank you."

Sindel smiled as she watched Lui Kang head off to find the princess. 'I'm glad Kitana found someone she can be happy with.' She thought.

Liu headed up the stairs and searched the hallways until he found the balcony where he found Kitana starring off into the distance.

"Hello Kitana." He said, smiling.

Kitana turned around. Her confused expression turned into a smile at the site of him.

"Liu Kang." She said as she walked over to him, embracing him.

They broke apart and Liu took both her hands into his.

"What brings you to Edenia?" She asked, still beaming at him.

"I'm afraid I've got some bad news."

"What is it" She asked as her smile was replaced with a look of concern.

"Raiden says he's seen Shang Tsung and Quan Chi building an army for Shao Kahn."

"This isn't good. Does Raiden know when they plan to strike?"

Liu shook his head. "He doesn't, but he thinks one of the armies targets will be Earthrealm."

Kitana looked off to the distance. "Maybe not just Earthrealm, but Edenia and the other realms are also at risk. It's so beautiful here. It's hard to believe Edenia was once apart of Outworld. Oh, Lui, I don't want to lose my home again."

Liu gently turned Kitana's head so that his eyes met hers.

"You won't. I swear I'll do everything I can to protect you, your mother, and your home."

Kitana smiled. "Thank you, but you won't be able to always. You know sometimes I worry about you."

Liu chuckled. "No need to worry about me. I'll be fine no matter what happens."

He wrapped his arms around her and held her. "Unfortunately I must be going. I've got to go back to Earthrealm and do my best to prepare."

Kitana looked up and nodded. "I'm saddened to see you go, but it's or the best. I just wish you could have visited longer."

"So do I, but the next time I come to see you I'll stay longer."

Liu Kang leaned his head forward and kissed Kitana on the cheek.

"I promise." He said.

With that, he turned around and left. She starred at the door for a few moments before looking out at Edenia. She could see Lui running towards the portal, and in a flash, he was gone. Sensing that something might've been wrong, Sindel walked up towards the balcony. She stood beside her daughter.

"He couldn't stay long this time, could he?" Sindel asked

"No. He had to go attend to an important matter."

Kitana turned to her mother. She had a saddened look upon her face.

"Kitana, what did he say?"

"He told me he came here to tell me that Raiden has seen Shang Tsung and Quan Chi building an army. He suspects it's for Shao Kahn."

Sindel gasped. She wasn't expecting something like this to happen so sudden.

"Does Raiden know where he plans to attack?"

"He thinks he plans to invade Earthrealm, but that may not be all he's after."

Tears started to well up in the princess's eyes. "Mother, I fear for us all."

Sindel pulled her close. "I know sweat heart, I do too, but we must do out best to prepare. We must call a meeting and discuss this thoroughly. I know it doesn't sound like much of a plan, but it's the only thing we can do."

Kitana nodded as tears started to trickle down her cheeks. She hoped that Lui Kang had a plan for the invasion as well.

"You're right," Kitana said. "There isn't much more we can do but pray that Shao Kahn's armies don't attack Edenia."

Kitana wiped the tears from her face and tried to force a slight smile, but Sindel saw right through it.

"Just do your best to try and relax. Don't stress yourself out." She said.

"I won't." Kitana replied.

Sindel smiled as she gestured for her daughter to go ahead of her. 'We can only hope Edenia won't have to face the wrath of Shao Kahn's armies' she thought.