A/N: How's everyone? This story is coming along nicely, I feel. But we're going to change it up a little. You'll understand when the chapter officially begins — currently listening to Nita by John Coltrane.

Day 1 of the Second MK Tournament: 2:45 P.M; Outworld.

Mai's (Mai!?) POV:

I never wanted Benjamin or Callie Ann to walk down this dangerous path. Call me a corny mother, but I only wanted the best for my children. While I expected a few hurdles on the track, Joseph and myself being found guilty of treason due to what I later learned was planted evidence might as well have been a concrete wall. We both should have known better. Now because of that disgusting brat of an heir to the Dacarthi Family, my marriage is over, forcing me to go into hiding, and our kids fleeing Edenia. You can understand my overflowing joy and happiness when Benjamin forgave me for disappearing and reappearing out of the blue. I would cry, but after my eyes' impression of a waterfall, I'm dried up.

Benjamin, my firstborn child.

Seeing him again fills my heart with so much joy. He has grown to be quite the handsome young man, and his skill in Necromancy is astounding even if being a Maddox gives him a natural born talent for magic. From what I've seen, he has become a doctor like me, but I've never seen him so agitated before. I will say the fact that he has to deal with Shao Kahn and this bounty is more than enough to justify his anger. However, I feel as though there's another factor contributing to his agitation. I decide to confront him on the subject, to see if I can calm him down and find the underlying cause of his stress.

"Benjamin…" I start, my hand gently landing on his shoulder.

He stops and turns around. "Is something wrong, Mother? Am I moving too fast?"

How my son can change moods so swiftly is something he most definitely gained from his father.

I shake my head at the barrage of questions. "I should be asking you that question, Benjamin. Ever since we left the Edenian sector, you've displayed a rather angry and uncouth expression." My palm holds his face, both eyes scanning his own. "Is everything ok? Is there a reason as to why you look so outraged?"

It may not have been more than an hour since we reunited, but I refuse to let my son continue this way. I haven't expressed motherly care in my tone for quite some time, hence why it was needed now. Both my children need me more than ever.

"Is it not enough to say that my home is being unjustly targeted for an invasion although we've followed the rules to a T?" Benny inquired rhetorically.

Despite his bitterness, I refused to concede that answer. "Benjamin; the look on your face is an ill traveled companion for the reason you have just told me. Sorrow is all in your expression. I know this matter doesn't concern your sister because I know you would be even more furious if that were the case as opposed to being saddened." I remove my hand, keeping a stern stare, both hands on my hips. "Now, answer me with complete honesty. I would hate to have to use a truth spell on you."

Knowing we wouldn't leave the area until I received a proper response, Benjamin defeatedly sighed, his head down. "Fair enough. I may have done some foolish things since I came here, which is unlike me in any circumstance. Because of my actions, I may have placed some people I'm growing close to in danger." Benjamin then locks his eyes back with mine. "I want to get to the palace to prevent a bigger disaster from already brewing."

Worry was eating away at my son, the tone and pitch in his voice proof of that, which was concerning to me. My son has quite the altruistic state of mind. I rub Benny's back softly, attempting to comfort him.

"See? Was that so hard? I understand your reasoning, but despite how powerful we are in tandem, we can't just up and march into the palace boldly. Here in Outworld, our powers are restricted unless born here; Netherrealm training or not. I'm afraid that saving your friends will have to wait until we come up with an adequate plan of action." I iterate. "Now, that can't be so difficult for us since I'm an Illusionist and you're a Warlock. Our magic restores at a much slower rate here, but not completely halted. I'm sure we can come up with a feasible plan."

My son's nod met my reassurance as we start thinking about how to infiltrate the palace while involving few soldiers as possible due to the bounty placed on Benjamin. Oh, how I wish I can get my hands on the man who came up with that idea so that I may give him the smiting he deserves. I had an idea, but before voicing it, another unknown voice shattered the enjoyed silence.

"Benjamin? It's you!"

We both look up to see a woman wearing a combination of black and red, a rather oddly designed sword on her back. On top of her black midnight hair were strands of white in her left bang. She ran up to hug my son with such aggression; they almost tipped over. He hugged her back, so I'm assuming she's one of his friends. They separated, and the woman spoke again.

"When Kenshi and I arrived, we noticed neither you and Callie Ann were with us and expected the worst," she told him, lightly heaving after running full speed. "But it's good to see you're unharmed."

I clear my throat to gain their attention. "Care to introduce me to your friend, Benjamin?"

"Oh, sorry," Benjamin uttered before stepping aside before introducing us. "Mother, this is Sareena, a demoness from the Netherrealm. Sareena, meet my mother, Mai."

Sareena, eh? Quite an exotic name from my standpoint. I wonder how these two met. Ah, of course. Okada must have brought them together.

"Benjamin," Sareena started, not quite expecting to see me. "I thought your mother was dead?"

"Far from the truth, my dear," I started. "Benji himself was in the dark about my supposed fate. Truthfully, I faked my death and fled Edenia with both my children in tow." A small graces my mouth as I extend a hand. "It's nice to meet you, Sareena."

We shook hands, allowing me to get a better look at her features. For being a citizen from the Netherrealm, she was quite alluring in a demonic sense. "You are quite lovely."

Sareena seemed taken aback from my compliment, probably never called that before. "Oh, thank you, Mrs. Maddox."

Wow, a demoness with manners? I thought I'd seen it all.

"Please, you may call me Mai," I tell her with a smile. "Are you romantically involved with my son? You two do look cute together."

What I didn't expect was for their faces to become redder than the Edenian sunset, Benjamin's especially. I realize my blunder and gasp while covering my mouth.

"Oh, dear! I didn't mean to embarrass you both!" Truly I didn't. "My sincerest apologies."

I bow deeply to reinforce my apology; talk about making wrong assumptions. Sareena's blush went away, but Benji's took a little longer to disappear. Oh my, call it a mother's intuition but I think my son has eyes for someone. Whether it's Sareena or someone else, I can tell he has fallen hard. I make a mental note not to bring it up. Dear me, we haven't been together for even an hour, and I've already brought a lifetime's amount of embarrassment on him. I guess that I can't help myself, being his mother.

"It's fine, Ms. Mai," spoke Sareena, a giggle following afterward. "I did come on strong, did I?"

I was no fool. I detected a hint of sadness in Sareena's laugh. What I have I done? I'll pretend like I never learned this. Forget it; I can't.

"We can put that conversation on hold," I say to get us back focused. "I have a plan on how to infiltrate the palace." My attention turns to Benjamin. "You can summon portals, can you not?"

My son nods. "I can, but I wonder if it's draining to do so here in Outworld."

"It shouldn't if you trained in the Netherrealm; hell is more draining than Outworld when it comes to magic," Sareena answered.

"That's that then," I interject. "You will summon a portal to allow Sareena and I to infiltrate the palace that way."

"Why not come with you?" Benji questioned.

I immediately vetoed that decision. "Because of the bounty for your capture. If you get into a fight in the palace and lose, we may lose you forever, and I don't want to lose my son after just reconciling with him." Benjamin was ready to argue, but I cut him off before he got the chance. "Listen to your mother, Benny. I know you're capable, but trust in the one who brought you into this world." I command sternly, so much so that both him and Sareena gulp audibly.

He finally nods in acceptance. "Yes, mom."

"Splendid. We'll execute this plan when we arrive at the Living Forest, which isn't too far from here. Follow me." I say.

The three of us start walking towards the Living Forest; Benjamin and Sareena walking beside me. Throughout the travel, I noticed both of them were unusually quiet; stemming from my mention if they were a couple. Gods, I hope they don't think differently about each other after my blunder. When we arrive at our destination, a tree stops us.

"What are the odds? First, I see the General, and now I see the good ole Doctor," the tree spoke as I assumed he was talking to my son.

Benjamin raised an eyebrow. "What are you talking about?"

"Doctor Maddox, It may not look like it because I'm a tree, but I was a Freedom Fighter about 10,000 years ago. I just saw General Maddox no more than a half hour ago."

Of course, my son is a tough person to convince. "Sorry, but I don't believe you."

"Wait," I intervened. "Allow me to test the validity of this tree's words."

I make a fist, my hand engrossed in a profound blue aura. I pass my open palm over the tree, and it revealed a man in a Freedom Fighters uniform, confirming his validity.

"He's telling the truth, Benjamin," I reassured.

"Thank you. Dr. Maddox, I wish to apologize for how the Freedom Fighters treated you after you took up Necromancy. We should've never judged you from face value after bettering the Freedom Fighters alongside your sister. We were fools to let you and General Maddox leave Edenia all those millennia ago." He poured out. Benjamin sighed as he looked down.

"Water under the bridge. Believe me when I say that I normally don't hold grudges. It wasn't your fault. Jerrod, as snakelike as he was, had the charisma of a cult leader. His speeches alone breed believers. Besides the fact that you're a tree serves as your karma coming back to bite you. You've already endured this punishment, so it would be unbelievably pointless to continue despising what you can't change. I forgive you, soldier," Benjamin answered. "Besides, Cal probably worked you all so hard after you turned your back on me. I've had reports where she worked some of the soldiers so hard; they died from exhaustion."

That sounds like my daughter, no doubt. She's always fickle when it came to trusting others, and betraying her trust practically meant she believed you dead to her. He bows to the former soldier, but before he can get another word out, a masculine voice cuts him off.

"You are not originally of Earthrealm, Doctor?"

Two men revealed themselves out of the shadows, one in a light blue gi and mask, the other in similar attire but all black. These must be the feared Lin Kuei ninjas.

"Sub-Zero?" Benjamin was bewildered at sight. "I thought Scorpion killed you."

"No, it's Tundra; Bi-Han's younger brother," the man in blue responded.

Benjamin's face then had an expression of understanding. "I see. What brings you here to Outworld? I don't recall Raiden asking the Lin Kuei for assistance considering that Sektor and Cyrax were contracted to kill Earthrealmers at the last tournament; myself being one of the targets."

"To avenge my brother's death," Tundra replied. "I wish to fight Scorpion so that Bi-Han may rest in peace. My comrade Smoke agreed to tag along, and I changed my identity as to draw him out." He began approaching my son. "But is what I hear true, Doctor? You are not of Earthrealm descent?" He explained before asking.

Benjamin nodded. "That's correct. My sister and I hail from Edenia, and I'm over 20,000 years old. Does that conflict with our mutual respect, Kuai Liang?"

Sub-Zero was quick to shake his head. "Not at all. That explains your vast amount of knowledge and wisdom. It all makes sense in hindsight."

"But we have come to Outworld for another reason," the one named Smoke interjected. "The Cyber Initiative. Our Grandmaster has done the unthinkable. Most of our clan has fallen to this new practice. Sub-Zero, myself and Cyrax are the only ones who haven't undergone this horrific transformation yet. However, Cyrax is exempted due to his ties with the Special Forces, thanks to General Maddox."

I couldn't believe what I was hearing. What human would do that to another human, particularly their students? No reason justifies taking someone's soul and making them into a heartless killing machine! And the fact that they would send an assassin to attempt to murder my child despite everything he has done to ensure the safety of his new home! Utter blasphemy!

"Now that we're on the subject of Sektor, do you know of his contract to kill me?" Benjamin queried. "It has bothered me for years now."

They both nod to show they were aware of the Lin Kuei's complicity. "We do not know who, unfortunately. The man who gave Sektor the contract is someone we've never conversed with before. Our apologies, we would help you if possible."

Benjamin let the issue go. "No need, I appreciate you being honest." He then eyes myself and Sareena. "Well mother, Sareena; I think it's time we execute our plan of infiltration."

I nod. "I believe now is a good time." Being the mother I was, I hugged my eldest and whispered, "Be careful, child. I would be devastated if I lost you again."

"The feeling's mutual mother," Benji said before locking eyes with his friend. "Protect my mother to the best of your ability, Sareena. You stay safe as well."

Sareena accepted her given task. "I promise, Benjamin."

Benji makes the necessary motions and a portal opens, allowing myself and Sareena to step through. We wind up in a dark room, almost no light visible to the naked eye before the portal closes behind us. The transfer was a success judging by our surroundings.

"Wonderful, we're in." I murmur, only Sareena able to hear my voice.

We begin our trek of going deeper into the structure, cautious of bringing any unnecessary attention to our being here. As I mentioned earlier, we must make haste to gather any information about this new tournament as well as halt any thoughts of merging more realms to Outworld. I've already witnessed Edenia's fall to this tyrant. It shall not happen again.

Sareena made sure to stay close to me without making contact as we made our way to the first floor when all of a sudden, voices sounded, angry voices at that. Whomever it was didn't seem happy in the slightest, as if they were ready to begin a physical battle.

"Hold, Sareena," I quietly request.

She complies without argument as I make quick hand motions to place us near the location of where the disagreement was taking place. I used an invisibility spell, barring us both from being seen by a naked eye, even from a well-versed sorcerer — illusion magic at its finest. I silently motion for Sareena to stay close, standing right outside a rather elegant looking door. I gently push the door open as to not let it creak but affording us a good view inside.

To my shock and surprise, it's Edenia's former royalty in the flesh.

Neither Jade or Kitana have changed much since the last time I saw either young lady, though they were both mere children at the time. However, puberty has done wonders for them both, each possessing a body any man would die to lay with at night. My, just viewing Jade's facial structure and anatomy brought back memories of a dear friend of mine.

Destiny, Jade's mother.

Oh, how I miss her even now. Jade reminds me so much of Destiny due to her looks, mannerisms, courage, and loyalty. She also possesses warrior qualities from her late father as well, a brave Lieutenant in our battalion. Gods, I wish I could remember the cause of my friend's death. Jade herself does not know the truth behind her mother's murder. Yes, Destiny was murdered by one of our own, but their identity remained a mystery.

It sounded like Jade and Kitana were not in agreement, fiercely from what I could detect in their tone and speech. With my head, I instruct Sareena to follow me as to get a better vantage point, a heated argument brewing into something ugly.

"I just don't know what you see in him, Jade!" Kitana shouted. "He's an enemy, let alone a disgusting Warlock!"

"He's Edenian like us, Kitana!" Jade retaliated. "I wish I could say the same about that monk, Liu Kang."

Do they disagree with each other over Benjamin? Well, can't say I'm surprised at that, but I then realize the redundancy of my question since my little boy is the only living male Edenian as far as I know.

Kitana knew Jade caught the lie, eyes straying away from her friend. "I don't know what you're talking about."

The Princess' denial wasn't fooling Jade; she saw right through the failed attempt. "Do not play me for a fool, Kitana. I've seen you give Liu Kang that stare as if you were a deer in headlights." She then stunned myself and Sareena by exploding. "I thought you would be happy for me; instead, you choose to be bitter!"

That outburst startled Kitana, which made her back away a few feet. "But... he's taking you away from me. I'm your best friend, your sister." Kitana carefully approached. "Ever since the Doctor appeared, you have become beyond smitten. It's as if you've become another person!"

Though I understand why Kitana may feel that way of having a sister-like figure in Jade not spending much time with her, that doesn't excuse any of her actions. However, that wasn't what grabbed my attention. So, Jade has become enamored with my son. From the corner of my eye, I saw Sareena intrigued, yet somewhat troubled by this development. It looks as though my earlier assumptions are right after all; Sareena also fancies Benji. My, I didn't fathom my son was quite the ladies' man. I would laugh, but doing so would blow our cover, so I kept quiet, watching their argument grow even more heated.

"Benjamin has been nothing but a pure gentleman to me, more than any other man I've come across; your father included." Jade retorted, her emerald eyes burning in disdain.

Kitana no doubt became furious; I assume due to Jade openly insulting her father (well, adopted father) and herself. What happened next hit my soul harder than when I was forced to abandon my children.

Without even thinking, Kitana quickly raised her hand and struck Jade across the face with an open palm, the blow knocking my friend's daughter to the ground. My eyes, along with Sareena's widened at the deplorable act. How I wish I didn't care for the consequences of facing Shao Kahn right now as I would've beaten Kitana to the point of death. There was no need for her to assault her only friend in this godforsaken realm. It was only afterward hat Kitana realized what she had done, her face falling with apparent guilt.

The look of shock on Jade's face told the entire story as she shakily rose from the floor, tears threatening to fall. "Why, Kitana? Why can't you ever be happy for me for once!? I've been your friend, hell your sister, since we were children and you were always the favorite, having eyes all on you!" She stood upright, rubbing her face. "I've been loyal to you and your family for as long as I can remember, a constant pillar of loyalty! And now, the one time I meet someone who may have feelings for me, you repeatedly attempt to kill my motivation and positivity towards him instead of being supportive!" Jade dangerously closed the gap between them. "Is my happiness so vile that you would try so hard to destroy it!?"

Jade's anger was rightfully justified. Sitting here at the door, I could not believe what has taken place. It pains me to say this, but Sindel's daughter is beyond shallow, a direct correlation to her childhood courtesy of Shao Kahn. If I remember correctly, Jade is the older woman as Destiny bore Jade first before Sindel conceived Kitana.

"No, it-" Kitana started.

She wouldn't finish as Jade harshly interrupted her, spit landing on Kitana's. "But what, Kitana!? What reason could you possibly have for depriving me of true happiness!?"

I'm glad Jade is standing up for herself and what she truly believes in. It gives my soul nourishment to see my late friend's daughter so full of passion and devotion. Her entire family was like that, always defending Edenia to the best of their abilities. So much of Destiny resides within Jade. It will be beneficial to connect with her somehow.

Kitana then took an unexpected dark route. "You see what that Warlock is doing to us, Jade? He's prying us apart," she softly said while trying to grasp Jade's shoulders.

As expected, Jade pushed her hands away before pulling out an odd looking boomerang with blades, aiming for Kitana's throat. "His name is Benjamin." Her words came out in a growl. "I can't believe after everything we've been through, what I've done for you…"

Sareena thought about intervening, but I was able to stop her from exposing our cover. She shares my thoughts of not letting them attack each other. However, we can't risk letting them know of our presence, that would put ourselves and my babies in danger.

Reluctantly, Jade sheathed her weapon away, eyes conveying sadness, animosity, and betrayal. "Safe to say that our friendship meant nothing to you." She turned her back to the exit way. "Since you can't support my decision, I'd rather die than to continue serving a spoiled child and her malevolent father." Jade craned her neck, seeing Kitana on the verge of breaking down. "Goodbye, Kitana."

Jade then exited the room, Sareena and I moving out of the way just as she pushed the entryway open, Kitana crying almost nonstop on her bed. Part of me wanted to feel some empathy for her. However, I will not condone the way Kitana confronted her so-called sister. Shao Kahn has irrevocably corrupted her mind, to which I'm unsure if there's anything left to repair.

After all this, I made it a mission to comfort Jade; I owe it to Destiny.

I turn to Sareena. "Thank you for coming with me, but I must follow Jade to speak in private. Leave this place and find refuge. We're on the first floor so as long as no one makes contact with you, the invisibility spell won't wear off."

Sareena nods. "Ok, best of luck, Ms. Mai."

"Godspeed, Sareena," I replied before kissing her forehead for confidence, something the girl needed.

She retreats from our shared spot before heading for the exit, leaving me to look for Jade. I searched a majority of the palace before realizing she was no longer present within the structure. There's only one other place where she could've run off.

It didn't take me long to find Jade aimlessly walking the beach shores, still saddened about her contentious argument with Kitana. Her spirited attitude now displayed uncertainty, sorrow, and heartbreak. Seeing Jade in this manner was disheartening for me, but maybe a small intervention on my part will help rediscover her confidence.

Finally reaching the shore, I made sure Jade was by her lonesome as I made my move, quickly grabbing Jade by the skull before she had a chance to reach for either of her weapons, her mind clouded by my illusion.

"When I let go, you will fall into a deep slumber," I commanded in a divine tone.

Jade struggled vainly against my power, but put up higher resistance than any person who has fallen to my magic. Eventually, she began to waver and ultimately lost consciousness. I made sure to cradle her body safely before summoning a Nexus portal, taking us both to my hidden domain. Once inside, I break the invisibility spell to reveal myself when Jade awakens. I created a makeshift bed and placed her on it so she wouldn't be uncomfortable, a chair right on her bedside. Already forty seconds have passed. I patiently wait for the last twenty seconds by studying my guest. When I say Jade resembles her mother, I'm not misleading anyone. Probably the only difference was that Destiny's daughter possessed more curves in all the right places. Any man will be lucky to have her as a wife; I'm hopeful Benjamin wins that honor.

The minute expires, and right on cue, Jade groggily awakes as her vibrant green eyes lay upon me, which made me smile. "Welcome, Jade," I greeted.

Hastily, Jade shot out of her bed, retrieving her staff. "Who are you? And where have you taken me?"

Calmly, I stand from my chair but kept a respectable distance. "Relax, child. I'm no enemy of yours. As you can see, we are in the Nexus. No one will bother us while in this dimension."

"Why have you brought me here?" Jade demanded.

"For a simple chat, my dear," I extend my olive branch. "My, you mirror your mother in every conceivable way."

The response perplexed Jade, her mother not mentioned in ages, not even in her mind. "You... knew my mother?"

I nod, sitting on the bed before patting the space next to me. As expected, Jade was hesitant to take a seat, however, did so while skeptical of my intentions. Can't say I blame her for being guarded.

"Your mother and I go way back when we were young women like you and Kitana are now," I begin explaining. "Destiny was such a free spirit with a penchant for brightening everyone's day, truly a joy to be around all those years ago."

Jade then guessed, "Then... that means you're Edenian."

Another smile graces me. "Correct. And to answer your earlier question, my name is Mai; but you'll come to know me as Benjamin and Callie Ann's mother."

Her reaction was what I anticipated; Jade's eyes wide at my admission. I can tell she has a lot of questions to ask pertaining to her affection for my son and undoubtedly about her mother, all of which I'll gladly answer. However, there was the elephant in the room that needed to be addressed.

"I overheard your altercation with Shao Kahn's ward, pity she doesn't accept the idea of you and my son together," I point out, my eyes never straying from Jade's. "In no way am I questioning your motives, knowing who your mother is. Tell me, is what you genuinely feel for Benjamin... love?"

Generally speaking, I already deducted what the girl's answer will be. I wanted to hear I from her mouth. If her confrontation with Kitana were a clear indication, I'd say that Jade was willing to do whatever it took to have my son love and care for her.

Much to my surprise, Jade's eyes watered before her hands covered the entirety of her face, sobbing for what happened earlier this evening. Dear, this young girl has gone through a lot, so I did the next best thing and gently wrapped my arm around her shoulder. Jade cried openly into my cheongsam, but I didn't protest against it as she needs support in the worst way.

"There, there. It's ok," I soothingly murmured.

This outpouring of emotion told me all I needed to know about Jade's thoughts on my son. She honestly cares a lot for him, almost more than I imagined. There must have been a dramatic event that brought the two together. My intuition proved right as Jade separated from me, wiping her eyes.

"I do love your son, Mai," Jade began pouring out her feelings. "He touched my heart in such a powerful way. Others, including Kitana, have mocked me for these inklings; even Shang Tsung threatened to make me suffer, or kill me for pursuing your son. Kitana's demeaning comments towards him was the last straw as she finds every opportunity to slander his name in front of me." She looked away. "However, I must beg for your forgiveness after that sorcerer ordered me to track him for an eventual assassination attempt."

Of course, Shang Tsung had the gall to do something like this, using their budding feelings to his advantage by manipulating Jade to carry out his bidding, even dangling her life in the process.

Once again, I lay my palm on Jade's hand for a tender caress. "You need not ask for forgiveness when you've done nothing wrong, child. Your employer used your affection for my son against you, a dirty but effective tactic."

"So you... aren't angry with me?" Jade asked.

"I have no reason to be," I replied. "Benjamin needs someone like you in his life, Jade. I can sense your Edenian kinship is pure, full of abundant energy that must be sought out." Without indecision, I grasp both her hands. "I would like for you to continue pursuing my son. You have my upright support and consent."

My gracious gift caused Jade to smile, no more melancholy in her body language. Destiny, if you're listening to me now, you should be very proud of the daughter you and your husband raised. I hope that she and Benjamin can navigate through this rugged terrain and not only save Earthrealm but restore Edenia to its rightful glory. And to add to that; I always wanted a daughter-in-law.

I rise off the bed, beckoning Jade to follow. "Come, I assume someone in Shao Kahn's court is searching for you after your eruption against Kitana."

Using my magic, I create another portal transporting us back to our original destination. She follows me as we wind up on the beach, nightfall covering the entire beach, stars littering the dark atmosphere. Jade guardedly scans the area for anyone who might be spying on her. No one was in sight, allowing her to breathe a sigh of relief.

"Many thanks for your compassion, Mrs. Maddox. You've given me the strength needed to weather my emotional storm," Jade showed her gratitude for my assistance.

I smile warmly before giving her one last hug. "It was nothing; anything for Destiny's daughter." It was then I remembered something. "Oh! I almost forgot."

I reach back into a small bag I took from the portal and grabbed a trinket that belonged to my deceased friend, a moss colored necklace consisting of numerous jewels, one shaped like a heart lying in the middle of a golden chain link.

"By the Gods!" Jade gasped when she saw the artifact in my possession. "Is... is that...?"

"This necklace was your mother's. I found it before her callous murder that still haunts me today," I explained before presenting it to its rightful owner. "Here, I believe you should keep it as a reminder of her memory."

Jade graciously accepted it and fastened it around her neck. "Thank you so much. This is the only memento I have left of my family." Her look changed to that of determination. "I won't rest until I find out who killed her."

"I do not doubt you'll deliver justice to whoever is responsible for this heinous crime, Jade," I said.

"Do you happen to know Kitana's mother?" Jade inquired.

My expression darkened at the mention of that woman. "Yes, I knew Sindel quite well. Matter of act, it was I who taught her how to use her voice as a weapon. Nevertheless, she was such a drama queen, trying to make everything about her and always vying to become the center of attention. Sindel lacked respect for her elders, myself included."

After finishing my rant, I prepared for another question from Jade. "Ms. Maddox, how old are you exactly?"

Somehow, I knew that question was coming, a laugh escaping me. "Jade, you do understand it's rude to ask a lady for her age? However, I'll humor you. I'm 72,349 years old, conceiving Benjamin when I was 49,349, my daughter Callie Ann coming afterward precisely a thousand years later on the same day. Their births gave me so much joy. Now, after all those millennia, I finally reunited with my son." I shake my head. "Enough about me, though." My hands grip Jade's shoulders. "Listen to me carefully, Jade. No matter what, you must break away from Shao Kahn. I fear his rage will be directed at you the longer you stay in that palace. Gather whatever belongings you possess and flee."

Sensing my urgency, Jade never hesitated in nodding. "I will. Thank you again, Mai."

With great haste, she takes off like a sprinter towards the palace. I sincerely wish for Jade not to run into Kitana again, or worse, Shang Tsung and Shao Kahn. I couldn't linger here much longer and began heading back to the Living Forest. Not even halfway through the walk, I'm stopped by a woman wearing a skimpy pink outfit and mask that left little to the imagination. Shao Kahn is more of a sick pervert than I give him credit. Bastard.

"May I help you?" I ask rhetorically.

Her response was unveiling her mouth, and I nearly throw up from the sight. A horde of monstrous teeth jagged like daggers grotesquely aligned her mouth.

"You poor thing. Haven't you heard of a dentist?" I inquire scathingly.

She advanced on my position. "I wished for these teeth, fool. My father wanted me to be the perfect daughter, which means equipping me with this glorious mouth to sink my teeth into anyone who opposes him, including you, Mai Maddox, the Edenian Siren!"

My, how long has time elapsed since I heard that moniker? I guess my ego was huge in my younger days. At any rate, I bow as to mock her playful seriousness, to which she didn't take lightly. "And here I am, Outworlder. If you truly know of my history, then why so happy to throw your life away?"

"You must come with me! We're celebrating for my sister! She's going away..." the monstrosity sang.

Here I thought Sheeva was the revolting one. This woman has her beat by a mile. I take my dagger out, prepared to shed blood on this sand. She brandishes twin sais before pouncing right on top of me, her speed unlike anything I've ever seen on the battlefield. I dodge her deathly stab and move to swipe at her abdomen, but she slid under my swing before latching onto my back, ready to drive deep into my spine. The monster wouldn't get the chance as I violently threw her off, launching a vicious kick that landed against her jaw. The force caused her to slide on the sand, losing consciousness along the way.

I merely brush away the dust obtained on my cheongsam before I turn to see four figures approach me. Two of them I remember from before, Sub-Zero and Smoke; the others were foreign to me, one with sunglasses and the other with a straw hat, who stepped forward. I presume he was the leader.

"You fight similarly to Doctor Maddox," he remarked. "Who are you?"

Showing proper respect to a God, I bow. "I'm Mai Maddox, mother of Benjamin and Callie Ann. Raiden, God of Thunder and protector of Earthrealm, correct?"

Raiden's eyes glow blue. "Ah, the Edenian Siren. So, the rumors of your return we're not exaggerated after all."

"It seems my reputation precedes me," I say proudly.

"Hold up, that's the Doc's mom?" the man in sunglasses deducted. "I didn't think she was this foxy!"

My eyes roll in annoyance, though I am flattered that I still look pleasing to some men. "I can hear you, but appreciate the compliment."

Raiden stepped in. "Please don't mind him, Ms. Mai. From what your son disclosed to me, I believed you to be dead."

"I must be more powerful than I thought to conceal my identity from a God by way of a façade," I told him. "In hindsight, I faked my death to flee Edenia with my children. Now, I fight to ensure their future; nothing more."

To my mild surprise, Raiden and his men bow. "You have my gratitude. Whether you intend to assist us, you have helped Earthrealm greatly."

"Your gratitude isn't needed, but accepted, Raiden. I'll continue doing what I can to ensure Earthrealm's victory against Shao Kahn's treachery. His merging of realms must come to an end," I stated.

Raiden then gestures to a large building in the distance. "Please, allow us to lead you to the Kolisseum. The official battles are taking place as we speak."

Slicking my curls back, I answered, "Lead the way."

A/N: A Change of Pace indeed! Mai done hijacked the story! Oh well, next time I'll get a Maddox Sibling to narrate for sure. Did you guys like it? Did you not? Do you want me to write future chapters from Mai again? Let me know with a Review or PM. And while you're at it, check out my Profile and give my other stories a shot. Also, vote on my poll for my Support Story. Alright, I've said enough, I'm gone. Later!

Currently listening to Picasso by Hopsin.