A/N: If you didn't read the latest installment of Eyes of a Musician, then expect me to update this story a lot more. Until at least this Arc is done. This is what I want to focus on for now.
Currently listening to: Scream by Michael & Janet Jackson.
The Realm of Order, 10:00 PM. One Month before the events of MK III take place.
Callie's POV
Well, that's one down. I'm glad Dakini was so forgiving, though I'm unsure her mother will be as merciful. What if JJ doesn't forgive me? What would I do? Walking around the estate will be awkward beyond human comprehension in that case. I gotta find her, if not tonight, then definitely tomorrow.
Luckily, I didn't have to wait for long.
About an hour later, her, Benji, and Dakini were walking back from what I think is Ground Zero. Shit, our 'discussion' and Benji's rage hit that hard? My heart sank at the revelation. I'm terrible for allowing this to happen. Well, I have a chance to at least attempt to mend this shitshow of a relationship.
I cleared my throat to gain their attention. "Sorry if I'm killing the moment. But I must speak to JJ. Alone." I specified.
Benji rubbed JJ's shoulders before kissing her cheek. "I'll make sure Saree's awake when you get back to our tent." He then approached me but kept his voice low out of JJ and Dakini's earshot. "She's still hurt. However, I managed to rectify my mistake of yelling at her. Turns out Shao Kahn was abusing during our time apart. I don't know if you're going to act like a realist, but regardless, be gentle."
"I figured as much. I didn't plan on it, but I'm hurt too, Benji. Unlike her, I have the mental fortitude necessary to not take it to heart. JJ's mental damage is not like mine, so she couldn't have taken it well." I responded.
"A fact I realized after Dakini and I found her. I'll see you in the morning," my brother said as he went back to his hut.
Dakini gave JJ a hug and also kissed her cheek before doing the same with me. "Best of luck, Auntie."
Smiling, I roughed up her hair. "Thanks, kiddo."
We let go of each other as she headed to her hut, leaving JJ and myself alone in the middle of the camp. Slowly, she walked up to me, and while I can barely see her face covered by her hair, I can tell my sister-in-law was indifferent.
"Callie," JJ simply greeted me.
I took a deep breath and responded in kind, the guilt from earlier seeping in like an infected wound. "JJ. Can we head to my hut? I have a lot to say, and I'd rather do so in a place of privacy."
JJ nodded before motioning for my hut. "Lead the way."
Her responses were short and to the point. This is already going south. When we entered my hut, I sat down before running both hands through my hair as I took another deep breath, JJ sitting opposite me. We locked eyes for the first time since our argument, her gaze sharp but soft at the same time.
"I assume you brought me to your hut to apologize?" JJ predicted.
I showed her my palms and picking up on my motion, she placed her palms on top of mine, showing a warm smile as I locked our hands together.
"That obvious, huh? Normally, I would be unapologetic over what I say and do. And it's through this behavior was how I gained many friends and enemies. But I realize now that with you, I shouldn't have acted that way. So I'm asking... no, I'm begging for your forgiveness, JJ. Please." I begged, squeezing her hands softly.
Gods, at this rate, I might start choking up.
"I accept your apology, sister." JJ then tenderly squeezed my hands. "But only if you accept mine."
Say what? "What do you need to apologize for?" I asked.
"I too have been a bad step sibling by mocking your lifestyle and what you've done without properly understanding everything you and Benjamin endured. That on top of pushing you into an argument after you explicitly stated that you didn't want to. I was afraid that you would never accept me..." To my worse fears, tears fell from JJ's eyes. "It nearly confirmed what Tanya gloated to me before I defected."
I pulled her in for a hug, and the waterworks became something fierce. "If I never accepted you, then I wouldn't have even considered letting Benji marry you. It's only recently I realized that we're more similar than I thought. And through this, I saw a younger, altered version of myself, conflict immersed between us. I already came to the conclusion that we wouldn't get along because of this. I'm such an idiot for coming to such a dark conclusion so soon." I backed away before wiping the tears off of her face. "No more tears. You're forgiven."
"If that's the case, sister, then we are both fools. Your claim on us being similar is accurate, however. Perhaps Benjamin saw a part of you in me, and why he initially felt attracted. I guess we're just as bad as the other." JJ claimed.
We shared a small laugh through our breakthrough. I'm glad I ran into JJ tonight as I'm sure we wouldn't have had this moment if I waited until morning.
"JJ, I feel like I should tell you this." I got her attention.
"Tell me what, sister?" JJ asked.
"When Skarlet and I ran into Rain in Outworld, Argus stopped her from killing him and took that rat back to the realm of the Elder Gods. But not before mentioning looking into de-merging Edenia from Outworld," I revealed.
Her eyes widened, a reaction I anticipated. "Are you sure?"
"On my Papa's grave, JJ," I replied.
Though somewhat elated, she held reservation in her eyes, which I wasn't counting on. "But... why tell me this? I was quite certain you never wanted our home realm to return."
"Not entirely false," I start but quickly rephrased my words to voice my indifference. "I'll be candid with you. I'm not sure if I can ever forgive the Edenian people for what they've done to Benji, myself, and our family. Nor will I ever forgive Jerrod for slaughtering our remaining kin. Though I can for Sindel doing her best to clear our names, even that's a stretch because of her involvement in your mother's murder for hire." I softened my eyes, running a thumb over JJ's knuckles. "But if Edenia is ever restored, I'll be honored to show you around, even if it means swallowing my pride and surrounding myself with people I abhor."
"Callie... you don't have to do that. It was-" JJ started.
"No, I do. I guess Kitty was right all along about holding all this hate for so long," I admitted before letting out a defeated sigh. "I'm tired of being angry, JJ, and it's why I couldn't have children in the future Dakini hails from. If that doesn't make you change your ways, I don't know what will."
"She told me this, but I couldn't believe that Dakini's birth triggered our intense distaste for each other." JJ bent her head down. "For that, I'm sorry."
I shook my head. "Don't be, all water under the bridge. Besides, I always knew you and my brother would make beautiful babies."
She blushed. "Th- thank you. Dakini is already asking for another sibling."
"I'm sure you and Benji can discuss that amongst yourselves." I smiled. "But please remember that I want as many nieces and nephews from you and Sareena. Our family needs to grow, don't you think?"
"Truly, sister?" JJ squeezed my hand tighter.
"I mean that sincerely, sister. I always stand by my word," I swore.
JJ teared up again and brought me in for another hug. "Thank you so much, Callie. I will hold you to it only to show that Edenia and her people can and will not only forgive you but will beg for your forgiveness."
By now, the tension lingering in the air had all but dissipated. That honestly felt good to get off my chest. Although not all our problems are solved, we at least found a sense of common ground, which was the best either of us could hope for.
"Would you mind telling me about your parents?" I requested after separating from her. "I don't know anything about the people who raised you. Plus, the fact that Mom and Ms. Destiny were the best of friends is an oddity in itself."
JJ nodded. "Ok. I'll be brief as we should be sleeping soon."
According to my sister, Ms. Destiny was a Sage and wise woman, her mantra known as the Edenian Owl. People traveled across every realm in existence to hear her wisdom. A shame I never had the chance to meet her. She seemed and sounded like a wonderful lady. JJ's dad was a General like me, but I never recalled meeting him, let alone hear about him. He was an enigma to his own daughter. Maybe if Edenia's restored, I can look into his background some more.
Ugh, what am I thinking? Edenia isn't even back, and I'm talking like Argus will actually fulfill his promise.
"Well, I'm relieved we buried our discontent. You should head back. Benji and Sareena must be waiting for you," I claimed.
"I agree, sister. I'm happy that our soured opinions formed into a bonding moment. But I do have two questions to ask of you," Jade told me.
I yawned, suddenly feeling groggy. "Sure, but make it quick. My fatigue is starting to catch up."
"Ok. You may say no to this if you prefer. But please, may I call your brother Benji too? I only wish to have a fraction of the bond you two share, not replace it."
I had a feeling she was going to ask me this. However, her explanation made sense. Perhaps I have been attached to Benji for such a long period that JJ and Saree haven't been able to produce the same effect despite being married.
"Fine, you may call him Benji too, but not where I'm near enough to hear it," I relented. "It's a nickname I still hold dear even if I am giving you permission to use it." I brought my hand up to stifle another yawn. "What's the second and hopefully last question?"
JJ's expression then turned serious. "When Dakini mentioned Queen Sindel surviving in her time, she said you angered by it. Why is that?"
"A tree in the Living Forest happened to be one of my soldiers from when I ran the Freedom Fighters. He told me Sindel took my place when I fled Edenia with Benji. I never liked her much at all since she chose to marry Jerrod, but hearing that information angered me. It pissed me off more when Tanya admitted to murdering Ms. Destiny because Sindel felt insecure in comparison to her. A poor excuse to have someone executed. So yeah, that's what happened."
The mere mention of that harlot's name caused JJ's hands to clench tightly into her palms. It's the trigger word that immediately sets her off. Now people can see why I referred to her as the Goddess of War. Her rage can tear anyone part if she's pushed too far.
Moving forward, I grasped her shoulders. "Easy, JJ. Relax."
She heeded me and eased her posture. "That witch has caused us nothing but pain. If she saw what was happening between us earlier, there's no doubt Tanya would use it against us."
I nodded. "I was thinking the same thing. Don't worry about Tanya. Her time is coming soon enough."
"Agreed, even if it's not by my hand." Jade stood up, and I did the same as we came together for one last hug, not letting go for some time. "Thank you for your honesty, sister. I will leave now. Sleep well, and I will see you in the morning." JJ said her goodbye.
"You too, JJ. Just remember that you'll always be my sister as much as Sareena is. I'll see you bright and early." I tell her.
With that, JJ left my hut. I could care less if I felt more tired than usual. This experience brought me closer than ever to JJ, and I know she feels the same way. Thank the Gods our relationship was salvaged.
I laid down in my bedroll, and sleep takes me from the moment I close my eyes. When I woke the next morning, I learned a lot about the memories of those who had my powers before me, which was quite the revelation.
Jade's POV
My sense of hope has been restored. After conversing with Callie, I finally understood why she acts the way she does. In exchange, I told her whatever she wanted to know about me. It worked out better than I envisioned. Though there's still work for us to do, I'm happy that we're in agreement to never bicker with each other again.
The walk back to my shared tent with Benji and Sareena was quiet, allowing me a chance to sort out my thoughts. I'm unsure of what to expect when this new battle arises. This Darrius character could be far more imposing than Hotaru is letting on. Or he may be nothing more than a nuisance. I'm hoping for the latter.
Sure enough, Benji was standing by the tent's opening with Sareena. I smiled before embracing them both, flattered that they waited for me for who knows how long our emotional conversation went. Stepping back, I gave each of them a fiery kiss. Benji was nearly thrown off by how hard my lips pressed against his, passion apparent in my actions.
"Hello, lovers," I greeted.
"Everything ok now, Jade?" Benjamin asked.
I nodded. "Callie and I were able to sort out our differences. I feel as though we better understand each other and are similar in more ways than one."
Sareena smiled. "We're all glad that you two have mended your relationship."
"Where's Dakini?" I asked.
"Asleep in her tent, as we should be. Tomorrow will be crucial for us, and we need as much sleep as possible," Benjamin said.
I couldn't agree more. All of us were anxious to end this feud so we can return home and resume our life together. Benjamin grabbed both mine and Sareena's hand and guided us inside our tent, the sleeping bag big enough to accommodate three people. He had us lay down first before he insinuated himself between us. However, he shocked me after not lying on his back.
"Why not?" I asked in perplexion.
"No questions. Just turn around," our husband gently instructed.
Doing as I was told, I laid on my side before feeling two arms wrap around my midsection, Benji's mouth hovering over my pulse spot. He softly kissed my neck, a small moan emerging from me.
"You've been through a lot today. Sareena suggested for us to sleep like this tonight to make sure you have a peaceful slumber," Benji explained.
No argument from me as I kissed him slowly, mindful that Dakini was not too far from us, and I didn't want her to get the wrong idea of us making love at this time of night.
Reluctantly, I broke our kiss. "Thank you, husband. And you as well, Sareena. I love you both beyond words."
"You're welcome, Jade," Sareena said before spooning Benjamin. He did the same for me, his hands interlocking across my bare naval.
Everyone relaxed before drifting off to sleep, my husband holding me closer to him. My blank expression turned into a content smile as I snuggled closer to him. No longer did I worry about whether Callie accepted my presence or if we would ever coexist.
The tranquil thoughts eased me to a peaceful sleep.
Dream State:
Where... am I?
I woke up to see that I was lying face-first in what looked to be a grass field. Carefully, I stood up to view my surroundings. Nighttime fell upon this unknown land, stars littering the blackened sky. A spectacular view I might add. Looking down, I'm dressed in my emerald assassin attire, the hood off of my head. (Think MK 11)
"Mama!"
Turning sharply, I found my daughter and husband coming toward me. Dakini had on her usual Nightwolf outfit while Benjamin opted for a clean shirt and pants without his duster. I met them halfway before Dakini hugged my waist, prompting me to return the favor.
"Dakini, what's going on?" I asked.
"We're not sure. I was asleep in my tent one moment. The next thing I knew, I woke up next to Dad out here," she explained.
Strange...
How can it be that we're all in this same area but not within the confines of the camp? Something is amiss here. Benji approached us before kissing my cheek, which made me smile. Despite being confused as to how we arrived here, I feel comfort in knowing our child is unharmed with my husband here as well.
"Are you ok?" he asked me.
We kissed lightly before I broke away. "Better now that you and Dakini are here." I took another view of our current location. "Though I would like to know exactly where we are."
Benjamin closed his eyes. "I can't sense Cal, Sareena, or anyone else nearby. Nor Hotaru or Ryuji."
"What should we do?" Dakini inquired.
I was about to reply before my husband stopped me. "I'm sensing a powerful presence."
I could sense it too. Though not necessarily an Elder God, the power certainly rivaled one. This made me all the more curious yet cautious at the same time.
"We should investigate to see who or what it could be," I suggested.
We began walking toward the strongpoint of the powerful energy being expelled. I remained apprehensive about what we may find. I could tell Dakini was fearful as well. Benjamin and I will ensure nothing happens to her.
After climbing a rather steep hill, we found a few small houses lined up accordingly, as you would see in a typical neighborhood. Though somewhat relieved, we stayed on guard for anything out of the ordinary. It was when we reached the bottom of the hill that I noticed something.
I... remember this place.
Though my memories are a bit clouded, I never forgot what my parents' home looked like. Mother and father chose to live here though they had more than enough money to purchase a luxurious dwelling. They must have agreed to start a life here for me to grow up in a stable environment. I got along with most of the other children and lived a happy childhood.
All that changed one night when a guardsman informed my mother that my father Manuel had perished in an ambush along with over half his army in Outworld's wastelands. Jerrod had miscalculated the positioning of the enemy, proving costly in the end. I can still hear my mother's faint sobs in the living room as Miss Mai did her best to ease the pain. I could not hold my tears in, the harsh reality of my father's death too much to bear.
"Jade?" my husband's voice brought me out of my reverie. "You alright?"
"I'm fine. Just got distracted for a moment," I told a partial truth.
"What is this place?" Dakini questioned.
I looked around before confirming my suspicions. "My... my home as a child."
"That means... we're in Edenia," Benji finished.
"How right you are."
The entity we were searching for appeared out of nowhere, a gust of wind swirling around us while nearly knocking everyone off balance. I held onto Dakini, Benji doing the same for me.
All of a sudden, the turbulent winds stopped, leaving what looked to be a woman concealed in white robes standing before us, her face hidden by an enlarged cloak. Though they seemed peaceful, Benjamin and I weren't going to take any chances. We prepared our weapons in the event we had to defend Dakini.
"No need for violence. I come in peace," the woman gently said. "I see you have found this place as I would've hoped."
Dakini looked confused. "You knew we would come here?"
"Yes, dear child. In fact, it was I who brought you here through your dreams. Your physical bodies remain in Seido as if they never left," she revealed.
Hesitantly, I stepped forward. "Who are you? And why have you brought us here?"
She raised her head slightly, but I was unable to tell who it was due to the low hanging of her hood. "I think you and your husband know exactly who I am."
"You'll have to be more specific," Benjamin told her.
"Why else would I bring my lone daughter back to the place where she had her fondest memories as a small little girl?" the woman asked cryptically.
"Daughter?" I stared in disbelief. "What do you m- It can't be!"
The figure then grabbed the cloak and took it off her head, and I nearly passed out in shock at who it was. She had the same colored ebony hair as Dakini and me with white sprinkled in. Yet, she looked as radiant as I could remember, her bright green eyes shining at me.
I gasped, tears threatening to fall at any second. "Mother!?"
She did nothing but smile at me. "Welcome home, Jade. My, have you grown since the last time I laid eyes on you."
Not as soon as my supposed mother said those words, the world around me started to fade, my head spinning until I could not stand on my own. I ended up fainting as Benji caught me just before my body hit the gravel.
"Mama!" Dakini shouted.
"Jade... Jade..." Benjamin shook me to awaken, but to no avail. He then eyed her. "You're... Ms. Destiny? But I thought that-"
She held a hand up to silence him. "Please. I'll answer any questions you may have in my home. Come, you can place my child on my couch while we talk."
Twenty minutes later:
"Mmm..." I moaned in discomfort before my eyes snapped open, jumping to my feet.
"Ah, finally awake." A voice called out to me.
Turning around, I found my husband and daughter sitting at a table, along with the woman claiming to be my mother. But this doesn't make any sense. She's been dead for centuries, and I saw her mauled body with my own eyes.
"I see you're questioning as to whether or not what you see before you is real," she remarked. "Come, child."
Hesitantly, I walked forward with my arms firmly planted to the sides in hopes of retrieving my weaponry. Yet, both my staff and boomerang were taken. Someone must've confiscated them while I was indisposed.
She approached me with a smile, one I always remembered as it beamed with pride and joy. Her withered hand came up to caress my face. It felt warm, nearly hot to the touch.
"Mother... is it really you?" I asked with uncertainty.
"Ah, so you do recognize me," she said before bringing me into her body for a hug. "I do apologize, for I am still deceased. However, it brings me pure elation to see you again in person, my daughter."
The floodgates of my tears erupted as I embraced her for dear life. How is this happening? Surely I'm not hallucinating or anything of the like. Benji and Dakini are silent all the while as I continued crying. Finally, we ended up separating.
"But... how?" were my next words after wiping my face.
"Manuel and I never left your life after our untimely deaths, Jade. The Elder Gods showed high favor in allowing us to remain in the spiritual plane. Our souls descended here because of our commitment to purge Edenia of its taintedness," my mother elaborated.
That made more sense in how we're able to see her spirit. "I've missed you so much. Yours and father's death affected me so negatively."
She nodded. "Unsurprising. Though it seems what I've taught you over the years managed to stick with you in even the most trying of times. One must never lose hope in the face of adversity." Mother then turned to my family. "Never did I ever think that my only child would marry my dear friend's son, not to mention bear my adorable grandchild."
I blushed at that. I'm sure my mother has gotten to know both Benji and Dakini while I was unconscious. However, I hope that she didn't press them for too many questions as I'm prone to do.
"You were right, Mama! We do share the same looks with Grandma Destiny!" Dakini exclaimed.
I couldn't help but smile at her exuberance. We all match each other in everything you could think of. Hair color and length, eye color, and a sense of duty within our chosen occupation.
"That's right, Daki," mother spoke. "While you were asleep, I took the time to know your husband and daughter better. Dakini is easily the child version of you and me. Very energetic, helpful to those less fortunate, and willing to fight for truth. You taught her very well."
"I can't take all the credit, mother." My eyes locked with my husband. "Your teachings, along with Benji, assisted us in raising her."
"Yes, indeed." Mother then held my hands. "With all good things, though, I was deeply concerned for you when Benji told me of his infidelity and your disagreements with his sister."
I instantly frowned. Even now, I still have a hard time stomaching those specific events. Myself, Benjamin, and Sareena agreed to never speak of that incident again. Part of me felt like a fool for giving my heart away so eagerly, only to have it torn apart because of another woman. But I knew deep down I couldn't live with myself if I let Benji go. He was the first man to ever love me for more than just my body, something I'll always be internally grateful for.
Sensing my unease, my mother spoke again. "I'm glad you decided not to let your anger cloud your judgment when he came forward that day. It takes a courageous man to admit his faults. Clearly, your husband is a true gentleman." Her face then hardened. "However, I brought you all here because I have damning news."
Dakini and Benji were at my side. "What is it?" I asked.
"The meeting your father is having with the Elder Gods... it concerns Onaga and his impending return," she said.
We all paled after hearing that name.
"Do you know when and where his resurrection will take place?" Benji interjected. "Maybe we can stop it before he gets a chance to come back."
Mother shook her head. "I wish I did, but not even I can foretell when this malevolent being will return from the grave. All I do know is that when the time comes, you three, along with your friends and allies must be prepared to fight for the realms' survival. He will be aided by two women, one of them an enemy who will immerse herself within your group to gain your trust."
I could tell there was something she wasn't telling us. "There's more, is there?"
She sighed deeply. "Jade, there may be a slight chance that when Onaga does return and raises his army... your father and I... and Benji's ancestors...will be forced to fight for him... as mindless slaves."
"What!?" I screeched.
"I deeply apologize, my daughter." Her emotions were all onhand for us to see. "I would rather be lost for eternity before I ever do that monster's bidding. But the Elder Gods themselves are powerless to prevent certain catastrophe."
"No! I refuse to believe this is your and father's fate!" I yelled.
Mother then held my face in her hands. "That is why you must do this when you return home. Go to Mai and your sister-in-law Callie and ask to be trained in magic. You have untapped potential that needs to be unleashed for any hope in securing the safety and future of the realms."
"But mother..." I began tearing up again. "I don't want to lose you or father again. I don't think I could handle it a second time."
Her palm went to my heart. "As long as you keep your heart open, Jade, Manuel, and I will always be in your heart. Just like the day you were born, you were destined to do great things. And I expect nothing less."
Suddenly, the room around us began to disappear. We saw mother descending upward, possibly meaning that her time to speak with us is over.
"Grandma!" Dakini yelled, tears falling from her.
She gave another smile. "We'll see each other again, my grandchild! I can promise you that! Continue being that shining light in your parents' lives! Go now, and may the Elder Gods watch over you!"
Then, everything went white.
Dakini's POV
So much is happening since I met everyone. Mama, Dad, Nanna, Auntie, Ms. Sareena, and now Grandma Destiny. I thanked the Great Spirit and Lady Phae for granting this to me. As I awoke from my slumber and got dressed, I hear sounds of talking in the distance. That meant I was the last one to wake up.
Putting on my vest and headband, I head outside to find Mama and Dad conversing, and upon seeing me, they motioned for me to join them. I walk over to them.
"Sleep well, child?" Mama asked.
"After what happened while we slept?" I rubbed my eye. "I'm surprised I don't feel immediately fatigued."
My answer was what they were expecting. "So, that did happen. We really conversed with Mother in a combined dream of sorts." Mama then looked at me. "Dakini, do you know of this phenomenon?"
Being Nightwolf allows me to know most of if not all of the supernatural. The training I went through to obtain this skill was torturous, to put it mildly. But the benefits that came with it were a good trade-off.
I nodded. "A superpowered take on Astral Projection. When a mortal being reaches and stays in the Spiritual Plane, they can reach those close to them in a myriad of ways. Astral Projection is one of the ways it can be done."
Mama and Dad nodded in approval with my answer. It was clear as day to see her happy as she got a chance to see her deceased mother after so many years apart. I managed to match her happiness as no one else besides Nanna had seen Grandma Destiny. My only wish was for us to have more time together.
"I'm glad I was there. When you told me Grandma Destiny died a long time ago, I thought I would never meet her," I said aloud.
Smiling, Mama brought me in for a hug. "I can only assume she was just as excited as Ms. Mai was when she first met you. But I do have a question." She then eyed Dad. "It was clear that you two conversed while I was unconscious. What did you talk about?"
"We'll tell you inside the tent," Dad said as he kissed Mama on her cheek before we all headed inside.
Flashback:
I couldn't believe what I was seeing. My other Grandmother, who's been dead for countless millennia, is standing right before us. Mama wasn't lying when she said we shared identical characteristics. Even in her old age, Grandma looks better than women half her age. A slim figure, the same length of hair with white sprinkled in, and a presence that oozed wisdom and compassion. Now I see why she was regarded as one of Edenia's most beautiful people in physical appearance and spiritually.
Acting quickly, Dad carried Mama's body into the house before gently laying her on the couch as Grandma instructed. He held her palm tenderly, concern written over his face. We all knew she merely fainted, but that didn't stop him from being protective. This proves how much he loves her. Dad then went closer to kiss her forehead. To my amazement, Mama didn't stir in her sleep.
"She'll be fine, Benjamin," Grandma Destiny softly said. "My sudden appearance was almost too good to be true in her eyes."
Carefully, I walked up to her. "You're really my other Grandmother?"
She smiled at me before kneeling to my level. "That I am, child." Her eyes roamed over me in silent scrutiny. "Goodness. I'm staring into a near reflection of myself when I was your age."
"Mama said the same thing when she first met me," I replied. "But, I'm not from the current timeline."
"I'm well aware. You hail from a future that is on the brink of destruction. The Great Lady Phae sent you to my daughter's timeline to prevent Armageddon from taking place," Grandma verbally replayed my story. "I'm sure you are getting acquainted with your family and allies, yes?"
I nodded. "Some of my interactions with them are what I expected, others weren't. Mama eyed me critically when Dad introduced us. I almost thought she would attack me." I then held up my necklace. "Until she saw I had on your pendant."
"One of my most cherished possessions." Grandma then sighed. "Before I took my last breaths, I instructed Mai to hold onto that pendant and give it to my daughter when she grew older and matured. Sadly, I truly thought my dear friend had been executed by that fat bastard Jerrod and his cronies. Her family's tragedy more than trumps my own."
"Don't say that," I chided. "They were both unwarranted. I cried so hard learning of your death along with Grandpa Manuel. It was so unfair. Mama was equally devastated when she learned that Tanya was the one responsible for your murder and that Sindel played a small part in it."
"Yes, my little Daki. My heart broke into fragments seeing your mother that way. I wanted to intervene before her battle with my murderer, but I couldn't deny their slated fate, lest I'd be punished for doing so." She glanced at Mama, who was still unconscious. "I feared with my absence that Jade would become distant and withdrawn. Thankfully, her friendship with Kitana had saved her before meeting your father and auntie."
Dad stood up from the couch. "It is an honor to finally meet you, Ms. Destiny."
Grandma dismissively waved her hand. "No need for formalities, Benjamin. Just call me Destiny. I can see why Jade was so enamored with you. Polite, good mannerisms, and very handsome."
To my surprise, Dad blushed out of embarrassment. I don't think I've ever seen that kind of reaction from him. He's customarily composed and not easily flustered by anyone, not even Mama and Ms. Sareena when they're trying to seduce him that is.
"Thank you, Destiny," Dad said.
"How are Mai and your sister doing?" she asked.
"They are both doing fine. Callie and I thought our mother was gone forever. Her return was unforeseen, but neither of us was going to complain," he said.
Grandma nodded. "I feared the worst when I saw from the heavens what took place. Though you were glad to see her again, you were angry at her for not revealing herself sooner. However, she did state her reasons for doing so."
"Which made sense in the grand scheme of things." Dad then went quiet for a moment. "I owe you and your husband an apology."
I was confused. "Why, Dad?"
His look was forlorn as he locked eyes with Grandma. "I'll explain in the kitchen."
After getting situated at the table, Dad went on to explain what happened when he and my mother were in the courting stages. Everything went smoothly despite the tournament going on and Mama's involvement with Shao Kahn, although not by her choice. Thank goodness Dad was able to rescue her before something terrible happened.
But it wasn't all good as I learned for the first time of his infidelity with Ms. Sareena. To be fair, I can see why he would do something like this. For a demoness, she's stunning, and the two grew pretty close before Mama and Dad became serious with each other. This is probably what they refused to talk about during my time, so old wounds wouldn't reopen.
Dad didn't like his look of shame. "And that's the whole story, though I'm sure you saw everything from here."
Grandma sat deathly still in processing this information. I gulped audibly. I understand it was a mistake to fornicate with Ms. Sareena behind Mama's back. Still, Dad was remorseful for committing that deed.
"You have nothing to be sorry for, Benjamin." Grandma's voice broke the silence, reaching out with her hand to grasp his. "Though you made that error, you more than rectified your mistake by marrying Jade. What I wasn't expecting was for you to suggest a joint marriage."
"I wouldn't have even considered that fact if mother didn't bring it up first. There's no doubt I love your daughter more than anything in this universe. She saw past my background as a warlock and still wanted to build a future with me. However, I couldn't just let the time I spent with Sareena go to waste either, seeing as how she lived with us for a while before coming forward with her feelings. I even lied to myself when my uncle Okada tried to compare losing his wife to me letting go of Jade. My retaliation was stating that I would still live a happy life with Sareena if your daughter didn't want anything to do with me after I cheated. Right then, I knew I should've never said those words," Dad went on.
"Because you understood that Jade had such a profound effect on your life and would be devastated if she left," Grandma said afterward.
Dad nodded before turning to me. "If you don't learn anything else from me, always cherish the ones you love. I did a complete disservice toward your mother, but I'm thankful she was willing to forgive my transgression. That's why I love her and you so much."
I hugged him. "And we both love you too, Dad."
"Dakini, I'm sure you have questions about your heritage as an Edenian," Grandma interjected.
"I do. Grandpa Manuel was a General for the Freedom fighters, you were a wise woman, and Mama's a talented fighter in her own right. She said she was willing to teach me all the Edenian arts she knew to better understand my lineage," I said.
She nodded. "Wonderful. That is the first step for you to fully comprehend the great bloodline you originated from. However, there's more for you and Jade to learn. Not from me, though."
"What do you mean?" I asked.
"When you return back to Earthrealm after handling this conflict in Seido, ask your Grandmother Mai. She'll be more than willing to tell you more Edenian lore. Hopefully, more will be unlocked for you to see." Her face hardened. "But promise me that you, your father, and Callie will stop Jade from killing Sindel should she return. I fear if she does, my daughter will forever lose herself to anger and wrath, knowing Sindel and Tanya were responsible for my demise. Hate in the heart will consume you, no matter how noble your intentions are." She eyed Dad. "Jade needs you now more than ever, Benjamin. I have the utmost faith you'll do whatever it takes to protect your family, her especially. Understand?"
"Yes, Destiny," he answered.
"We won't let you down, Grandma!" I exclaimed.
She smiled again. "That's my grandbaby! And I hope not my only one."
"Jade did say there was a small chance she could have twins," Dad mentioned.
"She's correct. I'm a twin as well," Grandma said.
It was at that moment that Mama woke up and joined the conversation.
End Flashback: Benjamin's POV
After explaining everything, I look at Jade, who was still digesting the entire dialogue between us and her mother, mainly my confession of wrongdoing. I know she's told me numerous times that I was forgiven, but even now, I hold a lot of guilt. That's not something to just brush away as if nothing happened.
Jade turned to our daughter. "Give your father and I a moment."
"Yes, Mama," Daki obeyed before walking out.
That left us alone. Sensing my distress, Jade inched closer before sitting in my lap. I chose not to make eye contact. Even after everything we've been through, some days I don't feel like I deserve her love. And I thought to apologize was hard enough.
"Benji, look at me," Jade softly pleaded.
Reluctantly, I stared deeply into her emerald orbs. She didn't seem angry or upset, more so sympathetic as I showed her last night.
"Mother was right. You shouldn't feel this way anymore. I more than forgave you for what happened that day. Besides, we're all married now," Jade said before caressing my face.
I bent my head down. "I know, sweetheart. It's what I said to Okada that's making me feel this way. When we were talking in the Netherrealm, and he tried comparing his wife's death to you leaving me, I said my words in revenge when I shouldn't have. I was a fool for believing I would be just as happy without you."
Before long, I felt a shift in weight as Jade straddled my waist to fully face me. I gazed back into her eyes, realizing she now had an inch or two over me. She held my neck between her hands before leaning down to brush her lips against mine in a feather-light kiss.
"Jade?" I tried to respond.
My Edenian wife silenced me with a slender finger, her hot breath tingling my mouth. "No talking. Just enjoy, husband."
She erased the remaining distance between us before kissing me again. We both inhaled deeply before letting it out with an audible exhale as I brought my palms to rest upon her hips. One of her hands stayed on my shoulder while the other trailed my chest, a finger drawing absent circles in them. I began caressing her sinful body, touching every part of her skin not covered by clothing before massaging the base and arch of her spine, her pleasurable moan my reward. Jade molded herself to against me as she broke the kiss to trail her tongue and mouth along the side of my neck and throat. I held her closer with my arm as the kiss deepened.
Gods, how I wish for this to continue in a more private area.
However, Jade stopped before we could go any further. "Consider that a taste of what's to come, my lover. If you think what Sareena has in mind for you when we return home is good..." She French kissed me again. "You'll love what I have planned for us when it's my turn."
I gave her one of the goofiest grins I could muster. "I'll hold you to it, Jade."
Later:
After Dakini, Jade, and Sareena went to converse with Hotaru and Ryuji, I was left alone. Our passionate time together was helpful and had me yearning for more of Jade's touch and body. Easy to see why I could never resist her wiles.
Thinking of what to do, I left for Cal's hut, seeing as she must have a general idea of what to do next. As I made my way there, she exited, and upon seeing me, she runs up.
"Just the person I was looking for. We need to talk," Cal said.
"About what? Hopefully not about Jade?" I assumed,
Her screwy expression told me I was wrong altogether. "No. It's not about JJ but of my powers. When I went to sleep, I had a surreal dream of all the memories of the Messengers before me."
"What's wrong with that?" I asked, confused about the direction of this conversation.
"Through these memories, I realized that every Messenger before me was a monster or demon of some sort. Vampire, Werewolf, Succubus, Faeries, Pixies. I am the first non-monster to be granted these powers," she explained. "Don't you think that's a little odd?"
"Sure it's odd, Cal. But what are we going to do about it? Messengers are a myth to most Edenians, so I can't tell you about them because I'm clueless. You're better off asking Ilah or someone in the Netherrealm." I admitted.
Cal smiled.
"Oh, shit. I shouldn't have said that." I said defeatedly.
"Well, to the Netherrealm I go. I'm not discussing that with you, I'm telling you. If you want to come, then I'll wait while you tell JJ and Sareena. If not, I'm gonna head out now, so let me know now before I leave," my sister told me.
"Now you're giving me the option? Where was this Cal when she dragged me here?" I asked sarcastically.
"Talking with JJ opened my eyes to a lot of things, Benji," Cal replied. At least that problem worked itself out. "Are you coming with or not?"
I nodded. "Alright. Give me a minute to tell them."
"I'll be here," she said.
I walked off to Ryuji's home, where they were all conversing. I entered, and they all greeted me.
"I won't be here for long," I said as I leaned to whisper into Jade's ear. "Cal and I will be heading to the Netherrealm to let her get a better understanding of her powers as a Messenger.
She pecked my cheek and nodded. "Alright. Be safe. That goes for Callie as well."
Breathing a sigh of relief, I headed back out to meet with Cal. "She let you off?" she asked.
"Do you really have to word it like that?" I asked in retaliation. "But yes, I'm free to go."
I started to motion a portal to Hell, but Cal stopped me. "No need."
Instead, she spawned a Scythe a little taller than her, the blade black in color with small holes in the middle, which I assume was to emulate eyes on each side. The end had a sharp point, suggesting that you can poke, prod, and stab people with it. It's like the Dagger I made for Cal if it morphed and mutated into a Scythe.
"That's the Messenger Scythe, huh? It looks like your Combat Knife." I pointed out.
"That's because each Scythe changes depending on who the Messenger is. I guess my powers somehow tapped into my memories and made my Scythe resemble my Knife." Cal said before shrugging. "No complaints from me."
Two-handedly, she swiped vertically, creating a split that widened into a portal. Her Scythe then disappeared.
"That comes with the memories too?" I inquired.
She nodded. "Yeah, but the other memories I have questions about. Let's not waste any more time."
Cal walked through the portal as I followed. We ended up in what I believed was the Netherrealm Palace. Damn. It's even bigger than the one in Outworld, not that it's saying a lot if you ask me.
"Ah, the Throne Room. Perfect," Cal confirmed.
Before I can respond, I hear another voice as we both turned to the throne. "Messenger, a pleasure to see you as always." The man on the throne greeted her before looking at me. "Who is this, Callie Ann?"
"Duffeck, this is Benjamin, my older brother. Benji, this is Duffeck, Emperor of the Netherrealm," she introduced us.
His expression changed from skepticism to elation. "Truly?"
He rose from his throne before walking down the steps to our position, extending his hand in my direction. "We finally meet, Benjamin. Okada has told me great things about you."
I shook his hand. "He has?" Duffeck nodded after my question. "I'm certainly no one special in the eyes of the Netherrealm Denizens."
"On the contrary. I'd be surprised to not know of a Netherrealm Denizen who doesn't know of Okada's first and sole student," he said.
"I was his first student?" I asked.
"Oh, yes. Okada had never taken an apprentice before you. But you getting properly judged and passing despite only knowing Healing Magic earned the attention of every Sorcerer in the city. Surely he told you of this," Duffeck continued to explain.
"He did, but not me being his first student," I answered honestly.
"Okada always kept personal things to himself. A respectable notion, in all honesty. It's truly a pleasure to meet the first Summoner in ages, especially when it's Okada's prodigy." He then turned to Cal. "So, Messenger. What brings you here?"
"I have some questions about these powers. More specifically, the beings who had them before me. They were all monsters and demons?" Cal asked him.
Duffeck nodded again, his mouth forming a thin line as he retrieved a walking cane. "Let's take a walk. I'll explain everything you wish to know."
He motioned us to follow him as we exited out of the palace. "When the One Being was divided into the realms, it was universally agreed that each realm needed Protectors. The Elder Gods agreed they shouldn't involve themselves in the realms they governed unless things were dire. As you both well know, Raiden was chosen as Protector of Earthrealm. The first Edenian Elder God created the Messenger, which would be its Protector."
"So how did you end up with the power to create Messengers if it was normally an Edenian inclusive spell?" Cal questioned him.
"While the purpose was altruistic at first, his descendant started to realize that the Messenger, with all their power, can be used for personal reasons. Demons and monsters are easily manipulated, so assigning a Messenger no longer became about an Edenian woman's strength and altruism. It became about how strong, cunning, and attractive a Demon or Monster is, and how they can be put on the Edenian Elder God's leash. This would continue all the way until the current Elder God of Edenia, Argus."
"Argus had a hand in this too?" I asked him.
He nodded. "Yes, the previous Messenger before Callie Ann was a Succubus who abused her powers. When they're usefulness was exhausted, he would have them go crazy and dumped them down here. My men were forced to deal with the issue from there. But, the other Elder Gods figured this out. They confronted Argus about it before stripping him of the power to create Messengers, granting it instead to the Elder God of the Netherrealm. Me."
No way.
Cal, and I stopped, which caused Duffeck to stop. "You're the Elder God of Hell?" she asked for confirmation.
"I am, and I appointed Okada as the realm's Protector as well as God of the Damned."
Now that was a shocker!
"Okada's a deity?" I asked him dumbfounded. "Wait, if you're the Elder God of the Netherrealm, then why are you down here as opposed to the realm of the Elder Gods?"
"The first Elder God of the Netherrealm was the only one opposed to having a Protector. He would involve himself with his people directly as there is no downside to doing so. Anyway, I was granted the ability to create Messengers for an actual purpose. I came to a satisfying conclusion. Messengers exist to keep every deity in check. Both Gods and Elder Gods fear the Messenger as they can actually kill deities. But I decided that no monster or demon can be a Messenger after the mess Argus and his predecessors caused. There can be only one Messenger every 10,000 years regardless if they served their time or not."
"So why give me these powers?" Cal asked.
"Because, Callie Ann, you are the most altruistic woman I have ever met. Your sense of justice from what I've seen and heard is unrivaled. Everything you do has a purpose in the sense of the greater good. Therefore, I deemed you worthy of gaining these powers as I know you will use them to preserve peace and prosperity in every realm you step foot in. And you have proven me right thus far. You're currently working to bring peace in Seido, are you not?" He explained.
"How did you-" she began only for Duffeck to cut her off.
"Benjamin is not the only one who has an extended network of informants. But you're already proving that my decision was the correct one. Plus, you two are smart for not placing faith in the Elder Gods. They are out for themselves and should not be trusted. Ironic that the most pure-hearted of them all governs Hell." Duffeck explained, laughing at the last remark. "Ah, it was nice to get out of that palace today. I wish safe travels for you, Callie Ann. And once again, it was nice to finally meet you, Benjamin. Best of luck in purging Seido." Duffeck said as he walked back to the palace.
Cal looked at me and then back to where Duffeck was. "Well, I learned a lot more than I intended."
"Now you know how I felt after I spent a year down here," I replied. "Let's get back to Seido, I don't want Jade to worry."
"I agree. After fixing our relationship, the last thing we need is her throwing a hissy fit." Cal said as she summoned her Scythe to create a portal back to Seido.
When we arrived back, JJ walked up to us. "You're back. Did you learn anything?"
"Oh, did we. Come, I'm heading to a spot Darrius normally frequents for information. I'll explain the whole nine yards on the way." Cal answered as the three of us headed for the center of Seido.
A/N: And that wraps up this Chapter.
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