The Trainer's Estate, China; 12:00 PM: A Day before the Invasion of Earthrealm

Kim's POV

"Those who we saw are the remnants of Shao Kahn's court?" Otou-san asked the forces we can find.

Among us was everyone who had a standoff with Shao Kahn's court. There was also the two-time Champion of Mortal Kombat, Ama and Tsuki-sama's older brothers, Sarge's boyfriend, and the former Princess, who's a turncoat.

Turns out Ben was a-ok despite Sektor's sudden appearance and attack. Ben warped them both to Hell and finished him with help from Ermac. They told Pa and I that Ben and Sarge's Dad leads the rest of the souls that comprise his being into enlightening him.

Now, the entire Maddox family has been reunited.

An entire life of separation only brought together because a tyrant didn't know how to take no for an answer. With Ermac was Ilah, an apparent family friend. No complaints from me; we need all the help we can get.

"Yes. Besides Rain and Baraka, whom you've crippled and killed. Those are the key court members still around; the rest are dead or have defected. Goro, the former champion of Outworld, was killed by Benjamin two and a half years ago. Callie Ann slew Sheeva in the tournament that came after. If I had to make an educated guess, Shao Kahn has lost all faith in the Shokan due to the losses," Princess Kitana said.

"He's given up on them for losing twice over what, 1,000 years?" I asked.

"You'd be surprised, Kimura," Ama-sama's voice responded.

She and Tsuki-sama walked into the Maddox home, Pa and I bow in respect.

"Cease the formalities, you two. We're merely friends and allies of yours now, especially you Xan," Ama-sama added. "But Shao Kahn is as fickle as he is childish. Look at the company he keeps, child. That false God being enough proof, but all of the remaining members are complicit."

Fujin arrived and greeted his sisters. "Amaterasu, Tsukiyomi. It's good to see you. I thought you both perished at the Temple of the Elements."

"We're sorry, Onee-chan, but we had to fake our deaths to investigate the Mayans' disappearance. Plus, you moved to China in the meantime, so we thought you were dead," Tsuki-sama explained. "But with our investigation concluded, we can reveal ourselves once more. The Netherrealm Emperor requested our help in his research on Shao Kahn, so we will be in Naraku. (Hell) The invasion is coming sooner than once thought. If you want a general idea of strategy, gather everyone you think can help you defend Earth. After doing so, have them split up in different parts of the world. Since you have the numbers advantage, it will be difficult for them to take Earth's dominion due to their dwindling numbers."

"Sounds like a plan. Since there are only six court members, they have to think carefully of who they send and where."

"Arguably, it can be either five or seven. I can assume relations between the Shokan and Shao Kahn are less than ideal. That means the Centaurs will take their place as his favorites," Princess Kitana mentioned.

"Meaning Motaro will most likely join the court in Goro and Sheeva's absence," Jade finished. "However, with Xan crippling Rain, we don't know if he will rejoin the battle in time."

"What of Baraka's people?" Otou-san inquired.

"The Tarkatans will most likely join the soldiers, though, without Baraka, they will most likely be frenzied. Unfortunately, you and Shana killing him may have put a gargantuan-sized target on your back."

"I'm not surprised. When I had Baraka on death's door, I insisted he flee to recover. His pride in his people and the Emperor prevented him from doing so. Then you know, Shana ate his heart," Pa replied, Shana barking in agreement. "We'll head back to Japan. If I had to guess, Shao Kahn's forces would most likely start their attack in the forest where Mrs. Maddox and Ms. Ilah met me. If Shao Kahn had even a minuscule brain for strategy, he'd send the remaining Tarkatans there to avenge Baraka. At least I will finish what I started those two weeks ago."

"Ilah and I will travel with you, dear," Mrs. Maddox added. "Having the numbers advantage allows us to increase our groups' size. Seems like the smartest thing to do."

"I'll head back to Special Forces HQ and get my squad updated on the impending invasion. If anything, we'll probably defend America but will try to bring the fight to a more urbanized area, like Manhattan." Sarge put in her two cents.

"There will be no need to go to Japan, Xan. Tsukiyomi and I will go in your and 's stead." Ama-sama pitched in. "You should travel with the Messenger and go to America. You'll be more useful on the frontlines. I have a feeling most of the fighting will be done there."

"Yes, Lady Sun."

"Ben," I called. "Where will you be heading? I have the feeling your family will follow your decision."

"We will most likely stay here in China. If there's space, we'll probably stay at the Wu-Shi Academy," he answered.

"I will travel with you then. I was brought here to help guard Sareena, and I intend on doing it. But I have to return to the Proving Grounds and retrieve something."

"Get what, Kimura?"

"My personal weapon, of course!"

Ben was slightly bewildered. "Wait, you aren't using your preferred weapon?"

I giggled. "Of course not. This Odachi was something I bought while traveling with my troupe. My personal Odachi is at the Proving Grounds, and I couldn't bring it with me as you can only carry a weapon if it's bought there. Otou-san's training taught me how to make the most out of any sword in my grasp. Though being factory-grade, I still make any Odachi resemble anything melded by Otou-san. In reality, I'm surprised it lasted this long. My personal Odachi was modeled after Sasaki Kojiro's personal weapon, the Monohoshizao. The length is the same as this Odachi, but the blade is nowhere near as wide or thick. Therefore, it's much lighter than this one."

"What does Monohoshizao mean?"

"If directly translated, it means Drying Pole. A common translation is Laundry Pole, which is what I call it. In duels, a Laundry Pole is impractical. Sasaki made it work due to having an intimidating aura. Well, that's what Otou-san says." I stood up from the couch. "I'll go get it. I'll be back in a sec."

Ben looked at Dad. "Xan, you knew Sasaki Kojiro?"

Pa nodded. "He and I were good friends. It was Sasaki who put me on to being a father. If it weren't for him, I don't think I would've adopted Kim. Despite being dead when I did adopt her, I made him her Godfather, per his request," Pa said as he took out a cigarette.

"Allow me, Xan." Ama-sama lit his cigarette with her fire before handing him a lighter. "We knew you broke your last one."

"My thanks, Lady Sun. When you return, Kim, we can get the groups underway, yeah?"

"Uh-huh. I won't be long, Otou-san." I bow to everyone before leaving the residence.

Xan's POV

"We will head to Japan right away. We'll reach out to you and Kimura should we require assistance," Amaterasu spoke.

"Knowing Outworld's habit of underestimation, don't expect it. We shall see you later, our Champion," Tsukiyomi said before disappearing.

"Xan." Benjamin approached. "Did you know that Kim wasn't using her own weapon?"

"Of course I did. I made it, so I should know. As stated earlier, Kim is a better Swordsman than me. You thought I was kidding?"

"No, but she lifted Reptile with ease with one hand and then chucked him like a frisbee."

"Would you believe me if I said she wasn't that fast 50 years ago?"

"What?"

"The Odachi she used against Reptile was longer and heavier than her personal one. Even with the intentional handicap, she practically blindsided him with it. Had Kim hit an inch higher, Reptile wouldn't be alive right now. She did this while inebriated." I revealed. "Her cheery and positive outlook is as true and pure as a decapitation. The only thing more true than that is her skill with a blade. As I said, I was content with my daughter's skill when she was 75. I started training her when she was 5. She wasn't content with her skill and insisted that I train her more. By the time she reached 80, she had matched my skill as a Demon Hunter and grew content at 100. I made her Laundry Pole, and she left, eradicating most of the Yokai in Japan's public while I did the same in their forests. If I wasn't an Edgemaster and we dueled, she would best me every time." I explain to them all. "And that, Benjamin, is something I take the utmost pride in."

"But how can you say that so casually?" Jade asked in confusion.

"I don't expect you to understand, Jade, as you've been a mother for barely a month. Even then, it's off a technicality since Dakini came from a doomed future. I raised Kim when she was just a year old. I taught her how to walk, talk, pee, shit, eat, drink, and her skill as a Swordsman. The only thing I didn't teach her was her Kabuki Acting. She did that all on her own. There's no feeling that can ever surpass having your child equal or surpassing you in a similar skill. I noticed that decades ago. The only person who can understand where I'm coming from is Ms. Mai," I explained.

Needless to say, Jade was none too pleased. "I'll stop you right there."

"Jade, don't-" Benjamin tried to calm her.

Her agitated expression silenced him. "I will have my say, husband."

Jade's curt response took everyone by surprise, including myself. Perhaps I pushed too many buttons, not to mention she still may harbor some distaste for me after our initial meeting.

"You have some damn nerve saying I wouldn't understand just because I've only known my child for less than a month. Does that sole fact make you a better parent?"

"I merely was stating that-"

"Didn't think so," she cut me off. "Regardless if Dakini's from the future, does not make us any less to her than what Kim is to you, Xan. We've all have suffered tragedies and none are worse than any other. But for you to stand here and insinuate my lack of time with our daughter lessens my understanding of what it means to be a parent is utter slander that I will not tolerate in my own home."

Well... I suppose I didn't account for this response, neither did anyone else. Dakini was rendered speechless as her mother defended her.

With a simple glare, Jade left the room as Dakini was hot on her tail. "I'll be preparing for departure and checking on Sareena."

Mai turned to Benjamin. "You might want to talk to her, Benji."

"What do you expect me to say?"

"Just to see things from her point of view. Jade does have valid points, even if it came off as territorial." Mai stopped him from saying anything else. "Go. This is not up for debate."

Benjamin simply nodded before following his wife and daughter.

"I do understand," Ms. Mai eyed me. "Seeing Benjamin and Callie Ann as they are now have made me proud beyond personal recognition."

"Agreed," I stated as I puff my cigarette.

Before anyone could respond, Kim returned with her Laundry Pole. "Okay, I'm back. Shall we go?"

"I'll travel with you, Panthera," Nightwolf announced. "The more people on the mainline, the better. Bones and his family have China under control."

"I will go with you as well, beloved," Skarlet mentioned before turning to the Monk. "Will you come as well, Kung Lao?"

"No, I must stay in the Wu-Shi. Shang Tsung will most likely attack China first as he's also from here."

"We will also travel with the Sergeant to see our friend Kenshi," Ermac revealed. "Traveling with her is the fastest way to do so."

"And you know I, as well as your mother and Ms. Ilah, are traveling with you since Amaterasu and Tsukiyomi went to Japan in our stead."

"Alright then. Say your goodbyes as we leave in five," Sergeant Maddox said.

The group scattered to various parts of the Estate. As I sat back down on the couch, Kim sat next to me. "So, Otou-san. This is it."

"So it would seem, Kim. I see you found your Laundry Pole."

"Uh-huh, I knew where it would be." She looked at the concealed Odachi. "Tell me about Manhattan when you come back, okay?"

I hugged her deeply, and she returned it. "Of course. I'll probably have a ton of stories to tell when next I see you."

"Okay. I'm gonna go chat up Sareena. Until next time, Pa." Kim then left.

"You two are close." Kitana's voice resonated as she sat in my daughter's place.

"Raising her for 149 years will do that. Are you ready to battle the man whom you once called father?"

Kitana's resolve was evident in her eyes. "I've never been more ready for anything in my whole life, Edgemaster. So many millennia of lies and deceit. Now I have the chance to pay him back with interest and redeem myself."

"Good. So... you and Liu Kang are an item?" I mentioned her love interest.

She blushed. "Among the residents of the Wu-Shi, he's been the most caring and kind to me. I've grown... quite fond of him."

"That's nice to hear. You two look wonderful together."

"Thank you, Edgemaster. Dr. Maddox has told me of Mileena's sudden infatuation with you. I was not expecting her to be capable of feelings like those, though perverted."

I nodded. "She clearly stated that if Shao Kahn does merge the realms together, I'll be her personal consort. I'm not too thrilled about the concept as her voice is quite unsettling."

"Her voice is the least of her problems. Despite being an adult with teeth like Baraka's, Mileena acts like a child on top of sharing a Tarkatan's primal ferocity. Though with how you handled Rain and Baraka, as well as Shang Tsung, she's a fool to believe she can handle you in a physical confrontation."

"Correct, dear. Mileena has made her feelings for you as clear as glass," Mrs. Maddox inserted herself into the conversation. "I can see why. You are quite the handsome young man, Xan. You do realize this, yes?"

"It'll be hard not to, troubled past or not. Even if Mileena were to be a turncoat, I don't think it would be a good idea to be involved with an adult with a child-like mind and shark teeth," I commented. "At least she was modeled after you, Princess. You are easy on the eyes if you don't mind the compliment."

My comment caused the Princess to blush heavily. "I do not. My thanks, Edgemaster."

Mrs. Maddox looked on as if she caught lightning in a bottle. "Best of luck in Manhattan to the both of you. If things on our end are taken care of, we'll join you."

"Then we'll be seeing you soon, Kitana," Dr. Maddox said with confidence.

Kitana stood, prompting me to do the same. "I think it's time for us to go, Xan."

"Come, Shana. Time to go," I say to my pet as she happily barked before walking up to me.

I turned to the Princess and bowed. "A pleasure as always, Princess."

To my surprise, she returned the favor with joy and confidence. "The pleasure will always be mine, Edgemaster. You should go."

We walked up to the Sergeant who had her group. She, Skarlet, Nightwolf, Ermac, Ms. Ilah, Dr. Maddox, Shana, and myself. "Alright, best of luck to everyone! If your threats have been taken care of, seek us out in Manhattan."

She summoned her Scythe and cut a portal open as we all traveled to New York. When we arrived, it's worse than we realized.

Monsters were everywhere...

Callie's POV

"Crap, they started already!?"

"Kim nearly killing Reptile must've forced his hand. The names in the court are dwindling, so he's trying to blitzkrieg the invasion. If we play the long game, we'll drive them back, but we need to know what we're fighting against," Xan quickly analyzed.

"There's an abandoned cathedral on 40th Street. Clear the path, and we'll meet there! I have to get my team! I'll see you all shortly!" I commanded.

"Yes, dear! Come, everyone!"

"We will headline the defense." Ermac floated into the sky and began kombating the footsoldiers.

"Be careful, Callie Ann. Xan, dear,. We should help Ermac clear a path to the Cathedral. You too, Ilah."

"Yes, Mrs. Maddox."

"We're right behind you, Mai."

The four of them went in the same direction as Ermac. I grabbed my phone and quickly dialed Kenshi.

*RING* *RING*

"Callie? What's wrong?"

"Kenshi, find Cyrax and Jax and meet me at the abandoned Cathedral in Manhattan on 40th Street. The invasion has begun prematurely. Outworld has grown desperate. Voluntold, Voluntold, Voluntold." I repeat.

"Roger wilco, Callie. We'll try and be there within the hour."

Kenshi hung up. Content, I rushed towards the cathedral, making sure my rifles and hidden pistol were loaded before checking on my revolver. I haven't used it once since I constructed it.

I ran into Xan as he was clearing out a bridge full of Tarkatans, allowing me to shoot the last one before walking toward him.

"Frenzied is correct. The second they saw me, they lost all sense of thought. At least that made them easy targets."

"Is everyone else at the cathedral already?"

"The entire city block is overrun with Tarkatans, Centaurs, and Shao Kahn's footsoldiers. They all went ahead since the Tarkatans are only targeting Shana and me. Thinned the herd a little. The same amount of Tarkatans that attacked me here were similar in Japan. By the time the invasion's over, the Tarkatans might go extinct if they keep this up."

We made our way to the cathedral. "That'll be the day," I responded. "Jade went off on you back in China."

"Yes, I had a feeling she had it out for me. No one told you, but I called Sareena out for being an Oni when I first saw her. Naturally, they all became suspicious. Was Jade always this territorial when it came to things she didn't want to hear? Or is this new?"

"Not always, though I'm starting to see a trend with JJ. She acted similarly when I practically dragged Benji to the Realm of Order to ensure our long-time friend was doing okay. Then that spilled over, and we almost came to blows. Thankfully, we fixed the relationship. But she's quick to anger as well as jumping to conclusions, especially when it revolves around Dakini as you've seen multiple times by now. I, for one, completely understand where you're coming from, Xan. In time, she'll get with the program. I know so."

"Thank you, Sergeant. She wouldn't even let me finish. Now Kim's gonna have to pick up my slack."

"Oh, I have no doubt she'll clear everything up. I get the feeling she has a natural talent for peacekeeping."

"She does but can be very logistic in that sense and make people feel terrible with enough ammunition. Let's not worry about your sister-in-law and my child. Let's get to the cathedral," Xan said.

Maneuvered through the streets, we stopped in front of our meeting point. "Is this the place?"

"It is. Let's get inside, and we can discuss the next step of the plan." I instructed as we push the doors open, everyone else already inside.

"Callie Ann, over here." Mom pointed out our location. "We cleared the block swiftly. The footsoldiers are being sent to their deaths by Shao Kahn. Some of them tried to take us with them, but to no avail."

"Shao Kahn's growing that desperate? Losing this many men is not worth one realm."

"Mai is correct, Sergeant," Ermac agreed. "We have peered into a few souls of his men and they were rattled, if not scared. They do not wish to be here. Nightwolf has long since laid their souls to rest."

"Most of his men have families and he's knowingly ruining their lives just to take Mother Earth. I know we will not let this stand, but I think it's wise to let you know of this, Panthera."

What the hell is wrong with him!? He's unknowingly setting himself up to fail!? And for what!? There has to be some higher power controlling him. No one can be this stupid. Before I could voice my opinion on the matter, a knocking commenced on the front doors.

"Door's open!" I yelled.

The entryway opened to reveal what would be the reinforcements. Kenshi, Jax, Cyrax, Johnny... and Sonya.

Oh, boy. I wasn't expecting her to be here. This oughta be good.

"We're here, Callie. They're a lot of corpses in the streets," Kenshi stated as the group moved inside. "Do you have a plan?"

"No, but we're about to discuss that. I'm glad that you're all here. You too, Johnny."

"Making the next blockbuster won't mean anything if Earth merges into Outworld," he said plainly.

Fair point.

"General."

"Sarge."

"Surprised to see you here. Don't you have an army to run?"

"I gave temporary control to Sergeant Michaels. I insisted I come out here and help you."

"Really? Well, I expect you to pull your weight."

"No problem. Anything would be better than my job in Outworld."

"Ain't that the truth. Look, I know I was hard on you, but I only did so because you are much more capable than that."

"I know, Sarge. I should've just followed orders and maybe Jax wouldn't need metal arms."

"Past is in the past, though I'm glad you wished to help the frontline," I reassured. "Kenshi, Jax, Johnny, Sonya. There are some people you need to be introduced to. That's Mai, my mother. With her is Ilah, a friend of my family. The man is Xan, an Edgemaster from Japan and his pet, Shana."

"What's he doing here, Sarge?" Jax pointed a hand at Ermac.

"His soul's been purified, Jax. He's with us now." I answered bluntly.

"How can you be so sure? He fucking maimed me!"

"Yes, Jax. I remember. But you lost your arms after disobeying my orders, so it's your fault as much it's his. Plus, he saved Benji's life in the Netherrealm. We owe him."

"We are sorry, Jackson Briggs. We were still under Shao Kahn's control back then but have embraced the error of our ways. Hopefully, by doing good, we face our penance."

"Okay, but I'm watchin' you."

"Fair enough, Jackson." Ermac accepted before facing Kenshi. "Takahashi Kenshi. It does us joy to see you again, our friend."

"Ermac. It's good to see all is well for the time being. Now that we're all here, let's discuss strategy. Callie?"

Benji's POV

Jade done did it again.

She lashed out against Xan, who challenged her motherhood. Even I know that he didn't mean what Jade thought he meant, and I assumed Dakini thought the same way. I found her in our room with Dakini, knocking on the side twice to catch their attention.

"You okay, dear?" I asked my wife as I sat next to her before intertwining our hands together.

She took a deep breath. "Xan has no respect nor regard for others. First calling Sareena out, now this? And we're supposed to trust his daughter with guarding Sareena? I'm skeptical about this entire situation."

"I understand, but you also have to, Jade. We have been Xan's first contact with people other than Kimura in decades. I feel that 50 years of seclusion made him lose any sense of filter and sympathy for others' feelings. I can nearly guarantee that he meant no ill will in what he said since he told us of his story earlier. And what he told Cal and me back in California."

"Huh? He spoke with you and your sister?"

"Yes. Short version, Xan's grateful that Cal and I help defend Earthrealm though we're not from here. Xan also said that after freeing Earthrealm from Shao Kahn forever, we should let him and Kim handle the rest, stating Cal and I have too much to lose. Since he has little, he's better suited to deal with Earthrealm's problems than we are."

"Yet it's not his decision, nor does he have any business telling you or your sister this."

"I'm not saying it was the wisest thing he said, trust me. However, you have to respect Xan for even sharing something like that with us at all, Jade. He's done no wrong yet, and I'm convinced that he won't."

"Yeah, Mama. I sense no ill will in his soul. Just determination and sadness."

Jade stood quiet after internalizing our reasoning. Just from being around her for as long as I have, there's something more to her building ire. I can harbor an educated guess as to what it is.

"Honey..." I placed a hand on her thigh. "I know there's more to this than what Xan said earlier..."

Another pensive pause occurred, Jade looking straight ahead before closing her eyes. "You should already know."

I sighed. "Tanya..."

She nodded. "And you know how much I abhor that woman; her and Kotal. Those two heathens made my life a living hell while serving Shao Kahn. Seeing them again, and what they threatened to do to our family... is something I cannot take lightly."

Dakini sat closer and put her head on her mother's shoulder. "Mama, we're worried about you."

Jade ran her hand through our daughter's hair. "I know, Daki, and I apologize for making you all worry. But you also have to understand. Like your father and aunt, I lost it all - my mother, father, and Edenia. It's a miracle I'm still sane. If I lost either one of you, I don't know if I could handle it."

"You won't." I refused to even think about that possibility. "We still have our own family to build and a daughter to raise. No way in hell we're letting Shao Kahn get away with this. Besides, this gives me all the more reason to be rid of that buluc so he can leave you alone."

"Right! We got this!" Dakini exclaimed as Jade couldn't help but smile at her enthusiasm.

"See? Come, Jade. We have a home and a soon-to-be mother to defend," I said as we all got up.

Dakini walked ahead of us, allowing me to sneak a kiss from my beautiful wife. Jade smiled and returned the favor. For now, I think she'll be alright, but I wanted to be sure.

"May I make a suggestion for us?"

"Of course, husband," Jade replied.

"I personally think we should receive counseling."

She glanced at me. "You believe so?"

"I wouldn't have brought it up if there weren't any problems." I tenderly grabbed Jade's shoulders. "Everyone's worried about you, no one more so than me, Jade. I fear you'll self implode if you don't seek help."

Uncertainty graced her features as I suspected, tears threatening to spill out. Most see therapy as a sign of weakness and instability, particularly Edenians. However, my wife's mental state has reached a breaking point with everything happening around us. I refuse to let her continue on like this. What kind of a husband would I be?

"Let me help you, Jade. I love you too much to see you hurt yourself like this," I said.

"But who's going to listen to me?" Jade emotionally poured out.

"Mom will, and you know she treats you like her blood daughter. Plus, she'll do it as a favor for Destiny." I kissed both her palms. "Dakini and I can be there through the whole process. Please... for us."

Jade nodded and quickly wiped her tears and sadness away as we headed for the living room. When we walked in, Kim and Sareena were casually having a conversation. They're getting along nicely.

"Have you come up with a name for your child yet?" We heard Kim ask while closing the distance.

Sareena rubbed over her stomach. "No, we haven't discussed names yet. But I can't wait."

"If you ever need someone to help deliver the baby." Kim clicked her tongue twice.

"You helped delivered one before?"

"Yup. Pa did so twice. A close friend of his had gotten pregnant, so he and my aunt helped deliver the baby when her water broke. They did so again when she was in a political marriage."

"You two are getting along," I remarked.

"Yes. Kim has been keeping me company while you three talked. I've been enjoying myself thus far, despite the circumstances of why she's here."

Before I could respond to the blooming friendship, Jade cut me off. "Kimura, do you know your father is rude?"

Oh boy.

Kim looked justifiably confused. "Huh? That was a little random, Jade. What brought that on?"

"He made some remarks about me after telling us how strong you actually are. Seeing as you used a sword you weren't familiar with to make Reptile a lightweight. He then stated that I would not understand the feeling of having pride in saying my child surpassed me in strength." Jade answered.

"Well, Jade. Is Dakini stronger than you?"

"No, but-"

"Then Pa's right. Ya don't understand because it didn't happen yet," Kim concluded.

"But he has no right to tell me, especially when he forced a sword into your hand. The fact that he made you a Demon Slayer and a Swordswoman and is proud of it is something I wouldn't be proud of were I in his shoes."

Kim looked even more confused from this response. "And he told you that, straight up? Because I'm startin' to think that you misinterpreted what Otou-san said."

"No, I cut him off-"

"So," Kim interrupted her off before chuckling lightly. "You cut him off, jumped to a conclusion, and then what? Ran him down? Even though you didn't let him finish what he was trying to say?"

"What else can he be trying to say? He made the intention of his words pretty clear," Jade said, assuming she was correct.

"Jade, with all due respect, because I like you, all of you. You couldn't be any more wrong," Kim began. "First off, when Pa first called Sareena out, what did you all do? I assume you clutched your weapons, right?"

We all nodded.

"Thought so. Did Pa do the same?"

We shook our heads. "I had a feeling Pa didn't. You heard that he was a renowned Demon Hunter and called out Sareena for being one. Thus, you all concluded he was out to kill her. Is conclusion jumping typical of Edenians?"

"N-no but-"

"Let me tell you something, Jade," Kim said as she stood up, visibly annoyed at my wife's ignorance. "Pa and I could care less about Sareena being an Oni or that the rest of you are technically aliens. Don't take this the wrong way, but if we did, Sareena would've already been dead, and we wouldn't be having this discussion. Also, Pa never wanted me to be a Demon Hunter, let alone a Swordswoman. Him saying he started training me when I was five is a lie. I began training when I was ten and started asking him when I was five. I kept asking him every day for five years. He gave up when I turned ten. When he told me about how Aunt Baba, Uncle Kin, Aunt Taki, and Uncle Shun passed, I wanted to be like him and help him on his mission that Aunt Taki gave him. I wanted to be a Demon Hunter and Swordsman like him. I wanted to be like him. He never wanted this for me at all. And he would've told you that if you kept your yap shut and let him finish. And you lashed at him because what, he threatened your wife? On accident? Stop being so territorial, Jade. Your kid will think that's healthy, and it isn't."

Kim ran down Jade with nothing but logic and facts. I don't think I've ever seen someone dismantle her so calmly. Jade's face turned red with embarrassment. Twice has she been shown up by someone who wants to defend Earthrealm like us.

"Honey, I think you should apologize," I whispered in her ear as Kim sat back down.

"Kimura, I'm deeply sorry. I shouldn't have jumped to such a rash conclusion and shouldn't have lashed out at your father as I did. Please forgive me."

"It's okay. I understand Pa can be rude subconsciously, but it's never his intent. Trust me, if he wanted to be rude, you'd know. But you need to calm down, Jade. It seems like someone doing anything negative towards Dakini is a bit of a trigger for you. That's not good for your health if you lash out at everyone who looks at her wrong. If you don't lock that down, you can scar her, and she's been through enough as is." Kim pointed out.

Jade looked away. "It difficult as I... don't want her to end up like me."

Kim raised an eyebrow. "Like you?"

"I lost my mother around Dakini's age, Kimura. That is why I protect her as much as I do. At least try to."

"Oh..."

"Kim, you told us that Inari Okami blessed you with foresight in terms of motherhood. But your knowledge is extensive even for being blessed by the Goddess of Fertility."

"Well, her blessing came at a cost as I cannot have kids. The knowledge I gained from her is that extensive, to the point where it cost me my fertility."

And yet she's still so happy and optimistic? That's truly incredible.

"Did you know that Pa was adopted like me? Grandma adopted him when he was days old. To pay his respects on top of wanting to be a dad himself, he adopted me. So, if I ever wanted to be a mother myself, there's nothin' stopping me from adopting a child like Pa and Grandma before me. But that can wait until Earth's enemies have been dealt with. So I continue with my Demon Slaying and Earth Defending in the meantime."

"You and your father have done nothing but impress, Kim. We are truly sorry for thinking less of you."

She smiled at us. "No worries, Ben. I'm glad we're carrying our weight."

We then heard a knocking on the door, not expecting anyone at this time.

I cautiously made my way to the door, Jade following. "Coming."

Looking through the peephole, I saw two figures I've never seen before. I opened the door to get a more detailed look at the strangers. One had curly black hair and red eyes. What really stood out were the stitches across his face. Beside him was a woman with middle eastern facial features.

"Are you Ben Maddox?" he inquired.

"Yes, and you are?"

"My name is Koga, Paranormal Investigator. This is my wife and partner, Ana."

"Good afternoon, Benjamin."

"We were called here at the request of the Elder God of Hell Duffeck to help you with your growing problems with the Red Dragon."

That caught my attention. "Red Dragon?"

"Yes. We've made progress and wanted to share with you what we learned before moving further with the investigation," Koga informed me. "May we come in?"

Can't say I was expecting this, but at least I'll finally get some answers as to why this cult continues to stalk me.

A/N: I know what your thinking. 'Salty, why's Koga here? Why's he married to Ana from Overwatch? Where's Tea?' Koga won't make as many appearances as the rest of the cast, he'll have a handful of sections to himself and Ana will have none at all. His presence here is nothing more than an extended cameo.

That aside, what'd you all think of this chapter? Let me know with a PM or a Review. If you want to help me get these Chapters out faster, consider supporting me on (p)atreon (user?u=37300876). I'll see you all later.