Gone, but Not Forgotten Bonus Chapter 9: Betrayal with a Smile, a mortal kombat fanfic

A/N: Welcome back.

A quick word before starting the third bonus chapter. First, I'm going to start using an upload order again. Throughout this story's lifespan, it's always been the prominent fiddle and will stay that way. Reestablishing an order for the updates will help keep me motivated. Every chapter of GbNF will equal two chapters of Sennin Wanted: DOA. Stories like the MoIs, the Prompts and Responses, and Wesley: The Druid that doesn't Belong will not get involved due to those being done on the fly.

On another note, I got a buy me a coffee page. Nothing serious, but if you want to show appreciation or give thanks, you can donate a small amount to my page. The link is on my Profile Page.

Without further ado, let's begin.

Shana's Cottage, Japan 8:30 AM: Twenty Five Years later

Dakini's POV

A lot has changed since we imprisoned Shinnok and learned of Daegon's plans.

The following several days were spent explaining what Dad, Mama, and Detective Koga found to the people who deserved to hear it. Aunt Kitty, Queen Sindel, Auntie, Kim, Ms. Sareena, Mr. Okada, and Lord Duffeck. Then radio silence as all of their leads eventually dried up. Though some were paranoid, the rest of us took it as a sign to enjoy the peace as we've been fighting since I reunited with my family in Seido.

We enjoyed not having to deal with a colossal problem for a while. In the meantime, a lot of things came and went. A year after Ted was born, Mama began hounding Dad and made it a personal mission to find as many creative ways to coerce him into sex. It bore fruit as my present self was born, and with two Dakini Maddox's existing in one timeline, the fabric of reality didn't know what to do. As a result, I aged and matured to the point where I could pass as a young adult or around nineteen in human years. And if people thought I looked like Mama then, the resemblance now was almost uncanny.

However, my aging came with heartbreaking news.

Hamlet had aged with me and sadly had to be put down. Shana had also aged but slower, thanks to Lady Amaterasu. Yet she grew too old to stay by Mr. Xan's side and suffered the same fate. That's why we're back in the forest where he used to live with Kim, myself, Lady Amaterasu, and another companion who we met during the twenty-five-year peace period.

To give them each a proper burial.

The four of us lit incense, placing two on each grave. Mr. Xan and I kneeled down to Shana and Hamlet's graves.

"Rest easy, boy. I love you and will miss you," I murmured over Hamlet's grave.

*Sigh* "Find your way home, Shana," Mr. Xan said as he fought down tears.

Mr. Xan and Kim's lives have been through ups and downs way before we met them. But we all experienced some more alongside them as they became more involved in our lives. Lao and Auntie got married after the invasion ended. It was the first time we all saw Auntie in a dress, and she looked her absolute best to where it threw everyone off. Mama, Ms. Sareena, Aunt Red, and Koga's wife, Ms. Kagura, were the bridesmaids. Dad, Uncle Liu, and Detective Koga were the groomsmen. Many tears were shed, and we even got to see Mr. Xan genuinely smile, which was a welcome sight.

Speaking of Mr. Xan, he's mellowed out the past two and a half decades. Being in an era of peace helped him learn to not be confrontational all the time. That allowed him to finally make peace with Mama, as they are now good friends. It also reinforced the friendship he forged with Nana and Dad.

However, one positive came with a few negatives.

Firstly, Mileena was no longer allowed to see Xan due to the public's continued disapproval. They thankfully parted on good terms, yet it was a textbook reason why Auntie never moved back to Edenia with us. (I honestly don't blame Callie at all) The pair are still close, though it was a bitter pill to swallow. The second and arguably not as heinous negative, Auntie let Xan go from Special Forces to rest as a freelance defender for Earthrealm and Edenia. He also understood after fighting for practically his entire life. Xan tended to drift but now spent his time with Dad and Mama thanks to Ted and my present self. They even made him my godfather since we got along so well. Eventually, Xan became a welcome presence alongside Kim.

The events continued getting odder with each instance.

A few days after the separation was made public, another Japanese woman wandered into Edenia. She fought off the entire Edenian Freedom Fighters' infantry despite being blind in her left eye and missing her right arm. This after she refused to submit her weapons. Aunt Kitty had to request Xan to control the situation, and the two fought ferociously. The woman only relented when she figured out that Mr. Xan was Japanese himself and finally explained who she was.

Her name was Baiken, and she came from a time and place where Japan was essentially wiped from Earthrealm. She ended up in Edenia after wandering and obtaining her vengeance. She and Xan became close at an alarming speed and became life partners within years. Baiken even convinced Mr. Xan to become the Royal Family's bodyguard since the two are worth an entire army. When that info became public, the Edenian populous immediately started to regret voicing their opinions on Mr. Xan and Mileena. They scared the shit out of the general population through no exaggeration since they were so good at their jobs. Though everyone got a kick out of watching them horrify any snooty royals who tried to screw up the peace in the realm.

Baiken was with us as we said our goodbyes to our pets, smoking from her pipe. "This was nice, Ryu. (Dragon) Given' your pet a proper burial and all."

"It seemed fair. Shana saved my life many times. This is the least I can do. Hey, Dakini. Isn't today Jade's official coronation as General of the Freedom Fighters?"

"It is! Oh, crap! I almost forgot! We need to head back to Edenia!"

"You go on without us. We'll be a minute," Kim spoke.

"You guys sure? Mr. Xan and Baiken are the Royal Family's bodyguards. They have to be there on time."

"The Edenians can survive a few minutes without us, kid. They're scared of us anyway and can use the moment of zen," Baiken voiced her opinion before a slight snicker.

"Alright, if you insist. I'll have a portal open here, so you guys can arrive at the palace," I said as I opened a portal to Edenia. "See you soon."

I walked through and made my way through the palace toward the main room. I noticed the royal family, Mama, Dad, Ms. Sareena, Auntie, Nana, Fujin, and Aunt Red.

"Sweetie!" Mama called for me, and I gave her a hug. "You made it. Where's Xan and the others?"

"They'll be here soon. They wanted to give Shana their separate goodbyes."

"Understandable. Shana was paramount in keeping Xan grounded. I hope they don't take too long, or they'll miss the ceremony." Mama gave me a quick lookover. "My, we look eerily similar. You have nothing from your father."

"I know, Mama. I hope my present self is fortunate in that department."

"Where's Xan, Kim, Amaterasu, and Baiken?" Dad questioned. "Them being the Royal Bodyguards means they're just as paramount in their attendance."

"They're still grieving about Shana, Dad. Give them some time. If they're here, the citizens would be afraid to come since they're afraid of them. More so Baiken than Mr. Xan despite having only one arm and one working eye."

"She bested the entire Freedom Fighter infantry force alone. What I want to know is how does she keep her cannon, hook, and firearm hidden in her robes," Mama answered. "Though he was holding back, she held her own against Xan as well." She looked at the clock and realized what time it was. "The ceremony's about to begin. We'll have to start without them."

Mama left to where the Royal Family was as everyone got settled. I can't tell you how excited I am for her as everything has come full circle. Nana was also happy as she's the primary reason for Mama's current wellbeing and state of mind. Even now, they do counseling every weekend to ensure there wouldn't be an emotional or mental letdown. You can never be too careful after what happened in Seido and during the invasion.

"Ladies and Gentlemen of Edenia," Queen Sindel started. "Today, we begin the next chapter of our lives as free souls! Thanks to the Maddox Family, Edenia has been restored, and we have officially concluded the rebuilding!" Everyone's joy erupted in loud applause. "The final step in the cementation is to announce the newest leader of the Edenian Freedom Fighters. The previous General Callie Ann Maddox has elected her most suitable replacement."

Quen Sindel faced Mama. "Rise, Jade Verdigris-Maddox."

We scoured Grandpa Manuel and Grandma Destiny's home during the past twenty-five years to find evidence of their royal lineage. During the investigation, Mama found her long forgotten maiden name - Verdigris. While not on par with the Dacarthi or Maddox clans, the Verdigris clan was right below them and held more power than even Argus' family once upon a time. So Mama now wore her old and new surnames with pride.

Mama stood tall and proud as Sindel faced Auntie.

"Callie Ann, do you remember the initiation rites?"

Auntie stood up with a smile. "How can I not?" She walked up and stood opposite Mama. "Jade Verdigris-Maddox. Repeat after me. I, Jade Verdigris-Maddox."

"I, Jade Verdigris-Maddox."

"Solemnly swear."

"To faithfully protect the realm of Edenia."

"Against any and all."

"Threats to her peace."

"Regardless of her enemy's origins."

"And I will command."

"The realms greatest army, the Edenian Freedom Fighters."

"And lead them."

"To new heights of glory."

"Because I am."

"General Verdigris-Maddox."

"It shall be so."

After Mama finished, Auntie gave her a deep hug as the crowd of other royal families and citizens outside the palace roared its applause.

"You're going to do great, sis. Knock 'em dead," Auntie whispered in Mama's ear as she went back to her seat.

Mama was able to steal a glance at our table, and I grasped the necklace that bonded us to Grandma Destiny. A few tears slid from her eyes as she repeated the action, the gems shining lightly to show she was watching us from above.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you General Verdigris-Maddox!" Queen Sindel announced as the applause intensified. "Now, we begin the festivities."

The celebration started, and everyone had a phenomenal time. However, Mr. Xan, Kim, Baiken, or Lady Amaterasu were still nowhere to be found. The festivities eventually ended as everyone began vacating the main hall.

"Ah, we're right on time!" Kim's voice boomed as we all looked at the entrance as the four of them traversed the main hall. Mr. Xan, Kim, and Lady Amaterasu each held something in their hands.

"Xan, Baiken. Where were you this whole time?" Queen Sindel asked. "We understand that neither of you is Edenian, but you are under our employment."

"Relax, Your Highness. We know how the public thinks of us, so us not being here was the smarter decision," Baiken answered.

"Besides, we come bearing gifts for the newly minted General," Mr. Xan answered. "Well, Baiken doesn't have one since she doesn't know you well. However, Kim, Amaterasu-san, and I do." Mr. Xan approached Mama. "Jade, we may have had a rocky beginning to our relationship, which is mostly my fault for being anti-social for so long. I thank you for giving me a second chance as it allowed us to officially bury the hatchet."

Mama smiled. "Of course. We were both at fault for the tension, and the timing couldn't have been worse. But I'm also glad we patched things up as you are now the godfather to my eldest daughter."

"A job I genuinely enjoy, I assure you. So, as a gift of your initiation, I made you this."

Mr. Xan revealed a new Razor Rang of exquisite design with an empty slot in the middle and intricate patterns on each blade.

"When I suggested giving you gifts to Kim and Amaterasu-san, they both agreed, and we separated to make them. While investigating your parents ' home, Benjamin and I found a book of your father's weapon designs. I asked him to allow me to keep it, and after scanning the book, I chose one of them along with the design of the Razor Rang you currently use and combined them." He presented the finely crafted Razor Rang. "Take this as your badge of office. If you can't, take it as a gift."

"This is magnificent, Xan! How long did it take you to make this?"

"An entire day with only a few hours for breaks. It would've taken longer, but I started using my blue flames to power whatever forge I used. The results of whatever I made end up getting magnified."

"What's the empty slot for?"

"That's the best part. The Razor Rang gains an additional effect if you place a gem there. I don't know what the effects are, so don't ask."

"Regardless, I thank you for this, Xan. I will treasure it."

Mr. Xan bowed in respect of the new general.

"Well, that just shit over my gift," Kim said sheepishly as she stepped forward. "Had I known Dad was going to make you a weapon, I would've thought harder about what I was going to give you. But here goes."

Kim revealed a green statue of Mama.

"Is this a-"

"Yup," Kim said before laughing lightly. "A Jade Statue."

"How did you get the money to purchase the Jade?"

"I work as a model and the Ambassador of Special Forces. Mrs. Maddox and I co-own a Fashion Line, so I gained enough money with so many avenues of revenue to buy some Jade in China. On my day off, I began chiseling away. I didn't want to ask for your measurements since that would be perverted and suspicious. I had to come up with an educated guess."

Kim handed Mama the Jade Statue. "Thank you, Kimura. I will place it in my office."

"Good, and hey. You can sell it in China if you get sick of it. You might become the richest person in China if you find someone who won't rip you off," Kim joked.

"Amaterasu, you have a gift for me as well?"

"More so your family, General."

Lady Amaterasu stepped forward. "We all know of the unfortunate passing of Hamlet and Shana. Over the past few days, I was cleaning the Maddox Cottage when I heard... barking."

That caught my attention. She placed the basket down on the floor and lifted the cloth to reveal three baby Hokkaido-Shiba Inu-Husky hybrids.

*bark* *bark* *bark*

"Oh, my God!" I exclaimed before running to them. "Are they named? Are you giving us one?"

She laughed giddily at my enthusiasm. "Of course, Dakini. Your family has a right to own at least one since Hamlet is the father."

"WHAT!?" Everyone yelled.

"Yes, we were confused as you all. Sometime before Edenia's restoration, Hamlet and Shana slept together, the latter impregnated with triplets. Before passing away, she gave birth in the bamboo forest where we buried her and Hamlet. Kimura and I are keeping the middle child. Xan and Baiken are keeping Ida, the oldest. The Maddox Family will keep the youngest. Only Ida is named. Right, Ida?"

*bark* "(Yes, Grandma Ammy.)"

"I really wish you'd stop calling me that, Ida."

Ida hopped out of the basket and walked up to what the Populus called them - the Bullies. Mr. Xan petted Ida as she panted. Lady Amaterasu picked up the middle child, and I did the same for the youngest child.

"They're all girls?" I inquired.

"No, the middle child is a boy. He's Kimura and my responsibility. Come, sweetie. We should head back to Japan."

"Yeah, Ammy. Congrats, General. Best of luck. I'll visit Ted soon," Kim said as the couple left the main hall.

"What are we going to name her?" I asked my parents.

"We'll let you decide," Dad responded.

The youngest pup walked up to me and barked. *bark* *bark*

I picked her up, and she licked my cheek. "I'll name you... Ophelia."

Ophelia barked, happy with her new name. *bark* *bark* "(I love it)"

"Ha! The kid is a fan of Shakespeare after all," Baiken commented.

"I also wanted to say something before the night is over."

Everyone's attention turned to Mama. "I want to thank each person here today on this special occasion. However, this night isn't sorely about me, not in the slightest. I would not be standing here to accept this huge responsibility were it not for all of your support. This event is as much about you all. So, from the bottom of my heart, I thank you all."

Dad came up and gave Mama a tender kiss, a spatter of awws coming from us. This is what everyone meant by how much they loved each other.

Releasing the kiss, Dad backed away. "And I also have a gift."

He brought up his hand with a velvet box. Curious, Mama took and opened it, a startled gasp leaving her mouth at what was inside. It was the most beautiful golden ring with emerald stones throughout it. I've never seen anything like it.

Dave gave a bright smile. "Happy Anniversary, beloved. Mother helped me pick it out a few weeks ago. My gift to you. And don't worry about Saree. I already took care of hers while you were out running errands earlier today."

Ms. Sareena nodded and showed everyone her own wedding ring of the same style, only in gleaming silver with a mixture of red and black stones.

"It's... it's so beautiful." Mama almost looked like she would break down before giving Dad another big smooch. "Thank you, husband. But I didn't get you a gift."

"You already have." Dad raised my current self in his arms and allowed Mama to hold me.

As we all drank in the new members of our respective families, the door to the hall opened again. We all look to see who it was, Mama's face contorting into confusion along with the Royal Family.

Aunt Kitty rose from her chair. "Reiko!?"

The man known as Reiko bowed. "Princess Kitana. Queen Sindel." He then eyed Mileena, his tone turning sultry. "Princess Mileena."

"...Reiko." Mileena greeted, albeit halfheartedly.

Mr. Xan and Baiken immediately readied themselves. "Huh, I guess Kim was right. Members of the Outworld court do dress like strippers," Baiken commented aloud. "What brings you to Edenia, Outworlder?"

"Who are you two?" Reiko inquired.

"Bodyguards of the Royal Family. Now state your intentions," Mr. Xan demanded.

"I have come with a request for the Royal Family. This is no concern of yours. Humans like you should go back to where you came from."

Baiken growled at the racist remark. "We may not be Edenian, stripper boy, but we're under their employment all the same. We're not goin' anywhere."

"I have nothing else to say to you two, especially one who doesn't understand her station and stature," Reiko dismissed her.

"Teme. (Damn you.)" she seethed as Mr. Xan held her back.

"It would not be wise to insult our bodyguards, Lieutenant. They may be of Earthrealm, but they are two of their strongest. Xan himself was key in Outworld's failed invasion of Earthrealm twenty-seven years ago."

Reiko turned and got in Mr. Xan's face. "So you were the one who killed Rain and the Tarkatans. You don't appear to be much."

"Just because I don't appear like I'm going to shake my ass doesn't mean I can't kick yours." Mr. Xan started circling Reiko and began upping his verbal aggression. "Where were you during Shao Kahn's invasion anyway? Too narcissistic to help your almighty ruler?"

"I was needed elsewhere."

"A poetic excuse for weakness is all I hear. You would've jumped at the chance to kill me if you had a shred of pride or were an idiot. That seems to be common among Outworlders."

"Emperor Shao Kahn deemed you and Mai Maddox as unapproachable with how you swindled the fair and lovely Princess Mileena to Earthrealm. And I can see why."

"Shao Kahn preferred me as a child to always be under his thumb, Lieutenant. Mommy freed me from his mental captivity."

"Plus, Shao Kahn isn't emperor anymore now that he's dead. Isn't Outworld still going through a power struggle? Aren't all hands needed to prevent any more people from dying? Yet here you are belittling my partner, myself, and ready to make demands like the entitled bastard you really are." Mr. Xan savagely ran him down.

"Stand down, Xan. You may be correct, but it's at least fair to hear his request," Queen Sindel spoke.

Taking a cigarette out, Xan lit it and backed off to stand with Baiken and Ida.

"Speak your request, Reiko."

"Thank you, Your Majesty," Reiko thanked the Queen of Edenia. "I request that Edenia be re-merged with Outworld."

The collective expression of anger went across all of our faces, Auntie's most of all. "That won't happen, Lieutenant." She got in his face, which caused Reiko to wince. "You may have lacked spine during the invasion, but you have no right to ask for something so blasphemous. Especially since it was I who got the Mortal Kombat tournaments, realm invasion and merging banned and approved from the Elder Gods themselves."

"I agree with Sergeant Maddox, Reiko. Who possessed you to make such a ridiculous suggestion?" Queen Sindel interjected.

"Your Highness, you're still givin' this fuckin' bastard the time of day after that!? Let's kill him!" Baiken angrily suggested.

"Relax, kanojo. (Girlfriend)" Mr. Xan calmed her down.

Baiken huffed through her nose as she laid a palm on her katana pommel.

"With all due respect, Your Majesty, the failed invasion of Earthrealm was a step in the right direction. Earthrealm is beneath Edenia and Outworld. Your return to Outworld will convincingly end the struggle, and everything will return to what it was." Reiko continued speaking, convinced that the madness he uttered was the right path.

"With all due respect, Lieutenant. Edenia has never been stronger due to the three-way alliance between Earthrealm and the Netherrealm. After Seido has properly been rebuilt, Lord Brium himself has informed us that they will join the alliance as well. We don't need nor want Outworld or its problems. Furthermore, Edenia gains nothing from accepting your request and will lose our standing in the alliance. Not to mention the trust in the public we worked so hard to regain and the respect we've earned from our allies. I flat out refuse your offer," Queen Sindel vehemently denied. "You're fortunate I won't have Xan and Baiken to kill you on the spot and will grant you to leave Edenia unharmed. Return and make another blasphemous offer like that again; I will have you executed. Now leave at once! Xan, Baiken. Escort Lieutenant Reiko out of my kingdom."

They attempted to grab the Lieutenant. But when they got close, Reiko snapped and summoned a Crude Hammer before swinging at them. Mr. Xan and Baiken dodged it before it made contact. "This is not over!"

Reiko made his way toward the door but was frozen as a hand violently grabbed his ear and tossed him back inside. His shocked expression was unlike our surprise when we saw our newest visitor.

"D-Detective Koga!?" He inquired in shock.

"Lieutenant." Koga walked into the room and bowed at the Royal Family. "Your Majesty. Princesses." He then shook Xan's and Baiken's hands. "Xan, Baiken."

"Good to see you, Detective."

"Afternoon, Stitches."

Koga then focused his subtle yet intense gaze back on Reiko. "Lieutenant, do you know Kotal is looking for you?" He then made his way to Mama.

"Kotal?" Mama was confused. "Don't you mean Ko'atal, Koga?"

"Unfortunately, you're wrong, General," Koga started. "The power struggle is graver than it was twenty-five years ago. As a result, Ko'atal has ascended to the throne and has become the new Kahn. He's now Kotal Kahn. After practically abducting me, he hired me to find Reiko here. I didn't want to do it and told him to take his helmet and shove it where the sun doesn't shine. However, Kotal shoved the payout in my hand. He's not happy with the court, Lieutenant. First Khameleon's defection, and now you're MIA? Heads will roll if you don't haul your ass back to Outworld." Koga then scoffed. "But since you're here, you might as well hear this. Kotal allowed me access to your chambers, and look at what I found?" He pulled out an old looking journal.

Reiko's face lost all of its color. "My Journal!"

"Indeed. And you won't believe what I found in here, especially on page twenty-four," Koga specified as he handed the journal to Mama.

She flipped through the pages as Koga circled Reiko, much like Mr. Xan did to the Outworlder visibly uncomfortable. "Reiko, why are you here in Edenia? Requesting the Royal Family to return to Outworld? Without telling them that Kotal branded them as traitors and would kill them on sight should they return?"

"Who are you to pry in my business!?"

"A Private Investigator, Lieutenant. When the person pays, and their morals are upstanding, it becomes my job to pry," Koga answered. "Or the fact that Kotal will not accept any deal of allegiance with Edenia unless Jade becomes his bride, and Ben is killed?"

The last question turned up the hostility. I could see anger combined with hatred in Dad, Mama, even Ms. Sareena. It was unmistakable in their eyes. Mama's nails dug into the book, nearly crushing it all together.

"Or the fact that you're Shao Kahn's bastard son?" Mama inquired loud enough where everyone could hear her. "My God, Koga. Shao Kahn had an affair with a woman before he invaded Edenia, and she conceived Reiko."

All murderous eyes honed in on Reiko.

"That's right, Mrs. Verdigris-Maddox. Not only are you the legitimate heir to Outworld's Throne, but also a half-Konqueror! This brings me back to the question we should be asking you. Why are you here instead of claiming your birthright?" Koga inquired with squinted eyebrows.

"Outworld's people won't accept a bastard as their king." Reiko tried to defend himself.

"Really? Kotal said the citizens love you. I even used the Mask of Truth, and he wasn't lying," Koga countered. "Since you're so, stunned I'll make an educated guess. You want the Royal Family back in Outworld as political tools. Orchestrate their deaths and use that as a way of outing Kotal to gain the throne yourself. That will surely earn the Red and Black Dragon's favor since their war has escalated to spill into Outworld as well as Earth."

"What?" Mama asked, flabbergasted.

"Yes, General. I'll explain later. I even have dirt on Tanya and Kotal for you as well." Koga back to Reiko. "If I were you, I'd scurry quick back to Outworld before Kotal grows angrier. I have an alliance to close up. Kham!"

Auntie felt her cheek when he called for this Kham. "Red, did you just kiss me?"

"No, beloved." She then pecked Auntie's face. "Now I did."

"That was me." A voice no one could find said.

Someone then appeared after removing her camouflage. It was revealed to be Khameleon, a female Zaterran. "Good afternoon, Your Majesties. I am Khameleon." Khameleon then kneeled. "I would like to pledge my loyalty to the Edenia, Earthrealm, and Netherrealm alliance."

"Khameleon, you turncoat! You would turn your back on your home? Zaterra belongs to Shao Kahn and Outworld! He was going to bring Zaterra back!" Reiko seethed.

"You spill nothing but lies like your idol, Reiko. I served him on a fool's errand and know now that Zaterra has no future. But I will live on for her people even if I couldn't convince Reptile or my brother. I have seen the light." She turned back to the Royal family. "Allow me the honor of serving the Edenian Royal Family."

In the ensuing chaos, Reiko grabbed his Hammer and escaped.

Baiken was on him instantly. "Onore! (Mother Fucker.) Get back here!" She chased him with Mr. Xan following behind her.

"We have to catch him. C'mon, Dakini," Dad said as we gave chase.

However, I noticed Aunt Red's face flashed between confliction and confusion from Khameleon kissing Auntie's cheek.

Callie's POV

So much is going on at once. Reiko's outing, Koga's sudden appearance, now Khameleon showing up and offering to pledge herself to the Forces of Light.

"Khameleon, are you sure?"

"Yes, Princess Kitana. It was an honor to serve under you while we were all under Shao Kahn's thumb. I'd happily do so again if given a chance."

"Can Khameleon be trusted, Kitana?" Queen Sindel asked.

"Yes, Mother. Khameleon is a close friend of mine and Jade's. She seldom appears, only doing so when needed. Khameleon has earned our trust completely."

"Very well. Stand, Khameleon." She did as told. "We welcome you. We will introduce you to Xan and Baiken, your co-workers. You'll be our newest bodyguard alongside them."

She bowed in respect. "Thank you, Your Majesty." Kham then pointed to Koga. "And thank you, Detective."

"It's nothing, Kham."

"Koga," JJ called for him. "You said you had additional information on Tanya and Kotal?"

"Not as much as you think, and even I question its use," Koga answered. "While leaving the palace, I noticed Kotal and Tanya were missing from the Throne Room. So I did some snooping and found a disturbing sight."

"That is?"

"Kotal was contaminating Tanya's soul... using Blood Magic."

JJ's heart froze. "What?"

"I booked it for Edenia after seeing that. I don't know how you plan to use that info, but I felt you needed to know. Unfortunately, that's all I could find," Koga explained.

"No, I thank you for divulging this to me, damning as it sounds. Tanya is growing desperate to undergo Blood Rituals."

"I assume Kotal struck some sort of bargain or deal with Tanya. He gives her Ben, Tanya gifts you to him."

"That deceiving bastard... Thanks again, Koga. You put your title to good use as you always have."

"The pleasure is mine, General. On behalf of myself and Chizu, we're sorry we couldn't make the coronation. She's still busy with work, and I just closed up another case before coming to Outworld."

"No need for apologies. Thank you again, and we'll notify you if I require more information on this situation. Tell Chizuru we said hello."

"Will do. Best of luck with Reiko."

Koga then teleported out of the room. Eventually, the others returned with the news that Reiko somehow escaped. With us all being careful, we returned back to our homes. It was getting late, so we turned in as Lao was already asleep.

I stirred awake during the middle of the night and found that Skarlet wasn't in bed with us. Rubbing my eyes, I got out of bed, though quietly, not to disturb Lao. Feeling uneasy, I grabbed and put the mechanisms of my Hidden Pistol on and snuck around the house. Reaching the living room, I noticed a purple light before sneaking against the wall. One peek at what was happening, and I was appalled by the sight.

Skarlet was talking to... Reiko. I got closer to hear what was being said.

"You saw how Khameleon looked at Callie Ann. She plans on taking your spot in the pecking order."

"Madness you speak, Reiko. I will not turn my back on the only person who loved me."

"Callie Ann won't love you forever. She'll see you as a monster at some point as she's Edenian at the end of the day. Which makes you inferior to her."

"You're lying, Reiko. I won't listen to this any further," Skarlet defended me.

"Think, Skarlet. Help me with finding the Kamidogu and mastering Blood Magic. I promise you Callie Ann will see you as an equal if you help me."

I jumped out after hearing that, my pistol aimed at Reiko's head. "Red, don't listen to him. He's spitting lies and sweet nothings in your ears."

"Callie Ann. Do... do you think I'm inferior to you? To Lao?"

"Of course not, sweetie. I love you, Red. You know this." I put the pistol away. "Please come back to me."

"Skarlet, she doesn't want you to reach your potential. She claims to love you but won't help you grow."

"What the hell do you know of growth!? You were and always will be Shao Kahn's lummox and kissass! Red belongs here with people who genuinely care for her!" I glanced at Skarlet. "Benji calls you sister. Mom calls you daughter, and Daki calls you Auntie. Red, stay here," I pleaded.

Then the worst outcome happened.

Reiko and Skarlet combined spells and pushed me out of the room, my spine hitting the wall hard. I immediately started coughing up blood, tears streaming down my face as I could barely make out Reiko giving Skarlet a hungry kiss that she returned. The portal Reiko used to get here opened up.

"Skar! Don't do this!" Despite being in pain, I managed to get up, begging through my tears. "Please!"

"I'm sorry, beloved. But I must become a woman worthy of you."

That was all Red said as Reiko victoriously laughed and left my home, with Skarlet in tow. I felt a pair of hands help me up. Thinking it was Lao, I latched on and embraced the unknown figure. The person returned it as I cried deeply.

"I'm here." A feminine voice spoke, which broke me out of my stupor.

I looked at the person I blindly embraced, and it wasn't Lao. Instead, it was Khameleon.

Slightly angry, I broke away. "Khameleon? What are you doing here?"

"I was watching you and your husband when I noticed Reiko's entrance as Skarlet left to collect herself. I didn't want to be found, so I hid."

"Why the hell were you watching me? Why aren't you in Edenia?"

"Because I... am fond of you. I bared witness to your turning of Skarlet and immediately felt jealous. But I didn't wish to interfere or insert myself."

Kham was speaking the truth. Having better control of my powers as the Messenger allowed me to use a lighter version of a Truth spell. When applicable, I could subconsciously force everyone around me to tell the truth, and this was no exception.

"But my feelings can wait. We must tell everyone what happened," Kham spoke the truth again.

"You're right. We have to... tell everyone at... once," I barely got out before falling, noticing a small pool of blood on the floor.

"Callie... Callie!" Khameleon shouted as I fainted.

A/N: Uh, oh. While Callie and Lao married, Baiken was introduced, and we got three new pups. Reiko has suddenly appeared and turned Skarlet, causing her to betray her new family. What will happen next? Find out next time on Gone, but Not Forgotten!