Chapter 1: Crafting the New Era
Beginning of Time
In the beginning of time, everything has been erased. All events that transpired in the realms have been undone by none other than Kronika. The titan of time who sought to create the New Era and bring back her son Shinnok and reunite the family. Not only that, she also sought out a man named Alex. He is half human and half Elder God with extraordinary abilities thanks to his late parents, who met their end at Kronika's hands. Alex could absorb unlimited energy and manipulate it and create it. He can also absorb and manipulate any kind of element. Elements that gods use.
Kronika planned to kidnap Alex, force him to absorb powers, spirit and soul and place him under her control and make him her new son and lord and guardian of Shinnok and Cetrion. But with memories of his friends Jacqui Briggs, Liu Kang, Raiden, Jade, Kitana, Johnny Cage, Sonya Blade, Jax, and his fiance Cassie Cage, he defied her. Now he is engaged in a final fight against Kronika. But he is not alone. Liu Kang, who is now a god of fire and lightning courtesy of Raiden, is now even more powerful. Together, Alex and Fire God Liu Kang are ready to end this fight and fix time.
Kronika fires time daggers at them but they dodge again. Alex absorbs the earth element from the ground as he recovers. He does two punches and an uppercut. He then fired an energy beam at her and kicks her to Liu Kang and he does a three kick combo followed by a dragon kick and a backflip kick. She shoots a time sphere at Alex, but he fires his energy beam at it. They seem evenly matched until Alex yells as he gives it a boost and overpowers it and hits Kronika, making her drop the crown. She is down to one knee. Alex and Liu Kang nod to each other, knowing what to do. Liu Kang fires lightning at Alex and he absorbs it. He fires lightning and Liu Kang shoots fire at Kronika. She feels a lot of pain. And then she turns into a hot glass statue.
Alex, still glowing yellow, steps forward with Liu Kang. The fire god karate chops her hands. Alex Roundhouse kicks her head into pieces. And they push it down with a fingertip, shattering it to pieces. Kronika is now dead.
"Fatality." Alex and Liu Kang said at the same time.
Liu Kang closes his eyes for a moment in hopes of seeing a friend again. He opens his eyes to hear his voice. "Our work here is done, Liu Kang and Alexander." Raiden appears, but he looks different than before. He no longer has the same god eyes and is wearing different clothes. Raiden is now mortal.
"Lord Raiden." Liu Kang approaches.
"I am merely Raiden now. You have proven yourself worthy to take my place as Earthrealm's new protector, Lord Liu Kang." Raiden corrects him and accepts him as his successor. They bow to each other.
"Raiden. What happened to you?" Alex asked.
"Upon giving my powers to Liu Kang, I also gave him my immortality. You have done well, Alexander. You have made the right decision and defied Kronika. You have assisted Lord Liu Kang into saving Earthrealm and all of time." Raiden praises Alex, making him smile out of gratitude.
"Where do we go from here?" Liu Kang asks.
"The sands of time are yours to shape. You must return the hourglass to the proper time to construct a new history. A better one." Raiden instructs.
"The fate of the realms are in my hands? Raiden, I cannot do this alone." Liu Kang fears.
"Our friends. They're gone. All of them are gone. We'll never see them again." Alex is saddened, looking at his ring and his watch.
"No. They're not gone, Alexander. We can bring them back, including Cassandra." Raiden reassures him before turning to Liu Kang. "You will have a partner."
"Kitana." Liu Kang said. He always knew he and Kitana would be destined for each other, since they met and when he and Raiden convinced her to turn against Shao Kahn.
"Your destinies were always intertwined." Raiden said. "Return to the Dawn of Time with her and the hourglass and create a better future. I look forward to meeting again in the next timeline."
"Wait." Alex said, getting their attention. "You'll need this. Kronika couldn't be able to craft a new timeline without it. I already did my job. It's time for you to do yours." Alex holds Kronika's crown.
"I am not sure if it is a good idea, Alex." Liu Kang said. Before anyone could debate, a familiar voice is heard.
"You must, Lord Liu Kang." Two figures walk through the portal. It was hard to tell who it was at first, until the three recognized them. It was Fujin and a different version of Nightwolf. Fujin and Nightwolf have exited the portal and approached them. "You need Kronika's Crown, otherwise you cannot restore the timeline." Fujin said.
"Fujin?" Raiden recognized.
"It is I, brother. I know that you are not my Raiden." Fujin stated.
"How do you know this, Fujin? If you don't mind me asking, where have you been for these past few years? We've been waiting for you." Alex questioned him.
"Forgive me, Alex. I became aware of why you were summoned here. Before I could warn you, Kronika captured me and locked me away to make sure her plan went uninterrupted." Fujin explained.
"What about him?" Alex points to Nightwolf.
"I was summoned here to the future by Kronika at the start of the time-merger. She offered me a place in her New Era, promising a new Matoka Tribe without the Great Spirit. I refused her offer, so she banished me to the void and I met Fujin." Nightwolf explained.
"While trapped in the void beyond time, we overheard everything about Kronika's plan. We were powerless to intervene. She ensured her preparation in every part of the master plan, recovering the crown and her intent to turn Alex against everyone, but she failed. The moment Liu Kang and Alex killed her, we were set free." Fujin said.
"That explains that." Alex said.
"Why do I need the crown?" Liu Kang asked.
"Because Kronika would not dare to restart history without it. It does more than just amplify her strength. Attempting to do so will cause the hourglass to shatter and all realms would be doomed. Because Alex knocked the crown off her during the fight, you can now bring back the timeline that we lost and improve it." Fujin said.
"I see. We must not delay any further. We must fix the timeline and undo all of Kronika's mistakes she has made." Raiden said as they return to the dawn of time. Kitana is waiting for them.
"Are you ready?" Liu Kang asked Kitana.
"Yes. But no matter how we sculpt the sands of time, we cannot plan for every possibility. Mortals will make their own choices. New evils will arise. Old evil may even return." Kitana is worried.
"Each realm must choose its own destiny. Whatever those choices, we will face them together." Liu Kang tells her.
"He's right. We all much choose our own path that we decide. No one can pick it for you but you. It won't be perfect, but it'll be a hell lot better than what we used to have no matter how many mistakes we fix." Alex said.
"You're right, Alex. We all must do. We must fix everything that Kronika has done wrong, including bringing back our friends and families." Kitana smiles at his words. "Shall we begin?"
Alex nods. He bows his head to Liu Kang and hands him the crown. He puts it on as he and Kitana decide to work on the hourglass. "Are you coming, Alex?" He asked.
"Me?" Alex replied.
"Yes. You have earned your place, my friend. We will need your help. How else should I offer you my thanks for killing Kronika? After all, you deserve the credit." Liu Kang smiles. Alex looks at him before looking at Kitana and Raiden, who silently agree.
"Alright. I'll help you. Let's fix the timeline. For everyone." Alex smiled as he joined Kitana and Liu Kang. He activates his powers and glows yellow.
"May the Great Spirit guide you, Lord Liu Kang." Nightwolf said.
"As the Keeper of Time, I am still a novice, Nightwolf." Fire God Liu Kang replied.
"Where do you suggest we start?" Kitana asked.
"After I obtained godhood, Raiden shared the visions with me before Kronika merged the past and present together. We can use it to our advantage." Liu Kang said.
"I get it. So that way, the same mistakes that happened before won't happen again. Maybe this time, we could save all of y'alls lives. Maybe prevent you from becoming revenants in the first place." Alex suggested, remembering the stories everyone told him.
"Yes. And perhaps bring back those we lost. Such as mother. And Cassandra and everyone else." Kitana said.
"Fear not. With the visions, we can ensure everyone's return, including those born after Shao Kahn's death." Liu Kang said.
"Yes. But all of us will exist beforehand before the tournaments hosted by Shang Tsung and Shao Kahn. This also goes for the allies we have made throughout the tournaments in Earthrealm and Outworld. This will not be an easy task." Raiden said.
"The more allies we have, the chances of our victory is high. But there are risks." Fujin said.
"We may lose some people along the way. And we must be precise on what to change, otherwise we could face major consequences unchecked." Nightwolf said.
"But Liu Kang is the chosen one. Well, he was. But who's gonna take his place now that he's a god? He can't fight in tournaments, can he?" Alex asked.
"No. Gods are forbidden from participation. But they are allowed to prevent conflicts that happen prior to the tournament or between breaks. After all, the Elder Gods made the rules." Raiden points out.
"But Alex has a point. Someone must succeed Liu Kang. Find a worthy champion. Perhaps someone all of you must be familiar with." Kitana said.
Everyone wonders who could be worthy enough to replace Liu Kang. It cannot be Raiden since he is Liu Kang's mentor and would want to still teach him the ways of being a new god. Same thing goes with Fujin. And it cannot be Alex either since he was not born yet. That is when Liu Kang had a thought.
"I think I may have an answer. Follow my lead. All of you." Liu Kang said. His powers light up as his hands wave in patterns as he nods to Kitana and Alex as they start crafting a New Era. As they do so, an image appears. It appears to be some sort of temple. Perhaps a school of some sort. And leaves flying around in the wind.
Beginning of the New Era
The past. Peaceful as it once was before evil came along. The images from the hourglass show a school. An old Shaolin Monk Academy. And within the area, many young adults gather together in the center of the academy. They are all following a fighting pattern. More than dozens of them following different patterns from a teacher. All but one are attending.
Inside, a lone man is cleaning weapons and small statues. It must also be some kind of forging room to make weapons. As the man is working, he sees the walls brightening up, which gains his attention. He slowly turns around and sees someone floating in the air. That someone is Fire God Liu Kang.
"Kung Lao." Fire God Liu Kang said, causing the man to stumble and hit the table where he was working.
"Where did you— w-who… who are you?" The Great Kung Lao asked nervously.
"I am Lord Liu Kang. God of Fire and Thunder." He introduces himself.
"God of fire and thunder? F-forgive my disrespect, my lord." The Great Kung Lao bows his head before him out of respect.
"At ease, Kung Lao. You are very humble. Not like the Kung Lao I know." Liu Kang said. He always saw his own Kung Lao as his brother despite the latter's arrogance and ego.
"The Kung Lao you knew?" The Great Kung Lao expresses confusion.
"It is a story for another time. I have chosen you as my first champion, Kung Lao." Liu Kang puts a hand on his shoulder. "We have work to do. You must be prepared. You must be trained."
"Trained? Trained for what?" The Great Kung Lao asked.
Fire God Liu Kang smirked as he looked at his friend and first champion. The first champion of Mortal Kombat in the New Era. It is a start. It is only the beginning. Liu Kang feels confident in his choice of champions.
The start of the New Era. It was time for changes. For better or for worse. With the start of the New Era, Liu Kang wanted to make changes, starting with picking a new Champion, the Great Kung Lao. With his new time powers, Liu Kang can contact the others with telepathy via the hourglass.
"It is a start. The Great Kung Lao will make a fine champion. Perhaps his fate may be averted and can be changed." Liu Kang said.
"To avoid death at the hands of Prince Goro, who at the time, was still under Shao Kahn and Shang Tsung's command." Raiden said.
"But they as well as Quan Chi must be alive. And chances are I might be with him, as well as Jade. I remember now. The Great Kung Lao lost to Goro and had his soul taken by the sorcerer. That was how Shang Tsung was able to host the tournament in Earthrealm." Kitana said.
"The tournament is inevitable. If the Great Kung Lao defeats Goro, then we can host a tournament." Fujin points out.
"Indeed. Shang Tsung will challenge him and lose. As well as Goro. The visions guide me as we speak. The Great Kung Lao defeats Goro and wins, then he and Shang Tsung will strike a deal to host a tournament in Earthrealm." Liu Kang said.
"Then that is when Johnny, Sonya, and Mr. Jax are recruited, right? To participate in the tournament. Maybe our Kung Lao can. And maybe Nightwolf and Raiden as well." Alex said.
"But Shang Tsung will have allies of his own. Cyrax and Sektor. Bi-Han. Quan Chi has recruited Hanzo Hasashi as Scorpion. And not to mention Reptile, Sheeva, Baraka and even Kitana and Jade as well as Ermac. Kotal remains locked up before the tournament." Nightwolf remembers being part of the tournament.
"Let us not forget about those who come later. D'Vorah, Kollector, Rain, Skarlet and Mileena."
"I have a plan. All of you will have your memories intact when you step into the past. We must change everyone's fates and ensure everyone's survival. Maybe find some new recruits of our own." Liu Kang said.
"I can join you guys in the tournaments. I'm only half god, but I can still join." Alex tries to volunteer.
"No, Alex. You must not be seen by anyone, because you are the only one other than Cassandra and Jacqueline that were not born at the time. Unless for an emergency, should you step through." Liu Kang tells him.
Alex sighs out of reluctance. He would do anything to help his friends and future family by any means. He would hate to feel useless. He looks down at his engagement ring. He feels a hand on his shoulder and he turns to see its Kitana.
"It is alright, Alex. I promise you we will bring everyone back, including your fiance. I'd like to meet her sometime." Kitana gives him a reassuring smile.
"But how are you guys going to restore everyone's memories? I hope you don't plan on doing the same for Shao Kahn and his fellow assholes?" Alex asked.
"That is where everyone else comes in with me. I will give everyone the necessary powers to restore everyone's memories. We must do so for our Kung Lao, the Cage and Briggs family. Takahashi and the Lin Kuei except for Sektor." Liu Kang said.
"I believe I may have a few suggestions on who to recruit. Some old allies that could prove to be useful to our cause." Fujin said.
"With the right timing, I can restore the memories of Jade, Kotal, Baraka and Sheeva. And try to assassinate Mileena." Kitana points out.
"If I recall correctly, from what I have seen with my visions before the time-merger, Shao Kahn lost the second tournament and resurrected Sindel. And the memories I've unlocked from Shinnok's amulet, my actions of killing Motaro only led to Sindel growing more powerful and destroying most of the champions." Raiden said.
"But the good news is Shinnok shouldn't be able to exist now, right? How is it that Raiden was affected far more quicker by that amulet than I am?" Alex asked.
"Perhaps because of your status as half elder god. Let us be thankful that it did not corrupt you like it nearly did Raiden." Fujin said to Alex.
"We do need to be very careful and precise on when and where to restore our allies' memories. We cannot let our enemies witness it when it happens." Kitana said.
"What about you, Liu Kang? What will you do?" Alex asked.
"I will start training the Great Kung Lao. When the time comes, I will summon you all but Alex. It is time for me to do my part as the new protector of Earthrealm." Liu Kang tells everyone. "Kitana. Fujin. I will summon you two to the New Era. Kitana will be with Shao Kahn to spy on him and not do anything until further notice. We will remain in contact with each other. Fujin will be at the Sky Temple so no one will try to sabotage the jinsei.
"As you say so, Liu Kang. I will assist you whenever you wish, my friend." Fujin tells him. Liu Kang uses his time powers to open a sand portal. Fujin turns to Raiden.
"It feels good seeing you again, brother. Though you are not the same as me, you are still Raiden. Guide Liu Kang well." Fujin said.
"I will do everything in my power to mentor him as long as my mortality lasts. Be careful out there, Fujin." Raiden tells him. Fujin nods and steps through the portal.
"May the spirits protect you, Kitana. If Liu Kang respects you, it is best that I do the same. I see redemption in your eyes." Nightwolf said to Kitana.
"I appreciate it, Nightwolf. See you at the tournament soon." Kitana said. She walks to the portal, but stops to talk to Alex.
"Guess this is goodbye for now. Can you do me a favor? When you see Jade, tell her I said hello and I look forward to seeing all of you again." Alex looks at her.
"You have my word, Alex. You're safe here. We knew you would defeat Kronika. I am pleased to have you as a friend." Kitana smiles at him before she steps through the portal. It closes, leaving just Alex, Nightwolf and Raiden.
"Be careful, Liu Kang. And good luck." Kitana wishes him and hopes that he will be careful.
Fire God Liu Kang smiles at Kitana's voice. He nods and knows what he has to do as the new keeper of time and protector. It was time for him to train his first ever champion.
Fire God Liu Kang begins training his first champion, the Great Kung Lao. He is wearing completely different robes. They are bright orange like the Shaolin Monks are carrying different weapons with him to use if necessary. Liu Kang awaits him, ready to start his training.
"So how is this training supposed to work, Lord Liu Kang?" Great Kung Lao asked.
"Your training will be different from the monks you see now. You will be closely improvised and improved over the others. Learn to adapt and control your abilities if you want to prevail over foes in Mortal Kombat." Liu Kang said.
"I have heard stories about it. And word has it that a sorcerer. A man named Shang Tsung is tending to host a tournament. A master of souls." Great Kung Lao said.
Liu Kang could never forget the names of his enemies. And he will never forgive them for their past actions to him and his friends from the Old Era, even before the time merger. As he recalls, he also has the memories of his revenant counterpart, one of those memories is Shao Kahn killing Kung Lao during the second tournament in Outworld in the Old Era.
"Indeed. Shang Tsung is no pushover. And he is lethal, but Shao Kahn, his master, is far worse. They have followers. But do not worry. You will too. But you must be at your best. For the tournament hosted by Shang Tsung. Are you ready?" Liu Kang asked him.
"Yes, Lord Liu Kang. What shall we do first?" Great Kung Lao asked.
"Follow my lead." Fire God Liu Kang instructed.
Fire God Liu Kang gets into his new position with Great Kung Lao following it. The fire god starts showing him many different ways of fighting styles. Liu Kang teaches him everything that Raiden taught him and passed it down to Great Kung Lao and shows him how his own Kung Lao fights, also teaching him to be patient and not act arrogant, remembering his descendant. And to prevent him from growing an ego.
While Liu Kang is training him, the others are watching through the hourglass except for Kitana who is spying on him on Shang Tsung's orders. Kitana smiles, even more impressed with how Liu Kang is training him and learns from mistakes. Raiden is proud that he easily remembered everything he taught him when he was a thunder god. Alex is rather surprised by how fast Liu Kang became a teacher, a god and the new keeper of time all so fast.
To Liu Kang, it has been an entire year since he has trained the Great Kung Lao. But to everyone else, it felt like hours. The fire god has taught his first champion everything he needed to know. Soon, it was time for the one-on-one fight against Shang Tsung.
More months have passed. The Great Kung Lao's fighting styles and skills have improved. He is currently sparring with his lord and master Liu Kang.
"That's it. Use your senses. Trust your instincts!" Fire God Liu Kang instructs.
Liu Kang throws a horizontal chop strike and a double jump kick, which the Great Kung Lao dodges and goes on the defense. Liu Kang suddenly teleports beside him and does a side kick to the face followed by a swift punch. Great Kung Lao stumbles and regains his footing. The young champion closes his eyes and listens for movement. He hears nothing but silence. But then he hears fire and thunder coming at him. He rolls under a fireball and jumps over lightning that nearly struck him in the chest. Liu Kang comes in for a punch, but Great Kung Lao grabs his wrist and throws him down to the ground. Liu Kang recovers and blocks a couple of punches before he throws a punch of his own. Great Kung Lao blocks and parries a punch and does an uppercut to the chest and jumps and does a spinning kick to the head and does a knee strike to the chest followed by a back flip kick to the chin. Liu Kang is sent flying, but he uses his powers to land safely.
"Well done, Kung Lao. You drew out your strength. Fought by any means necessary. And you anticipated my movements." Liu Kang praises him.
"Thank you, my lord. Given your status as a god, it was not easy. I could easily tell you did not hold back either. And you said the enemy will not do so either. I fear it will not be easy to emerge victorious against Shang Tsung and whoever his champion is." Great Kung Lao said.
"Nothing is ever easy. I speak from experience. The enemy will do anything to emerge victorious. I suggest you do the same as I just mentioned. I am pleased with how far you have learned from me. There are still some things you should learn. But soon will be the time." Liu Kang said. He hands out a red bandana with the Monk symbol on it and Great Kung Lao slowly grabs it.
Great Kung Lao looks at his teacher, who nods in response. Great Kung Lao, with confidence and bravery on his face, wraps it around his head. The Monk symbol is shown in front. Great Kung Lao and Fire God Liu Kang bow their heads to each other out of respect.
"Are you ready for this, Kung Lao?" Liu Kang asked.
"I am, Lord Liu Kang." Great Kung Lao said. The master and the student walk towards the temple. Around the two, everything has gone quiet. The monks continue to look at the two as they make their way towards the entrance to the temple. The double doors slowly open up, revealing to be no one. No friendly face, but an enemy long since dead to Liu Kang and everyone else. That someone is Shang Tsung.
"Greetings, Lord Liu Kang. I trust that you have been well with your student. I sense a pure soul. One that I wait to feed on for eternity." Shang Tsung smirks as he stands and looks at them calmly.
"Shang Tsung." Liu Kang glared at him. "You're here sooner than expected. I would not boast of victory prematurely."
"I do not see the harm in showing confidence for Outworld's victory. Shao Kahn wanted me to test you and your champion to see if any worthy champion is worth challenging for the fate of Earthrealm." Shang Tsung smirks.
"If it is a challenge you want, old sorcerer, it is one that you will get." Great Kung Lao tells him. Liu Kang puts a hand on his champion's shoulder.
"At ease, my student." Liu Kang said. Great Kung Lao immediately collects himself and steps backwards out of respect for his master. Great Kung Lao is nowhere near egotistical or arrogant as his future descendant. Liu Kang hopes that it will change soon.
"I suppose you have your champion ready, sorcerer?" Liu Kang sternly asked.
"Why, certainly, fire god. Behold!" Shang Tsung raises a hand and an orange portal opens. A big one. Someone big starts stepping through it. Someone large. Has four arms, extremely muscular, is twice the size of a normal human being. He is one of, if not, the most powerful fighter enlisted by Shao Kahn.
"Meet the champion of Shao Kahm: Prince Goro!" Shang Tsung introduces them.
"This is who I have to fight? A generic Shaolin born to die? You should choose your allies more wisely, fire god. That will be your last mistake." Goro said as he steps forward.
Great Kung Lao starts to walk forward, only to have Fire God Liu Kang grab his arm. "Remember what I told you from the past year and a half. This fight is for real. Do not hold back on anyone. Feel the need to adapt to different styles. Don't think. Use your instincts."
"I will, Lord Liu Kang." Great Kung Lao remembers and continues his way to Prince Goro. The mighty Shokan chuckles and cracks his four fists.
"Such bravery. A foolish substitute for strength and power. I promise to give you a warrior's death." Goro said before they start to fight.
Goro throws two fists at the Great Kung Lao, but the student parries one aside and the second punch downward which nearly hits the ground, allowing Great Kung Lao to knee strike his gut, do a spin elbow strike followed by a good kick to the left shoulder. Goro actually felt that. Before he could respond, Great Kung Lao comes in and swings his giant shuriken at him. Goro dodges it and grabs his arm and throws him into the ground, forcing him to drop his weapon before being kicked away. Great Kung Lao rolls back and recovers. Goro does a low sweep kick, which Great Kung Lao parries by waving his hand in a circle towards the ground. He does a horizontal chop strike to Goro's right rib cage and does two roundhouse kicks to the back, cracking it slightly and sending Goro away. Great Kung Lao then teleports and does two spin punches to the back, sending Goro back further.
Prince Goro gets back up and is growling in anger. Goro jumps forward to slam all four of his fists into the ground, narrowly missing Great Kung Lao. But Goro swiftly turns around and backhands him across the face followed by slamming his fists on his head and right shoulder, damaging the former's skull slightly. He then follows up with an uppercut to the chest, sending him upward before jumping to grab and slam him into the ground, cracking his chest slightly. Prince Goro punches Great Kung Lao across the face three times before he jumps way up high, hoping to finish him off by stomping on him and smashing him into pieces. Great Kung Lao sees this and puts his hands into a precise monk position. He listens for the wind and he hears Goro coming down to finish him. Great Kung Lao opens his eyes and jumps backwards out of the way, causing the Shokan prince to miss him just barely. Great Kung Lao jumps forward and does a dive kick to the face, cracking the front of his skull, does a crane bird stance and does a crane kick to the chin, cracking it as well. He holds his arm backwards and his giant shuriken teleports to him and he throws it right into Goro's right shoulder, stabbing it and greatly cracking it as blood comes spewing out, causing alot of pain. The student charges forward, does a jump kick to the chest, dashes behind him and does a strong kick to the back, cracking it more and jumps and punches the back of his head, sending him into the ground, defeating him.
"Power alone will not achieve anything. Be thankful I chose to let you live this time." Great Kung Lao tells him.
Fire God Liu Kang smirks. He is impressed with how far his first champion came to be with all of his training and has fighting styles that remind him of his human self as well as Kung Lao. Especially with the latter's case, given how he throws his giant shuriken and it comes back to him and he spins it in place.
"Looks like your champion has failed, Shang Tsung. Though I must admit he is a valuable fighter. But his arrogance is what led to his defeat. Now that he is beaten, it is time you went with your word." Great Kung Lao challenges him.
"As you wish, young one. But I will not give a merciful death like Goro attempted to do. You can be sure of that. Soon. Your soul will be mine." Shang Tsung said. He steps forward and gets into position, ready to fight the Great Kung Lao.
Shang Tsung throws two low kicks, which the young student blocks and does an eagle kick to the right shoulder before doing a kick to the chin followed by a punch to the face and throat. Great Kung Lao follows up with a palm strike to the chest and elbow strike to the back. He then teleports behind Shang Tsung, grabs him, jumps up and throws him down to the ground before stepping backwards. The sorcerer's hand glows green as fiery skulls suddenly come from the ground and forcing the young student to sidestep out of the way before jumping backwards. Shang Tsung then brings out a pendulum and a rotten corpse comes flying down. Great Kung Lao's eyes widen and he jumps backwards before it explodes. Shang Tsung comes in and does two powered punches to the chest, cracking it and sending him backwards. Shang Tsung uses his powers to pull him in and throw him and does a sliding attack, hitting the young student in the back, cracking it, sending him far, sliding on his chest onto the ground.
Great Kung Lao gets back up and was ready. His shuriken appears back in his hand as Shang Tsung throws more magical skulls at him. The young champion swings his weapon through all of them, but is met with a series of punches to the face. Great Kung Lao goes for a punch, only for the sorcerer to block it, twist his arm, causing it pain before grabbing his head and stomping it into the ground, cracking his skull and his face to start bleeding. Shang Tsung continues to attack him, forcing the young champion on the defense. The Great Kung Lao goes for a kick and a punch, which Shang Tsung blocks. He grabs his left arm, twists it again and chop strikes his left shoulder, cracking it greatly and nearly breaking it. He is in a lot of pain. The sorcerer then knees his chin and does a palm strike to the chest, sending him back.
Great Kung Lao recovers and grits his teeth in pain. He glares at the sorcerer, but remains confident. He holds out his hand and the shuriken comes to him. Shang Tsung barely notices and dodges, but gets a cut on his face in the process. The sorcerer turns to him and charges to attack. Great Kung Lao uses his shuriken to block three of Shang Tsung's punches and ducks a kick, allowing the student to do a roundhouse kick to back of the head, stumbling the sorcerer. He recovers and goes for another kick, but the Great Kung Lao uses his shuriken and stabs Shang Tsung's left leg, cracking and nearly breaking it. Shang Tsung is nearly down to a knee and tries to throw a punch at him, only for the young champion to block, spin and stab him in the stomach with the weapon, making him bleed greatly. Great Kung Lao does one powerful kick to the chin, cracking it greatly as well, sending Shang Tsung back. He lies on his back defeated. The young student approaches him.
"Finish me. But soon you will all fear his wrath." Shang Tsung glares at him.
The Great Kung Lao raises his giant shuriken in the air as Liu Kang watches. He remains motionless with his arms crossed, knowing what he's gonna do. The Great Kung Lao throws his weapon down and one of the sharp ends nearly misses his head. The sorcerer sees this and looks back up.
"No. You may live. Return to your master. Tell him that Earthrealm has worthy champions. Tell him not to underestimate us, especially Lord Liu Kang. And tell him that it will be ready if you decide to challenge us again." Great Kung Lao tells him.
"You may enjoy your victory while it lasts. But rest assured that Shao Kahn will not give up so easily." Shang Tsung said before turning to the fire god. "Be warned, fire god. I will have more worthy fighters to counter you. You better find more. More fighters to fail you, and more souls for me to collect. This will not be the last time you see me."
Shang Tsung's hands glow as he transports himself and Goro away from Earthrealm and back to Outworld. As soon as he disappears, Great Kung Lao drops to his knees, exhausted. The fire god walks over and his hands glow over his body and chants magical words. Words that the student does not understand. But then he realizes that his master is healing him of his injuries.
"Are you alright, my student?" Liu Kang asked.
"I am fine, my lord. How did you do that?" Great Kung Lao asked.
"As a god, I have many gifts beyond that of any other being. You have performed well, my pupil. Now that you have won, you have a choice." Liu Kang tells him.
"A choice? What do you mean?" Great Kung Lao is confused.
"As a victor in Mortal Kombat, you have a choice of being granted immortality until the next tournament. This was made by the Elder Gods to prevent anyone from attempting to kill you before another tournament. The choice is yours." Liu Kang explained.
The young student did not know about this. He has read stories about Mortal Kombat prior to Liu Kang meeting him. And of course he heard about Shao Kahn, Shang Tsung and the Elder Gods. He thinks about the ways Liu Kang taught him. Taught all the lessons necessary to survive and adapt. He looks down at his giant shuriken with a monk symbol on one of the blades. He looks at his master to give an answer.
"I accept, Lord Liu Kang. I will do what I must to assist you in defending Earthrealm. Until my descendant is born, of course. He will carry on our family name with pride, and no arrogance. But I do know that I have much to learn from you." Great Kung Lao bows his head to him.
"Kung Lao. I am honored to help you teach your future successor in the ways I have taught you. You are a chosen one. Soon so will he. Today has been your greatest achievement. The student that will soon become the master. We still have work to do. Until that time comes, there are more ways to teach you, my friend. Are you willing to accept the responsibilities you choose to have in the future?" Liu Kang offers his hand.
The Great Kung Lao shakes his hand without hesitation. "Yes, my lord. I am honored by your presence. We must prepare for what is yet to come." Great Kung Lao said.
"Agreed. Come." Fire God Liu Kang tells him. The two walk out of the temple where the student fought Shang Tsung and Goro.
Speaking of which, the two report their defeat to Shao Kahn in his throne room in Outworld.
"So, it is true then. The fire god Liu Kang shows himself out of nowhere and has trained one student and bested you." Shao Kahn said, not remembering him from the old timeline.
"Yes, my lord. I warned him that we will be back. And we will have more fighters chosen by you, of course." Shang Tsung said, healing his own injuries. Shao Kahn smirks, happy about this.
"Finally. Someone who is actually worthy of my time. Better than the fighters bested in Edenia, King Jerrod included. The fire god will find more champions, I know it. But we must too. In 50 years, you will host a tournament in Earthrealm, Shang Tsung. We are bound by these pathetic rules. No one makes any movements until I say otherwise. Do I make myself clear?" Shao Kahn stares at them.
"Yes, my lord." Shang Tsung bows his head out of loyalty.
"Kitana. Jade. Step forward." Shao Kahn demands them and they do so.
Jade, of course, does not remember her life in the Old Era. She does not remember betraying him to Raiden and teaming up with Earthrealm and meeting friends such as Liu Kang, Kung Lao and Alex. Kitana on the other hand has her memories intact after stepping through the portal made by Liu Kang.
"Yes, emperor." Kitana asked him, pretending to be loyal to him.
"You two will be on watch for any warriors the fire god Liu Kang will bring. We have the Tarkatans, Shokan and Osh-Tekk on our side. I have heard word that Earthrealm has enemies known as the Black Dragon. He has come in contact with Shang Tsung and word about the Lin Kuei. When it is time, they will join us as temporary allies. Do not do anything unless I say." Shao Kahn orders the two.
"Yes, emperor." Kitana and Jade bow before they both leave at the same time. As they are alone, they interact with each other.
"Do you believe that these Earthrealmers will be a threat to us? What do you think of them?" Jade asked.
"Overconfident. Brash. Foolish and arrogant. We have mighty warriors on our side." Kitana lies.
"This will be easy." Jade smirks before they walk away. Unknown to Jade, Liu Kang makes contact with Kitana. He gives everyone he was with at the beginning of time some powers of the hourglass to restore everyone's memories.
"Has Shao Kahn given your orders yet?" Liu Kang asked telepathically.
"Yes. Told us that the tournament will be in 50 years. I know just the ones we can assemble just like before." Kitana said.
"Good. All according to the visions as long as we follow them." Liu Kang tells her.
"I must ask, Liu Kang. When do you plan on restoring the memories of Cage, Blade, Briggs and anyone else that follows? And when should I do the same for Jade, Kotal, Sheeva and Baraka?" Kitana asked.
"When the time comes. They must be restored at a specific time. Not everyone will agree with this plan until the time is right." Liu Kang explains to her.
"Given Kotal's arrogance and hatred towards Shao Kahn and the personalities of Baraka and Sheeva and them being closely watched by Shao Kahn, I understand. What of Raiden, Alex and Nightwolf?" Kitana asked.
"I will summon Raiden and Nightwolf to the present before the tournament given that they are mortal. I have plans for each of them. Alex cannot be seen by anyone, or things will get out of hand. He's too important." Liu Kang said.
"I do hope we can bring back Cassandra, Jacquiline and their two friends." Kitana worries.
"Do not worry. I have seen it. They will return. Have faith in me." Liu Kang said to her. This causes Kitana to smirk.
"I never said I have doubts. I never will. I'm glad to have met you, Liu Kang. I have faith in you and I believe in the future that we may share together." Kitana smiles, expressing her feelings more for him. She continues going her separate way, feeling confident in Liu Kang's plan to change everyone's fate.
Note: The first chapter is up for Dawn of the New Era. This chapter picks up and references Liu Kang's ending in Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath. Honestly, I consider that ending to be the canonical one, since honestly, how could the next game game pick up after Shang Tsung? In that ending, he's THE Elder God, and virtually unstoppable. Until next time! And please let me know what you think of this first chapter!