Love & War 4
Chapter 39: Reiko
The Kreeyan Temple many conquests ago...
My army had conquered a backwards little kingdom Shao Kahn's name. In victory, it was my custom to desecrate the holy house of my vanquished foes. But this goddess was different. Her marble did not crack. Her statue did not fall. She sang a prophecy to over and over: "Reiko's Blood Reigns." Upon my return, Shao Kahn hailed his most ruthless general. He adopted me, fashioned me as his heir apparent... the prophecy made true. But it was not to be. I plainly see Quan Chi deceived and manipulated Shao Kahn to suit his own ends.. to serve Shinnok, who desired slaves, not generals. I cursed the goddess and her false prophecy. If I could not reign, I would not serve.
"Do it." Reiko heard a voice. "He who loses everything has everything to gain. I abandoned my realm and ventured across the void, following a prophecy sung by a goddess: "Reiko's Blood Reigns."
"Who are you?"
"Call me Havik, the Cleric of Chaos. Your blood will reign, Reiko, but first, it must run."
I would not die in the forest. Havik gave me the faintest taste of the Blood Code. And everything I've done since has led to this moment. The prophecy will be fulfilled at last.