Chapter 10: Flesh vs Metal (Finale)
Everything seems to be set for both sides. Frost's confidence has been restored thanks to Crystallian and the Lin Kuei who managed to survived their encounter against the Lin Kuei. What makes her feel more better is that she has someone that admires her. That someone being Aster. Upon looking into the young student's eyes for the first time, Frost sees something in her. What could it possibly be? For now, Frost must focus on the task at hand. And that is stopping another Kold War before it could be unleashed on Earthrealm.
The Crystalnoids used their combined powers to create a bridge for them, the Lin Kuei and their snow giants as they march their way to East Antarktica. To stop Triborg and the Cyber Lin Kuei once and for all. Frost knows the plan. To take back the Snow Daggers and stop the Lin Kuei's true enemy once and for all. But Frost is not the only one with a plan.
Sektor remains confident. Despite not having an actual face, he speaks in a triumphant voice. "At long last. My dream will finally be realized. The Lin Kuei's extinction at my hand. The true Cyber Lin Kuie's return." Triborg said triumphantly.
Cyrax and Smoke are both being held in place by cyborgs as they glare at the robot master. Despite what just happened, the looks on their faces show that their faith in Frost has not shaken one bit. "If you think that Frost will just give up and let you unleash power you don't deserve, you are sadly mistaken." Smoke said, glaring at him.
"My only mistake was not ensuring your deaths the first time. I killed Sub-Zero. Frost is dead by now. I want to kill you next, but not yet. As the only survivors left, you have managed to impress me. As my token of gratitude, you two will be the first to witness the horrors I will bring to Earthrealm. To make you relieve your failure to defeat me. Special Forces, Shaolin and Shirai Ryu will not stand a chance against me. They have bothered me long enough as the Lin Kuei once did." Triborg said. He turns to the two cyborgs, ready to report.
"My league. Soon to be the next Sub-Zero. We have done what you have tasked us to do. We went through each realm as you promised. All plans in place. Awaiting further orders." The cyborgs tell their leader.
"Good. My asset will be quite pleased with the progress I have made. He gave me the idea of these Snow Daggers, I have assisted him with what he needs. Send him the coordinates and tell him I will meet up with him after I lay waste to this continent and Articka." Triborg ordered. The cyborgs nod and they walk over to the computers and start typing a message. It appears to be encrypted. Smoke and Cyrax remain confused by this.
"I'm not surprised that you allied yourself with yet another villain. Shao Kahn, Kronika, Geras, Skarlet. Who is it this time?" Cyrax asked.
"Someone that you have never met. Someone who is to not be underestimated. More powerful and menacing than Shao Kahn and the Black Dragon. Unfortunately, you will not live long enough to see him." Triborg said.
As Triborg is holding out the four daggers, ready to proceed with the ritual, he is interrupted by an alarm. He seems confused on what is causing the problem.
"My league. We are detecting an unknown source. Hundreds of life forms. Accompanied by Crystalnoids." One of the robots said. It puts the big screen on.
Triborg steps closer to see who it is. He could not believe it. He sees the Crystalnoids creating a crystal bridge. A gigantic one. Not only that. He also sees Lin Kuei. And worst of all, Frost is still alive. "No. NO! I KILLED THEM ALL! FROST SHOULD BE DEAD!"
Triborg slams his metal fists on the monitor in anger. He switches to his Cyber Sub-Zero form and decapitates two of his own cyborgs out of anger for failing to kill Frost.
"Your overconfidence in the Cyber Lin Kuei's abilities is your weakness, Sektor." Cyrax mocks him.
"Your faith in your clan led by Frost is yours." Triborg replied. "All members of the Cyber Lin Kuei. This is your master speaking. It appears our battle is not over yet. The Lin Kuei lives. With them, Frost leads them. The Crystalnoids have reforged their alliance with them. Despite that, the power of Sub-Zero will be ours. If Frost wants to fight us, then I shall oblige her. This will be our last stand against the Lin Kuei." Triborg announces to everyone.
"Triborg. Also known as Sektor. We live. We pledge. We serve to eliminate all insubordination. We are stealthier than the night. And deadlier than the dawn." Hundreds to thousands of cyborgs chant together.
"We shall mark this as the last day of the Lin Kuei. Do not let anyone live. Including Frost. Should she get this far, she will be mine to kill. No one will touch her." Triborg orders them. All of them bow their heads to the cyborg leader as they teleport and/or fly out of the headquarters. To mark their last stand against Frost and the Lin Kuei.
Truth be told, all of Triborg's enemies are coming to him. To East Antarktica. To destroy him once and for all. Frost stares down at the continent they are approaching soon. The bridge is high enough as they can see the stars close from the sky as cold wind gazes past them. No one from the ground can see the the Lin Kuei, Aster, the Crystalnoids and snow giants and guardians following her lead, they can stand a chance against their common enemy. The approach will not be easy. The cyborgs are more powerful than before. They have been trained under Sektor and now fight better than they used to. But only Triborg has the ability to change forms at will.
As they follow behind her, the Crystalnoids wonder how the battle will turn out. "Are you certain that we will win this? Who knows how long until he gets the powers of cryomancing. What if Frost will fail?" Crysteslor questions their decision. Not that he doubts her, he is more concerned with everyone's fate.
"Our fate and the fate of Earthrealm is in our hands. Especially for Frost. Kuai Liang chose her. She followed her heart and chose to do what is truly right." Crystalhan said.
Up front, Aster walks slowly closer to her leader and idol. For someone young, she seems to understand Frost. Frost still can't help but believe that she has someone admire her, despite her appearance. "Aster. May I ask you something?" Frost asked, looking at the young follower.
"Yes, Chujin Frost?" Aster asked.
"Why do you choose to admire me? After what I have done and what I have become." Frost said.
"It is because like Liang, I see your spirit. I see your soul. By looking at your eyes, I can tell from within how buried they are. I believe in chances. You went through many rough times to ensure our safety. Your sacrifice from three years ago inspired me to be like you. A follower. A warrior. I know you will do all of us proud." Aster tells her with a smile.
This brings a warm feeling to Frost's heart. This was something that rarely anyone other than Kuai Liang has mentioned before. Smoke mentioned it beforehand but not Cyrax. Cyrax didn't trust her until after Smoke was captured. Frost puts on a small smile and puts a hand on Aster's shoulder.
"Aster. I am honored by your words. When this is over, perhaps you and I can have talks about further training and better future." Frost looks into the young girl's eyes. Frost sees something in Aster. But Frost would not have time to figure it out what it is, as it felt familiar. As everyone walks more, they slowly start marching downward from the bridge as they get closer and closer to the ocean.
"Awaiting your orders, Frost." One of the Lin Kuei warriors asked.
"As planned. We are heading to the center near the South Pole mark. Archers will take care of the guards up front while we have more at the rear. The assassins will remain with the Crystalnoids and snow giants while me, Aster and the warriors will fight our way through to Sektor's hideout. Once inside, we can rescue Cyrax and Smoke. I am the only one that can kill Sektor. This is our only chance." Frost instructs everyone.
"Yes, Chujin!" Everyone, including Aster, acknowledges her command.
Everyone continues to march forward. They followed the crystal bridge close to the Indian Ocean. A good distance to see the continent. Frost tightens her fist, ready to do what needs to be done. The bridge circles around the continent to find a good spot for the heroes to land. The bridge draws closer to the Ross Ice Shelf. Thankfully, no one saw them coming, but the Cyber Lin Kuei are aware of their approach. This only puts a temporary hold on what Triborg plans on doing. Everyone can see what the headquarters is. It looks like an old castle of sorts. In fact, this one definitely feels familiar. At least to the Crystalnoids and Sektor.
"This is where he was hiding all along." Crystalhan said.
"The old castle shared by the first Sub-Zero and his brother Hail." Crystallain said.
"You know this place?" Frost asked.
"This was where they lived and founded the Lin Kuei. It was more than a castle. It was their home until Hail was banished." Crystallian explained.
"That does not sound surprising, as Sektor wanted to follow in Hail's footsteps. Clever place to hide, I will give him that. Trying to revive his pride however will not come to pass. As Frost steps onto shore, a loud voice speaks up from afar.
"Frost. I know you are here. You are foolish to try to come here. I have what you want, but you are too late. Nothing can stop me now." Triborg announces through a loudspeaker from his headquarters.
"Triborg! I know you can hear me! You should've killed me yourself! Don't think nothing will stop us from fighting you! I have a promise to keep! I reformed something you failed to do! You have nowhere to run!" Frost yelled out.
"That may be true. Even with your clan and newfound allies, they do not stand a chance against me. However, I am in a good mood. Because I am confident in my abilities and how impressed I am, I shall welcome you to try. If you can reach me, I promise you a fight." Triborg tells her. He lets out a small evil laugh before he signs off.
"Sektor. I swear. This is for Sub-Zero." Frost swears as she glares up. Frost, the clan and Crystalnoids continue to walk. They all began to step onto the continent. Frost's hands lighten up with ice flowing in her palms. Aster brings out a naginata she carries on her back. Crystallian gets his own staff ready while Crysteslor has his sword and shield out. Crystalhan has no weapons. Instead, his wrists are covered with spikes. Once the huge army is onto Antarticka, they see Sektor's own army. Hundreds to thousands of Cyber Lin Kuei. Two dozens of cyborgs flying in the air while many more are on the ground. They all stare at them almost motionlessly.
On the other side, the heroes and Crystalnoids all stand in line, waiting to attack. They do not seem afraid of dying for the sake of Earthrealm's protection. Aster turns to her leader. "What do we do, Frost?"
Frost turns to look at her. She's hoping for the answer. Frost then turns to the Lin Kuei and Crystalnoids. They all nod in agreement. Frost then turns back to face the enemy. "We fight. For the Lin Kuei!"
"For the Lin Kuei!" Everyone shouted. Frost was the first to charge towards the enemy. She brings out an ice sword and ice axe as she jumps, spins and swings her weapons at the cyborgs, cutting them down. Aster follows her closely as she knocks and stabs more cyborgs with her naginata.
The Crystalnoids start to engage them as well. Crystallian uses his own crystal staff to cut, slice and knock their limbs off and cut out their circuits. Crysteslor blocks many attacks with his shield and retaliates with his sword, cutting cyborgs down. He then throws his shield upwards and cuts two mid born cyborgs in half as it comes back to him. Some of the Cyber Lin Kuei fly in to attack Ctystalhan. He fights them bare handed and managed to land some big injuries on them. Crystalhan knocks three of them back and shoots several sharp crystals through their chests and foreheads, knocking them down and deactivating them. Several more cyborgs try to fly past the Crystalnoids to kill some of the Lin Kuei, but some are being taken out by the archers from both sides. They are using explosive arrows and freeze arrows to shoot them down. The snow giants tend to either grab them and rip them apart, slam them down into the ground or throw them afar.
The Lin Kuei are doing a good job taking care of the cyborgs. But not without cost. Several Lin Kuei start to fall by their hands when they either get beaten to death, limbs cut off and blood coming out, or their hearts and spines ripped out. Frost was afraid that something like this would happen, but also knew it would be inevitable, as she was told that no battle comes without cost. She continues to fight her way through, cutting anyone down that gets in her way. Frost throws the ice axe horizontally as it slices a couple dozens of cyborgs in half, knocking them down. Aster stabs one in the neck and she pushes her naginata upward and slices its head in two and knocks and kills some others while being backed up by Frost. Frost was not going to let her new admirer go down easily. They nod to each other as they get closer to the old Lin Kuei castle. Crystalhan's guardian suddenly charges in front of them as it clears a path, ridding them of more than several of the Cyber Lin Kuei. It raises its hand in the air and crystals form in the air, spinning in circles. One by one, each crystal rapidly forms what appears to be a weapon. It forms into a gigantic ice hammer. The guardian charges and swings its weapon from the right and it slams into the entrance. It does another swing from the left and the entrance is just about broken. It then holds its weapon upwards and slams it against the giant walls. Within seconds, the wall is bursted open and broken into many pieces. The crystal guardian steps aside and silently looks at Frost, Aster and the Lin Kuei warriors.
"You must go, Frost. Hurry!" Crystallian tells her.
"But Crystallian. What about you? You could die out here." Frost worries for him.
"I am always willing to lay down my life for those I consider my friends. And that includes you, Frost. Please. You have your duty. And I have mine." Crystallian reminds her.
Frost does not want to leave anyone behind. But at the same time, she understands their duty as much as she understands her own. She turns to her warriors and Aster. "I understand, Crystallian. I owe you my respect. All of you. As for my warriors. Let's keep moving. Sektor is at the top! Leave no survivors!" Frost orders them. They all nod to her. Frost and the others run on forward to confront their enemy. But will they show up in time?
Sektor has been watching from the monitors. He closes his metal fists in anger as he fires a missile at the big monitor, completely blowing it to pieces. "Damn it! Why do they refuse to quit?! She is just as arrogant and annoying as Kuai Liang! No matter. Despite how strong and fast she is, she will not make it in time." Triborg said.
He then turns to the four cyborgs each holding a Snow Dagger. The daggers float in the air as the cyborg master looks up. Somehow, the four cyborgs speak in a different language, causing the daggers to glow. Sektor most likely had something to do with it. All of a sudden, the four daggers rapidly thrust into Triborg's shoulders about halfway, almost a quarter of a way through his forehead and almost halfway to where his heart is. Despite being a cyborg, he grunts and groans in pain as he begins to light up.
"Yes! YES! This power! It is something powerful! No wonder Sub-Zero was always so powerful!" Triborg yells out as he yells in pain as he begins to glow.
Frost, Aster and a few dozen warriors continue to run their way through the castle. They fight their way to the top as they battle more cyborgs. Frost uses ice lances and spins in place and decapitates seven cyborgs trying to surround her. Aster uses her skills and naginata to kill more. She nearly gets tackled by one of them, who knocks her weapon out of her hands and tries to strangle her. Aster struggled to breath and grabbed its wrists. She tries to get the grip away from her, but then the cyborg's wrists started freezing. It looks at them in sudden confusion on how she's doing that. A moment later, its wrists shatter into pieces like glass. Aster looked at her hands in confusion, but quickly put that aside as she jumps, kicks it in the chest, backflip kicks it, nearly knocking its head off and and jump swing kicks it, knocking the head off, sending the robot down.
Aster once again looks at her hands in confusion at what just happened. She wanted to ask how she did that, but could not find the words. Frost approaches her out of concern. "Aster. Are you alright?" She puts a hand on the young girl's shoulder.
"I-I am fine. I don't know what just happened. I'll explain later." Aster tells her. Frost nods and motions for everyone to follow her. They continue cutting their way through more Cyber Lin Kuei as they near the top.
But as they reach the final doors, Frost stops in place and faces her followers. "No matter what happens, I am honored to fight by your side."
"Likewise, Frost." Aster nods to her. Frost smirks and nods back. She turns back and uses her cryomancer powers and places a palm on the big doors. After a few moments, Frost closes her fist and sends a strong punch through the iced metal doors, breaking them apart like they were nothing. The tiny pieces of ice all fall through the ground. Frost and the others step through the final room to confront Sektor. Unfortunately, they see one thing that they not hoping to see. Triborg is glowing with an ice-like aura around his entire body.
Triborg looks up, this time with light-blue eyes rather than regular blue eyes. "Frost. While I am not thrilled that you manage to survive the ambush on you, I must admit I am actually impressed with how far you have gotten. If you still had your old personality and ego, you would've made far less progress." Triborg stated.
"You have no room to talk, Triborg. Your own ego has gotten the best of you at our hands. You have been defeated and destroyed once, it will happen again. Every choice you have made, starting with dishonoring the Lin Kuei. It is beyond unforgivable." Frost replied.
"I made no regrets, except for allowing my enemies to live in the past. That's why I had ordered them to kill you. What surprised me was that you reforged the Lin Kuei's alliance with the Crystalnoids. I had a slight feeling you were still alive after I shattered Crystesla to pieces. But I learned after I stole the information from Smoke. Now I possess all I desire." Triborg said. He changes to his Cyber Sub-Zero form and his ice powers flow in his hands. They definitely look much more stronger than before.
"The Snow Daggers." Frost said.
"Precisely. After I learned that you and Cyrax had the first two daggers, I simply ordered my clan to withdraw and hide and allow you to do my work for me. You learned of them when you stole the data from me during my battle against Sub-Zero." Triborg explained.
"And that's how you found us. And yet your mistake was not killing the other Crystalnoids. They are the reason why me and my clan stand here before you." Frost pointed out with Aster silently agreeing with him.
"I allowed them to live because I knew they would not cooperate with me. And Crystesla paid for it with her rebellious life. I wanted them to know of the Cyber Lin Kuei's true return and triumphant once I have gained the powers of Sub-Zero. They were fools to leave Hail to his fate." Triborg said.
"That is a lie! They left him because his greed for power got the best of him as well as his jealousy of his brother. He started the Kold War. And look where that got him." Frost said.
"Because the first Sub-Zero was a coward and not wanting more power. He and Hail could have been invincible. He showed insubordination. A thing that does not exist in the Cyber Lin Kuei." Sektor said.
"Heart and souls are always a thing among the Lin Kuei and you defiled it. Your father was unwise to revive the Cyber Initiative and you wanting to follow it because of blind loyalty. I may be part of you, but I retain what is left of me, unlike you." Frost said.
"I am perfection, Frost. I have always been since I killed your master. I need this power to secure my future with the Cyber Lin Kuei and fulfill Hail's wishes. Perhaps I should let you, your new student, as well ad Cyrax and Smoke live long enough." Triborg offered.
"So you can force us to watch you freeze Earthrealm in your hell? To execute all of us to show your cowardice? Never! All I want is for my clan to live in a world without you!" Frost said, pointing her finger at him." Frost exclaimed.
"That is regrettable. But I will respect your choice. Regardless, I shall give you a fighting chance. You and me in Mortal Kombat. No help from others." Triborg challenges her.
Frost looks at her followers and a worried Aster. She turns back to Triborg and takes a step forward. "So be it. I will give you a challenge you will suffer and regret from what will remain of your life." Frost accepts. She turns to Aster. "Aster. Find Smoke and Cyrax. Free them and return to the Crystalnoids."
"Frost. We can't leave you." Aster is hesitant.
Frost puts both hands on her shoulders. "I understand your concern. But your safety and the clan's survival is a top priority. I will put all others before myself. That is the way of the leader of the Lin Kuei. That is my responsibility." Frost tells her. "Go. Free the others. Leave Sektor to me."
Aster was still reluctant to leave her leader and friend to Sektor, knowing that he is stronger now. Aster turns to the warriors and gestures for them to follow her. As she runs past Sektor, several cyborgs were about to give chase, but Triborg holds a hand up.
"No. Let them go. I want to kill her new student and her two friends myself once I am done with Frost. Go. Join the others." Triborg orders them. They immediately comply and start teleporting outside. This leaves Frost and Triborg alone to face each other.
"Now hand over those daggers. They do not belong to you. Neither does the power that you wrongfully stole." Frost demanded.
"I've earned these powers. Bi-Han died because he was too arrogant, blinded by pride. And Kuai Liang died because he held the mantle for too long. And for not ensuring my death. Now you are next." Triborg tells her.
"I'd be honored to ensure your death in his place, Triborg. This will be our last fight." Frost said. They both get into position before they fight.
Triborg was the first to swing, only for Frost to dodge and uppercut his chest, and double kick his left shoulder and fires an ice beam from her chest, sending him backwards. This allows her to fire ice balls from her shoulder pads, stumbling Triborg and she runs up and double kicks his chest, elbows his right metal leg, uppercuts his chin, and sends a punch down on his head. She summons an ice dagger and stabs his left shoulder, which doesn't go very deep as Triborg grabs her wrist, punches her forehead, kicks her in the chest, elbows her neck, and trips her and kicks her in the back, making her slide backwards. Triborg opens his chest to throw an ice bomb at Frost, but she uses her ice beam to freeze it, stopping it from detonating. Triborg flies in for a punch, only for Frost to twist his arm, roundhouse kick him in the head and swing kick his metal chest, slightly bending it, sending the robot master backwards.
Triborg is on a knee and stands up, looking at his enemy. "Well, well. It seems that Kuai Liang has done well into training you in his ways. You might stand a better chance against me after all unlike him."
"You do not get to talk about him. You two were friends. Smoke and Cyrax were your friends until you betrayed them. You dishonored the oath and forced many victims to surrender their free will. Me included, but I have my will back." Frost glared at him.
"Free will will not save you, Frost. Because I was only stalling you." Triborg said.
"What the hell are you talking about?!" Frost demanded.
"I was only buying myself time to fully empower myself to do this." Triborg said. "Power initiative 100% complete. Initiating Sub-Zero power level transfer to all units."
Outside, the Crystalnoids, snow giants and part of the Lin Kuei continue to fight the Cyber Lin Kuei. They seem to be doing a good job cutting down more and more cyborgs as they buy Frost time to kill Sektor. One of the Lin Kuei archers sees one and was about to shoot it down, but the cyborg is not attacking him. In fact, they all stop attacking, which quickly gains everyone's attention.
"Power levels are increasing. The Cyber Sub-Zero Initiative is now active. All skills and abilities have been downloaded 100%. Commencing activation." All the cyborgs said at once.
From that moment on, all the cyborgs began to change appearance. Their paint job is now light blue and their body design all resemble Cyber Sub-Zero. All of their eyes are now red instead of green. The same cyborg hovering over the Lin Kuei archer freezes him with new Sub-Zero like powers and descends down and throws a strong punch to the head. The archer's head breaks into tiny pieces of ice and blood, killing him and knocking the body into the ocean. More of the cyborgs start using their new powers and then they start to prove to be evenly matched against the enemy.
More Lin Kuei assassins and archers start falling victim to their new powers. One of the assassins attempts to stab one in the head, but that cyborg grabs her wrist, freezes it in place and chops the frozen arm off, causing her pain and she screams as it grabs her by the throat, uses its Sub-Zero powers to freeze her entire body and throws her aside, shattering her to pieces and killing her. Frozen blood ice crystals start to fly everywhere as more and more are starting to be killed. Even some of the nameless Crystalnoids start falling victim to their new strength. All they are very durable and very hard to completely freeze in place, some of them are being shattered to pieces. Crystallian, Crysteslor and Crystalhan continue to fight them off as long as possible.
"I sense their powers. Triborg actually did it. He's giving them powers of Sub-Zero from the daggers. Just as he planned." Crystalhan said as he shoots more sharp ice crystals from a distance.
"Who knows how much longer we can hold them off. We're losing Lin Kuei and more of our race. Sektor must have thousands or even millions of these cyborgs. We cannot fight them forever." Crysteslor replied.
"That is why we are out here. All we can do is buy Frost more time. Only she can defeat Sektor and bring back the Snow Daggers." Crystallian said as he continues to swing his staff, while shooting projectiles from it as he swings, killing some more cyborgs.
"I hope Frost knows what she is doing. Because if she fails, we all die with her." Crysteslor fears as he strikes more down.
"Regardless, I am honored to fight by her side. The side of the Lin Kuei once more." Crystallian said. Crystalhan silently nods and smirks as he agrees with him. All they could do is hope Frost is okay.
Inside, Aster and the 50 warriors following her reach the prison cells. Aster remembered something from that one cyborg that tried to kill her earlier and she places her hand on the door and closes her eyes. Part of the door starts to freeze as she grits her teeth. The door is 25% frozen as she kicks it down, leading to a room with Cyrax and Smoke held captive.
Smoke and Cyrax were expecting Frost to rescue them, but they weren't expecting someone so young to come instead. "Who are you? Are you Lin Kuei?" Smoke asked.
"Yes. My name is Aster. The Lin Kuei is alive." Aster tells them.
"Alive? But how?" Cyrax asked.
"No time to explain, we need to catch up to Chujin Frost and help her." Aster said. While they were confused by how the Lin Kuei survived, they know about the current situation they are in. Cyrax and Smoke follow closely to her. What really questions them was how Aster broke them free.
At the top. Frost and Triborg continue to fight. But Triborg starts to gloat more. "Yes. Yes! This power! It is unbelievable! No wonder why Bi-Han and Kuai Liang were always powerful! I am more powerful than them! With these daggers, I am willing to hope that not even gods or demigods can stop me!" Triborg gloats as he laughs evilly.
"You're a monster, Triborg. Even before you became like this. Liang was right. You're too much of an insane person to see the real world as it is." Frost claimed.
"My real world has always been the same since I submitted to the Cyber Initiative. These powers make all of it the better." Triborg said.
"With those powers, you'd make a poor grandmaster." Frost said as they resume fighting.
Frost brings out ice lances while Triborg brings out and ice shield and double edged sword. Frost charges in and jump swings one of them down, which Triborg easily blocks with his ice shield. Triborg swings his sword, which Frost blocks and she tries to stab his chest, but Triborg kicks her back and swings his sword again, which Frost dodges by ducking. Unfortunately, he knew she would do that, so he puts away his ice shield and punches her across the face and back kicks her in the same spot, making her roll backwards. Frost growls in anger as she stands back up. She fires an ice beam from her chest to try to freeze Triborg, but he fires his own beam and it slowly overpowers her, sending her backwards more. Triborg teleports behind her, elbows her in the lower spine, swing kicks her in the back of the head, grabs her with an electrified net, pulls her towards him and he stabs the back of Frost's left arm, causing blood to come out, making her yell in pain.
Aster and the others return to see Frost fighting Triborg. Sadly, she is starting to be overpowered by the latter. Frost shoots ice balls from her shoulder pads, which Triborg swings and destroys with his sword, allowing Frost to double punch his chest, backflip kick him in the head, stumbling him, yet he recovers. Frost comes in for a punch, only for Triborg to block it, grab her already bad arm and twist it, cracking it, making her scream. He stabs her left leg, causing more bloody pain before pushing her backwards. Triborg does a dive kick, expecting Frost to block. But he teleports behind her and kicks her in the upper spine. He creates an ice ball and slams it in the back of her head, cracking her skull. Triborg creates an ice Kori Blade and thrusts it into Frost's back and through her stomach. Triborg grabs her by the head and throws her aside, defeating her.
"With these powers, I will be the first ever immortal grandmaster of the Cyber Lin Kuei. You have brought nothing but shame on the Lin Kuei, Frost. And you dishonor Liang's name." Triborg said.
"FROST! NO!" Smoke yelled out, getting Triborg's attention. Smoke teleports in front of him to kick and reverse side kick him, only for Triborg to knee him in the right rib cage and stomp on his right leg, nearly breaking it. Cyrax attempts to attack with his wrist blades, but Triborg grabs them, turns them to ice and shatters them to pieces. He then grabs Cyrax by the throat and stabs him in the stomach with his own ice blade, but not too severe before tossing him aside. He then sets his eyes on Aster. She feels herself shaking but still glaring at him. Aster yells out as she charges at him with her naginata, but Triborg easily avoids her blows, grabs her weapon and tosses it aside before grabbing her by the throat.
"A young one. Brave but naive. It appears Frost finally has someone to follow her in her footsteps. To repeat the same tragedies that she was forced through. You disgust me, young girl. You should have picked a better hero. Such as me." Triborg said as he holds the girl.
"You're wrong. You do not deserve to have your name recognized. Unlike Frost." Aster tells him in defiance.
"L-let her g-go, Sektor." Frost said weakly as she gets to a knee. She has blood on part of her mouth and coming out of her nose. She places a hand om her stomach as she keeps bleeding out.
"Still alive. So defiant like Kuai Liang. A shame that every single part of him is gone. I will finish this now. Starting with you. Because you call yourself a leader, yet more and more of your allies are dying as we speak. He would be disappointed in you." Triborg said. He looks at Aster before tossing her aside before he walks closer to Frost. Be brings out a Kori Blade again and raises it into the air. Before he could do so, he suddenly stops and feels a sharp pain in his entire body. Coming from his chest, head and shoulders. Triborg drops the blade and steps backwards, grabbing his chest in pain.
Triborg's body starts glowing again and the four Snow Daggers come out of his body and they form a square above their heads. They descend down in front of them and icy mist starts coming out of them like a projection. It appears to be forming a person. It seems familiar. Triborg takes a closer look and immediately recognizes him and steps back out of fear.
The image forms Kuai Liang. The former Sub-Zero opens his eyes and looks down at Frost. "S-Sub-Zero? How? Is it really you?" Frost asked, still covering her wound.
"Yes, Frost. It is me. Every word that Sektor has said about you is wrong. In fact, my spirit has always lived on after my demise. I have watched you and the others on your journey." Kuai Liang tells her.
"Master. I… I am sorry. I failed you too many times. I watched you die at his hands and now I have failed to defeat him myself." Frost looks down.
"No. It was never your fault to begin with. I knew it was only a matter of time before my death would come regardless of how. You, Cyrax and Smoke have helped me keep the Lin Kuei together." Sub-Zero tells her.
"But I do not understand. The Crystalnoids all have reasons why they think I am worthy. But why do you? After all that has happened." Frost reminds him.
"Only those with pure souls and spirits are worthy of being leader of the clan. You have proved so a long time ago, Frost. When you stepped up to lead this mission to stop the enemy and ensure everyone's safety. You carry a student of your own. One who wishes to follow you, as you followed me. In doing so, you remembered what I have taught you about responsibility and took it to heart." Sub-Zero reminds her. Frost tries her best to resist her emotions as Triborg, Aster, Cyrax and Smoke all listen to him. This brings a smile to Aster's face, as she knew he shared the same opinion as her.
This brings a tear to Frost's eyes. She was always afraid of failing. She closes her eyes and remembers the times in the New Era. Frost being accepted in the Lin Kuei, showing redemption. Her being trained and mentored, being shown the responsibilities of being part of the clan. Her fighting alongside them to take down Sektor and his allies during the battle of the Sky Temple. And the time they trained together for a final time and going on this journey with Smoke and Cyrax and remembering the trials she endured on the way and meeting Aster.
Frost opens her eyes and looks up at her former grandmaster. "Kuai Liang. Thank you. I can never ask for a better master. I have always looked up to you." Frost tells him.
"And you have someone to admire you. I know that you will make a better master than I would. I could never ask for a better Chujin. You are worthy of the name Sub-Zero. You are the only one who can write a future for this clan. The fate depends on you." Kuai Liang tells her before he disapparetes.
Frost nods and stands up despite her injuries. The Snow Daggers light up once more as she looks up at them. She immediately realized what this means. She holds her arms out and closes her eyes. The daggers descend down on Frost and they began to stab her forehead, chest and shoulders, causing her to grunt in pain. All Triborg could do was watch in horror at what just happened. Frost began to light up as the Snow Daggers dig a little deeper. After a few painful moments, Frost comes down and she looks completely different. All of her metal body was gone. Replaced with actual flesh and actual blood. She is once more human. Frost is wearing similar robes like Kuai Liang once did. Frost opens her eyes and stares at Triborg.
"No. No! How could this be?! How could you have the powers of Sub-Zero?!" Triborg demanded.
"Because you have no soul. No spirit. All you have is arrogance and greed for power. Any Lin Kuei member have a pure heart, soul, and spirit. Kuai Liang did. So do Aster, Smoke and Cyrax." Frost corrects him.
"You are nothing but a mere student. I still have the powers to take you down." Triborg said.
"I am not just a student. I am a Chujin. I am Frost. I. Am. Sub-Zero." Frost declares.
"Your time as Sub-Zero will be short!" Triborg angrily claimed before they resume.
Frost brings out an ice sword and ice axe while Triborg brings out a Kori Blade and shield. Triborg attempts to bash her with the shield, which Frost dodges and knees his right shoulder, She swings her ice axe at his back, cutting it open and stabbing his right shoulder with the ice sword before double kicking him forward, stumbling him. Frost narrowly avoids a swing to the chest, but is caught by a shield bash to the face, making her spit out some blood. Triborg knees her in the chin before he throws her down. Frost kicks the weapon out of his hand and tries to move, only for Triborg to stomp on her left leg, keeping her in place. He sees the naginata he tossed aside earlier and picks it up in an attempt to finish her. Before he could, someone shoots ice at the weapon and it immediately freezes a quarter way through passing the blade. Triborg sees that it was not Frost, but it was actually Aster. Aster was the one who fired that small ice power at him. Triborg attempted to throw it at her out of anger, but is caught off guard when Frost escapes from his grip after seeing what happened. Frost elbows his metal face, throws an ice scythe down on his shoulder and stabs it, and uses an ice lance to stab his right knee. Triborg attempted to fire an ice beam from his chest, but Frost fires her own from her hands. They were evenly matched until Frost's beam started to overpower his. Triborg slowly realizes that he is losing more power because of the daggers.
Triborg is overpowered and is nearly frozen everywhere. Frost summons an ice field with plenty of icicles. She grabs two and throws them into Triborg's abdomen area. Frost grabs Triborg and throws him to the other side where his face breaks many icicles, damaging his face along the way and another icicle stabs him in the left shoulder. Frost them throws him up and an icicle from the ceiling stabs the cyborg's back. Triborg, severely malfunctioning attempts to stand up, but could not do anything. Frost approaches him and takes an ice dagger and stabs Triborg in the head with it, making blood come out and then she uses an ice axe to cut his chest open. Frost sends ice mist within Triborg's chest, slowly freezing him from the inside. Frost stands back and uses her new ice powers and slides and shoulder bashes through Triborg and he shatters into hundreds of pieces, making ice and frozen blood go all over the place. There was nothing of him left. Triborg, also known as Sektor is now dead.
"Fatality." Frost said. Outside, all of the Cyber Lin Kuei being fought all immediately explode, one by one. Everyone outside still living and breathing all see this and realize what this means. That Sektor is finally gone for good. The surviving clan members all yell out in victory at the meaning all while the Crystalnoids smile and sigh out of relief. That is was finally over.
Back inside, Frost stares down at the remains of Sektor. She is happy that he was finally gone from this world and into hell. Frost turns around and sees Aster, Cyrax, and Smoke all staring at her. At first, they were speechless on what to say. That was until Aster stepped up. "Hail the new Sub-Zero.
Smoke and Cyrax look at each other and immediately follow. "Hail the new Sub-Zero." Smoke and Cyrax said at the same time.
Frost smiles and approaches her three friends. "Cyrax. Smoke. Aster. Thank you. All of you. You were all there for me during the darkest times. It made me realize that a leader is never alone no matter how. I always hoped that I would never be. My friends. My followers. I am honored to become the new official leader of the Lin Kuei." Frost tells them.
"The honor is ours, Frost. You carried us to victory. Made sure the Cyber Lin Kuei is now forever extinct. As Liang said earlier, you have pure soul and spirit. Something that Sektor did not have." Cyrax tells her.
"Indeed. Will you lead us, Frost?" Smoke asked.
Frost remained silent, remembering the words Sub-Zero said to her as a spirit. "I am. I will. For Kuai Liang." Frost smirks. They all nod to her, thankful for the answer she has given them. Now it was time for a new beginning for the Lin Kuei. A start without their now forever vanished enemy, the Cyber Lin Kuei. A start with their reforged alliance with the Crystalnoids. Frost is grateful for everyone being there for her. And she would do the same for them. Frost is now the new Sub-Zero.
The Kold War has finally ended. The Cyber Lin Kuei has been destroyed, this time for good. Frost, now the official new master of the Lin Kuei and human once more, has led the clan to victory. She was not sure that she could pull it off at first, but then everyone started to have faith in her. Smoke, Cyrax, Aster, and the Crystalnoids. Frost could not thank everyone enough for supporting her all the way. They promised to never turn their backs onto each other thanks to their new alliance. With their help, they continue to set up more temples along with the Crystalnoids to ensure absolute protection of Articka and East Antarticka.
The journey did not come without cost. Crystesla gave up her life to ensure the mission's success to stop Sektor from conquering Earthrealm. She saw worthiness and honesty in Frost's eyes. And Kuai Liang, the last Sub-Zero before her. He died to make sure that the clan would survive, knowing that his time would come one day. He wanted Frost to be his successor and have her become the new master. Now his wish has come true. Now it was time to say goodbye.
A funeral was thrown for both Kuai Liang and Crystesla. Two statues forged to look like them have been made from the combined powers of Frost and the Crystalnoids. They all wish to honor their name and word of keeping the Lin Kuei and Crystalnoids alive as long as they draw breath. Frost, Smoke, Cyrax, Aster, Crystallian, Crysteslor and Crystalhan all attended on good terms with each other. The Special Forces as well as the Shirai Ryu, Outworld and Edenia have received word of all that has happened throughout the adventure and give Frost and the Lin Kuei their condolences. In the process, Frost has earned their full trust, seeing her redemption and protectiveness.
A few days later, the Lin Kuei have started a new day. They all train under Frost's instructions as they follow her words and wisdom. She remembers all that Kuai Liang taught her with Cyrax and Smoke looking on proudly at how far she has gotten. After a while of training, the two friend approach her.
"Master Sub-Zero. A word with you." Smoke said, bowing his head to her.
"You don't need permission to speak up, my friend. Say what is on your mind." Frost nods to them.
"Permission for me and Cyrax to go on patrol. To ensure the clan's safety." Smoke said.
"Granted. Be extra careful this time. We do not want to repeat any past mistakes like last time." Frost smirks at them.
"As stealthy as the night." Cyrax said.
"And deadly as the dawn." Frost replied. The three bow their heads to each other. As they were about to make their leave, Frost stops them in place. "Where is Aster?" Frost asked them.
"In the throne room, just as you asked us to tell her." Smoke tells her.
"Good. Thank you. Good luck on your patrols, my friends." Frost nods to them as she walks back into the temple. Frost sighs out of happiness at the changes. She has her humanity back and the Lin Kuei has once more cheated death. She hopes better for the future. Aster, looking at the statues of Sub-Zero and Crystesla from afar, turns around to see her new master.
"Master Frost." Aster runs to her. "You wanted to see me?" Aster said, feeling anxious.
"Yes. I wanted to speak to you alone. About what you've done. You've done nothing wrong. When I was fighting Sektor, you freezed your own weapon in place to save me. When did you learn cryomancing?" Frost asked.
"I learned it a few years ago. Master Liang took me in after I lost my mother. He taught me how to control it and wanted me to show you. So you could teach me. Teach me how to use these for good. Like you have. With your permission, of course, Master Frost." Aster asks her.
Frost smiles, remembering the time Sub-Zero took her under his wing when wanting to show redemption. She responds by placing a hand on her shoulder. "Of course. I've seen your eyes, Aster. You are not a freak. You are special. Your honesty is pure. Your courage and judgement we will work on. I promise you I will show you everything about cryomancing." Frost tells her and Aster nervously smiles. "Come. We have work to do, my new student." This brightens Aster even more. She is looking forward to further training and what her new master has in store for her. They no longer need to worry about any threats from the Cyber Lin Kuei ever again.
At the ruins of the old Lin Kuei castle, more than several destroyed parts of what remains of the Cyber Lin Kuei. Inside at the top, is the icicle field Frost put in place alongside the pieces of Sektor's dead body. A red portal opens up and two people step out. It is Mavado and Seamus Lee.
Seamus Lee approaches and sees what has happened. He immediately realizes that Sektor has failed in his mission to kill the Lin Kuei, giving the ruins of the place. "It appears your prediction has come true after all, Lord Mavado."
"Sektor was obsessed with pride and lust for power. How easily he was convinced that the Lin Kuei and Crystalnoids would just stand back and watch him conquer Earthrealm, believing his addiction to the clan has ended. It was his downfall. No matter, we had no more use for him if he failed or succeeded. We have what we wanted. But we still lack the necessary means we need." Mavado said. He lifts his hand and magic flows in his hands showing six different daggers.
"The Lin Kuei are still weak from their fated battle. We could attack now." Seamus Lee suggested.
"No. We are still weak as well after the war with the Shirai Ryu. It will take years. We must stick to the plan according to our true master. The Red Dragon will rise again. While Earthrealm, Outworld and Edenia have their alliance, we shall soon have our own with other realms. More alliances. All our enemies will not know until it is too late. We still have more recruiting and training to do, especially for the girl." Mavado smirks. Seamus Lee sees this and nods in agreement. They both enter through the red portal once more and it closes. What could they possibly be up to?
Note: And that is it for Mortal Kombat: Kold War. I hope you guys enjoyed the story with the Lin Kuei. Please feel free to share your thoughts. While there will be more MK stories, this next story is gonna be different from Mortal Kombat. There are other game franchises and superheroes that I like to write and post on here. It'll take a few weeks, hopefully the start of November. Until next time!
The End