The great dining room within Shang Tsung's palace was a lavish and opulent space, designed to awe and intimidate the warriors gathered for the impending Mortal Kombat
tournament. It was adorned with intricate, darkly themed décor, reflecting the sinister nature of the both host and the soon impending battles that will take place on this
island.
The room was cavernous, its high vaulted ceilings echoed with the sounds of conversations. Large, ornate pillars rose along the perimeter, etched with eerie symbols and
mystical runes that seemed to pulse with otherworldly energy. Unknown to the hundreds of Participants, the tapestries adorning the walls depicted ancient battles between
realms, their colors faded but their significance was clear.
The large double doors swing open once again, marking the sixth entrance in just one hour, revealing a new wave of contenders for the Mortal Kombat tournament. From the
icy landscapes of Russia to the bustling streets of America, the ancient pyramids of Egypt to the serene dojos of Japan, and the vast landscapes of China to the historic cities
of Europe – warriors from every corner of the world arrive, drawn together by destiny.
Among the newcomers was a man wearing sunglasses. Johnathan Carlton, or Johnny Cage as he called himself, was known to many as a martial arts actor. He starred in many
martial arts movies, such as Cage Match, Exiting the Dragon of Death, and Aquatic Assault, which quickly allowed him to rise to the echelons of the Hollywood elite. Sadly, it
seemed that Cage's star waned just a few years later.
With the charges and accusations thrown at him by his now-divorced wife, Cindy Ford, and other rumors, Johnny Cage's image was ruined. It was proven later that all those
accusations were false, but that didn't change the fact that he no longer was the star all those years ago. But that didn't break him. To the participants who had seen his
movies, it was as if an old idol had come. Those who believed that Johnny Cage could only fight on stage, not in real life, couldn't wait but see the proud actor finally be put
down and humiliated. Who knows, maybe they would be the lucky ones to do it.
The actor still strode in with a confident swagger, accompanied by a group of fellow participants from various countries. The eclectic mix of participants engaged in animated
conversations, exchanging nods of acknowledgment and studying the faces of their potential allies or adversaries. Languages from different regions blended in a symphony of
diversity as alliances formed and rivalries simmered beneath the surface. Searching for another seat Johnny went by many people. Some of them gave him high fives,
whereas others kindly and respectfully asked him to go f*ck himself.
Soon, at the corner of a table, he found a pair consisting of a Chinese monk and another man wearing a Chinese coolie.
Hoping that they understood English, he spoke first.
"Hey there, fellas. Mind if I join the party?"
The monk, focused and composed, glanced up from his meal regarding the actor with a mix of curiosity and wariness. The other man continued to eat his bowl of rice.
To the actor's delight, the monk could speak English, even with his very noticeable accent.
"The seat is free. You are welcome to join us."
Said the monk with a nod.
Johnny immediately pulled out the nearest chair and sat while grinning like an idiot.
"Great! The name's Johnny Cage, by the way. Movie star extraordinaire."
To this introduction, the monk couldn't help but raise an eyebrow. "A movie star amid warriors. What brings you to this tournament?"
"Oh, you know, just trying to add a bit of Hollywood flair to the whole "tournament of death" thing. You know, spice up the action."
To this, the man in wearing the Chinese coolie responded.
"He is here for the prize money Lui Kang. And for the fame of becoming champion."
After that sentence, the actor couldn't help but be silent for a while.
"And who are you, dear sir, If I may ask?"
"I am Raiden, god of thunder, this is Lui Kang, descendant of the Great Kung Lao, Chosen champion of the White lotus. We are here for a more significant purpose John
Carlton– to defend Earthrealm."
Johnny Cage took a seat and adjusted his sunglasses with a nonchalant flair. For a moment, Johnny murmured what Lui Kang understood as something along with "God of
thunder my ass. If he is Thor, then I am Moses."
The dining tables were long, obsidian masterpieces stretching across the length of the room. Elaborate candelabras, wrought with demonic motifs were interspersed along its
length. The tables were set with dark silverware and blood-red tablecloths, creating a stark contrast to the dim lighting. The dim, flickering torches mounted on the walls cast
an ambient glow, which gave the room an ominous atmosphere. The center of the room was bathed in a soft, eerie light emanating from a colossal chandelier hanging from
the ceiling. The chandelier, crafted with twisted metal and dark crystals, adds a touch of malevolence to the grandeur. And at the far end of the room, elevated on a dais, sat
an old man on a massive imposing throne, which was crafted from dark materials and adorned with ominous carvings. From there, the old man observes the interactions of his
guests with a calculating and malevolent gaze.
Johnny didn't need long to guess that that man was no other than Shang Tsung himself.
"So, what's the deal with this Shang Tsung guy? Seems like a real party animal."
The monk, or Lui Kang, answered his question with a strange sound. "Shang Tsung is a sorcerer, a master of dark arts. He hosts the tournament on behalf of Outworld."
"Outworld? Sounds like my kind of place. Is anything exciting there?"
"Outworld is a realm of treachery and danger. Be cautious, John Carlton," said Raiden.
The air was heavy with a mix of scents – the aroma of exotic dishes prepared by Shang Tsung's servants had an underlying sense of foreboding. The din of conversation,
clinking utensils, and the occasional laughter create a surreal backdrop for the warriors who, unbeknownst to them, are moments away from stepping into the crucible of
Mortal Kombat.
The atmosphere becomes more festive as otherworldly servants, the Naknadans, weaved through the tables, offering an array of exotic dishes and beverages to the
champions.
"Fine delicacies from the treasures of Outworld, esteemed champions. A taste of victory before the battles unfold."
A Naknadan, adorned in intricate armor adorned with trinkets and pouches, presents a platter filled with mysterious dishes. The aroma wafts through the air, capturing the
attention of the warriors as they eye the offerings with curiosity.
"G'day, mate! Thanks for da spread. Outworld's got som' top-notch tucka!"
The Naknadan, pleased by the acknowledgment, inclined his head in return.
"Your gratitude is well received, Earthrealmer. May the flavors of Outworld fortify you for the challenges ahead."
That same Naknadan soon came towards the trio.
Giving each of them a receipt, the Naknadan presented the diverse array of Outworld delicacies to Johnny, Raiden, and Liu Kang. With a sly grin, he gestured toward the
golden platter in his first pair of arms.
"Esteemed champions, if there is a particular delicacy that beckons to your senses, name it, and I shall present it to you with the treasures of Outworld."
Johnny Cage, always ready for a taste of the extraordinary, was the first to respond.
"How about those Dragonfruit Elixirs? They sound like a blockbuster hit."
The Naknadan, with a nod, gracefully extended his second pair of hands, revealing an exquisite arrangement of said Elixirs. Johnny Cage took one with a theatrical flourish,
toasting to the impending battles.
Then the Naknadan turned his head towards Lui Kang.
"Crystallized Netherrealm Fruits, please. I've heard tales of their mystical essence."
With a flick of his second pair of hands, the Naknadan presented Liu Kang with a selection of crystallized fruits. Liu Kang accepted them with gratitude, savoring the otherworldly flavors.
And lastly, it was Raiden's turn.
"I am intrigued by the Blood Lotus Dumplings."
Without missing a beat, the Naknadan offered a platter to Raiden, who accepted with a nod.
The supposed Thunder God sampled the delicacy, and Johnny couldn't help but see the expression of the hat lover betraying a hint of satisfaction.
Johnny Cage, sipping his Dragonfruit Elixir with an air of theatrical delight, couldn't help but notice the Kollector's unique physique.
"Mate, am I seeing things, or have I been hitting the wine cellar a bit too hard? You've got, what, four arms?"
The Naknadan, maintaining his composure, responded with a sly smile.
"Indeed, esteemed Earthrealmer. Four arms to serve and collect treasures for Outworld."
"Well, I thought I'd seen it all, but this takes the cake. Four arms? That's a first."
Raiden, joining the conversation, couldn't resist adding a touch of divine insight.
"John, you might want to recalibrate your vision. The Kollektor has not four, but six arms."
"Six arms? HAHAHA. You're pulling my leg, Thunder God. Next, you'll tell me he's got eyes in the back of his head!"
Raiden, maintaining his stoic demeanor, simply nodded, leaving Johnny Cage shaking his head in amused disbelief.
The Naknadan meanwhile got interested in the hat wearing man.
"You know my name, Earthrealmer?"
"I am Raiden. Yes. I know your name and I know of your kind."
"Hm. So I was right, it is you. Very well, I wish you good luck."
Amidst the laughter and banter, a sudden commotion disrupts the atmosphere in the grand dining room. The trio—Johnny Cage, Raiden, and Liu Kang—swiftly turns their
attention toward the source of the disturbance. A giant man is sprawled on the floor, clutching his leg, and nearby stands a striking blond woman in a military uniform.
The trio remains seated, observing the commotion caused by the collision between the giant man and the blond woman from a distance. Johnny, unfamiliar with the woman,
raises an inquisitive eyebrow.
"Who's the military Barbie causing a ruckus over there?"
Raiden, with a subtle smile, enlightened Johnny about the identity of the woman.
"That is Sonya Blade, a skilled Special Forces officer from Earthrealm."
As Johnny observed Sonya Blade, a look of surprise crossed his face. He leans in, still keeping his voice low.
"Wait a minute. Military types getting involved? This isn't going to mess up the tournament, is it?"
Lui Kang, with a calm demeanor, reassured Johnny about the nature of the Mortal Kombat tournament.
"The tournament's integrity is safeguarded by the will of the Elder Gods. No one from Earthrealm, even its military, can hinder its course."
Johnny, though still visibly surprised, takes in the information. Raiden, sensing Johnny's concern, joined the conversation.
"The forces of Earthrealm, including its military, are bound by the rules of Mortal Kombat. The Elder Gods ensure that the tournament proceeds without external interference."
Johnny Cage, though initially shocked, relaxes a bit, trusting in the wisdom of Raiden and Liu Kang. He still dismissed the words when both of them mentioned those so-called
Elder Gods, but didn't say anything, thinking it would be unkind of questioning the faith of his new acquaintances.
"Well, let's hope this military Barbie doesn't mess up the show. I don't want to deal with this whole bureaucratic mess."
As Johnny Cage continues to observe Sonya Blade's interactions, a sudden change comes over him. His initial surprise transforms into a subtle infatuation. He watches her
with a newfound interest, a glint of admiration in his eyes.
"Well, hello, Special Forces. You're a whole different kind of action."
Liu Kang exchanged a glance with Raiden, sensing Johnny's sudden change in demeanor. The monk leaned in, placing a hand on Johnny's shoulder.
"Johnny, focus on the tournament. This is not the time for romantic pursuits."
"Oh, come on, Lui Kang. Can't a guy appreciate a beautiful warrior?"
"John," said Raiden, "the fate of Earthrealm is at stake. Now is not the time for distractions."
Johnny Cage, feeling a bit irked by his friends' lack of belief in his charm, scans the grand dining room for a new challenge. His eyes lock onto a beautiful woman in a blue suit
on the other side of the participants. A sly grin creeps across his face.
"Hey, monk, how about a little wager? I bet I can charm Sonya Blade before you can even get a smile out of that woman in the blue suit."
Liu Kang, raising an eyebrow, looked at the woman Johnny mentioned. A mischievous spark flickered in Johnny's eyes.
"And what's in it for the winner?" asked Lui Kang.
"How about a wish? Anything you want."
Johnny was about to propose the same bet to Raiden, but the supposed Thunder God immediately declined.
"Absolutely not, John Carlton. I will not be a party to your frivolous wagers."
Undeterred, Johnny Cage turns back to Liu Kang, his competitive spirit unyielding.
"So, monk, do we have a bet?"
Liu Kang, after thinking for a moment, gave the actor a small nod.
Johnny Cage, now fueled by confidence and a desire to prove himself, rose from his seat and strode purposefully towards Sonya Blade. As he approached, Liu Kang and Raiden
exchanged a knowing glance, a shared certainty that their new friend may be in for a challenging encounter.
"He is about to die, isn't he Lord Raiden?"
"Death isn't what awaits him. Instead, it is going to be both physical and mental pain that will meet him, and with which he shall soon return to our table."
As Johnny engaged Sonya in conversation, attempting to employ his signature charm, Liu Kang and Raiden stopped watching, as they were all but sure what fate their new
friend awaited.
Shortly after Johnny's departure, he returned to the table with a visible bruise on his face, his swagger replaced by a more humbled demeanor.
"Well, that could have gone better."
"Perhaps next time, Johnny, rely on your skills in combat rather than charm."
"A lesson learned, John Carlton. Mortal Kombat encompasses more than just physical battles."
Johnny Cage, despite the setback, remains undeterred and more determined than ever to win the bet. Acknowledging that he may have to strategize for another opportunity
with Sonya Blade, he turns his attention to Liu Kang and the woman in the blue suit.
"So, monk, how's it going with the woman in blue? Any sparks flying yet?"
"No, my dear friend, I didn't even stand up from this table when Lord Raiden and I entered."
"Why not?"
Lui Kang then pointed a finger towards another figure standing next to the woman. It was a man well built, dressed in a green and black ninja suit standing guard beside her.
The man also wore a mask, which featured a textured surface resembling scales, with a mix of dark and light green hues. The design gave Johnny the impression of a reptilian
face, complete with angular features and a slightly elongated snout. But soon. Johnny couldn't help but feel a shiver run down his spine as he could swear that he caught a
glimpse of the ninja's eyes turning yellow, like those of a reptile.
Confused, Johnny turned to Liu Kang and Raiden.
"Okay, what's the deal with the woman in blue and her reptilian guard?"
Raiden, with a solemn expression, explained.
"That woman is Kitana, the daughter of Shao Kahn, the Emperor of Outworld."
Johnny Cage, still not understanding anything, looked to Liu Kang for clarification.
"Shao Kahn is a powerful and malevolent ruler. His right-hand sorcerer, Shang Tsung, oversees the Mortal Kombat tournament."
"Wait, so that ninja dude is working for that, … Shao, Shao Kahn?"
"Yes, Johnny. If Lord Raiden is correct, and he very rarely isn't, then he's one of Shao Kahn's strongest and deadliest enforcers. Be careful. Pray to whatever god you believe in
that you don't cross paths with him."
As the participants of the Mortal Kombat tournament arrive on Shang Tsung's island after a long journey, the air is thick with a mixture of anticipation and tension. Shang
Tsung, the sorcerer orchestrating the event, addresses the warriors gathered before him.
"Welcome, champions, to my island. I trust your journey was both enlightening and treacherous. But now, the true challenges lie ahead."
His words hang in the air, a prelude to the trials that await the warriors in the tournament. With a subtle wave of his hand, Shang Tsung signals the end of their welcome and
beckoned them to their quarters for the night.
"Rest well, for tomorrow the real test begins. May your dreams be as turbulent as the battles that await you."
The trio—Johnny Cage, Liu Kang, and Raiden—follow the other participants, guided by the eerie and mystical ambiance of the island. As they retire to their respective sleeping
quarters. each warrior, in their own way, contemplated the challenges that the tournament would bring.
The night fell over Shang Tsung's island, casting a shadow on the eve of Mortal Kombat. In the quiet moments before sleep, the champions could never be prepared for the
battles that would unknowingly define their destiny.