A/N: Onward to the next chapter. Here we go!

Wu Shi Academy, China 10:30 P.M.: Thirteen Days before Shao Kahn invades Earthrealm

Xan's POV:

The Wu Shi Monks, Bo' Rai Cho, Raiden, and Kitana welcomed Shana and me. I guess showing up with confirming evidence that their worst enemy is still planning on invading Earth will earn you favor with the planet's guardians. It helped that Shana killed Baraka and I crippled Rain for the time being.

When I awoke, I immediately went to Benjamin and his family's home, so we may warn his sibling and mother. However, he told me that the New World is in a different time zone than the one in China, practically the opposite of what it is here. While it was morning, it was late at night over there. Benjamin suggested that we head there when it's nighttime to catch them when they're up and about.

Apparently, Benjamin's sister is a powerful individual in the army and heads there every morning around 11:30, so he tells me. Considering their Edenian origins, I'm astonished by what they've both accomplished. It slightly angers me that the Mortal Combat tournament never caught my attention. If I knew the stakes in tandem with its existence period, regardless of my age, I would've jumped at the opportunity to defend Earth.

Odd.

The defending champion Liu Kang is among them, born and raised on Earth like me though he hasn't lived for nearly as long, being in his mid-20s. The only Mortal Kombat survivor to be birthed on Earth since Benjamin and his sister are from Edenia. He's quite the warrior, and I see how he became the two-time champion. We sparred this morning, and while he lost, I commended his given ability. I can't think of any better representative for these tournaments, myself included.

Raiden also insisted we battle as well despite my protests, the battle fierce as I imagined. There was no victor as we came to a draw, but I can tell he restrained himself, as did I. Yet, I noticed that everything he does is for Earth, not necessarily for her people. I made a personal note to watch myself around him. He has good intentions, but for who or what is not what people think. Otherwise, Raiden would embrace mortals more. Lady Sun, Lady Moon, and Fujin dow without question.

Seeing as it was late at night, I prepared to head to Benjamin's. On the way out, Shana and I are stopped. "Xan! A moment!"

We turn to see Princess Kitana.

"Princess." I bowed. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing at the moment, thank you for asking. Since you're headed to warn Callie Ann and Mrs. Maddox about their possible stalkers, I want to give you insight as to who they might be."

That caught our attention. "Of course. By all means."

"First, I should go over who is most likely, if not outright, will not be. Benjamin killed Outworld's 900-year champion named Goro a few years ago. At the same time, Callie Ann did the same to Sheeva, a high ranking member at the last tournament. Skarlet is another turncoat who's romantically involved with her. Shana killed Baraka, and you crippled Rain, so it can't be either of them," she listed. "The remaining people are Tanya, Mileena, Reptile, and Kano. Shang Tsung and Ko'atal were stalking Benjamin and Jade's family, so they are out of the question. Unless Shao Kahn added more to his ranks, that's all that remains since Quan Chi was taken prisoner by the Netherrealm's Protector God at the last tournament."

I bow with gratitude. "My thanks, Princess. This information will help. Come, Shana. Let's go."

Kitana stops me again, this time by grabbing my arm. I turned back as she slightly reduced the distance between us, a smile plastered on her face. "I look forward to seeing you again, Xan."

"Very well, Kitana. It's good to see you smile as it's rather unhealthy for a royal to be down." I nodded once more. "Until next time."

We finally left. The walk to the Maddox household was relatively quiet, not that I mind. Shana and I are used to being alone, so we welcome the silence. I just hope that none of Benjamin and his sister's allies are verbally annoying. Otherwise, I don't know how much I can take.

I arrive at the Estate and use the door knocker. *KNOCK* *KNOCK*

Shana sat with her tail wagging slowly. It's been like that since she started traveling with me. Well, the Little One did say she's happy that I brought her with me. I pet her as the door opened.

The door opened, revealing Benjamin as I ceased petting Shana. "Xan. It seems you're ready in case a battle breaks out when we investigate Calabasas."

"An Edgemaster must always be ready for war, Benjamin. You never know when you'll find an adversary, new ally, or a potential pupil. The Katanas go where I go, Shana as well," I reaffirmed as she barked in agreement.

"Is that Mr. Xan, Dad?" the Shojo asked in the distance.

"Yes, Dakini."

Shortly after Benjamin answered, his daughter also arrived at the door, petting Shana to her enjoyment if her wagging tail was any indication.

"Who's a good girl?" Dakini asked in a baby voice to Shana, and she barked happily in response. "Yes, you are!"

"May we come in?" I asked the leader of the household.

"Of course."

Benjamin stepped to the side for us. We entered the Estate and took a seat on the couch in the living room.

Jade then entered and greeted me. "Xander."

That confused me. "Xander? My name isn't short for anything, Mrs. Maddox. It's just Xan. I don't even think Xander is Japanese."

"Oh? My apologies, Xan. And please, just Jade will do."

"Okay, Jade."

"Xan, give me a minute to gather myself, then we will head to California," Benjamin said as he went to what I assumed is their room.

Shana was still being spoiled by Dakini as she sat down. "She likes you, Shojo," I said to the Little One.

"I get along with all animals, Mr. Xan. Being Nightwolf comes with the skill. I once befriended a Bear while in the Realm of Order."

"That must've been interesting to see."

"Xan," Jade called for me.

"Yes, Jade?"

"You are an Edgemaster, as you stated yesterday."

"Yes."

"Does that means you know how to use a Bo Staff?"

"Correct, first weapon I learned to master. It took a decade to become a master of the weapon. Luckily, it's simple enough in theory where I didn't have to learn the intricacies. Complexities of blunt weapons stem from the user's creativity as opposed to the weapon itself. And since a Bo Staff is essentially a stick, it's one of the easier I learned to use."

"But it still took you a decade to master it?"

I nodded. "So imagine how long it took to learn everything else. I started training to become an Edgemaster at 22 and finished around 350. So I haven't been Edgemaster for that long."

"Do you think you can teach me something about the Staff?"

"As well as the Razorang on your hip," I answered confidently.

"Really?" Jade tossed the bladed projectile into my hands. "Surprise me."

"Prepare to be amazed then," I replied before splitting the blades apart, causing Jade's eyes to widen. "I assume you throw this when the blades are split like this?" She nodded. "You probably throw it with the blades off to the sides. Quite effective, but if you have the strength and want to leave a deep wound or gash, throw it with the blades pointed at the ground. The velocity will cause the blades to keep spinning like a buzzsaw."

I brought the blades back together, marveling at the handcrafted weapon's design. "A pressure plate on the handle splits the blades, meaning that if you have excellent control, you can keep them together and still use it as a triple-headed dagger. Whoever designed this deserves much praise. Your confidence after pretty much challenging me to teach you something about your own weapon shows how much more you can learn."

"Yes, and then some," Jade said in bewilderment. "The Razorang was designed and created by my father. It was his parting gift for me after he died, as my mother told me long ago. She gave me her Bo Staff."

"They have quite an extensive knowledge. But there's one more thing you haven't noticed." I placed my index, middle, and ring fingers in the small spaces between the blades, and with minimal effort, lift each separately like they were Tiger Claws. "There's a small gap between the edges when held differently. With impeccable control over your hand, you can wield this as a Claw. But that's all I know and can show you for this weapon at the moment.

I gave the Razorang back. "Your parents deserve a tip of the hat."

"Amazing. I underestimated you, Xan. I thought the 'Edgemaster' title was just for show."

"Underestimation must be common among Edenians. You didn't think I can handle the Tarkatan Horde, Baraka, or Rain. Yet half of the horde and Baraka himself are dead while Rain's crippled. Age, when it comes to battle experience, means absolutely nothing. And now you know that it also doesn't matter when it comes to being an Edgemaster. I, as well as my title, are not for show, Jade."

"I now know that. My sincere apologies. Consider us even for your initial hostility towards Sareena."

Touche, but I was out of line for that. "Fair enough."

"I can only imagine how knowledgeable about the weapons you prefer."

"Considering that I invented the main style of the Shinsengumi, I'd imagine a lot."

"You invented the Hirazuki?" Benjamin asked as he reentered the room.

"Yes, though the Shinsengumi never really capitalized on it as I did. Only one member of the Shinsengumi found inspiration, and he had tuberculosis. He also learned the Hirazuki after finding me dueling someone and learned by copying my stance and movement. By using a shoddy imitation, he cemented his spot in history." I stood up. "I assume you're ready, Benjamin?"

"Yes. Let's head outside first."

"Shana, do you want to stay or come along?" She barked twice and walked up next to me.

"Wow. And I thought Hamlet was loyal. She said, wherever you go, I go." Dakini translated.

"Sorry. I shouldn't have asked, huh?" I pet Shana as she panted happily.

Maybe I should ask Amaterasu for the ability to understand her. A Dog is her animalistic symbol.

We headed for the door, and before leaving, Dakini calls for her dad's safety. "Be careful, Dad."

"Don't worry, Dakini. We'll be careful."

"Be safe, Benjamin," Jade said before pecking him on the lips. "I'll tell Sareena what she missed while you're gone."

"I will, dear. We'll be back shortly," Benjamin reassured his wife and daughter.

As we stepped outside and reached a safe distance, Benjamin began speaking. "My apologies about Jade, Xan. I didn't expect her to challenge your knowledge so boldly. Her living here has given her a sense of superiority over those younger than her. Minor but present."

"It's nothing, Benjamin. It's normal to think that by simply running the numbers. But if Jade were to translate her age as an Edenian into a Human's lifespan, she'll be barely 21. Whereas, if I did the opposite, I'll be older than your mother. The only difference is me being over 400 years old isn't natural," I told him.

"Huh. Never thought of it that way. You ready?"

"We've been ready all day, Benjamin."

Benjamin then summoned a portal. "After you."

I walked through and arrived on the other side, standing on the doorstep of an impressive dwelling. I looked down and saw Shana sitting next to me as her tail slowly shifted from side to side.

Moving ahead, Benjamin knocked on the door. *KNOCK* *KNOCK*

A few moments passed before his mother opened the door, surprised to see us. "Benjamin? Xan? What are you two doing here?"

I bowed. "Ms. Maddox. I wish I could say that we're here under a happy circumstance. But we've come with bad news, I'm afraid. May we come in?"

"Of course. I'll get Callie Ann and Skarlet." She opened the door up and allowed us inside.

Half-hour later:

"And that's everything." I finished explaining to the Maddox Women.

Benjamin's sister, Callie Ann, mulled over the information.

"Despite old Cow Face losing legal claim to invade Earthrealm twice, he's still sending cronies here to scout the realm. Including where you and Shana stay by sending the Tarkatan horde, which you effectively halved over two weeks. Not to mention sending Baraka and Rain after you even though he should be in the Elder Gods' Realm with Argus. His interference prevented me from killing Rain in Outworld. When they attempted to kill you and Shana, you broke Rain's jaw and killed Baraka?"

"Technically, Shana killed Baraka. All I did was set up his death," I answered, Shana boasting about her latest kill.

"She seems awfully happy about it," Skarlet remarked.

"When we hunt together, I'm normally the one who kills the monster. So the fact that Shana got one over me makes her happy, and I don't think she'll let go of it any time soon."

"When Xan told me, Jade, Sareena, and Dakini about this, we checked the forest and found out that Shang Tsung and an Osh-Tekk by the name of Ko'atal was stalking us for who knows how long."

"Wait, who's Ko'atal?" Callie Ann inquired.

"I remember him," Skarlet interjected. "He's the last of a warrior race known as the Osh-Tekk. Ko'atal wasn't well-liked among the court, save for Shang Tsung and Shao Kahn, to an extent. They all saw him as arrogant and very perverted. Though I didn't favor Jade at the time, I hated Ko'atal even more, a snake much like the Sorcerer."

"Turns out he was crushing on Jade hard when we were separated. I also learned how territorial she is with Dakini as she floored him hard when Ko'atal insulted our child," Benjamin responded.

"Understandable, Benji. JJ's an attractive woman." Callie Ann's attention turned to me. "But you said you held off Shang Tsung with ease, Xan. And crippled Rain? Oh, the amount of money I would've paid to see that in person. This information gives me more dirt on Argus and improved foresight. So you have our thanks. You too, Shana."

"We should check the nearby forests for our stalkers, dear. The faster we send them away, the faster we can prepare," Ms. Mai advised us all.

"That's why we're here," I said while leaning back in thought.

Benjamin and Callie Ann certainly are intriguing individuals. Though they're of Edenian descent, they fight selflessly for Earth's freedom. Despite having a family in Benjamin's case, and a steady relationship with Kung Lao and Skarlet on top of a lucrative army job.

"Excuse me," I blurted out of the blue, catching everyone's attention. "I'm sorry for the abruption, and I apologize if I'm out of my place here but, may I have a word with Benjamin and Callie Ann, alone?" I asked Ms. Mai and Skarlet.

"What brought this on, Xan?" Benjamin asked me.

"Sorry, Benjamin. There are a few things I want to get off of my chest concerning both of you. I can have this conversation after we check the forests, but I think it would be better to have it now while the thoughts I have are fresh."

Ms. Mai gave it some genuine thought. "Okay, dear. We can wait outside. Come ou when you're all ready."

I look at Shana. "You too, girl." She whimpered. "Don't worry, I'm not going anywhere. This won't take long."

Shana licked my palm before heading out with Ms. Mai and Skarlet, the door closing with a soft click.

"So, Xan. What is it that made you want to converse with us alone?" Callie Ann questioned.

"Well, Sergeant. If you don't mind, me being 439. Having been through a lot while meeting your family and learning your personal struggle, I assume Raiden doesn't know everything gives me a unique view. And before we further expand this partnership, I feel that it's only fair to verbalize my opinion."

"That's fair. Your analogy of being older than us mentally already gave me a more positive view of you," Benjamin responded.

I bowed in respect. "Thank you, Benjamin. Each of you is selfless, strong, and respectful of your home though Earth isn't your birthplace. You two remind me of myself. Like you, I've lost everything at a young age. But until I let Shana in my life, I was convinced I wasn't going to get it back."

"How so?" Callie Ann asked.

"It's an admittedly touchy subject that makes me sad and extremely furious whenever I retell it, so for the sake of time, I won't tell it now. But long story short, I lost a lot in the most important battle of my life, and being the champion of two deities made me lose the rest. You two are fortunate compared to me. Edenians live for hundreds of thousands of years. Naturally, a human is lucky to make it to 90, and back a few centuries ago, lucky to live past 50. Being a 439 year-old human being takes an extreme toll. At least with a lack of familial or romantic connection, I don't have to think twice about defending Earth since I have nothing to lose but my home. I'd die rather than give Earth up to anyone else. But you two, in addition to not being from here in terms of the birth realm, also have everything to lose by defending Earth."

"What are you saying, Xan? That we shouldn't defend Earthrealm because we're from Edenia?" Benjamin imposed.

"I'm not so racist nor strong where I can request such a thing. In tandem with you, your mother, and your families being so strong, you're all needed. Neither of you is deserving of this burden, period. I can't and won't stop you from defending Earth. We need all the help we can get. But I know what it's like to lose everything, only to get it all back to lose it again."

Callie crossed her arms. "But you can? Because your life up to this point has been admittedly worse than ours? That we should live happily with what we have?"

"I don't mean any ill will when I say this, I assure you with my soul, Sergeant. Admittedly, I don't want one bad day while we're out there, wherever 'there' is, to lead you both to lose everything a second time, not after working your asses off to get it all back. I don't think I can take seeing it happen for a third time, although it isn't me directly. Living for this long taught me that. You two have it real good. Benjamin has a loving family, even a few pets. In contrast, you have a consistent job and fiercely loyal lovers in Skarlet and Kung Lao. Add in that your loving mother is alive. Take it from a man who has nothing but a reliable partner, and the quirks I perform to honor the memory of those no longer with me."

Silence struck the siblings hard as they both seemed lost in their individual thoughts. It's not surprising as I know I gave them something to think about, no doubt each taking my words to heart.

"As I said, I'm not telling you both to fall back. All I'm saying is that when not if, but when we free Earth from Shao Kahn permanently, you two should enjoy what you have. Because it's a lot more than you both think, especially you, Benjamin," I finished. "Now, is there anything you want to say of me? Although I don't think I'm deserving of calling you to friends yet with how I startled your family yesterday by calling out Sareena for being an Oni."

Benjamin gave me a stern gaze. "Wait outside."

I merely nodded. "As you wish."

Benjamin's POV:

I'm... at a loss for words, a rarity in itself. Just when I thought Xan couldn't surprise me anymore, he did so with little effort. Everything our new ally had said held merit, not one ounce of dishonesty detected. I was somewhat unnerved by the sheer bluntness, rich coming from someone like me.

Cal and I stood in the living room in utter muteness before she faced me, our eyes boring into one another for at least several minutes. It doesn't take a genius to figure out that our musings matched.

Finally, I sighed. "Xan's right."

"You actually believe him?" Cal questioned, not as convinced.

"He has no reason or motive to lie to us, Cal," I stated, keeping my voice low to ensure the others didn't hear. "He doesn't sugarcoat things and says what he firmly believes. If anything, his words basically confirmed what I initially feared."

She raised an eyebrow. "That is?"

I moved to the nearest window before gazing at the skyline hovering over the mountains. "I have damn near everything any sensible man wants - not one, but two beautiful wives and a daughter older than she appears. Most days, I don't know what I'm doing or even if I deserve my own family. All that nearly went to hell the minute Dairou attacked Jade. That's not even mentioning you two almost coming to blows, something I should've prevented in the first place. Perhaps I... do have too much to lose."

Cal came up on my left shoulder. "Part of me still feels shitty about Seido. It's not all JJ's fault."

"It wasn't yours either. The timing wasn't ideal, but I'm glad you both aren't fighting anymore."

"She's my sister just as Sareena is, Benji. It was dumb of me to treat JJ any less than her. Though Xan is right, we still have to defend Earthrealm at all costs."

"But for how much longer? When will we ever stop? Until I'm on my deathbed? The last thing I want to happen is for Dakini to grow up without a father, God forbid either of her mothers. That's something that will haunt me forever."

"Then we should go back."

I turned to my sister. "Go... where?"

She huffed. "Us possibly returning to Edenia."

My expression would have granted me an extended stay at the nearest looney bin. "You're the absolute last person I expected to hear that from."

"Oh, shut up and listen to me." Cal then began explaining. "I know I vowed for the longest to never return to that shithole and deal with those assholes who shunned us. The minute we step back onto Edenia's soil, I wouldn't be surprised if the townsfolk chased us with pitchforks and torches. That being said, it's not so much for our benefit..."

Cal stared long and hard at me, expecting an answer that didn't register until it clicked in my head. "But for Dakini's."

She nodded. "Exactly. Regardless of how we feel, your daughter needs to learn of her heritage. She's Edenian and deserves to see her birthplace first hand."

"On the off chance we do succeed in bringing Edenia back, what about your job here?"

"Messenger, remember? I can travel back and forth as I please. Lastly, you'll make JJ happy. Not saying it needs to happen now, but at least considered for everyone involved."

Another fact I failed to consider. Jade hasn't talked much about Edenia for the past few months, though I know she longs for the chance to see our home restored. Who am I to deny her that? It's not likely she'll leave me if I said no, but part of me doesn't want to even contemplate her possible reactions.

"I... I don't know, Cal. Maybe we'll revisit this after dealing with Shao Kahn."

Cal began walking toward the door. "Fine, but we can't put this off forever, Benji. Let's go. We have fiends to snuff out."

Callie's POV:

Crazy, right?

Yeah, me too. Never thought I'd even think about returning there. Guess that goes to show things do change. That doesn't mean I won't be on guard. If anyone threatens my family over our past, let's just say they'll regret it.

We all traveled up the mountains into the deepest part of the forest, looking to draw out Shao Kahn's bogeys. I led the way, with the others trailing behind on the lookout for any traps. Something told me I knew exactly who was out here but couldn't be sure until we saw them. Besides, Cow Face's number of people he trusts are dwindling. But that won't be enough to stop him from being regarded.

"Xan, can Shana sniff the area so we can cover more ground?" I inquired.

He nodded. "Go find who we're looking for, girl."

She barked before zipping through the terrain, just like Hamlet. Pretty sure Dakini has already warmed up to Shana too. We gave chase but kept our distance before making it to a clearing. Sure enough, there was our company.

For the love of Argus...

Tanya was back in her usual garb while she had Reptile and that fucking monster Mileena with her. I'm about this close to going insane at seeing this yellow harlot again. Benji and Mom weren't too keen on dealing with her either. Skarlet's eyes narrowed at Mileena, letting me know there was history there since both were pinning for Shao Kahn's attention. I noticed Tanya's scars and bruises still not fully healed from her match with Jade.

Heh, she looked better this way.

If I didn't know any better, I wouldn't have noticed that Mileena was staring somewhat blindly at Xan. I do not want to know what things she's thinking at the moment.

"Look what crawled out of the woodwork..." I muttered.

"Nice to see you too, bitch," Tanya shot back. "And you brought familiar faces." She eyed my brother with an eerie smile. "Hello, Benny."

"Obviously, you don't know when to quit," Benji said.

Tanya smirked. "Not until I get what's mine."

"Stay focussed, Tanya. We're not here for your erotic fantasiesss," Reptile interjected.

"Those scars look gold on you, goldie. They definitely bring out the natural anger in your eyes." I quipped sarcastically.

Tanya was ready to spat something dirty as usual. Yet, Mileena cut her off and started prancing around like a complete ditz. "Aww... what's the point of being all business and no fun? The Warlock isn't nearly as pleasing to look at than the other man."

Xan raised his eyebrow in slight annoyance. "Outworld's women are certainly hit or miss. You two are proof of that."

"Agreed," Mom added.

In an instant, Mileena turned savage, and if it weren't for Reptile, she would've gone straight for her. "That's the hag who imprisoned me! I'll rend your flesh and pick my teeth with your bones!"

Mom gave a mean smile and waved her hand in a greeting. "Hello, dear. Did you miss me?" I swore Mileena's eye twitched at her response. "Oop. I guess not."

"Enough!" Tanya shouted. "Now that we know exactly where you're located, we can commence with Shao Kahn's invasion."

Benji walked to her. "Why are you doing this, Tanya? Haven't you done enough?"

"So now you wish to reason with me, Benny boy? That shipped has already sailed. You should've accepted my generous offer at the previous tournament yet chose to reject me. Now, Earthrealm's impending destruction is on your head along with Edenia."

"You and I both know it would never work. I'm not a monarch, and you being Edenia's Queen might as well signal a modern dictatorship."

"Better than being Raiden's lapdog," she retorted.

That pissed Benji off. "I'm no one's lapdog!"

"Keep telling yourself that, Warlock. You're no different from the Thunder God's allies. Needed until he deems you expendable," Reptile hissed.

"That's rich coming from you," I piped up. "Is that why you stayed with Cow Face? Thinking he'll actually restore your extinct race?"

"You know not what you speak of, witch!"

"Sergeant, I would quit now. It is not wise to argue with fools," Xan requested.

Reptile did not take that comment lightly. "You take me for a fool, stranger!?"

"You all work for Shao Kahn, do you not? I've never met him, but I knew men like him. He's playing you like a puppet, monster. When he fails again, I can only imagine the hell you'll all go through, and it won't be pleasant."

Ouch. Didn't know Xan had retorts like that on the back burner. His tongue is a weapon because he surely knows how to use it.

Not like that. Get your mind out of the gutter.

Mileena chuckled with malicious glee at Xan's quip and pointed at him. "Oooh, I like this one. When Father takes Earthrealm, I'll make you my personal consort."

Xan brushed off the threat with a shrug. Wow, I can learn how to discount threats from him.

Mom then said, "I suggest you all leave. And tell your failure of an Emperor that he'll be disappointed again as Earthrealm isn't his to take."

"I'll make a note of that, Grandma. Let Jade know that I expect a rematch. This time..." Tanya lit her hand on fire, her power a lot stronger from last time. "She'll die painfully slow, and Sareena will follow right after."

"Please, whore. If anything, I'm gonna get my rematch with you, and you aren't ready for that confrontation, honey," I challenged.

"And why's that, bitch?"

I summoned the Messenger's Scythe. "Because I've been chosen by the Netherrealm Elder God to become the Legend. I am now the Messenger, Tanya."

Her eyes widened. "But how!? How did you curry favor with an Elder God!?"

"No good deed goes unpunished, Tanya. You would know if you were ever a good samaritan for once in your pathetic, second-handed life. Whatever training regimen you're currently undergoing, I suggest intensifying it. When you do invade Earthrealm, I'll find and embarrass you just like on the Hag's Island two years ago." I threatened.

"I never thought I'd see the day; you and that emerald minx getting along. A shame your supposed sisterhood might be destroyed since you're taking away Jade's chance at vengeance." A portal opened behind Tanya and her crew. "Know this, Callie. Earthrealm is in its final days."

"Until next time, Swordsman. I look forward to our next meeting," Mileena cooed.

Xan wasn't even fazed. "The feeling isn't mutual, woman. Go run to your manchild of a father."

They then left. Good riddance. We'll need to strategize.

Jade's POV:

I can't help but wonder how Benji is doing right now; my concern level higher than it should be. It's the wife in me worried about her lover. Yes, it's a simple search mission to see who else is here in Earthrealm. Yet, I can no longer hide my doubts. My initial fears of invasion are creeping closer, and Shao Kahn won't spare a single life should it come to that.

Especially those who deserted his court.

Myself, Kitana, and Skarlet are in grave danger as we know the Emperor's wrath is nothing to trifle with. Whatever 'punishment' he'll have in store should we be captured will not be pleasant. Even when I sleep, my former employer's face gives me nightmares, sometimes startling me in the middle of the night. His attempt to invade Earthrealm must be stopped, or I fear the worst for my family.

"Mama...?"

Shaking free of my thoughts, I saw that Dakini was sitting beside me on the couch as we ate breakfast. I'm not the best, but my mother taught me the basics of culinary arts, making different breakfast items such as waffles, pancakes, omelets, and eggs. So far, neither Benji, Sareena, or our daughter have complained.

"Yes, Dakini?"

"You were being distant again and haven't touched your food," she remarked.

It was true. Not once did I even take a bite from my plate, my thoughts running rampant since Benji left.

"Perhaps my eyes were bigger than my actual appetite, dear child."

"Don't worry, Mama. We'll get through this. Remember what we promised each other?"

I nodded. "No matter what we face, we'll do so together."

Just then, Sareena finally awoke, clad in a black robe that reached below her calves, a bedhead apparent in her hair. I think it's safe to say why she was late getting up this morning if her tired expression meant anything.

*Yawn* "Good morning, Jade and Dakini," my wife greeted.

Dakini smiled. "Good morning, Ms. Sareena."

I rose up and pecked her cheek. "Good morning."

She began inhaling the aroma. "Something smells good."

"I made breakfast and saved you some for when you woke up," I said before pointing to a plate.

"Thank you." Sareena took her plate and began eating, quite quickly, I might add. "Where's Benny?"

"He left with Xan to warn Callie, Skarlet, and Ms. Mai of the impending invasion."

Sareena nearly spat out her food. "Why didn't you wake me?"

"Benjamin told me not to. Said he'll be back within an hour or so."

"Oh."

Dakini then asked, "Mama? Did what you say yesterday was true?"

I was hoping no one would ask that question as it brought back memories that still haunt me even worse than all the beatings and humiliation I endured. Sareena immediately stopped eating, her curiosity piqued as well.

"I'm sorry..." my child bent her head down, thinking she'd done something wrong.

"No, it's not your fault, Dakini." I took a deep breath. "Yes, Ko'atal did attempt to rape me while your father and I weren't together in those two years. Multiple times, in fact. The court did nothing to stop him as they mocked my 'disobedience.' Only when Kitana stepped in, he halted his advances. I... cried every night those two years, some worse than others before I..."

I fell to my knees and sobbed. Instantly, Sareena and Dakini were at my sides to hold me.

"I tried taking my life three times but didn't do it, hoping and praying that Benjamin would rescue me from that hell hole. Had I not found him that night when Tanya attacked him, I might not be standing here today. B- Benji does not know of this."

Sareena kissed my forehead. "That life is long behind you. You're safe here with us. Even if Shao Kahn shows his ugly face here, he won't succeed. That I-"

She stopped before holding a hand to her mouth and quickly hurried toward the bathroom, slamming the door shut. Dakini and I watched in silence as we heard heaving into the toilet. A minute passed before Sareena emerged, her face paler than usual. Oh no...

The food I cooked may have made her sick!

"Sareena! Are you ok!?" I questioned louder than intended.

"I... I'm fine, Jade. And it wasn't your cooking that made me hurl, I promise."

"Then how come..." I then gasped as the realization hit me.

My wife's eyes closed while her head hung low, tears dripping onto the floor as her hand slowly moved toward her stomach. "By the Gods... I... I'm pregnant," she whispered.

A/N: This chapter was an interesting one when it was written. Seeing as I did one half and my editor did the other half this go around. Since becoming my editor, alwaysdoubted doesn't have nearly as many chances to actually write so I do this to keep his skills sharp. Though I did add some things in his section to give the characters in question more life, though it wasn't really needed.

Anyway, what'd you all think? Let me know with a PM or Review and I'll catch you all later.

Currently listening to: Feel a Fear by Daisuke Ishiwatari.