A/N: Welcome back. Last time, we all learned that Sareena's now pregnant with her and Benji's child. How will the other cast members react? Let's find out!
Currently listening to: Agape by Nicholas Britell.
The Trainer's Estate, China; 11:30 A.M.: Twelve Days Before Shao Kahn invades Earthrealm
Benji's POV
Talk about a surprise.
Nevermind the fact that Shao Kahn and his cronies are rearing their ugly heads around here. That's a concern in itself. No, what greeted me when I returned home was nothing sort of a miracle.
When we returned to the estate, I saw that Jade and Dakini, even Hamlet, were huddled around Sareena as she cried openly. I instantly became anxious about what the commotion was all about. Jade then approached me and whispered in my ear what happened with our demoness wife. Had my eyeballs grown larger, they'd explode out of their sockets.
Sareena is... pregnant.
I can't explain the range of emotions going through my head before I absently repeated the word with a loud shout, startling everyone. I'm... going to be a father. The notion hasn't truly hit me yet. However, I showed the biggest smile anyone has ever seen before carefully approaching Saree, her head bent down to hide her face. After all the missed attempts, we finally got it right. Mostly everyone, except for Xan's reserved nature, was elated with the news. I just wished my mother shared this joyous occasion. However, her words after ensuring Sareena's stomach was cradling our newborn brought no comfort.
"Well, dear. It's official. You are now carrying Benjamin's child. I would give you my congratulations, but with Shao Kahn's inevitable invasion of Earthrealm, I question this decision, planned or not," Mom confirmed.
Now fully grown, Everest is confident enough to reveal herself to strangers with Xan being here. In fact, for the first time since Mom, Cal, and Skarlet moved out, the entire Maddox family is accounted for.
Sareena remained resolute. "I know it's ultimately an unwise choice, but I've wanted my entire life for this. You telling me that it was possible cemented my decision."
I hugged and kissed her lovingly on the cheek. "I, on the other hand, am so happy. All our hard work has finally paid off. In nine months, you'll be given the one thing you've always wanted."
"Motherhood. I can't wait," Sareena finished as she rubbed her stomach before kissing me. "Mai. Despite being a day pregnant, can I still fight?"
Mom scratched her chin. "For now. As you said, you're only a day into your pregnancy. The chance of you experiencing a miscarriage is virtually none existent. But after a month, if this invasion lasts that long, I'll practically order you to step down. The bump can start to show, and the infant growing inside regardless of it's gender could be injured or killed." She then turned to our guest. "Xan, dear. What do you think of this situation?"
Asking for his opinion? Makes sense after being put into the darkest situations fighting wise.
To my surprise, Xan flinched at the inquiry. "You're asking me? I feel like I'm not trustworthy enough to give my thoughts on this matter."
"I understand the suspicion, honey. Though not a doctor, you are arguably the wisest one among us. There must be some insight you can share."
"True. I have personal stories that tick some boxes. Yet, I don't think it's my place to share them with you all. I've known you for two days at best. Plus, it's pretty dark," he elaborated.
Mom nodded in acceptance. "I had a feeling you had something relatable. But with what you told my children of your own volition, you have earned our trust. At the very least, you have mine, dear. Also, you have something that no one else in here has, a lack of bias. So I insist for you to share your pains with us all. You are working alongside us after all."
Defeated, Xan took a deep breath before reaching inside his coat pocket to pull out a box of cigarettes. He took one out and grabbed his lighter from the other pocket before lighting it, taking a deep puff before sitting down. On exhale, the smoke exited his nose, much like a dragon or a raging bull. I guess this story is intensely personal and not a fond one.
"408 years ago, I was tasked with helping a friend seal off the Soul Weapons known as Soul Edge and Soul Calibur," he began. "I couldn't do it myself and was specifically given the job of weakening them into sedation. At that journey's final stages, I found myself traveling among seven fellow friends. A former Wielder of Soul Edge, a Holy Warrior's younger sister, a former Zealot of the Holy Sword and Monk, an Altruistic Thief, a Ninja, a Prodigal Fencer who was a Vampire, and a Barbarian Scholar. We ended up at a location somewhere in Europe known as the Lost Cathedral. Both swords were there in the weakest state I've ever seen them. We weren't the only ones to arrive. Demons from most of the group's past were also present, and they ended up killing half the group in cold blood despite being defeated. All that was left was me, the thief, the ninja, and the barbarian to weaken the swords a little more."
"There was an immortal man who wanted to stop this specifically from happening known as Zasalamel. He was a cult member who worshiped the Holy Sword. He found a way to stave off death through reincarnation by using the trick on himself in his arrogance and intelligence. But after countless lives, he wished to die but couldn't. So he planned on absorbing the swords' essence so that he may die, even if it meant screwing over this reality."
Xan took another puff of his cigarette. "We couldn't stop him from doing so, but instead of dying, Zasalamel became the prophetic god of his cult, the God of Cataclysm and Destruction. The prophecy stated that a renegade member would absorb the swords and bring about catastrophe across the planet."
"By the skin of our teeth, we killed Abyss, thus preventing planetary devastation. But the losses were heavy. We lost half of the group because of Zasalamel's ignorance, the rest of us wounded. I was on the verge of death due to fighting Abyss head-on. My predecessor revealed that our exposure to the swords was so elongated that we stopped aging physically. It became a dominant trait. The barbarian, my first partner and best friend, was already married. Her husband didn't share this trait since he was a publisher, not a warrior. When he passed away a year later, she committed suicide to be reunited with her husband in the next life."
Silence surrounded the room with an uncomfortable dominance.
"My God..." Jade breathed.
"The biggest evil was dispelled, but being skilled in combat with nothing to combat against was a waste. I had the ninja, Taki-senpai, teach me how to hunt yokai while saying I had a natural talent for it, easing her workload as her partner. One day, she said we'll be hunting her personal demon, her master, Toki. His corruption by Soul Edge was the reason why she's a nukenin. He also never aged due to wielding Soul Edge. With me by Taki-senpai's side, we could finally end his cruelty. Her husband Kin, the thief, didn't want her to go and wanted to replace her instead. She flat out refused, even more stern and strict about the matter than normal. I didn't think anything of it since she normally acted this way."
"The hunt for her master started before we found and engaged him, the battle unexpectedly fierce. Yet we had him cornered and wounded as I hit a vein in his kodachi arm as he wasn't ambidextrous. Taki moved in to kill Toki but hesitated for a moment. That was all Toki needed. He slit her throat and stabbed her abdomen multiple times."
That fact was unnerving, to say the least. Hearing how Xan's mentor and big sister figure died stirred something within my psyche. This felt familiar to the time where... Dad was murdered. Callie saw the look in my eye from afar but didn't say anything. Both Jade and Sareena held my hands, an unspoken gesture to show they knew what was going through my mind.
Xan took a deep puff of his cigarette and exhaled the smoke afterward, a tear descending the side of his scar-laced cheek followed by a sniff. "Litte did I know, upon bringing her corpse back to Kin for a proper burial, Taki-senpai was a month into her third trimester. She used illusionary ninjutsu to hide the baby bump. Kin was the one to tell me this."
Another tear fell, shocked expressions decorating each face. Xan used his lighter, yet nothing but sparks exited the orifice, signifying a lack of oil inside. After a few failed attempts, he spiked the lighter on the floor, scaring Shana a little.
"Sorry," Xan apologized. "I'm normally more composed than this. Anyway, Kin demanded we find and finish Toki, the only thing Taki-senpai wanted. A week later, we found the bastard, this time, making sure his death was slow and excruciatingly painful. Kin and I were deadly together when it comes to torture. Kin, however, revealed that he had tuberculosis. The doctors informed him that he had only a few weeks left to live. When he passed, I made sure to bury him next to Taki-senpai."
"With me being the last living member of the group, I spiraled into a dark place, even attempted Hara-Kiri a month or so later. But I was saved and pulled back into the light by a group of people. That being my predecessor, Amaterasu and Tsukiyomi, the Monk's wife's older sister, one of my predecessor's students, and my predecessor's blacksmith. They all comforted and motivated me to keep living for them all. The older sister's still alive, dedicating her life to as she said: 'Making sure I suffer with you.' She's 440 years old," Xan finished as one final tear escaped.
"Fast forward to the present day. I kill yokai to honor Taki-senpai's memory and visit her and Kin's graves every year on their wedding anniversary. I became an Edgemaster to honor his memory and have my best friend's weapon to honor hers. I also picked up her smoking habits too. Now you know."
Finished, Xan then threw his cigarette in the trash bin.
"Oh, my God, Xan. I didn't expect all of that from you. You really are a tortured soul. It may not mean much, but you have my deepest apologies and condolences for all you've lost," Jade said.
Her opinion and ours concerning the Edgemaster and Weeping Dragon have drastically changed.
"Yeah, I've gotta apologize too. I never in all of my life have heard such a tragedy in such a short timeline. I'm sorry, Xan," Cal followed up.
"If you really want my opinion, Mrs. Maddox, Sareena shouldn't fight at all. A miscarriage is something I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy," Xan expressed bluntly before turning to me. "But it's not my decision to make."
"Your opinion is valued and appreciated, Xan. That's why I asked," Mom said as he comforted him. "If you don't think Sareena fighting is a good idea, then we should seriously take that into consideration."
Xan is a master at hiding his pain if he had many tragic experiences in his unnatural life. He made being mortal sound like paradise. Perhaps this is why he told Cal and me to consider his words earlier.
"But what should we do?" Dakini questioned. "We can't just leave Ms. Sareena. Someone has to watch her."
"I can," Xan said without a tinge of hesitation. "But I think Sareena will prefer someone who she's comfortable with."
He's right. Even though we all see Xan in a different light now, Sareena might be against having a man around whose literal job is to kill demons like her. Added to that, I don't trust anyone to watch over my family as it is my responsibility.
"Do you know of anyone who can do so?" Cal asked.
"I do, and I think I know where she might be, most likely in Japan," Xan answered.
I stood up. "Then I'll go with you to find her."
"Thank you. Shall we depart?"
"Yes, is there any place in Japan where you think she might be?"
He nodded. "And I know how to get there. But we must do so discreetly. Follow me."
He led me to a forest I didn't know existed in China despite being here for 27 and a half years. As Xan said earlier, we made it in a small amount of time.
"How long has this forest been here? And how come I've never heard of it?" I asked.
"In every country from Japan to England lies a forest hidden and unmarked in every way, shape, and form. Only those who master the way of the Edgemaster know of these locations, and the reason why will be revealed shortly," Xan answered instantly.
Continuing to maneuver through the thick vegetation, we eventually arrived at a stone door.
"What is that?"
"That is my version of a portal."
"Where does it lead?"
"The place where I was trained in the ways of the Edgemaster. I'll explain when we cross over there. I'll go first. It's as simple as walking through."
Xan walked through the formation and just... disappeared. Bewildered, I looked around to see if anyone else noticed that, but alas, I'm alone. I walked toward the door, the space that the stone formation made started showing a nighttime sky-esque backdrop. Before I could question this phenomenon, I'm pulled through the door by a hand.
I found myself on the other side and saw a fantastic display - a mountainous ravine with a river flowing upstream. Many flags decorated the air, all tied to a centralized stone square. In the distance were many buildings, and they all must be houses judging from the beds. The sky was a cloudless blue, serving as perfect weather.
Everything here reminded me of Edenia.
"Xan, where are we?"
"Welcome, Benjamin, to the Proving Grounds. This was where I trained and lived while focusing on becoming an Edgemaster. If you want a country, then we're in the Himalayan Mountains somewhere between Tibet and Bhutan."
"Incredible. And you were trained here?"
"Mhmm. But we're not here to admire the scenery."
"Right. How are we going to get to Japan?"
"Follow me," Xan responded.
He walked through one of the many bridges that connected the ravine. We traversed through the buildings until arriving at another bridge on the gorge's opposite side. Eventually, we ended up taking another portal at the end, phasing into another forest.
"Do you know where we are?"
"Kyoto. Kin and Taki-senpai's graves are near here, and that's where we'll be heading."
A short walk and we arrived at a cemetery, proving how different the cultures of Japan, America, and even China are. The place is generally empty, but I do see a glimpse of a woman. She had a long Katana sheathed like a duffel bag over her back. Her greenish blonde hair became more apparent as we got near her.
"Is she the one you're talking about?"
"Uh-huh. *Whistle*
The woman looked in our direction, and on seeing Xan, her face brightened. "Pa!"
"Pa?" I repeated in confusion.
Despite wearing two pronged getas, she ran full speed and hugged Xan. He returned her affections, even rubbing her back. The pair separated, allowing me a better look at her appearance.
Her face was soft, her eyes a dark brown. She wore a loose kimono in a faded navy blue, a dark gray cloud covering a crescent moon with a crashing wave underneath. There were design intricacies around her waist and wrists. The edges were dark blue, yellow, and red, as were the inside. Her hands had white guards, but the kimono hid them well. Speaking of hiding, her kimono failed to conceal her modest, wrapped breasts so nothing would be shown. Her greenish blonde hair was tied into a low ponytail with a medium-sized white bow at the tying point. Though bounded, her hair fell to the middle of her back, the ponytail reasonably loose. She wore a necklace with a black box and a skull on it with red rope.
She had a holster around her underwear, probably to prevent someone from exposing her lower body - a Katana strapped over her shoulder and hanging against her back.
"I thought you were dead! I went back to the forest, and you weren't there. All I saw were Tengu corpses. I was hoping I could find you if I came here!" the woman who I assume was Xan's daughter mentioned.
"Sorry, Kim. I was called into action by Amaterasu and Tsukiyomi's brother. I was actually looking for you."
"Oh. Well, here I am!" Kim said happily. "What's the matter?"
"Excuse me, Xan. Are you going to introduce me?"
"Apologies, Benjamin. This is my daughter, Kimura."
She enthusiastically held out a hand. "Call me Kim."
I shook her hand, which was quite strong despite being soft. "Xan, you never told me you had a child."
"You never asked me," he answered bluntly, which got a laugh out of Kim.
"Sounds like Dad, alright. Being antisocial is his thing. The amount of times he never mentions me is an extremely high number."
"Do you know your father is-"
"Super old?" Kim cut me off. "Yuh-huh! Cause I'm old too, 150 years to be exact."
"150? But you don't look a day over 20."
"I'm blessed by Tsukiyomi," she answered before noticing Shana, Kim's face brightening even more as she kneeled to pet the dog, much to Shana's happiness. "Who is this? She's so cute!"
"That's Shana. She's a Demon Hunter too."
"Wha? She can hunt Yokai? You're a good girl, aren't you?"
"Well, she's a welcome partner since you never write to me like you said you were going to. I thought you were dead, Kim," Xan chastised his daughter.
She looked down comically. "Sorry, Pa. I was going to, but while hunting Yokai in the cities, I joined a Kabuki Theater Troupe. The star's husband was an Ogre who knew illusion magic to the point where he could masquerade as a middle-aged man. So I spent the past half-decade trying to prove to her that he was one. In the meantime, I realized I was a good Kabuki actress, so it became my career when I wasn't killing Yokai. I'm the reason you never ran into any of the big names in the cities. I killed them all!"
"Wait, you're a Demon Hunter too?"
"Of course! I told Pa that I wanted to be like him, and that's when he told me that he was an old geezer. I still wanted to follow in his footsteps, so he began training me when I was five. I wasn't done until I became a century old."
"That's a lie. I was content with your skill when you were 75, but you insisted I train you some more. You were satisfied when you became 100," Xan corrected.
Kim scoffed. "Tomato, tomato, Otou-san. (Dad) Was Shana with you for long?"
"No. We've been traveling together for two days. You not being around relapsed my depression slightly," Xan admitted.
That had to hurt since Xan just told us he's spent nearly his entire life alone.
"Sorry, Otou-san." She then smiled. "But I'm here now and ready to help! So, whaddya need me to do?"
"Before that, can you change out of your work clothes?"
Kim looked at her outfit. "What's wrong with it?"
"Seriously, Kim?"
She fought to fight down laughter but failed. "Okay, Dad. I'll stop pulling your leg. But I'm serious about what you need me to do."
"Defend Earth with Benjamin's family and me. You'll possibly defend one of his wives who's currently pregnant."
"You engage in polygamy? I thought that died in the 1800s?"
"I'm not a human. I'm from another realm of reality known as Edenia, and I'm over 23,000 years old."
"Huh? And you were surprised when I said I was 150? The hell's that about?"
"I was surprised."
"So am I! But I can do both! Hell, I'll kill to fight alongside you again, Otou-san." Kim accepted her jobs with joy. "When we get to a more private spot, I'll change into my combat clothes. So, shall we go?"
She walked in the direction of the Portal to the Proving Grounds.
"She's a bundle of joy," I said to Xan.
"Kim always said that one of us has to be. And since I'm like this, she takes the mantle. It's refreshing to be around her if I'm honest," Xan replied with a small smile.
I guess even Heroes have a soft spot for their children.
"I agree. Let's go before she gets too far ahead."
As we walked towards the portal, I asked, "Who's Kim's mother?"
"Don't know. I adopted her when she was a year old. When my suicide was prevented, my kindred spirit told me to find something else besides demon slaying to occupy time, or else I might relapse again. She didn't expect me to adopt an infant. I don't think I did a good job raising her. Still, she praises my parenting skills whenever the opportunity presents itself," Xan explained.
How selfless. Since his lover is most likely not alive anymore, Xan still wanted a chance at fatherhood.
"I can see you being a phenomenal father, Xan," I complimented. "You certainly have the patience one needs, and since there's no mother figure in Kim's life, you probably had to pull double duty."
Unexpectedly, Xan blushed. "I'm not deserving of your praise, but thank you anyway. Kim did have a mother figure, though she wasn't present all the time on account of being from London."
"What's her name?"
"Isabella, but she prefers to be called Ivy, my kindred spirit. She also has suffered from Soul Edge and Zasalamel by extension. When she heard that I traveled with her sister's husband, she sought me out and ran into Taki-senpai, who recently stopped trying to kill her. She networked with everyone I was close to at the time, which is how she met Edgemaster. She was the woman who helped prevent my suicide and lives eternally with me. As I said, she's 440 and acts as a mentor to the children of the city like a sage of sorts, wiser than me."
"She sounds lovely."
"I believe so. Ivy stayed with me the longest to ensure I got out of my hole. Her and Edgemaster's previous student - a lovely Chinese woman, named Xianghua."
"Is she not with us anymore?"
"Sadly, no. But I owe her and Ivy a lot. And I'm thankful that I paid Xianghua back before she passed. I'm convinced there's nothing I can do to repay Ivy, however."
"What did Xianghua want of you?"
"For us to make love. There was a connection between us. If Ivy-san fixed my mind, Xianghua-chan did the same for my heart. It was Ivy who pushed me to accept her favor as she saw the spark first hand. And when we kissed that night, that spark grew into a raging fire. Xianghua was truly a one of a kind woman. I miss her, but I'm glad she died happily and without a single regret. Believe it or not, Benjamin. I envy what you have in Jade and Sareena. I'm certain they make and keep you very happy."
Xan's blush deepened, reminiscing about the one who mended his heart. A shame I couldn't have met her or Ivy as they both sound like wonderful women.
"In more ways than you know, Xan."
We made it to the portal, Kimura waiting patiently. "Took you too long enough. What kept you?"
"We were talking of your father adopting you. And the women who helped save his life."
"He's a great dad, isn't he?" Kim asked with a smile.
Xan was right about that.
"Kim, please."
"Okay, Otou-san. Now that you're here, we can go."
Kim traveled through the portal as we followed her and traversed the Proving Grounds, arriving at China's outlet in record time. Phasing through, we were back at the Trainer's Estate, going inside as everyone noticed our return, most notably eyeing Kim.
Jade stood and approached us, cautiously eyeing the newcomer. "Is she the one who will watch over Sareena?"
"That she is. Kim, introduce yourself," Xan told his daughter.
She stepped forward and bowed. "Hi! My name is Kimura, or Kim if you prefer. I'm Xan's daughter."
"DAUGHTER!?" Everyone exclaimed in surprise.
Kim flinched on reaction. "Is- is that a problem?"
"It's not that. I wasn't expecting Xan to have-"
"A kid? Yeah, yeah. Heard that a thousand times. Otou-san's too introverted, old, or ugly," she listed, laughing at the last bit. "But Otou-san's a great dad. I'm 150, and he's definitely not ugly despite my comment. And if you're wondering, I just came from my job as a Kabuki Actress which is why I'm dressed like a whore from Tokyo. Now..." She clapped her hands together enthusiastically. "Who's the mommy?"
Her eyes laid on Sareena as she gasped. "You must be the one!"
Sareena seemed taken aback. "Uh, yes. How did you know?"
"I'm like a bloodhound when it comes to signs of maternity. Seems like your pregnancy is recent."
"I-I just found out about my pregnancy today."
"Oh!" Kim then whispered something none of us can hear in her ear, Sareena nodding her response.
"Oh, wow! You're the most lovely Oni I've ever seen! Congratulations!" Kim hugged Sareena, who surprisingly returned the gesture.
"Kim," Xan called for her.
She gasped before backing off, a deep blush on her cheeks. "Sorry. I get excited whenever I see a soon to be mother. Inari Okami blessed me too. She's the kami of fertility, so I know the signs." Kim scratched her hair in embarrassment. "You mind telling me where your bathroom is so I can change?"
"Down the hall, second door on the right," I instructed.
She bowed. "Arigatou, gozaimasu," Kim spoke in Japanese before following my directions.
The others proceeded to look at Xan. "What?"
"How come you never told us you had a child?"
"You never asked me if I had children. Plus, I've only known you all for two days, Mrs. Maddox for two weeks. If there was tension between us, which there definitely was and mostly my fault, why would I tell you that I'm a father?"
That was a good point. We didn't really trust Xan until he helped us dispatch Ko'atal and Shang Tsung. And that was only because we saw him school the sorcerer in person. Speaking of, I feel that Buluc will make a concerted effort to go after Jade.
"Can she defend herself?" Cal inquired. "I'm suspect of her positive attitude."
"Not to worry, Sergeant. I taught her everything about swordplay. Dare I say she's better than me using a Katana. Don't let the optimism fool you; Kim's nearly unrivaled with a sword in hand and takes every job she's tasked with extreme seriousness. She just likes it when the general mood is light. Nothing good comes from being depressed all the time."
I agree with that notion. I've only known Kim for a half-hour, and I'm already brightened by her presence around her father. They are quite similar to Dakini and I. That tells me I need to spend more time with Jade and I's child.
"Alright, glad I'm out of those. My last show with my troupe was yesterday, so I was waiting for a chance to change."
Kim definitely changed her appearance after coming out of the bathroom.
She was now wearing a Haori Jacket over her taped breasts, a faded navy blue. Her bare legs now had a matching Hakama with boot heels similar to Mom's. Her white arm guards are now easier to see, hair tied a bit higher while slightly braided. Her bow is revealed to just be a thick piece of cloth as she used it to keep her braided ponytail together. A few bangs were loose, some landing in front of her forehead.
A final thing to mention, Kim's well built. Since she has nothing to completely cover her torso, her abdomen's exposed with a six pack. It's not extremely clear, but if you focus, you'll notice. She has a gourd hanging off her side, her Katana on her back just like her dad. She looks a lot more prepared for a battle now than before; I give her that much. She stretched her neck.
"Alright. So what's going on with us defending Earth?" She asked everyone.
Kim's POV
This is a lot of info to digest. Every century, Earth's strongest warriors battle in a tournament to determine its fate. If Outworld won ten, they'd merge the realms together? Earth won the last one, and Outworld forced them into a rematch with modified rules. They still lost, and now Outworld is saying 'screw it' and invade anyway?
That's not fair to us.
If they somehow succeed, then they can merge the realms together anyway. Smells like someone isn't doing their job, probably a God or two. I don't know who, but it's apparent. . I don't trust one unless it's the two who blessed Dad and me. But after half a decade of killing nothing but Yokai, big and small, it'll be a nice change of pace to fight against other humanoids.
"Kim," Ben's younger sister called for me.
"Yeah, Sarge?"
"Sorry for thinking this way, but can you handle yourself? Benji has told me of Xan's skills, and I've no reason to not believe him. However, I don't value your old man's word as much."
"Fair enough, I guess," I started. "I'm capable after spending 50 years killing demons. I know I can dismantle another person since my only sparring partner is Otou-san, who knows how to use every weapon imaginable. Defending Earth should be cake."
"You're blessed by Tsukiyomi and Amaterasu too, Kimura?" Mrs. Maddox added to the questioning.
I smiled. "Uh-huh. How else can I live to be 150? Take all my skills and blessings away; I'm just an ordinary woman."
"You are certainly a positive woman," Sarge spoke.
"I'm alive. That's the only reason needed. Add in a parent who's alive too, and I have even more reason to be happy all the time. I bet Dakini was ecstatic to be reunited with her parents after watching them die in her time. Huh, Daki?" I asked the second youngest person in the room.
Dakini nodded. "If it weren't for Seido, I would've wept even more than when I saw Dad again."
"See? I know what I'm talkin' about!"
The Sarge was gonna respond, but we heard a knock at the door.
Ben got up. "I'll get it."
He made his way to the door, all of us following but not close enough to crowd the entrance. Ben opened the door, and the man on the same side was dressed similarly to Dakini.
Must be another Nightwolf.
Otou-san used to tell me stories about the Nightwolves, noble guardians of their respective tribe, the Matoka. A cool way to spend one's life, guarding those he or she cares about.
"Nightwolf?"
"Greetings, Bones. I wish this meeting was for a happy reason, old friend. I'm afraid there is trouble lurking near Earthrealm's portal."
"Do you think the portal's been used?"
"A distinct possibility. Will you join me in investigating?"
"Of course."
Nightwolf surveyed the rest of the household, taking a particular note of Dakini before greeting her in their native way. "It's good to see you healthy, Dakini. I noticed your presence all the way in Seido. A pleasure to meet my descendant."
She shook her head. "The pleasure's all mine, Uncle Cloud. It does me a lot of good to see you alive."
"Yes, child. I'm not over the hill yet, but your words do me a silent joy. Let us depart immediately."
After a head turn, Nightwolf led the way as we hurried to the location he described. Though it's a delicate situation, I can't help but be excited for what's to come - a chance for me to showcase my skill.
While we were maneuvering, Jade asked me a question. "Kimura, what is that character on your back?"
"It's the Kanji for Joy. I paint it on each of my Haori jackets. It's a weird tradition of mine, but I did it for my first jacket and continued doing so. It reminds me to stay optimistic even in times of adversity," I explained.
"I see positivity is important to you."
"Better to be positive than have negative thoughts clouding your mind. It messes with your head in more ways than you can imagine. You can look at Otou-san as a prime example. That's why I make sure to remain happy and joyful as it helps him cope with everything that happened."
"I see. Thank you for the insight, Kimura,"
I smiled at her. "Of course, Jade. Anytime. So," I glanced at her daughter, who was at the forefront with Ben. "Plan on having another?"
She saw where my gaze was and blushed. "I... want to, but not until this threat is vanquished."
"Good idea. Dakini is just like you."
There were five figures in the distance when we arrived, meaning we outnumbered our foes. I, Otou-san, Sarge, Ben, Jade, Sareena, Mrs. Maddox, Nightwolf, Dakini, Skarlet, and Shana and Hamlet. They'd be dumb to attack us now. We cut them off before they got further into the realm.
"Well, well, well. If it isn't the Snake, the Whore, the Fish, the Nobody, and the She-Beast!" Sarge greeted them with fierce confidence and lack of hesitation.
Some choice words there. I chuckled at the insults with Dakini, and Mrs. Maddox covering their mouths in shock.
The woman in gold was not too happy about her nickname. "I see you've gotten an entourage together, you putrid bitch. It won't matter in the long run. Earthrealm is Shao Kahn's. We'll make certain it will be."
"Whatever you say, Tanya. I see your Psychosis is still ever so strong if you think that way. How's Old Cow Face after I shot him in the eye?"
"He is not pleased with your attempt on his life," the Snake answered before Tanya could. "It took countless hours to prevent his death. He then proceeded to torture everyone relentlessly for failing to defeat you all. I endured torture beyond measure because of my personal failures." He then eyed my dad. "We meet again, Edgemaster."
"Mutie. How's your stomach wound?" Dad shot back. "Hopefully it's at least disinfected. Killing you while having an infected wound would bring no personal satisfaction."
The sorcerer felt on his stomach. "Fortunately, I had Healers closed the wound. But your sneak attack punctured my stomach. I will have your head for this."
"Be glad I didn't just decapitate you off the bat. Despite all your millennia, you didn't see that coming. Means I still got it. I see you brought the Simp with you once again." Dad pointed to the man in the Aztec Helmet who must be Buluc as Ama-sama and Tsuki-sama told us about.
"Be mindful of what you say to me, peasant," the native growled.
I don't like him already.
"Okay, False God," Dad corrected.
Buluc did not like that all, but before he could potentially yell a racial slur at him, the woman in pink eyeing Pa from the moment we arrived cut him off by laughing. "We meet again, Swordsman. Did you miss me?"
"Not really. Mileena, was it?"
"Ooh, he remembers me, Tanya. I'm so happy!"
Okay, she's crazy. Good to know. Tanya thought much of the same as her eyes rolled.
"Okay, so who's the fish?" I questioned, pointing at the only one among them to not speak, biting down my laughter.
"I'm not a fish, woman! I am Reptile, the last of the Zaterrans!"
"Okay, Reptile. Are you going to say something stupid too, or are you here to look tough?" I mockingly asked.
"At least he's dressed properly," Tanya retorted.
I looked at her wardrobe, wearing a dress that revealed too much thighs and arms for my personal liking. "And you, Tanya. I have a question for you too."
"What, Earthrealmer?"
My smirk grew with a raised eyebrow. "Are you a soldier or a prostitute?"
Dakini and Sarge's expressions were priceless, doing their best not to collapse on the ground in laughter.
Benjamin stepped forward. "So, Shang Tsung. What brings you and your cronies to Earthrealm so early? Shao Kahn's convinced he won already? Or are you just here to size us up?"
"Both, Warlock. The Emperor has demanded that we familiarize ourselves with the realm since we'll be taking it for him in short order."
"Shao Kahn is delusional if he thinks he can take Earthrealm, after failing to do so twice." Skarlet mentioned her solid point. "Sheeva, Goro, and Baraka, major pillars to the court, are all dead. And if you account those who've deserted in favor of Earthrealm, you're merely a footnote. If anything's numbered, it's your remaining time as a feared army."
"We have no words for a turncoat. I would expect you to be more grateful, Skarlet, seeing as I was the one who bestowed you your powers."
"The torture I underwent to gain them was not worth it. Although thanks to you, I now have full control of them after you purposefully made me an addict to make me docile."
Buluc then took threatening steps in Jade's direction, Benjamin and Dakini by her side. Sareena wanted to join them, but I stopped her from doing so. We can't afford to have her making a mistake and losing the baby. Speaking of which, these clowns can't know of that, or we risk endangering Sareena and the unborn child.
"Jade..." Buluc gave off an eerie smile, one too overconfident. "It's not too late to return to where you belong. Think of the many riches I can spoil you with. Do you honestly believe this Warlock can make you happy with no stature?"
"Money or royalty doesn't equate to happiness, Ko'otal. No amount of coins, notoriety, or a place as your queen could ever sway me. I told you last time that I wouldn't waste my life away with you. Or was me lovingly kissing my husband in front of you not enough of a sign?" Jade's anger became visible just from the look in her eyes. "I have no interest in you, nor will I ever fancy a rapist above his station. So do yourself a favor and fuck off."
After meeting Jade, I felt that she was a mostly easy-going woman. Yet, watching her interaction with this Aztec wannabe, she made it clear that she wouldn't sell out her family. That was something I held a deep admiration for as lots of women would jump at the chance of becoming a wealthy queen.
"You heard her, Ko'atal. Can't have any woman you lust for," Tanya responded before walking toward the family, a dangerous glint glowing in her eyes. "All the better for me as I want to kill Jade before taking Benny for myself."
The hate seems to run deep those two. Not even a few seconds passed before both Jade and Tanya closed the distance between them, jaw to jaw. I kinda feel like the odd woman out. Even Pa's dealt with everyone here.
Tanya's gaze veered to Dakini. "Who's the brat?"
"None of your damn business," Jade seethed.
"Take a good look, loser," Dakini snipped from behind.
Doing just that, Tanya studied the child's face, shock filling her face as she instantly switched between mother and daughter.
Jade showed a mean smile. "Finally figured it out?"
"There's no way possible you could've given birth that quickly! She's nearly a teenager!" Tanya shouted.
"What does it matter to you, traitor? At least I can have kids, unlike you."
All of us widened our eyes, probably no one more so than the Sarge.
It was then that Tanya's body began to show what looked to be pyromancer markings. "No matter! I get to enjoy three deaths instead of one!"
"Like that'll ever happen, Tanya. You'll have to kill me first, and that isn't going to happen," Sarge cut her off.
"Don't worry, Callie. I'll give you yours in due time," Tanya scoffed.
"All in Shao Kahn's name! As we are the remaining..." Reptile chanted a bunch of blah blah blah, so I zoned him out.
I looked at Dad, and we both shrugged as I grabbed my gourd and shook it near my ear, making sure there's still some Sake. Dad pulled out a box of cigarettes and placed one in his mouth. He went for his lighter, but his hand came out empty, disappointment on his face. I reached my hand into my Hakama pocket and took out a lighter I kept on me if something like this happened. I offered it, and Dad accepted before lighting his cig and taking a puff.
Putting my lighter away and uncorking the gourd, I inhaled the contents before drinking the liquor inside. Or I would've if Reptile noticed we weren't paying attention.
"Are you listening to me, woman!?"
"Don't worry about us, Reptile. We don't care. Please continue." I answered calmly.
In my peripheral vision, I saw Reptile dashing at me.
Just like I planned.
Unsheathe my Odachi, I viciously stabbed Reptile in the chest, lifting him into the sky with ease. I finished drinking for now before commenting on the blade's added weight, laughing at my victim. "Oh, look! An idiot is stuck in my blade!"
"You think I'm a toy, woman!?" Reptile barely got out while suspended in the air.
The jokes were over. It's time I start acting like I'm on the clock, which I proved by driving the blade deeper into his midsection.
"You clearly lack a brain, Reptile, so you might as well be one! And my name is Kimura of Kyoto! You'd do well to remember my name since it's me who'll decide whether or not you live! And judging by your attitude, I don't like your chances of survival."
I stood him up before twisting the Odachi, driving it even deeper inside his chest. He coughed up blood, some of it landing on my cheek. Using my free hand, I wiped it off and throw the fluid on the grass patch next to me.
"Underestimatin' us is not a good idea, especially when Otou-san and I are blessed by the Sun and Moon Goddesses, respectively. We are the Guardians of Balance, and our skill isn't for show."
"You are the Edgemaster's daughter? That must mean you are old as well," Shang Tsung remarked.
"That's right. My real name is Kimura Shio, the only daughter of the last remaining Edgemaster. One of Amaterasu and Tsukiyomi's champions. Renowned Demon Slayer. I'm not to be messed with. As you have realized, Reptile."
"Woman! You will release Reptile at once!" Ko'atal demanded.
"And who's going to stop me, imposter? You?" I pointed my blade (with Reptile still impaled) at him. "You're lucky it's not nighttime. Otherwise, I'd be even more powerful. Otou-san and I split the blessings, so he's more powerful during the day, and I own the night. We also got powers. Pa got Black Fire, and me..."
Suddenly, white electricity appeared and shocked Reptile briefly, our allies shocked.
"Lightning?"
"Yea, Sarge! Pretty cool, huh? But if you want your comrade back, then who am I to argue?"
Grabbing the handle with both hands, I chucked Reptile's unconscious body in their direction. Their faces were priceless as his body flew with ease until he crashed near the sorcerer. I threw the blood off my blade before putting it away.
"We have to get Reptile back to Outworld immediately. He'll die if we don't act," Shang Tsung said.
"Be glad I didn't stab 'em in the heart." Another swig of Sake hit the spot. "I'm compassionate like that."
"Do not think this is over, especially you, Benjamin," Ko'atal warned.
"What's that supposed to mean?"
"Just know that you have an enemy of the entire court, as well as elsewhere!"
A red flash came out of nowhere and tackled Benjamin out of sight.
"Benji!" Jade yelled as he was taken by a red robot, from what I can tell.
"Until next time, Xan! I look forward to seeing you again." Mileena said goodbye before blowing a kiss in his direction and then giggling like a lovestruck teen. The group is using the distraction to leave for now.
We go back to where the bot and Ben were, but they were already out of sight.
Benji's POV
"Sektor! How did you escape the Netherrealm?"
"I always find my way to you, Doctor. You will fall by my hand, my promise to the Grandmaster."
"The Grandmaster? Or Daegon!?"
Sektor flew me at breakneck speeds across China. All of a sudden, it got bitterly cold.
Wait. He's taking me to Lin Kuei HQ to have me cyberized! Think fast, Benji. Think. Think!
Aha! I got it!
I summoned a portal to the Netherrealm wastelands, then quickly grabbed my baton and started wailing on Sektor's head. Eventually, his hold on me loosened, and I was freed. Bracing for impact, I broke my fall slightly before getting up with my Baton tightly clutched. Sektor landed but struggled to adjust to Hell's extreme heat. It was noticeable though he did well to hide it. Exactly why I sent him down here in Outworld and brought him back.
Plus, some modifying to my Baton made it heat resistant, the battle with Tanya serving as the main reason.
"I thought Daegon hired you, Sektor. Why were you bringing me to Arctika?"
"The specifics of your contract were to have you cyberized and send you to become the Grandmaster's personal servant. He also hired the Lin Kuei to kill Kenshi."
I remember Red Dragon soldiers attacking Kenshi in Outworld as he told me that Daegon was the one who hired Sektor to kill me.
I was trying to stall for as long as possible so his wiring will start malfunctioning. But before I could ask another question, he jetted towards me and threw a hard punch that I blocked with my baton.
"Mingus!" I called for an Informer Crow.
One instantly heeded my signal. "Prez! What do you need?"
"Tell everyone in Earthrealm of my location and my being here."
"On the double, Prez!"
Mingus flew out of sight. With that done, I shifted his weight so I could get the pressure off of me as Sektor crashed into a giant rock, the boulder shattering on contact.
Sektor walked out of the wreckage, looking no worse for wear before teleporting through the ground and came from under me to land a solid punch on my chin. I broke my fall and looked up as he was ready to shoot his fire. I barely managed to move out of the way. Thinking fast, I chucked my baton, but before he knocked it away, I summoned a portal that the baton went inside.
I ran full speed just as the baton came out of another portal and slammed him in the back of the head. Using the timing, I practically speared Sektor to the floor while grabbing my baton to land a nasty swipe to the side of his head. Before I got another hit in, he kicked me off, and while I got back up, a missile headed straight at me. But before it hit...
It was stopped.
The missile then turned around and sped back to Sektor at doubling speed, a small explosion occurring after connecting. As I got to my feet, I glanced around to see who did that. The shock on my face said it all.
Ermac.
Floating downward with a green aura around his hand, Ermac managed to stop the missile from obliterating me on the spot. He finally landed next to me.
"Good to see you, Doctor."
"Likewise, Ermac. Mom told me of what she did to you in Outworld. You're free from Shao Kahn?"
"We are shackled no longer. But We can tell you what We did with Our freedom after we finish this villain. Allow me to assist."
"No complaints from me. Let's deal with this bastard."
"It matters not. I will finish the job I was given, no matter what it takes. You will have to kill me to stop me."
"As you wish."
Ermac lifted Sektor with his powers and slammed him so hard, sparks flew out of his mechanized body. He did so again, but instead of flooring him, he separated his hands, and Sektor's limbs separated from his torso. In one final motion, Ermac turned the bot upside down and slammed him head first, Sektor's skull imploding on contact.
I took Sektor's lifeless torso and tossed it in a lava bank nearby, taking a deep breath as I was glad that's over. One less person after my head to worry about.
"Are you hurt, Doctor?" Ermac inquired.
"I'm fine. I've dealt with worse while in Outworld, believe me. But what of you? What are you doing in the Netherrealm?"
"Your Father, Joseph Maddox, advised Us to seek out the one known as Okada for guidance. Following his advice, We found him and Takahashi Kenshi on the way. He also gave me advice on how to contain the souls comprising Our being."
"You met Kenshi?"
"Yes, We consider him a friend. After finding Okada, he taught Us how to control Our powers. We were on our way to a Monolith to restore Our power before traveling to Earthrealm per his and Emperor Duffeck's request. They have sensed that an invasion of Earthrealm will commence soon and requested We find either you, General Maddox, or Mai Maddox and bring any of you to him. But We are rather fortunate to notice you fighting Sektor. If you are not busy, We will take you to Duffeck now."
"I guess Earthrealm can wait for now. Lead the way, Ermac."
"Follow Us."
It didn't take us long to reach Duffeck's throne, where he practically waited for us. "Benjamin! I wasn't expecting Ermac to find you so quickly."
"I was ambushed by Sektor of the Lin Kuei and sent us both here since he'd be weaker. Ermac came in to help me finish him off."
"The circumstance was not favorable, but I'm glad that you survived. I'd expect no less of Okada's student," Duffeck complimented. "But we have pressing matters to discuss. Shao Kahn is going to invade Earthrealm in time, completely overlooking the rules of Mortal Kombat. I assume you figured this out."
"We all did. Even my wife Jade called it weeks ahead."
"Not surprising. Shao Kahn was always entitled, even when he was a Protector God. I wish to let you know that you have the Netherrealm's support in this upcoming war."
"Can you spare us some soldiers?"
"Unfortunately, I cannot, as I'm forbidden as an Elder God. I can't even send Okada either. But we'll be doing some work of our own behind the scenes."
That's awfully cryptic. I have no reason to not trust Duffeck since he activated Cal's latent magic potential and revealed to us the many deceits of Argus. At this point, we don't have a lot of options.
"However, I can spare you an outsider."
"An outsider?"
"Benjamin! It's good to see you!" Okada's voice called for me, Ilah, with him.
"Okada, Ilah." I greet them both.
"Ermac found you fast, didn't he?" Ilah spoke.
"It was extreme luck on Our part."
"Ilah will happily lend a hand on our behalf. Ermac will as well."
"We're ready to assist you in any way We can," Ermac confirmed.
"So am I. It will be nice to see Mai and Callie Ann again."
"That's all I have to for now. If you'll excuse us, Okada and I have work to do. Come, Okada. We must head to the Libraries!"
"Yes, Lord Duffeck." Okada turned to me. "We'll catch up later, nephew, as we have much to discuss. Take care of Ilah for me."
"No worries, Kadsy-kins. We're all capable. Let's go back to Earthrealm."
"Fast if you do not mind, Doctor. We are growing weary."
"Right. We'll be there in no time, Ermac," I said before summoning a portal to the Trainer's Estate.
Let the Gates Open.
A/N: The Clock is winding down! More players have revealed themselves. Kimura of Kyoto has made her debut, Ilah has returned, and Ermac has made a surprise assist against Sektor!
What did you all think? What do you all think of Kim? Let me know with a PM or a Review, and I'll see you all later.
Currently listening to: At the Helm by Hieroglyphics