Realm of Edenia: After Daegon escaped Edenia and Sindel ordered a realm-wide lockdown

Mulan's POV

Ma and I ran as fast as our legs would allow as we saw citizens frantically run into their homes. The Edenian Freedom Fighters led them while setting up patrols. Some of them noticed Ma, and if it weren't for the dire situation, they'd probably try to pull her aside to ask her how she's been. A lot of the EFF was the old guard that Ma commanded. With Ti-Ti JJ in her old position, Ma doesn't come around often.

"The soldiers sure as shit work fast, huh, Ma?" I point out.

Ma chuckled lightly. "They'd better with the conditioning I put them all through. I ran drills like this often during the downtime. Being a part of an army on the front line like these men means you're never truly off duty."

Which explains why most of the soldiers are in their civilian gear.

"You're keeping up with me easy enough," she commented.

"What's that supposed to mean, Ma?"

"That sounded terrible once I said that aloud. Sorry, Mulan. I meant to say your version of me must be immensely proud of you." She clarified. "Did you serve?"

"Yes, but not with Special Forces," I answered.

"You're not a Green Beret?"

"Nope. I'm with or was with the Air Force."

"Never thought that my kid was a Fly Girl. What made you enlist in the Air Force as opposed to Special Forces?"

"You," I answered bluntly.

"Me?"

"Yeah. You told me about how you never truly had a Ma and Dad. So you never had a legacy. But Mulan and I? The legacies we had to live to? To say that the pressure was high would be a very gross exaggeration. They might as well drown us. Since you and Uncle Benji resuscitated the Maddox Name from nothing, what we had to live up to was as massive as Johnny's ego."

"That's large, Mulan," Ma said in awe. "I never thought of it that way. But you're right. Mom didn't come back into our lives until several decades ago."

"The you who raised me was older, obviously. In every other timeline I traveled to, that version of you was always similar to mine. This is the first timeline where I have seen you, Dad, Uncle Benji, Ti-Ti JJ, Auntie Sareena, and even Grandma in your physical primes. I thought all these experiences would prep me for the chance this could happen, but I'm already being shown I'm underestimating you here."

"What are you talking about?"

"The situation with Erron Black in Outworld. I should've known you weren't shooting to kill but to disarm him. A death of this magnitude would guarantee war. Even then, that wouldn't be a big problem if I hit my target. Then again, I didn't think your draw speed would be faster than mine. You drew and fired first, causing my shot to miss and Erron's shot to go last, and-"

"Don't you dare say Skarlet's death was on you!" Ma cut me off. "We're both at fault, as Erron was. I didn't know you were aiming for the head. Otherwise, I would've aimed there too. Plus, I had a Pocket Pistol. So, of course, my draw was going to be faster."

"Still... I should've known, Ma."

"No, you shouldn't have. You made a strategic decision. I would've done the same. You're right, though. If you did hit Erron, it would be of no consequence. Besides, I made a mistake not being on the same page as you. Don't beat yourself up over it, Mulan. I raised you better than that. Now come on."

"Yes, Ma."

This will keep me up at night. I just know it. We picked the pace back up, and upon arriving at Uncle Benji's, we didn't even bother knocking and went inside.

"Benji! You here?" Ma called for him.

Shortly after, we see Uncle Benji, Dakini, Auntie Sareena, and Kim Jie-Jie leave what I could guess was Baby Ted's room.

"Cal?"

"Sister?"

"Auntie?"

"Sarge?"

They all walked and met us halfway.

"Cal, what's wrong?"

Ma was straight to the point. "Daegon was in the Royal Palace."

"You can't be serious."

"She isn't lying, Uncle Benji. We saw his old ass strut into the throne like he owned the place. He demanded Sindel relinquish the throne that was apparently his birthright."

"What did Sindel say?"

"What'd you think she said, Benji? She told him to shove it. Let me explain everything after Kim left."

Ma and I divulged what happened, including Daegon's low blow on Ms. Skarlet's death. She even included Khameleon wounding him.

"I know he's Argus' brat, but for him to turn because of what you describe as a shallow wound shows how mental he has become. I bet Koga planting that false evidence of Mavado's betrayal didn't help matters."

"Oh, he so did," I said. "Koga-aniki is horrifyingly thorough with his work. He puts new meaning to the term 'perfectionism.'"

After that, the doors barged open, and we saw Ti-Ti JJ come in.

"Benji! Are you okay?" She brushed past Ma and me, and she gave Uncle Benji a deep kiss and hug.

I couldn't help but laugh at our discounted presence. "Hi, Ti-Ti."

That caused Ma to laugh as we looked at each other.

"Sorry, sweetie," Ti-Ti pecked my cheek and hugged Ma.

"I'm fine, Jade. Why would I be harmed? Daegon may know that we live in Edenia, but he doesn't know where."

"Good. Good. You didn't leave the house today?"

"No, honey. Sareena, Dakini, and most recently Kim was just tending to Theo, is all."

"Okay," Ti-Ti said worriedly with a sense of frantic.

Ma looked at me with a look of 'Are you seeing what I am?' and I nodded.

She gave a content look before speaking up. "I got some information from Sonya about a supernatural disturbance in Earthrealm."

That got everyone's attention, especially Uncle's. "I'm planning on doing some reconnaissance there. I was wondering if Benji and I-"

"No." Ti-Ti and Auntie both refused, to which Dakini jumped.

Benji and Kim both glanced at them as if they had grown a second head.

I couldn't help but laugh again. "Wow, Ti-Ti, Auntie. You could've let Ma finish first."

Their expressions quickly turned guilty.

"JJ, Saree. A question," Ma responded. "We all unanimously want Daegon to die, right?"

"Of course, sister," Auntie Sareena swiftly answered.

"If that's unanimously agreed on, why is one of the most important pieces in this puzzle stuck in his house like a caged animal? He has to do something but watch his kids all day all the time."

"Then take Kimura," Ti-Ti tried to counter.

"Kim will be busy in the next few days. She's heading to the Netherrealm with Xan, Baiken, and Amaterasu to search for her mother-in-law."

"And Khameleon?"

"Khameleon is scouting for Kano in Outworld for me since Sindel already gave me permission."

"And what of your daughter?" Ti-Ti's desperation was evident in her tone.

"Actually, I plan on looking into Reiko and the Kamidogu Daggers. I smell foul play since Havik didn't inform, and he was the one besides Reiko who knew about the Daggers at all. I was going to ask Dakini if she wanted to tag along," I respond.

Before either of them could reply, Dakini did. "Sure. Let me grab my weapons."

She went into her room.

"I need an extra pair of hands. As you can see, everyone else is busy. And it would be heartless of me to ask either of you to help me. Besides, Benji's stronger than you both, arguably stronger than me and Mulan. So why are you two so worried anyway?"

Ti-Ti and Auntie both look away.

"JJ, are you pregnant again?"

Ti-Ti blushed heavily. "Of course not!"

"Not yet, anyway," I add under my breath.

"Mulan."

"对不起 (duì bù qǐ) (Sorry)." I apologized.

"Sister, you can't just come here after telling us Daegon was here and practically drag Benny out to take on your adventures," Auntie Sareena countered, which holds merit.

"Just like you don't have the right to practically put him on de facto house arrest for the same reason," Ma verbally retaliated.

"How would you feel if we barged into your home, warned you of Daegon, then asked Lao to help us with an investigation?"

"Considering Lao knows the threat of Daegon, and what he poses against our family, he'd be all for helping. Besides, he's helping at the Wu Shi, prepping the other monks for a potential attack by Kotal. He attacked the Wu Shi Academy during Shao Kahn's invasion, so my husband is doing more than yours."

"Your husband isn't at much risk, Callie."

"I doubt that, but let's ask your husband, JJ. Benji, what do you want to do?" Ma closed off any further arguments.

Everyone's eyes (even Kim, who played smart by not involving herself) were on Uncle Benji.

"I'll go with you, Cal. I've been telling them the same as you, albeit more kindly."

"Have you?" Ma sarcastically inquired. "You two are worrying for nothing unless you don't trust either Benji or me?"

"Of course, we trust you both," Ti-Ti replied honestly. "But if something were to happen to Benji-"

"Nothing will happen, JJ. If all goes well, we won't even get into a physical confrontation. I understand your fears. And if you think I don't, I will once I get pregnant with Lao and give birth to Shades over there," Ma said as she points at me.

My sunglasses did a solid job of hiding my blush—way to put me on the spot, Ma.

"Benji, you need to get anything before we head out?"

"Just my coat. I'll be a moment."

"At the risk of overstepping, I let you have ample time with Benji by yourselves for two and a half decades since I chose not to visit often. What's a few hours with me going to do? It's not like I'm demanding he moves back into the Trainer's Estate with me."

"Yes, sister. Simultaneously, you can't just barge in here and start making demands of us. We would never do that to Lao?" Sareena argued.

"Are you going to fuck Lao behind my back?"

"No."

"Would you let Lao get killed?"

"No."

"Then what's the problem when I ask the same of you two with the same promises I intend on keeping?" Ma inquired.

"We can have this discussion later, Callie." Ti-Ti ended the discussion. For now, anyway. "Just be careful, okay? That's all we're asking."

"Of course, JJ. I'd never let you down. You know this."

Ma and Ti-Ti hugged. "Plus, I have some news about Dakini and me that everyone should know."

"Gotcha. You won't find a scratch on him."

Uncle Benji came out of his room, coat on, hands already taped. "I'm ready, Cal."

"Great. Mulan, we'll talk later. C'mon Benji."

"Yes, Cal. Relax a little. Where are we going anyway?"

"I'll explain but I need some things from HQ first," Ma said as she and Uncle Benji left the house.

"Daki! C'mon, girl! We're wasting daylight!"

"Not so loud, Mulan. We just put Ted to sleep."

"Duì bù qǐ, Auntie."

"Ready, Mulan," Dakini said as her Bow, Arrows, and Tomahawks were slung over her shoulder.

"Great. 让我们把这个节目放到路上 (Let's get this show on the road)"

I shift my glasses to my Reality Mask before outlining double doors. Once I do that, some double doors are willed.

"Bye Ti-Ti, Auntie. Let's go, Dakini."

We walk through after my aunts return my goodbye.

Sareena's POV

With Mulan taking Dakini and Kim supposedly leaving, Jade and I were alone.

She scoffed. "I can't believe Callie. She just waltzes in and tells us the man who wants us all dead was in Edenia and the Royal Palace before taking Benji."

I rub her back and kiss her cheek while smiling.

"Although Callie had no right to do so, she does have a point, love. Even with Dakini around and me giving birth to Theodore, we still found ways to hog and hound Benny after all these decades." I remind her as we sit down. "Did you even tell Benny that you want more children?"

Jade blushed after calming down. "Not yet. I will most likely tell him when Daegon is dealt with. Hell, when all of these threats are extinguished."

"You were always protective of Benny before either of us conceived children. But Callie was right in noticing that you were even more so. What caused this sudden change?"

"Dakini's birth," Jade answered bluntly. "But it truly started when we met Dakini's future self in Seido. When I became a mother, that instinct to protect her and everyone I hold dear returned. Whether it be you, Benji, Dakini, or Theodore, I have even gotten soft on Kimura and Xan."

I did nothing but lend my ears, knowing my wife has had these thoughts for some time.

"Benji truly is the middle ground in this conflict," Jade spoke in a tone of realization. "If someone were even to harm a hair on his head, I will not rest until I send that unlucky bastard to the Netherrealm."

I placed my hand on top of hers as her intense look melted away.

"Callie says there's a term for someone like Benji in times like this. I believe it was Switzerland. When she explained it, I could only laugh at the statement's accuracy."

"What does it mean?"

"A long time ago, Switzerland was a country filled with mercenaries. They were masters of war due to the poor circumstance they found themselves in and did what was needed to survive. Eventually, too much of their specialty, and they decide to only act out of defense from then on. In Benny's case, some liberties are taken as he isn't a master of war; Callie is. But everything else made almost too much sense. No one makes an enemy of our Benny, Jade. As a result, Benny doesn't go out of his way to antagonize others. Only when threatened or attacked will he oblige and do so without mercy. A reminder to those who do so of who he was. Whoever decides that attacking Benny is a good idea will gain the ire of everyone who befriended him. As for Callie, she wouldn't do anything to jeopardize the relationship you two mended in Orderrealm. Have faith in her. She'll bring Benny back to us. It's the least she can do."

"I know, Sareena. Gods, I know I can be controlling over him and you, but I don't want what happened to my family to occur again. The stress of everything I have learned and the responsibilities I have taken are so stressful."

I meld our hands together in complete understanding. I can only go off what Jade has told me about her parents and from Ms. Mai. Destiny, and Manuel sounded like they were good people, the opposite of most Edenians. I sure hate to be Tanya right now.

"Theodore is asleep as well as Dakini."

Deviously, I leaned closer and began kissing her neck. Jade gave a low moan, showing she was accepting of my affection.

"If you wish to alleviate some of that stress, we have a few hours to ourselves. Besides, I miss seducing you."

My lips went lower to her collarbone, and I could feel Jade's hand on my head to push me closer as I used my body to pin her to the couch. I'd be lying if I said I only wanted Benji's manhood all the time. Jade riles me up whenever our husband isn't around. And she's gotten better with age with staying in shape due to her training. Sadly, I felt her hands on my shoulders.

"As much as I'd love to, Sareena. I can't right now. Not with everything going on. We must persevere to ensure we still have everything we have gained, my love."

Jade kisses me on the lips deeply as she stands up. "I need to go back to the palace to set up border patrols with the Freedom Fighters. However..."

She smiled and kissed me while squeezing my breasts. You sly vixen. "I do want to engage in some alone time with you."

"Of course, Jade. Stay strong, love."

I kiss my loving wife again before she separates and leaves. I sit back down, wondering what I should do next. Perhaps I can get some rest with Theodore asleep as well. Then I hear a door open and see Kimura walk out.

"Kimura, you're still here? I thought you left with Callie."

"Oh, no. Just had to pee."

We both laughed. Kimura has been a light in our lives from the moment she arrived.

"What are your plans for the rest of the day, sister?"

Kimura shrugged. "I have nothing on the calendar for today. Being here in Edenia was something that was offered on the fly. Though I already saw Ted and have nothing else to do, I might as well head home to my wife."

"How is Amaterasu, by the way? We never had much chance to talk these past few years."

"Ammy's great. She's my and Mrs. Maddox's lawyer for Maddonosuke Fashion now. So I get to see her daily whether we work or not."

"And is Callie saying about you going to the Netherrealm to look for your stepmother true?"

"Mhmm. In a couple of days. Dad, Baiken, Ammy, her friend Nox, and I will head to the Sphere of Wrath to look for Lady Death."

"The Fifth Sphere of Hell? Do be careful, Kimura. That Sphere houses the Brotherhood of Shadow Cult. Though Shinnok is imprisoned in his amulet, there's no doubt you'll likely run into Quan Chi and whatever monstrosity he has been creating down there." I warned my godsister.

"Thanks, Saree. I'll let the others know before we head down there."

Before I could express gratitude, there was a knock on the door.

*KNOCK* *KNOCK* *KNOCK*

"Are you expecting someone?"

"I don't live here, Sareena. You know that."

"Of course, you are very welcomed here," I tell her before getting up. "I'll be right there."

We approach the door, and I open it to see a woman wearing shades of pink and purple. She was also beautiful. Kimura recognized her instantly.

"Li Mei? What are you doing out here?"

"Ambassador Sannosuke? I can ask you the same question."

"My Godson lives here, and I was just visiting him. Sareena, this is Li Mei. A refugee from Outworld and is its Ambassador for the Special Forces."

"You are Sareena Maddox? I have always wanted to meet the Maddox Family, especially your husband and sister-in-law." She shook my hand. "They inspire me and my people in Sun Do. May I come in?"

"Of course, Li Mei. Do come in!"

Li Mei was inside the moment consent was given.

"I think that's my cue to go, Saree. I'll see you later, okay?" Kimura said as she gave me a hug that I returned.

"Okay. Best of luck if I don't see you before your mission."

I say goodbye to Kim as I close the door before turning to Li Mei, who looks rather pleased to be here.

"So, Li Mei. You said you were a refugee from Outworld?"

I sneak peeks at her body. Li Mei is a very athletic woman. Being a mother won't stop my natural perversion; I stopped fighting it decades ago.

"Yes, Sareena. I recently took the task of being Outworld's ambassador after my people and I rebelled against Kotal Kahn and his apparent support for the Red Dragon/Black Dragon war that spilled to Outworld itself."

"I have seen first-hand how entitled and arrogant Kotal Kahn can be. A shame you couldn't meet Benny and Callie. They were just here a few moments ago."

"Truly? Curse my poor timing." She pouted. "I didn't get a chance to go to the Koliseum to see them brutalize Quan Chi and Shang Tsung. I heard Sergeant Maddox broke Shang Tsung's arm."

"You never met Callie? She's a part of Special Forces too."

"Yes, but she holds a high rank, so I rarely get to even look at her, let alone hold a conversation. She and Benjamin symbolize hope and freedom to my people in Sun Do. I was hoping to meet one of my people's idols."

"Once again, I'm deeply sorry you missed them."

"It's genuinely no trouble. At the very least, I can learn more about one of his wives. If you don't mind, please tell me a little about yourself.

"I suppose it wouldn't hurt."

My agreeance caused this woman's face to light up. So adorable. "Wonderful. Are you from Earthrealm?"

"Well, no. I'm actually from the Netherrealm originally."

Li Mei's mood shifted. "You're from the Netherrealm?"

I could've sworn I heard prejudice in her voice. "Yes. Before meeting Benny, I was a member of the True Brotherhood of Shadow."

"There are two different Brotherhoods of Shadow?"

"Correct. The one you are acquainted with is the cult that reveres Shinnok. The one I was a part of the current Elder God, Duffeck's army."

"And Duffeck is the Elder God of the Netherrealm?"

"Yes. Duffeck is a very just ruler despite what he holds dominion over. I served the True Brotherhood of Shadow for many centuries until my service was no longer required. As a reward, Benjamin and his uncle Okada purified my soul."

"Your soul is purified? Despite being a demon?" Li Mei inquired, the same tone present.

"Through spending time with Benny, my demonic blood and genetics were slowly being cleansed. To the point where I can display emotions such as loyalty and love."

My explanation softened Li Mei's expression reverted.

"And it was completely purified once I admitted my feelings for Benny. And through his acceptance and Jade's, I was truly purified. Finally."

"Finally?" She repeated.

"Yes, finally," I repeated with a chuckle. "Moving here to Edenia completely cleansed my soul of whatever impurities remained. Thanks to Okada and Benny's generosity, I can live my dream life with the man and woman of my dreams."

"Wow, I could've never imagined the pain and suffering you underwent before meeting Benjamin and General Maddox."

"It was surely not for the faint of heart. But I owe everything to them, including my son."

Li Mei looked at me in utter shock. "You were impregnated? But I thought demons can never bear children?"

"They can't. If their souls are purified, the impossible becomes slim. And by the Gods, I was given their luck as I was impregnated shortly after Benny, Jade, and I were wed."

I fondly recollected holding Theodore for the first time. Now I understand why Jade is the way she is in Dakini's present form.

"I cannot believe it. What a story, Sareena."

"Thank you, Li Mei."

"Of course. Well, I should be on my way then."

Li Mei began walking to the door before I stopped her with a question. "Wait. How did you arrive in Edenia in the first place? Queen Sindel barred everyone who wasn't in the Interrealm Coalition from entering the realm legally."

"Oh, I'm part of the Coalition due to my position. Although, it took some convincing for the Queen to let me through. Let's just say she and I have a mutual understanding."

I raised an eyebrow. "What's that supposed to mean?"

Turning her head, Li Mei gave an eerie smile. "I'll let you figure it out. It was nice meeting you, Sareena. Give my regards to Benny."

She then left without another word. It then dawned on me. Li Mei called our husband Benny. Of all the... Relax, Sareena. Li Mei has made it perfectly clear she isn't here just to have pleasantries with me and our family. She wants Benny. The way his name fell from her lips. There was a hint of jealousy, want, and lust. Even I'm not that perverted to miss those signs. Great, now I see why Jade hates Tanya. It looks like I have to guard against this supposed admirer.

Calming down, I returned to my son's shared room with Dakini. They both look so precious and innocent. I sat on the bed next to my sleeping son. His hair is beginning to grow, and I can see a streak of white in it. Takes after me. I hope and pray he doesn't have to endure what I have in my long life. He deserves better than the hand I was dealt. Benny, Jade, and I will make sure our children won't face the same adversities we did.

I'll bet my existence on that.

Dakini's POV

I find myself pacing back and forth and occasionally checking the windows in every location of this abandoned library we're in. Paranoia was slowly setting in with how I looked is a reason why. Where are we? Oh, nowhere in particular.

Just in Outworld.

"Dakini, stop checking the windows. Your paranoia will start rubbing off on me," Mulan said, checking book after book with her sunglasses off.

"Maybe that'll be for the best, Mulan. Do you know the ramifications if Kotal or any of his court find us here? It'll make Jacqui and Cassie look like Einstein compared to us!"

"Unless Ol' Blueface wants to break the Reiko Accords after he and Sonya signed them, by all means. Kotal talks like a dime-a-dozen dictator, saying he wants war with the Interrealm Coalition. If he were a fraction as smart as he claims, he should know that war against us would end in devastating losses only on his side. Besides, Kotal hasn't been to this side of Outworld in decades. He's showing bias in areas of the realm near the Royal Palace. If not, it's to bully or extort the villagers who stand up to him. Then he's trying to find ways to kill Uncle Benji and 'retrieve' Ti-Ti. Relax, Daki, no one's going to find us here."

"Can you blame me? We're in enemy territory, and I don't have my powers."

"Not Nightwolf's powers, but you must figure out what your folks gave you. Like that Green Glow Ti-Ti activates sporadically; you could've inherited that. But I understand your skepticism."

"Y'know, with how much of a Mama wannabe Tanya is, I'm surprised Kotal hasn't taken her yet."

"Maybe it's for the best we don't know that. It would mean diving into Kotal's psyche, and I think we've both been scarred enough."

"I can see that."

I gazed around the abandoned library. Despite being deserted, the place is well-kept.

"Mulan."

"What's the trouble, Ranger Girl?"

"Why an Outworld Library specifically? Surely we could've just gone to an older Library in Earthrealm."

"We can, but with how politics and capitalism work in Earthrealm, information found there can be misleading or incorrect. The only Libraries in Earthrealm worth scoping out are the Libraries of Deities, and I don't think either of us is close with Amaterasu to ask her if she even has one."

"Good point. Amaterasu's arrival was recent. And even though she works with Nana, it's most likely because of her marriage to Kim." I say aloud.

"Exactly. Risky as it is to be here, the libraries in Outworld are richer in knowledge than the ones on Earth." Mulan double-takes a page. "Check this out."

I stood behind her. "Did you find something?"

She pointed at an image. "Look at this."

No way.

"That's a Kamidogu Artifact! The one for Outworld, if I'm not mistaken. I thought the Daggers only existed in this timeline?"

"An anomaly, for sure. This means if there's a Kamidogu Artifact for Outworld, then-"

"There's one for the other five realms, not just Daggers."

All of those horrid memories came back. And that monster...

"No, no, no, no, no, no. This can't be happening."

I started hyperventilating, which always happened when I assumed the worst.

"This is just the first step. This means that-"

"Hey, Daki! Daki! Dakini! Look at me!" Mulan grabbed and shook me. "Breathe, girl."

I slowly regulate my breathing.

"This means nothing right now. This is just one piece of a gargantuan-sized puzzle."

Mulan then gave me a hug, one I needed as I desperately returned it.

"Nothing is going to happen to them. Not if we can help it. I think we learned everything we needed here. Let's get the hell out of here."

She let go of me and put her glasses back on. I grab my bow and arrow before see a familiar figure enter the building. I aimed but didn't fire yet.

"Alright, Ranger Girl. Let's-" She noticed my position. "Why are you aiming an arrow?"

I motioned her to turn around, and she immediately understood.

"Well, well, well. What do we have here? Two stray Edenians so far from home," Erron Black drawled in his accent. "What brings Benjamin and Callie Ann Maddox's cubs to Outworld?"

"Oh, wonderful. Kotal let his domestic off his leash. Seeing he hasn't been in this part of Outworld in a long ass time."

"And what makes you say that, Baby Doll?"

"He would've caught me decades ago," Mulan answered bluntly. "What are you doing here, Erron?"

My arrow was still aimed at his neck, with the slightest movement meaning his death.

"Just lookin' to start some trouble. But with you two bein' here, trouble had brought some company." Erron drew his Revolver. "Surely your folks would be more prone to make mistakes and Kotal can get your daddy's head on a pike if I bring your heads to him."

"On that note, I'm glad we're from the future," I remarked.

"Let's be honest with ourselves, Erron. You couldn't kill us no matter how hard you tried. And I don't think killing us would be a good idea because you're indebted to Ma."

Erron chuckled. "Really? How's that, Cowgirl?"

"'Cause you'd be dead if Ma didn't shoot your arm. I was aiming at your head during that confrontation. Your shift in position from her shot saved your life. Even with her Pocket Pistol, I underestimated Ma's drawing speed. Now I know, so I don't plan on making that mistake again," Mulan explained. "Now, how much is your silence and some information about Reiko and the Kamidogu Daggers worth?"

Now it was Erron's turn to scoff. "From how you two look and dress, I doubt you can afford me."

Dressing like I'm still Nightwolf doesn't help with my Western attire. If I had a Pancho or a hat like Erron's, I'd pass for a Cowgirl myself.

"Wanna bet?"

Mulan placed a hand over her face as her sunglasses shifted to her Reality Mask. Not too long after, the empty space in her hand distorted and shifted until a bag of what I assume was Koin, slightly bigger than her hand, materialized. She then chucked it at Erron, who caught it like a Raccoon when they saw a shiny object.

"That enough?" Mulan asked as she turned her mask back into Sunglasses.

"How did you-"

"Don't worry about it," Mulan said, motioning me to put my arrow away.

"Are you sure?"

"Trust me, Daki."

I reluctantly acquiesce my arrow and put it back in its quiver.

We close the distance from Erron. "Do we have a deal?"

"Sure do, Cowgirl. What do you wanna know?"

"Good."

Mulan then showcased that while she may not be as fast as Auntie, she has a faster draw than Erron Black. Before he could get his free hand on his Revolver, hers was on his forehead.

"You're going to answer my questions, or I'll spare Ma the trouble and kill you here," Mulan threatened as she cocked her Revolver.

To add to the pressure, I place an arrowhead an inch away from Erron's neck.

"Easy, ladies. You got the leverage."

Mulan gave a "That's a good little snitch. Now make like a pig squeal for us. Reiko and the Kamidogu Daggers. Spill. How did Reiko know about them when the only person in the realms who aren't imprisoned inside his own amulet is either dead or in the Netherrealm?"

"Kotal. Contrary to your claims, he's been inside this library. In one of the books, they spoke of the Kamidogu Daggers. He knew the risks of using them to activate the Blood Code and didn't use them. However, if Kotal convinced one of his court members to employ them in his stead, he can control them as a living weapon."

So it was Kotal who tipped Reiko off! I had a feeling his blue hands were involved in this mess!

"How did Ms. Skarlet fit in everything?" I questioned.

"Kotal told Reiko that he could use the Blood Code to convince Red to turn rogue. He hoped that her betrayal would cause disarray in your family and make them easier targets so Reiko and Skarlet could kill them. Then he'd swoop in, save the day, and take your mama as his prize."

"Wait... You're telling us about Reiko's outing as Shao Kahn's father, remerging Edenia with Outworld, and Ms. Skarlet. All that was another overcomplicated plot to kill Uncle Benji and Ma?"

"That's exactly what I'm saying, sweetheart."

"And you work for him?"

"His morals don't matter to me, sketchy as they are. I stick around 'cause I get paid."

"Dad's gonna have a feel day when he hears this," I said half-jokingly.

"You're not out of the woods yet, Cowpoke. Kotal's obsession with Ti-Ti is unnerving. What's the deal there?"

"And what of his time in Earthrealm as Buluc?" I added.

"Get to talking, Erron. We want all the details."

"And tell me where Tanya is."

He gave us all the information we needed, except my last question. Apparently, the traitor hasn't been seen since Auntie Skarlet's death. She's hiding somewhere, waiting for the right moment to strike. It makes me even more anxious knowing what that woman is capable of back in my time. After grilling Erron for those answers, we did what anyone with a brain would. Knocked him unconscious.

"Should we take the bag of money back?"

"No. Let him keep it. He did a good job squealing. And I may have a new informant. Or I may kill him after we inform Ti-Ti about all this."

"Are you two okay?"

The voice came out of nowhere and spooked us both.

"Was that you, Daki?"

"Nope."

It was then Khameleon revealed her presence. "That would be me."

"Khameleon? You were here this entire time?" I asked her.

"My apologies, but I've followed you since you arrived in Outworld."

"Kham! Shouldn't you be scouting the realm for Kano's whereabouts?"

"I already found him posing as a refugee when I entered the capital city."

"Pose? Khameleon, you're a Zaterran. You can only turn invisible."

She chuckled. "Normally, that was the case, little Maddox. But I'm not just a Zaterran. I'm a Saurian, the true name of our race."

"Our?" Mulan noticed.

"Reptile is one as well, but he knows not of his true origins and will remain so as long as he remains under Kotal's thumb. I tried to convince him decades ago to no avail. Ask your mother. I told her as such when she and her brother rampaged through Outworld during the second Mortal Kombat Tournament. But my knowledge of our true origins has granted me complete access to the Saurians' powers. Allowing me to do things like this."

In front of our eyes, Khameleon's appearance started to change. Her transparent skin became flesh-colored, and her gray hair pitch black. Khameleon now had the appearance of a Hispanic Woman. The only thing out of the ordinary was her eyes, a crimson red.

"Unfortunately, my eye color's a constant when transformed. I easily passed the city's security through this disguise. It didn't take much inquiry to learn of Kano's location. He's currently in talks with Kotal to gain his support in the war with the Red Dragon."

"Wow, Kham. You're good."

"Only the best for your mother, Mulan."

Interesting choice of words there.

"Did you two find anything useful here? Or from this money-hungry fool?"

"Yes. We should get out of Outworld before Kotal decides to visit."

"Good idea. I'll stay in Outworld to see if I can gain more intel on this Dragon War. Godspeed to you both."

With that, Khameleon reverted to her original appearance before disappearing again.

"I didn't know Saurians could do that," I remarked.

"Makes me wonder if Shang Tsung is Saurian himself," Mulan joked. "Let's go, Dakini."

Benji's POV

"So, Cal. Where are we heading?" I asked.

"First, we're going to Special Forces HQ since I forgot something at my office. I won't be long," she replied as we arrived at Special Forces HQ. "Gimme a second, Benji. Be right back."

Cali went to where her office was.

I quickly scan my surroundings; much has changed since I arrived 27 years ago.

"Well, I'll be."

"Jax?"

I greet what I thought was a retired Jax. We shook hands.

"I thought you retired?"

"Your sister let me back in as a member of the B.O. Unit. What are you doin' back here?"

"We're going to investigate something she found in Botan Jungle."

"Damn. Must be serious if she called you in."

"I would hope so. She didn't give me the details yet. How's the wife?"

"Vera's great. You should come to visit, you know. I felt like it's been forever since you spoke at our wedding."

"27 years could be considered forever."

"Dad? Who is this?" A woman, who I assumed was his daughter, inquired. With her was a blonde girl around her age.

"Ben, this is Jacqui. My baby girl. Jacqui, this is Ben. Sergeant Maddox's older brother."

She looked me up and down. "Wait. Sarge wasn't joking when she said she had an older brother?"

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Jacqui. I was the man who officiated your folks' wedding."

"Whoa. Is that true, Dad?"

"Yup. Ben here saved my life a couple of decades ago too."

"Your father's overexaggerating." I shook her hand. "Which makes you, Cassie."

"Heard of me through Mom?"

She surely doesn't lack confidence. A clear trait from Johnny.

"No. Unfortunately, I heard of you from Cal and Kim," I said dryly.

That caused her expression to shift immediately.

"Kim's the godmother of my son. So I hear remarks about you often."

"So, Mr. Maddox. Can you fight too?"

"Please, Jacqui. Call me Ben."

Jacqui lightly blushed. "Okay."

"And yes, I can fight. I sparred with Cal admittedly too much when we used to live together."

"You're welcome, by the way," Cal said, walking next to me with a Double Barrel Shotgun she had finished loading.

"That's what you came here for? I thought you said we wouldn't have any physical confrontations?"

"I said we might. And we're heading to a forest, Benji. We can't forget about the wildlife." She handed me the Shotgun. "Here."

"This is for me?"

"Yes." She took out several shell packages. "I already have my Repeater Rifle. Don't make excuses, Benji; I know you're trained in Firearms because I'm the one who trained you in the first place."

"Unlike you, I can actually miss shots."

Cal gave me a shit-eating grin. "Then don't miss."

"Oh, how I missed working with you," I say sarcastically. "Are you ready? Or are you returning to your office to retrieve another overqualified artillery piece?"

"Don't test me, Benji. One call and I'll have the Botan Jungle Carpet Bombed."

"She will, Ben," Jacqui reassured the situation.

"So this is your big brother, Sarge? He doesn't look very impressive," Cassie said.

"Cassie," Jax lightly scolded her.

"Well, Ms. Cage. Appearances can be deceiving. I can list my accolades if you prefer."

"Sure. This ought to be good."

"Let's see here. Two Doctorates, former Battle Medic for the Edenian Freedom Fighters, former advisor for the Edenian Court, co-founder of the Seidan Resistance, taught at the Wu-Shi Academy, two-time Mortal Kombat Tournament survivor, Goro's Killer, two gorgeous wives, and a father of two. If I really wanted, I could've been your father. But I'm not into white women. No offense to Sonya, though she did try to hit on me." I list effortlessly.

"Wait, are you serious?"

"Ask your Mom," Cal and I say simultaneously.

"Benji's more decorated than you are, Cage. Don't step to him again. He lives a peaceful life but will kill most of the high-ranking officials here without making a sound. Let's go, Benji."

"It was wonderful to meet you, Jacqui. You as well, Cassie. Take care, Jax. Tell Kenshi and Sonya I said hello," I said goodbye to them all.

Cal and I headed for the portal in the center of the base. She pressed several buttons, and the portal started working without a hitch.

"Let's go."

We walked through the portal and ended up in the jungle's epicenter. Grabbing the Shotgun Cal gave me, we maneuvered through the thick plant life.

"Alright, Cal, I've waited long enough. Where are we going?"

"Sonya found a Temple in the middle of the Botan Jungle. Its inscriptions were in a language she couldn't decipher even with the HQ's computer system. I took a look and saw that it was in Edenian. However, the pictures she brought back weren't clear enough for me to read. So I agreed to check the place out with someone. Which is why I wanted you here with me. Besides, it's been too long since we did anything ourselves."

Cal wasn't wrong there. The last time we did anything together was our two on two fight with Tanya and Rain. Unless you count the short time in Seido before meeting Dakini and Jade and Sareena getting involved.

"You're right, Cal. It's been decades, at least. Neither of us was wed nor had kids."

"Exactly. Plus, something told me you wanted an excuse to leave your house briefly."

"But you didn't have to be so aggressive, Cal."

"Didn't I? Because I remember saying you've told them the same thing I did but kinder. That got you nowhere."

"Still, they're your sisters."

"I know, Benji. I didn't visit as often as I honestly should because I wanted them to spend time with you without me interrupting," she revealed. "Here we are."

I saw a large temple on top of a well-made dirt path. We follow the road and make it up the hill.

"This is as far as Sonya got. She tried opening the door, but it wouldn't budge. Then she took a picture of the door and showed me after returning."

I look at the inscription. "Only those who have earned the respect of the Protector of Eden can move me." I recite the inscription. "The Protector of Eden? You think that could be Argus?"

"Argus? A Protector?" Cal scoffed. "He couldn't protect himself or his wife."

"True, but he is the Elder God of Edenia. Therefore, he is the Protector of Edenia. And Eden is short for Edenia."

Cal took a moment to think. "Makes sense. But now the million koin question is; who does Argus respect?"

"The Dacarthi Family?"

"Kitty, Mileena, and Sindel are prepping the Edenian lockdown due to Daegon's strutting of the place. Anyone else?"

"Daegon?"

"Doubt he knows of this place. He would've already come here if he did. Plus, he wants us dead. Any other ideas?"

"Our family?"

That answer made Cal's face go screwy. "The Maddox Clan are the Black Sheep of Edenia, Benji."

"It wasn't always that way. If anything, it started with me."

"And you chose to go back there. The people might be getting around to trusting you again, but they shouldn't have mistrusted you in the first place."

"You want to take a shot at opening the door?"

"Well, he could also be talking about the Messenger since Messengers can kill Elder Gods." Cal stood in front of the door. "Here goes."

She placed her palm on the giant door. Then, the various lines and marks started glowing until everything connected together. Like magic, the door slowly opened.

"That solved the puzzle."

We entered but remained cautious, not knowing what was down here. Cal approached a wall and read the inscription. "Here lies the Temple of the Protector of Edenia, Argus. I wonder if Argus' holy men knew how much of a raging asshole and cheat he is."

"So we're in the Temple of Argus. I hope I never achieve godhood. My ego wouldn't survive a boost of that magnitude."

"Yeah, then you'd know your charisma has gotten the panties of nearly every woman you've met more wet than a body of water. Come on; there's an entrance to a deeper part of the temple."

"What are you talking about, Cal?"

"Benji, you're a handsome, strong, talented, married man. You ooze a silent but mesmerizing charisma that draws people to you. Then add that you look like Mom if she was a guy. You'd be irresistible if you weren't married," Cal said bluntly.

"I don't see it that way," I said, slightly flustered.

Cal was dumbfounded. "Don't tell me all these millennia you were oblivious to this? If an enemy of ours didn't want you dead, they'd do anything to convince you to become a turncoat. Sonya and Sindel have flirted with you relentlessly; your wives are extremely territorial. Even that she-beast Sheeva recognized your high level of attraction. Your charisma doesn't discriminate. If only you knew how to use it properly, you could have anything you want. Hell, you do have everything but don't know how to use it."

"I'm just lucky."

*Tch* "Lucky, he says. At least you're not narcissistic like Argus. So much that he erected a Temple in his honor in a realm he has no control over."

We made it to what I assume is an armory.

"Is this supposed to be an armory? It looks like nothing has been done here in centuries," I stated before blowing some dust out of my sight.

"Maybe because its purpose here was fulfilled when initially built," Cal reasoned as she pointed at the wall.

"An outline for some armor and two swords. Whoever these were made for already took them."

"I think the armor and swords are Daegon's. I'm recollecting the conversation we had, and I can see his armor there."

The table below the outlines started moving. We both jumped back as it shifted and left a gap before glowing. In front of us now was a map. In the middle were two dots, one blinking rapidly and the other not.

"I assume one of the dots here is where we are," I said.

"Which means the one that's blinking is something important too. It doesn't seem far from here, a mile or two south."

"Let's go then."

We returned to the entrance but noticed three figures blocking our way. One of them was Kano. The other two I didn't recognize.

"Well, if it isn't the runaway Cyclops himself!" Callie exclaimed with a cheeky grin. "Got tired of the Outworld Deserts and decided to come home?"

"With you leading the Black Dragon, I can only imagine how bad Daegon's been running roughshod of whoever is stupid enough to stay with your clan at this point," I added as we aimed our firearms at the three Black Dragon members.

Kano sneered. "Killin' you two would earn me some brownie points with the Emperor of Outworld."

"Much like you made brownie points in your pants thanks to our last encounter, Kano? How's your legs after I split them both open with your own dagger?"

"I didn't know Benjamin 'The Edenian Boy Scout' Maddox had a dark side. I still remember the pain you put me through. And I'll have my revenge soon, mate. But first," Kano snapped his fingers. "Kobra, Kira. Show me whatcha got."

They rushed us.

Kira wildly swung at me, but I easily blocked her punch before swiftly transitioning to a standing one-arm cross-face. Kicking her knee (to the point where I swore it broke on impact) and forcing her to the ground, I wrenched hard on her trapped arm and face until...

*SNAP*

Meanwhile, Cal activated Hawkeye and shot Kano in his knees with her Repeater Rifle. She then bashed Kobra so hard with the handle it knocked him out.

"FUCK!"

As Cal walked over Kobra's unconscious form, Kano swore at the top of his lungs. She then moved her hand while covered with Illusion Magic over Kira's face, placing her underneath a truth spell.

"Kira, was it?" Kira mindlessly nodded, mesmerized by the spell. "What are you three doing here?"

"Kira, don't!"

"Because we heard there was something of importance in the Botan Jungle. The leader of Special Forces said as much," she revealed.

"How do you know of this?"

"Kano was posing as a refugee thanks to a disguise. He eavesdropped on what she found here."

"I'm not surprised. Kira is under a truth spell, Cyclops. She can't lie while under my control. Isn't that right, Kira?"

"Correct."

"Normally, I'd be fuming at the thought of you being in Special Forces HQ. But I'm not. Because of the capture order on you, Kano? I'm pushing to make it a kill order. From the general sounds of approval when I first pitched it to the other 'Green Berets', they were elated. Even Kabal made the smart choice of going straight. Do you think you could've kept lying to him forever? He would figure out you forced him into his respirator at some point."

"Fuck you both. And Kira, I'll kill you for this."

"I was looking for a way out of the Black Dragon anyway," Kira revealed.

"I think you've talked enough, Cyclops. When you wake up, make sure to say your goodbyes."

Cal slammed her heel on his face, knocking Kano out.

"As for you, Kira. Anything else you want to say before we put you to sleep too?"

Kira then blushed heavily. "Gods, your brother is hot."

"See, Benji?"

"Whatever..."

I snapped Kira's neck with enough torque to put her to sleep.

"The location south of here?"

"Yup, let's go."

Wanting to waste no time, we followed the coordinates and found another cave.

"Another cave?" Cal said, clearly annoyed.

"Well, we came all this way."

"True."

Walking inside, we see nothing but black. While continuing, a faint golden glow emerged. Following the light, it eventually grew until we saw its source.

"What in Argus' name is that?" Cal questioned, absolutely flabbergasted.

A Golden Dragon.

"Halt!" The Golden Dragon spoke. "Reveal your identities or suffer the wrath of Orin the Golden Dragon!"

"We are the Maddox Siblings, Orin! I am Benjamin, and this is my sister, Callie! We aren't your enemies! We wish you no harm!"

"The Maddox Clan isn't extinct?" Orin spoke in shock.

He rose off the giant rock he was perched on to better look at us. Orin sniffed us. Since he dwarfed us, our clothes were slightly pulled in with his breath.

"You speak the truth! Finally, some good news." Orin retreated to his rock. "Caro and I have been friends with the Maddox and Bansho Clans in Edenia!"

"Bansho Clan? Which clan is that? Ilah's?" Cal inquired.

"Ilah? As in Ilah the Demon Hunter? She's alive as well?"

"She lives in the Netherrealm with Okada, who was killed and reborn as the Protector God of the Netherrealm."

"I see," Orin said somberly. "What of Caro? Did he escape from Daegon's clutches?"

"Yes, thanks to some friends of ours. Last we saw him, he was rampaging throughout Charred Mountain as payback for his forced imprisonment. Unfortunately, I have no idea where he is now."

"He'll be fine as long as he is no longer forced to serve Daegon."

"Speaking of Daegon," Callie said, which caught the Golden Dragon's attention. "He was just in Edenia and tried forcing Sindel off the throne."

"Sindel is the Queen of Edenia? That means that-"

"Jerrod is dead, Orin. Shao Kahn ensured that. Now he's in a special cell in the Dark Prison."

"Happy days indeed! Jerrod was the lowest of low even for the Dacarthi Family. Had it not been for Lady Delia's intervention, he would have executed Caro and me."

"That sounds like him. Daegon is currently waging war against the Black Dragon clan as the founder of the Red Dragon."

Orin went to respond, but his tone shifted as if struck by a sudden realization.

"Orin? What's wrong?"

He looked me dead in the eyes. "It is time."

"For?"

Orin then blasted the rock he was guarding as an Edenian man fell out from the debris.

"Rise! Taven Doragon!"

A/N: And now, GbNF is back! With a hell of a chapter to cement its return too. What'd you think? Did you like it? Did you not? Lemme know with a review or a PM. And while you're at it, check my page and give my other stories a shot too! And the previous chapter posted for this story as it's a preview scene for a potential off-shoot of GbNF.

See y'all soon!