Author's Note: Well, this was supposed to be on Halloween but the site keeps glitching and not showing updates so I've been sending complaints to the staff and reposting this for over 2 days. Some of my friends have been getting the same issue.
This chapter is a series of flashbacks taking place between the prologue and the first chapter. It is stated at the very beginning of the first chapter that one week has passed since Shinnok's defeat, and this chapter focuses on that week. It actually picks up on the second day of that week because it didn't feel right to just have Raiden immediately be up and about on the first day.
So, this is a midquel chapter. Enjoy!
"My evil plan to save the world,
just you wait till it's unfurled!
It'll go down in History!
It's prophetic! No it's not pathetic.
I can't believe I made it up myself!"
— Five Iron Frenzy, "My Evil Plan to Save the World"
2 Days After Shinnok's Defeat:
Why could he do nothing right?
Failing to protect his family, falling for the lies of their real murderer, killing an innocent man, losing his clan a second time to the Blood Code. Yet all of those paled in comparison to his most recent mistakes.
He finally avenged his family, but in doing so he had again helped Netherrealm. He was so focused on vengeance, on getting what he thought was owed to him, that he ignored others trying to talk or knock sense into him.
Quan Chi worked faster than ever in the moments before the Grandmaster decapitated him, freeing Shinnok and triggering the fallen Elder God's second assault on Earthrealm.
The revenants, people that died trying to protect Earthrealm from Shao Kahn, were doomed to remain undead. He'd been blessed to escape that fate, a gift he took for granted. What he endured as a spectre was not the same as what they suffered, and they deserved the blessing of true revival far more than himself.
He swore to do whatever was required to atone, but there was naught that could be done to undo the damages or fill the gaps caused by his foolishness.
His last crime was the breaking point. It was a wonder he'd lasted this long with the guilt festering within his heart. Perhaps a desperate need to prove he was better, that he could do one thing right, that he wasn't an incompetent wretch of a man. But his list of failures kept growing, like the universe was mocking him for his self-delusion.
Dishonorable. Hypocritical. Self-centered. Foolish. Pathetic. Useless. Worthless.
He should have stayed dead and damned, less people would have suffered because of him that way.
Overwhelmed by these dark musings, he decided to go inside for a few minutes. The instant he was alone, he dropped to his knees and sat as still as a statue. He tried to meditate, hoping to assuage his turmoil and regain the fortitude to finish today's duties.
Yet the longer he pondered, the worse he felt. His mind was overwhelmigly full, but his body felt empty, the mental aspect demanding all his energy and damning the physical aspect to Hell.
A choked sound escaped his throat. He put a hand over his mouth, cursing himself for this breakdown. Letting his emotions overtake him led to this mess in the first place. Though he doubted there was anything he could do to actually improve the situation, this was certainly not one.
Taking a deep breath, he massaged his temples. But every time he started to calm, the emotions returned with a vengeance to fuel his self-loathing.
His eyes widened when he realized his hand had moved, partially of its own accord, toward his sword. He jerked his hand away with a disgusted scoff and a vehement headshake.
No, he couldn't, he shouldn't. But what could he do, what should he do? He was worthless, after all...
Again he was reaching for his sword. With trembling fingers he grasped the handle, slowly pulling it from its sheath. He studied the weapon as if he'd never seen it before, or perhaps because this might be the last time he'd see it.
Both his arms were quivering. Another choked sound escaped him. He started moving the sword closer to his body, his eyes drifting shut the closer it got...
"Master Hasashi?"
Raiden's voice, scarely above a whisper, snapped him to reality. Dropping his sword, and wincing as it clattered to the floor, he twisted around to see the deity, whom he was supposed to be looking after, standing in the doorway.
Hanzo hurriedly started to stand."I simply needed a momentary respite." He clumsily groped for his sword, but it kept clattering around the floor. He bit back a curse at this small additional example of his incompetence.
"Do not concern yourself about me," the Grandmaster continued."You must focus on your own-"
Suddenly, Raiden was standing directly in front of him, regarding him with an arched eyebrow and lips pressed into a thin line. His attention briefly switched to Hanzo's sword, then back to him with narrowed eyes. He knelt by the ex-spectre.
"Tell me this is not what it looks like." His tone was ice cold, making Hanzo wince and fix his stare on the floor.
Hanzo opened and closed his mouth thrice, no words coming to mind.
For thirty seconds there was silence, so intense that one could hear a pin drop.
"By the Elder Gods," Raiden abruptly hissed, bursting to his feet."Can you do anything right?!"
Hanzo almost fell back at the deity's outburst and gaped up at him as he began pacing.
Silence followed for another thirty seconds, then Raiden stopped pacing to stamp his foot and again startled Hanzo.
"You are here to guard the Sky Temple," he reminded the ninja."To guard me whilst I recover." He sneered in disgust, as if a rotting corpses occupied the room. His foot shot out to kick the sword aside; Hanzo hissed as his wrist received a portion of the kick, though it mostly startled rather than hurt.
"You were seconds from..." Raiden trailed off, shaking his head and putting a palm to his forehead to ward off a headache."Do I even want to know why?" His voice was a bitter mutter.
Hanzo returned to staring at the floor, prompting a scoff from the god.
Raiden crossed his arms."What good will your death do?"
"Is there any good I can do?" Hanzo snapped, making Raiden widen his eyes.
Hanzo's voice shook."I have, I always..." He choked."There is nothing I-"
Raiden stamped his foot."You are not willing to try!" he shouted, pointing at Hanzo."You are an indolent coward!" He let out a mirthless laugh."On second thought, go ahead. Put an end to your misery, since that is all you've ever cared about." He dismissively waved his hand."Earthrealm would be better off without such a pathetic excuse for-"
"Stop!" Hanzo cried, now holding his head in his hands. His body shook as he fought not to completely break down. His voice cracked as he practically whimpered,"Please stop."
Yet another thirty second silence, during which Hanzo's heart began beating rapidly to the point that it might explode from his chest; he half-hoped that would happen. He avoided looking at Raiden, not wanting an extra reminder of what a pathetic failure he was.
Raiden's posture relaxed and he exhaled deeply, as if slowly expelling his ire. Hanzo still refused to look at him, but he furrowed his brows in perplexity when Raiden sat down beside him and laid a hand on his shoulder.
"I am sorry," Raiden said quietly, shaking his head."I should not have been so harsh. But seeing you so...lacking in will...and broken...it reminds me of myself." He released the ninja's shoulder and folded his hands on his lap."Sometimes I wonder if I can do any good for Earthrealm."
Blinking, Hanzo frowned at the Earthrealm Protector. He knew Raiden struggled with his burden, but he had no reason to experience the self-negativity Hanzo dealt with.
"You've protected and saved-" He was interrupted by Raiden's snort.
"Protected, yes. Saved, no." Raiden smiled sadly."The threats are like a hydra. I defeat one and two rise to replace it, then the previous threat comes back for another try, and so on. It is an endless cycle of agony. If I hadn't hesitated so often..." He paused to tilt his head."Technically speaking, Master Hasashi, you have failed in two, perhaps three, lifetimes. But I have been failing for a millennia. Shao Kahn, Shinnok...those two were merely the most prominent and long-standing threats."
"You stopped them," Hanzo reminded him.
"Barely." Raiden let out an even deeper exhale."I am tired, and that is why I intend to act the way I should have acted long ago. Then I can at last stop being tired and pained, and by extension so can the realm I am obligated to protect and save." He looked Hanzo in the eye."It will not be easy. I cannot succeed alone." He gestured to the ninja."The same applies to your desperation to ease your guilt."
Hanzo was so absorbed by the god's words that he'd been starting to forget his anguish, until he reminded him just now. But he didn't feel quite as upset as earlier.
Now Raiden was rising to his feet and extending a hand to Hanzo."Help me," he implored, eyes more earnest than Hanzo ever previously saw."And help yourself in the process," he added in a whisper.
As Hanzo gazed up at Raiden, he'd never felt so confused yet so relieved in his whole existence. He noticed his hand was shaking, but for some reason this didn't alarm him.
Raiden's smile was faint but genuine. He seemed to be patiently awaiting a response, but Hanzo got the feeling he should respond soon.
Hanzo's hand suddenly stopped shaking, and he nodded before accepting Raiden's hand.
Raiden's smile broadened."Now get up, we have much work to do."
3 Days After Shinnok's Defeat:
Hotaru, leader of the Seidan Guard, Order personified, was a master of appearing stoic, a necessary skill for someone in his position. Despite that, it was a struggle for him to hide his disgust for the traitors he'd caught and the person they served.
A family was discovered as spies; the wife and husband were his fellow guardsmen and thus had access to key information on the best places for the Resistance to instigate riots. This resulted in a year of losses to Darrius, beginning just when Hotaru had come close to crushing him. But every time he got an advantage, the infuriating man revealed an ace up his sleeve.
Hotaru was disappointed, but not very surprised. These traitors used to be his friends, yet they were not the first friends that ultimately chose chaos, nor would they be the last. Only once Darrius's organization was destroyed would these treacheries end, and Hotaru would plunge his naginata into everyone/everything that hindered his mission.
If he could pacify Chaosrealm, he could defeat Darrius.
Seven years ago, after Havik's demise, Chaosrealm was rendered vulnerable sans its leader. Darrius doubtless wished to convince them to join his forces, but Hotaru moved faster, wasting no time in invading and conquering the place. The adults were executed, the children were taken into custody, the water supply was seized, and although the realms were not merged, Chaosrealm became the property of Orderrealm. The children were taught to be wiser than their predecessors through whatever means necessary, and now they loyally served the greater good. The same must now be done to the daughter of these traitors.
The girl, Viviana, was the Earthrealm equivalent of ten. She had teal eyes, chestnut hair in pigtails, and was glowering at him through tears. He'd just executed her parents, her first lesson in learning the consequences of choosing chaos. Her glower was naught compared to the screaming of the insane Chaosrealm brats, all of whom were successfully indoctrinated, this child would not be harder to tame/train.
"Learn from their mistakes, child," he told her, making her glare intensify. He motioned for his men to return her to her cell, although she glanced over her shoulder to continue giving him a scathing stare as she was escorted away. Soon he was alone in the room.
Humming thoughtfully, Hotaru tapped his naginata against the floor. At least he had regained the upper hand over Darrius. The terrorist and self-proclaimed patriotic hero had been a thorn in his side for too long, but he and Hotaru shared a grudging respect for one another. No one managed to last anywhere near as long as Darrius did so far, a feat as impressive as it was vexing.
Darrius's methods were hardly different from his own, they simply utilized them for opposite purposes. A pity, Darrius could have been a strong ally, though Hotaru admitted to enjoying their competition, a sentiment Darrius claimed to also experience.
It was rare to find a worthy adversary and it was entertaining to try to outwit each other. But both men knew it was time for this game to end. They could practically taste victory and were eager to reach success.
"General Hotaru." A soldier's call snapped him from his musings."Someone is here to see you. He claims it is urgent and apologizes for the bother."
Hotaru raised an eyebrow."Who is it?"
"Raiden." That made Hotaru's jaw nearly drop. He wondered if he'd misheard, but the soldier's expression was serious, so he nodded curtly and went to talk to the visitor.
Indeed, the Earthrealm Protector was waiting in Hotaru's office with the Grandmaster of the Shirai Ryu. When Hotaru arrived, Raiden bowed. Hotaru responded with a curt nod.
"Wait outside," Raiden told his companion, who hesitated before a stern look from the god convinced him to comply.
Once the two leaders were alone, Raiden spoke,"General Hotaru, I apologize for the suddeness of my visit."
"So you've already said, Lord Raiden," Hotaru nonchalantly responded as he walked to his desk and took a seat.
Raiden clasped his hands behind his back."You are not pleased to see me."
"Most people would be displeased to see someone who declared them a monstrous, tyrannical hypocrite," the Seidan blandly replied, his face expressionless save for a slight quirk of his eyebrow. As an afterthought, he added,"That visit was also an uninvited one."
Right after Hotaru conquered Chaosrealm, Raiden had seen it fit to pay him a visit and lecture him for his shameless brutality. He'd wished he could intervene in other realms' business, so he might help end Hotaru's so-called reign of terror. Hotaru had tolerated the lecture, having heard worse tirades, then sarcastically thanked Raiden for wasting his time. The self-righteous, preaching deity eventually took his leave, although he'd sent Hotaru a final disappointed look. Hotaru had rolled his eyes and moved on with his day.
Raiden flinched and grimaced."I owe you an apology for my behavior that day," he spoke firmly and sincerely."I overstepped my bounds and preached nonsense."
Hotaru's eyebrow moved higher. He was surprised by these unexpected expressions of remorse, but not bothered by them, quite the opposite. It was rare for an outsider, especially one known for open disdain to order, to express regret for their past errors. That behavior was usually accompanied by another new course of action, also the kind Hotaru was pleased by.
"Apologies aren't the sole reason you're visiting me," he stated, leaning forward to rest his chin on his hands."Correct me if I am wrong, but I am getting the impression that..." He trailed off, meeting Raiden's gaze to be certain he was correctly reading the situation.
The ghost of a smile crossed Raiden's lips."Your impression is accurate." He crossed his arms."I am certain you are aware of recent Earthrealms events."
Hotaru nodded."Shinnok's invasion and fortunately swift defeat." He then raised his voice, knowing Hanzo would hear him through the thin walls that every building and room in this realm used but wanting to cause the man extra discomfort so that he knew Hotaru intended to vex him."Which your companion is to blame for," he loudly stated, holding back a sneer.
Raiden glanced at the door, through which Hanzo sighing could be heard. He affected an air of pity for the ex-spectre, then he looked back to Hotaru."He has not allowed himself to forget that, along with his other crimes. He has sworn to aid me so he can atone."
"Aid you," Hotaru slowly echoed."Like you are now requesting my aid."
Raiden lifted his chin."Precisely." A tinge of gladness seeped into his voice.
"Quite the change of heart for you," Hotaru noted."Not that I disapprove, of course. I wonder, though, what brought this on."
Raiden laughed bitterly."You of all people should understand." He started pacing, his voice and visage growing increasingly frustrated."I have failed to save Earthrealm numerous times. I tire of empty victories and senseless sacrifices." He stopped to spin around on his heel and met Hotaru's equally steely gaze."No longer will I hesitate to do what is necessary to keep Earthrealm safe, nor will I view my duty as a mere burden and wallow in self-pity." He gave a small smile."And I require as much aid as I can get, particularly from someone who perfectly understands my plight."
Hotaru rose and began to approach Raiden, folding his arms over his chest as he did so and making no attempt to hide his own growing smile."I am honored that you regard me as a kindred spirit. For what it's worth, I am sorry you had to suffer so much and for so long to change your mind."
Raiden shook his head and dismissively waved his hand."It is a cruel fact of life that you no doubt had to learn yourself and one that you have had to teach several people; you are the best potential ally to help me teach that lesson to others. Of course, I hope that that will not be widely necessary, but it will come up as an issue sooner or later." He gestured toward Hotaru."If you need time to discuss this with your Senate Elders-"
Hotaru scoffed. Ire filled him at the mention of those useless, old fools. He was the real leader and defender of Orderrealm, his blood and sweat was being shed to enforce safety and stability.
He spun around to face his desk and gripped the edge to the point that his knuckles whitened and hurt under his armored gloves."I care not what they think," he spat."They preach the importance of duty, but they do nothing. They sit back and let me do all the work. The few instances they offer assistance, it might as well be too little and too late."
Raiden stepped closer; Hotaru needn't turn around to know he was sneering."They sound just like the Elder Gods," the god growled under his breath.
Hotaru turned around, a sneer on his own face now."Yes, they are the exact same."
"Cowards," Raiden remarked, casting a hateful glance upwards.
"Hypocrites," Hotaru added."The Elder Gods did not intervene to help you defeat Shao Kahn until the very last minute, did they not?"
"Yes," Raiden hissed, clenching his fists."And they were not helpful at all during both of Shinnok's invasions, never-mind the fact that he was once one of them and their incompetence led to him becoming a threat in the first place. Earthrealm defeated him thanks to what amounted to flukes."
Hotaru scowled."I truly cannot recall the last time the Senate Elders actually assisted me. That goes to show how useless they are."
Raiden snorted."Truly, paragons of bravery and honor, both of them are."
Hotaru hummed in agreement as he leaned his back against his desk and then tapped his fingers on the desk. He closed his eyes and sighed, taking a moment to regain his stoical demeanor, sensing that Raiden was doing the same.
After a long quietude, Hotaru returned his attention to Raiden. Then, both of them began to grin and reach for the other's arm. They gladly clasped arms to seal their alliance.
"You have my complete and utter support, Lord Raiden," Hotaru declared, feeling more pleased than he had in a long time.
Raiden's grin was wider than ever."Thank you, General Hotaru."
4 Days After Shinnok's Defeat:
Kano whistled a casual tune in his deep, gravelly voice as he strolled down the hall.
During the chaos of Shinnok's restoration, his friends were able to free him from prison. The Special Forces were focused on recuperation efforts in the aftermath of the invasion, which meant Kano needn't worry about them, especially Sonya, pursuing him anytime soon. His pride was more injured than he cared to admit by yet another defeat at the hands of his arch-nemesis. The only person he loathed as much as the blonde was his rival clan leader, whom he hadn't seen or heard from in six years after said rival wiped the floor with him.
He paused whistling to grind his teeth at the memory of the Red Dragon Grandmaster, Daegon.
Seven years had passed since the Blood Code; during the first year following that fiasco, Quan Chi sent his revenants to break out the Black Dragons from incarnation and offered them an alliance. Daegon had cut ties with Netherrealm, outraged over the losses his forces suffered due to Havik's failure. Thus, Daegon abandoned Shinnok's cause and Quan Chi sought to punish him. The Black Dragon jumped at the opportunity to get their own personal revenge on their rivals.
And so a year passed as war waged with the Red Dragon against the Black Dragon and Netherrealm. Despite the latter side possessing the initial advantage, Daegon managed to overpower and outwit them. This caused enough damage to render the two groups unable to pose a threat to the Red Dragon for a long time. Quan Chi sold Kano out to save his own hide, and the Black Dragon barely escaped with their lives. Daegon then took his people into hiding to recuperate.
Nobody, including the Special Forces, had a clue where the Red Dragon were or what they could be doing. He doubted they cared much, as Daegon declared that he'd lost interest in pursuing the Takahashis and his forces hadn't done anything to hinder the Special Forces' missions. All of this meant Kano's clan currently suffered the most.
Kano let out a sigh. For the time being, they would be fine. The worst he endured was Tremor lecturing him for underestimating Sonya and although it annoyed him, he understood where his friend was coming from. Plus, it was one thing for his comrade to criticize him, but another thing entirely if an enemy/rival did it. Jarek, his second-in-command, felt no need to lecture him and trusted his judgement. Tasia tended to bounce between the two approaches. He appreciated all of their inputs.
Lately, he found himself missing Kobra, who he'd recently learned was killed by Erron Black. He was furious over the gunslinger managing to keep that a secret for many years, especially when they were allies. Jarek occasionally reminded him of Kobra; he was certain the two would have gotten along if they met.
Unfortunately, he also found himself recalling the traitors. Kabal and Kira, once loyal friends, had let those silly consciences and concepts of empathy, that all of their old friends proudly lacked, get the better of them. First Kabal left. Two years after his death, Kira fled and went into hiding.
Everything he'd done for them, to make them stronger and better grasp things his way because he dearly cherished them, yet they appreciated none of it. He was glad Kabal was rotting as a zombie, and he was certain Kira was suffering in her own way in her two decades on the run. So many things he wished to tell Kabal, and so many things he wished to do to Kira, to worsen the suffering he'd already caused them, but he was pleased at having mostly succeeded in punishing them, in contrast to his constant losses to Sonya and Daegon.
Well, Kano mused as a grin teased his lips, he had a new, excellent pastime to brighten his spirits and create a future advantage. He happily restarted whistling as he neared his destination. It was the official torture room, or given the current circumstances for its intended utilization, it could be called the 'classroom'.
He quieted down as he entered the room. He grinned at the sight of his son, unconscious and bound by chains around his wrists hanging from the ceiling. Kevin was his name, although Kano and his lieutenants preferred to call him 'Junior'.
The day after his friends freed him, he discovered that he'd conceived a son through rape nearly two decades ago. The intention was to make her a sex slave; sadly, she was able to escape and he hadn't been able to find her nor had any idea of her location until he learned about their son. He was pleasantly surprised that his sexual assaults resulted in the conception of a child. It hadn't been his intention when he kidnapped her, but this ultimate result was satisfying nonetheless.
The mother died in a car accident when Kevin was ten; he'd spent the last several years in various foster homes or on the streets. Throughout that time, he developed a rap sheet for drugs, petty theft, and resisting arrest; a decent start for his criminal career.
Yesterday, they tracked him down and brought him to his new home. The kid had been hysterical, bawling like a baby and begging for mercy as he was chained up and his initial lessons began. To say this annoyed Kano was an understatement, but the beginning was usually the hardest part and if the kid indeed proved too weak to handle his father's training, he would die here. Either way, he would not get away like his mother did. No one was here to protect/save him. He had no one else except his father and honorary relatives, and he would die a Black Dragon.
Kano picked up a bucket of water. He took a moment to look over the boy, and then he shouted,"Wakey, wakey, Junior!" before launching the watery contents of the bucket all over him.
Kevin let out a choked cry as he violently awoke. He coughed and sputtered, eyes wide as saucers as he struggled to comprehend what just happened.
"Morning, Junior!" Kano said cheerfully."Did ya have a nice nap?"
Upon hearing Kano's voice, Kevin's eyes grew wider and his body stilled. Remembrance of where he was and whom he was with soon overcame his brain. Another cry came out as he backed himself into the wall, the chains rattling whenever he moved.
Kano resisted the urge to roll his non-mechanical eye. The kid was really testing his patience.
He extended his arms and reached for him."Come to Papa, Junior!" Kevin vehemently shook his head, making Kano roll his eye again."Yeah, you ain't got a choice, kiddo." He lunged forward; Kevin screamed as Kano's arm wrapped around his neck.
"Aww, don't worry, you'll learn," Kano mockingly assured. He casually added,"Or you'll die."
At the word 'die', Kevin went still, no longer clawing at his father's arm.
When Kano leaned down to look at him, he realized that a robot could do a better job of conveying emotion than Kevin currently was. Kevin glanced at him, maintaining his blank countenance, then focused on emotionlessly studying the floor. Kano frowned in confusion, until realization struck him and he dropped the boy with a snarl.
"A death-seeker like your mother, eh?" He sneered as he circled the boy, who'd curled into a ball. He kicked him in the back, making him emit a mixture of a grunt and a gasp. The mention of his mother made him widen his eyes again as he fixed his gaze on Kano, ire overtaking him.
Kano grinned."Ooh, mama's boy, huh? Surprised the bitch didn't give ya up or abort ya, to be honest. Bet you've wondered the same thing." His grin broadened when Kevin tensed."She never told ya about me, did she? Didn't know until after she died how she got pregnant with you." He glanced at the increasingly irate young man."Aww, did she lie to ya? Tell ya your dad was dead? That he was some boring, goody two shoes?" He gave a roll of his eye."Sounds like something that bitch-"
Kano was interrupted by a snarl from Kevin as he swung his arm at Kano's legs, tripping him. He managed to land on one knee before the kid lunged at him, ready to claw his face to shreds. Kano easily caught the kid's arms to hold him back.
He snickered in approval."Now you're getting it."
At his words, Kevin's actions slowed and then ceased. His face lost any sign of emotion and he let himself fall back as Kano released his arms. Sans looking at his father, he crawled away until his back touched the wall. He hugged his knees to his chest and lowered his head to hide his face in his knees.
Kano watched, seething at this pathetic display of despair. With a snarl, he lunged at his son. Kevin yelped as Kano gripped his hair in one hand and his neck in the other. He slammed his son's head against the wall repeatedly whilst choking him.
Kevin, out of bodily instinct, groaned in pain at the two simultaneous assaults, but his face remained emotionally void as his stare locked on Kano. He was waiting, hoping, counting the moments until Kano finished him.
With a growl, Kano released him and turned away. He clenched his hands into painfully tight fists.
Yes, just like his mother, who'd begged for death and tried to make him and his friends lose control for long enough to kill her. He'd wanted to make her passive, a weak-willed slave, and she'd been determined to die with her sanity intact, until she was able to escape and thus evade both of those fates. Ironic that he now demanded their son to struggle like his mother had rebelliously done.
This was merely the beginning, things would get easier and more fun, and even if they didn't, there was no hope of rescue/escape for the brat. But Kano preferred the first option. This was his flesh and blood, his property, his legacy, the one whom he wanted to train to pass on his teachings. Failure was an option, but he preferred that it not persevere.
The boy's suicidal defiance reminded him of his enemies, of Sonya and her precious brat of a daughter, of Daegon and his dragon experiments whom he labeled 'sons and daughters of the Red Dragon'. They possessed a blood-born legacy, everything he desired. He was desperate to outdo them, to show everybody that he was superior, and his son should be the key to that.
He glanced at the brat, scowling at the sight of his curled up form.
The door opened, followed by three pairs of footfalls as his lieutenants entered the room.
One look at him was sufficient in conveying his vexation to them. The trio glanced at the brat. Jarek walked closer to Kano, Tasia went up to the brat, and Tremor stayed between father and son.
"I told you he's worthless," Jarek said, sneering at Kevin. Then he sympathetically looked at Kano."You don't need him anyway. You have me-I mean, all of us."
That was correct. Kano valued them, yet he couldn't shake off the hope for more that the discovery of his offspring inspired within him.
Tremor glanced between father and son before shrugging."A slow learner, perhaps? Far too soon to give up, but I understand the need to be ready for failure."
"Oh, don't be such downers," Tasia spoke from where she was crouched by Kevin. He was averting his gaze from hers as she was holding his cheeks so that his face resembled a fish's with one hand and stroking his hair with the other.
She sighed dreamily as she brought his face near hers."You look like your father, but you have your mother's eyes. Those pretty, cute little eyes." She pouted, her eyes flashing with malice."Never got my chance to play with her before we were rudely interrupted and she got away." She cooed at him."You'll be tons of fun to play with, maybe more than your dad and Jarek." Kevin cringed as she brushed her nose past his, looking like he wanted to vomit and possibly choke on said vomit.
Chuckling, Tremor turned to Kano."Entertaining as this is, we came to inform you of a...visitor." He frowned beneath his mask, clearly uncertain what to make of this guest.
Tasia and Jarek too became serious. The former said,"Yeah, it's best if you see him." and the latter added,"We don't think you'll believe us otherwise."
"We are having trouble believing it ourselves, honestly," Tremor admitted with a grimace.
Noting their seriousness, Kano nodded and followed them out of the room without sparing his son another glance. The boy flinched when he heard the door slam closed, but was otherwise unresponsive and returned to his curled up position.
As it turned out, Kano's friends had good reason to prefer he see their visitor.
Kano stopped in his tracks, his eye widened, and his jaw hit the floor. He blinked thrice, needing to be utterly certain he wasn't imagining this.
Standing in the meeting room with his arms folded behind his back was Raiden. Beside Raiden was Hotaru, who was leaning against his naginata and focusing his stern gaze on Kano's companions.
Raiden waited for Kano to get over his flabbergasted state before speaking,"Greetings, Kano. You are not quite as taken aback as I presumed you would be. I half-expected you to faint from shock." A smile ghosted his face."Not that I am disappointed, as it is crucial we discuss our business as swiftly as possible."
"Business?" Kano tentatively repeated, unsure if he should be worried or intrigued, perhaps both."You...wanna do business...with me?" Behind him, his friends tensed and prepared themselves for a fight, firmly believing this must be a trap. Hotaru's gaze became even more stern, something Kano didn't think could be possible.
Raiden and Kano met one another's gaze. In unison, they raised a hand to signal for their respective companions to relax. Reluctantly, the four backed down.
Raiden addressed the Black Dragon lieutenants: "I understand your suspicions. However, you must realize that if we intend to harm you, we would have attacked by now."
"And put you down like dogs within seconds," Hotaru matter-of-factly remarked, his countenance blank as stone.
"General Hotaru, do not be rude," Raiden chided, lightly nudging his shoulder.
Hotaru shrugged."It is not rude to state the truth." As an afterthought, he said,"Although perhaps that depends on the circumstances."
"So, what business do ya wanna discuss?" Kano asked, as much to satisfy his curiosity as to distract his buddies from losing their patience.
"And how'd you find us?" Jarek demanded, pointing at them.
Chortling, Raiden gestured to Hotaru."The Seidan Guard can be sneaky when they need to be, and far more efficient than the Special Forces. I regret not allying with them sooner."
Hotaru shrugged once more."A necessary skill when kombating Darrius's forces."
"Nice to hear you two are bosom buddies now," Kano commented wryly."So what business do you wanna talk about with me?"
"And why would you be interested in working with us of all people?" Jarek chimed in. Kano knew he meant well, but now wasn't the time to start an argument.
Raiden avoided looking at Jarek, though he did answer his query:"Your petty crimes are usually beneath notice." His lips pursed as he lightly tapped his index finger on Shinnok's amulet, which was attached to his chest-plate."Heavy emphasis on usually."
Never had Kano felt so relieved and offended in his life. He gestured for Jarek to step back; the younger man sulkily complied. Tasia shared Jarek's displeasure. Tremor, on the other hand, moved nearer to Kano to participate in the conversation.
"I have realized something since Shinnok's defeat," Raiden went on whilst tapping the amulet."I cannot go on as before. I must make changes for the good of Earthrealm. But that is easier said than done. Hence why I am expanding my horizon of allies."
Tremor spoke up."And since we are usually not considered as large a threat as others, we would make an exceptional ally for you."
Raiden hummed approvingly."Precisely." He removed the amulet and rubbed his thumb over its surface sans removing his visual attention from the Black Dragons."You would be rewarded, of course, with full pardons for your crimes and a generous amount of gold."
Hotaru leaned further on his naginata while speaking in a bland tone."Much as I dislike resorting to mercenaries, beggars cannot always be choosers. And I think this is too temping a deal for you to pass up."
Kano raised an eyebrow. This was indeed a temping offer, and he believed Raiden and Hotaru were being sincere. However, there was one issue."Sonya wouldn't like that," he stated.
Tremor snorted."That is an understatement. She would murder us on sight."
Raiden chuckled as he reattached the amulet to his chest-plate."I suspected you would say that. You needn't worry. I have plans to ensure she will not pose a problem." His voice lowered as he spoke those last few words.
Kano couldn't deny his eagerness to learn what those plans were, a sentiment Tremor obviously shared. Both men looked at each other, then at the still displeased Tasia and Jarek, and then they turned back to Raiden.
"Just to be clear," Kano began."Ya won't get pissed if we say no?"
Raiden shook his head."As I said earlier, your crimes are usually not worth my attenion, and I doubt you will be interested in opposing me. Thus, I've no reason to bother you if you reject my proposal."
"And by extension, neither will I," Hotaru stated, the blandness in his voice thicker than ever. Tasia and Jarek glared daggers at him; he pretended not to notice them. In return, Kano and Tremor pretended not to hear him.
"That being said," Raiden sighed, tensing a bit."I am not finished. I must warn you of whom else I intend to seek an alliance with."
The Black Dragons stared at him with raised eyebrows. It took approximately six seconds for the realization of whom the Thunder God could be talking about to hit them like a stack of bricks. They gawked at him.
Raiden tilted his head."Based on your expressions, I assume you can guess-"
"We don't fancy getting burned alive, thanks!" Tasia hissed, stamping her foot.
Rolling his eyes, Hotaru leaned further on his naginata."We are warning you to spare you the annoyance of working with a rival, nothing more." He arched an eyebrow."Don't tell me you fear Daegon? That may explain how you've had little to no luck besting him."
Tasia snarled."Listen here, you-" Kano gestured for her to wait, and although furious, she acquiesced.
Unnerved as Kano was by the possibility of a truce with his arch-rival, he couldn't shake off his fascination for this opportunity.
Undaunted, and again outright ignoring Tasia, Hotaru continued:"The Red Dragon are consummate professionals, businessmen and businesswomen like yourselves, albeit more honorable." He sneered as he muttered the last term, then regained his blandness as he picked up where he'd left off."Lord Raiden has his own offer for Daegon that he will be very tempted to accept."
"I know Daegon quite well," Raiden stated, grinning like the Cheshire Cat."I watched him grow up. True, I haven't seen him in awhile, but I know him, how he thinks, what he wants, and how to help him get it. Like you, he has a goal beyond eliminating his rivals and as Hotaru said, Daegon and his followers are consummate professionals." He gave a chuckle."And like with Sonya Blade, I have a plan to ensure he does not pose a threat. I prefer that not be the case, but I am prepared for the worst case scenario, and both plans would be carried out by you. It is only fitting that you be the ones to punish them for...stepping out of line." He finished his speech with a wink.
Raiden's grin was so contagious Kano simply had to return it. He loved where this talk was going. He shot a gander at each of his lieutenants. Tasia stood with her arms crossed and a frown marring her facial features. Jarek tapped his foot impatiently, offended on Tasia's behalf. Tremor was thoughtfully rubbing his chin.
Kano turned back to Raiden."Give us a few minutes."
"I can give you until the end of the week if you like," Raiden suggested.
Kano waved his hand."Don't worry about it." He motioned for his fellow Black Dragons to follow him into the hall. They closed the door behind them.
Kano leaned against the wall."Not gonna lie, I like their terms."
"Agreed," Tremor said, nodding.
Tasia huffed."I don't mind it, but I could do without Hotaru's attitude."
"Definitely," Jarek agreed, placing a hand on her shoulder.
Tremor shrugged."He is condescending, but I enjoy his blunt logic, and by extension Raiden's. And I believe their claims that we won't be in danger if we refuse. The circumstance are in our favor regardless of what we choose."
"Yeah, and if he wanted to force us to join him, he'd have threatened us by now," Kano pointed out.
Tasia tensed for another moment, then exhaled."Good point," she assented.
Jarek gave a nod to convey his own tentative agreement."If you think it's a good idea, I'm with you," he told Kano.
Tasia grinned wryly and put her hands on her hips."No point in letting you boys have all the fun. Alright, I'm in."
The four exchanged nods. Kano then led them back inside.
Kano walked right up to Raiden and shook his hand."You've got yourself a deal."
Raiden grinned from ear to ear."I am pleased to hear it."
5 Days After Shinnok's Defeat:
Daegon heaved a deep sigh as he exited a portal, several of his "children" following.
Seidan spies had subtly spread rumors/messages around the quieter parts of their own realm, along with Earthrealm and Outworld, where multiple Red Dragon bases were located. Hotaru had formed an alliance with Raiden, and now the duo sought an audience with the clan leader. It was an intriguing surprise, so he contacted them to arrange a meeting, near his territory of course, and his experiments accompanied him for backup.
All of the hybrids were forged using Caro's DNA, granting them fire-breath, flight, and teleportation. Some merely carried Caro's blood, others combined with Tarkatan and/or Saurian blood, gifting them acid-spit, claws, invisibility, and arm-blades. They were the epitome of sorcery and science combined, his pride and joy. He cherished all of his followers, but he possessed a special affection for his honorary sons and daughters, affection he never received...
He crossed his arms as he started walking. The hybrids walked, flew, crawled, or climbed near their creator. Some turned invisible, to be extra ready in case of an ambush. The Red Dragon strived for caution in any scenario.
Odd to think that Shinnok had returned and lost five days ago, an anticlimatic end to the seven year wait for his ex-mentor's return. Quan Chi was dead, which eliminated another thorn in his side. He wasn't afraid of either man, he simply hadn't been sure what to expect if/when Shinnok was freed.
He outgrew Shinnok, becoming disillusioned with the fallen Elder God after the Blood Code opened his eye to the time and effort he wasted during the nine-thousand years since his awakening. He built the Red Dragon Clan for himself, for those who understood his hardships, yet he'd let someone that pretended to care for him utilize those precious resources for his own ambitions, each instance ending in failure that his forces bore the brunt of.
Mavado was the first to realize this. Shortly prior to the beginning of their false allegiance to Reiko, he tried to talk Daegon out of it. One of the few occasions they argued, and more intense than their previous arguments put together.
Ultimately, Mavado had little choice except acquiesce to the commands, but before departing he reminded Daegon that he was the god they followed, not Shinnok. Daegon in turn reminded him that he owed Shinnok everything, that he required Shinnok's aid to ascend. Mavado pointed out that they owed Daegon everything, that they had yet to see real proof that Daegon was nothing sans Shinnok, but if Daegon really believed that, then he was not the leader they presumed him to be.
Hearing those words from the man who was more his brother than Taven or Rain stung deeply. He spent the entirety of the Blood Code fiasco pondering those words, the sting growing worse with every loss his clan suffered thanks to Reiko and Havik. One of those losses ended up being Mavado, slaughtered with his own hookswords while running an errand for Reiko.
Daegon had snapped at Havik, demanding his scheme be finished soon, to prove his men hadn't been killed/maimed for nothing. The task was indeed completed, revealing the cleric's treachery and bringing additional damage to the Red Dragon. By that point, a retreat was the obvious course of action, and they gladly left Havik to rot. He'd at least spared them the effort of killing Reiko, then got his own just desserts from Scorpion.
Quan Chi brushed off the losses, insisting that they start creating a new scheme to take the amulet. Daegon refused, declaring that he was done wasting his resources on lost causes and ungrateful fools. The sorcerer threatened him, as much out of anger at the defection as from desperation to avoid losing an ally. Daegon stood his ground, and Quan Chi made good on his threat by recruiting the Black Dragon.
That had been a long year of conflict, but the Red Dragon ultimately won, beating their rivals and ex-allies to a pulp, the former group barely managing to escape with their lives whilst the Netherrealmers learned a rare, valuable lesson in whom they should not cross. Of course, there was the threat of revenge once they revived Shinnok, but Daegon swore to be prepared for that day, though that turned out unnecessary due to recent events.
The last six years were devoted to rebuilding. Recruiting new members, salvaging what they already possessed, finding new resources, etc. It was a quiet, well-needed respite.
Well, one other significant event had occurred not long after the end of their war against Quan Chi. Taven's hiding placing was discovered...but Taven was not there, nor was his guardian dragon Orin. His brother was awake and in hiding. How long was unclear, but enough to have been long gone by the time Daegon arrived.
How had Orin known to awaken Taven? Caro, whether he wanted to or not, would have revealed if Blaze gave the signal. But Blaze had been missing since he lost telepathic contact with Caro, who mistook this for the signal to wake Daegon. His parents, whom he killed shortly afterwards, had no explanation for this.
Where could Blaze or Taven be? Was the former even still alive? Would Orin and Caro be able to sense that?
Again Daegon wondered how Orin knew to rouse and take Taven elsewhere. Someone must have warned him, but who? Daegon could only think of one person, someone he thought he'd never see again, but he knew better than anybody else how powerful that person was...
Sighing, he shook his head. These ruminations were always on his mind, lately he found himself pondering it more often. For now, he must focus on the task at hand.
Raiden and Hotaru were waiting exactly where he told them to be, accompanied by a few Seidan guards. Wise on their part to not come alone, doubly so because this meeting was taking place on Daegon's territory.
It was impossible not to notice the Grandmaster and his companions. Immediately, the Seidans tensed, with Hotaru in particular narrowing his eyes. The hybrids did not hiss or growl, as contrary to appearance, they were not unintelligent animals. Instead, they bowed their heads in greeting. Pleased by their politeness, Hotaru relaxed and exchanged nods with Daegon, a wordless exchange which indicated to the Seidan soldiers that they could be at ease.
Raiden simply cocked his head as a smile ghosted his lips."Daegon," he spoke, as if greeting an old friend. Technically, that was correct, but it had been a very long time since they last interacted and they were both very different people now.
Daegon folded his arms behind his back."Lord Raiden," he returned, neither his voice nor his face conveying emotion."How may I help you? Or perhaps a better question would be: why should I help you?" Curiosity did not mean he intended for the Red Dragon to get dragged into somebody else's problems.
Raiden's smile was no longer a ghost. His eyes narrowed, glinting with a mix of darkness and eagerness. Clasping his hands behind his back, he began approaching Daegon. It was then that the Edenian noticed a bag strapped to Raiden's arm. His smile grew an inch when he realized Daegon saw the bag. He stopped a few feet in front of the Edenian.
"Because," Raiden drawled, his expression bright as a child in a candy store."I can help you a great deal in return."
Daegon's eyebrow moved higher."Can you now?" He resisted the urge to glance at the bag, a fact Raiden was well aware of.
Leaning forward, he allowed his smile to become a smug smirk. Daegon leaned backward in response, continuing to regard him with amused perplexity. His children were glaring at Raiden, although Daegon gestured for them not to worry.
Raiden chortled."I know exactly what you desire, why you founded the Red Dragon Clan, what you have been up to for the last nine-thousand years." His voice dropped to a soothing whisper."A former, mutual, friend of ours told me every little detail. He, what is the phrase, sang like a canary?"
Daegon took a step backwards, his good eye so wide it risked bulging out of his skull. Only one person fit that description. He looked to the bag, now having a strong idea what could be inside. He looked back to Raiden. The Earthrealm Protector reached into the bag and then yanked out the object within it.
"Say hello to Daegon, Lord Shinnok," Raiden spoke calmly, his visage having lost all signs of amusement.
Indeed, Raiden was holding the head of the fallen Elder God.
Shinnok's face was covered in cuts, bruises, and burns. When he recognized Daegon, his eyes widened and he began whimpering pleas for aid and mercy. Shocked as he may be, the demigod did not feel an ounce of pity for his ex-mentor.
Raiden dropped the head, which emitted a yelp as it landed face-first on several rocks. The nearest hybrids picked it up and examined it, fascinated. They knew from what their leader told them how this was possible, but hadn't previously witnessed an example.
"Elder Gods cannot die," the demigod muttered. Well, there was no known method. His father, Argus, had technically been an Elder God, but was not allowed to elevate to full Elder God status until one of his sons succeeded him as Protector of Edenia. A unfortunate fact, he mused as he studied Shinnok, he would have liked to have subjected Argus to this fate. He had, after all, killed him via beheading. It would have made the fact that he burned to ashes the remains of that terrible excuse for a father and Protector God a thousand times better.
Raiden hummed in approval and agreement with Daegon's statement. He gave Daegon a rueful smirk."I am aware of everything." He exhaled and shook his head."Leave it to your parents to do anything to shirk their responsibilities." He shot Daegon a sympathetic look."Especially in regards to you."
Daegon clenched his jaw."I don't wish to talk about them."
Raiden acted like Daegon hadn't spoken."Shinnok was correct about their betrayal, at least. They spent your whole life betraying you." He scowled."They deserved to die. That lazy hypocrite that considered you nothing more than an accidental mistake, an extra son he did need nor want. Of course, being the imbecile he was, that did not prevent him from seducing a different woman and then abandoning her when she was impregnated with your half-brother Rain as a result."
"Raiden," he warned, his voice on the verge of a growl. His jaw hurt from the force of clenching it. This was a speech similar to quite a few orated by Shinnok in the past.
Again Raiden ignored his warnings. He placed a hand on his shoulder."And that broken mess of a woman, she was constantly miserable, and regardless of her intentions, she raised her sons, particularly her youngest, to be broken as well."
Oh no, he refused to discuss either of those two, especially not Delia.
"Are you deaf?" he snapped."I don't-" He froze when Raiden suddenly moved his grasp to his wrist and focused his gaze on his fingers. He stiffened, knowing precisely what caught his attention.
A red ring, decorated by a fiery symbol, carved by Delia herself.
When he awoke, that ring was the first thing he noticed as he struggled to comprehend where he was and what happened. She must have put it on his finger while encasing him in carbonate. A gift, mayhap to express love and regret, he didn't doubt she did the same for Taven. He refused to part with the trinket, a reminder of why he was doing all of this and so that he did not repeat the mistakes of his parents.
Although, the actions of his father could hardly be considered a mistake, at least in the man's own mind. His mother...well, there was truth to Raiden's description of Delia. She hardly defied or argued with her husband and the few occasions when she did were barely effective, if at all.
He hated them both, he would never forgive them...no, that was untrue. He hated Argus so deeply it burned at his soul. He hated Delia's actions, yet he felt naught except pity for that broken woman. Maybe that was worse than mere hatred. She was better off dead, out of her misery and unable to cause him misery anymore.
The sole detail he'd change if he could go back to that day was that he'd give Delia the quick death and Argus the slow one, as much out of personal preference as pragmatism.
Although would that have really changed a single tiny detail about his feelings?
Ironic how even in death they made his life difficult. For the best, he decided, because it granted him additional motivation to surpass them.
Still, she would never cease haunting him...
"Mother," he mumbled, fiddling with the ring. He resisted the urge to curse at himself for letting his emotions slip through.
Raiden squeezed his wrist."I wish I could have helped you more. Argus did not love you, Delia loved you for the wrong reasons, Taven...well, I'm not positive either of us can figure out what to make of him." He shot a contemptuous gander to Shinnok."And Shinnok took advantage of your pain. Feel free to add to his agony if you like."
Turning away from Raiden, he heaved the deepest sigh he'd emitted in his entire life and gave a headshake."No one could have done anything to really help, it was inevitable to end the way it did." That was what he told himself on the rare ocassions he couldn't sleep due to the occasional flashbacks.
"We cannot know that for sure," Raiden softly replied."Regardless, I wish I did more. I wish to try now." He moved so that he was standing at Daegon's right."Will you let me?"
Daegon again turned away from Raiden. He rubbed his temples whilst shooting a glare at Shinnok. Sans turning to Raiden, he responded,"I believe you, Lord Raiden, but I require concrete proof that you are trustworthy, that joining you will actually benefit my clan." He swore to himself and to his people that he would not blindly follow someone like he'd done for Shinnok.
Raiden stroked his chin contemplatively."Fair enough." He gestured to Hotaru, directing all focus to the Seidan.
Hotaru nodded at Daegon."A temporary contract, perhaps? We enlist the Red Dragon's services so that you can observe our activities, and use that as evidence as to whether you can trust us. Eventually, you are bound to reach a final decision. I dislike resorting to mercenaries, but I understand there is little choice here. I have the funds to ensure your clan is well compensated. You are not the sole group we are paying for assistance."
That wasn't a surprise. He had a good guess who the other mercenaries were."The Black Dragon," he stated.
Hotaru leaned on his naginata."A simple guess," he acknowledged with a nod.
"I was worried you would not come and hear me out if I-" Raiden began, stopping when the Edenian dismissively waved his hand.
"Kano and his fellow scum are nowhere near as threatening to me as they like to think," he said whilst rolling his eye."If they want to risk their hides, that is their problem." He then told Raiden:"We'll keep in touch."
Raiden bowed his head."Thank you. I hope this will soon evolve into a stronger alliance."
Daegon hummed thoughtfully."For the sakes of both of our goals...I would hope so too."
6 Days After Shinnok's Defeat:
Shao Kahn conquered and merged Vaeternus with Outworld, enslaved the Moroi, utilized their blood magik for his own sadistic purposes. He stole, corrupted, and destroyed everything they possessed, yet he never broke them.
They were not weakling, overzealous vampires from silly Earthrealm tales. They were not mindless savages. They were clever, cautious planners that did not hesitate to get their hands as dirty if necessary. They were beings loyal to their own, that defended one another sans hesitation. They were people that refused to bend or break, at best they pretended to break until a proper opportunity came for them to rise and reclaim what was theirs. Nitara was the epitome of these traits.
The conqueror overestimated himself and thus underestimated his enemies, both the open ones and the hidden ones. A pity that someone else managed to put that monster in his place before she got to take her chance. His death was gratifying nonetheless. The chaos that onfolded in the immediate aftermath of his destruction as Reiko vanished and Mileena took the throne gave Nitara the perfect opportunity to free her people and go into hiding.
Deep within Outworld they went, out of the other leaders' reach. During this time she began trying to locate the orb that bound her realm to Outworld, to safely unmerge it without resorting to unpredictable, uncertain sorcery. She had no luck so far.
Of course, she did not intend to give up, she was a patient woman. For now, she must focus on keeping her fellow vampires safe, and when the chance arose to claim and fulfill that larger goal, she would seize it.
Unfortunately, theirs was not a flawless hiding place. They were slightly less isolated than the Kreeyans and definitely could not compare to the missing Centaurs.
Shinnok's servants located them. Quan Chi had managed to find Datusha, a Kriss created to slaughter vampires by all means necessary. Datusha had its own mind and powers; those who dared wield the blade without knowing what it actually was became its slaves.
Kahil Grigesh had been the last wielder of Datusha, brainwashed into murdering several of his own kind. Luckily, he came to his senses and to atone for his crimes as well as prevent future victims, he traveled to Netherrealm and committed hara-kiri, trapping the Kriss within that realm. For centuries it stayed there, until that blasted necromancer found it and threatened to send his revenants with the weapon to attack her brethren.
Thus, she was blackmailed into performing a blood magik spell with one of the Kamidogu and transfer a portion of her power into Havik to assist in his mission. Naturally, she did not use all her strength for the spell, and plotted to steal Datusha and find a better hiding place for it.
Havik ultimately failed, partly thanks to her carefulness. Alas, Quan Chi turned out to be a failure too. The imbecile lost the damned sword. How she did not know, and he was truly stunned at his own incompetence. At the very least, this meant he'd lost his hold over her quicker than she'd planned and so she gladly abandoned the fool to wallow in his own incompetence before he waged an unsuccessful war against his Red Dragon betrayers.
It remained missing for the last seven years, but she was certain it was still somewhere in Netherrealm. If it reemerged someday with a new pawn to do its bidding, she would be the first to realize it, as well as the first to act. Nobody harmed her people and came out unscathed, assuming they lived to tell the tale.
Such was the necessary mindset for a survivor and a leader; she proudly wore both titles on her sleeves. Few existed that thrived like she did; those few had her deep respect and trust. It seemed the Protector God of Earthrealm considered himself worthy of these titles and acknowledgements. Hence his reason seeking an audience with the Moroi leader.
Nitara had no solid opinion of Earthrealm. It was the sole area whose sunlight affected vampires, but that was merely a fact of life. As such, she had no clue what to think of its Protector God.
There was no harm in a simple audience. Perhaps he sought a favor in exchange for another favor. She was not opposed to forging occasional, temporary agreements. Those kinds of deals influenced some of her successes.
Although she came alone, she was not unarmed. There was her blood magik, needless to say, along with a pair of kama that she wielded well, and her gemstone necklace which opened portals everywhere throughout the realms.
She arrived at the rendezvous area, where she spotted Raiden arriving. The flapping of her wings alerted him to her presence. He smiled as she gracefully landed on her feet in front of him.
He nodded approvingly."Ah, right on time, my dear."
She suppressed a tinge of perplexed irritation at his use of an overly familiar term of endearment, but she'd endured worse patronization. Nonetheless, she gave a simple nod in response.
This should not take long. She was not a fan of tarrying, and she got the impression he was of a similar mentality.
"Well, Lord Raiden," she began."What do you wish to discuss with me?"
Once more he nodded, in apparent approval of her getting straight to the point. His finger tapped an amulet attached to his chest-plate. Her eyes widened when she recognized it as none other than Shinnok's amulet.
"So you've taken custody of Shinnok's amulet, so to speak," she noted."Are you seeking assistance with hiding it? I may be able to assist, but I am not fully-"
He cut her off:"No, my dear, that is not my requirement from you." A tinge of amusement touched his voice."But I thank you for being willing to assist me with that. I have plans for the amulet, rest assured."
Arching an eyebrow, she honestly spoke:"That is a relief to hear." She had been starting to worry that Mileena would get close to where her people resided and they would get sucked into the effects of the conflict like Li Mei's village. She had also wondered if she should be worried about Kotal Kahn, intentionally or not, misusing the amulet. Then Shinnok had returned, and she began bracing herself to handle him once his attentions turned to Outworld. Luckily, none of those outcomes occurred.
She straightened her stance."What do you require of me, then?" She kept her tone cool despite a faint tinge of mysterious worry now dancing in her stomach.
He tapped the amulet again. His eyes flickered upward and he let out a soft sigh, any and all indication of amusement fading into tired seriousness."Due to recent events, I am making changes to how I maintain Earthrealm's safety, and by extension how I defeat threats, primarily Outworld and Netherrealm."
That made sense. The emperor and the fallen Elder God invaded Earthrealm in unison, a humorous coincidence, yet luckily both threats were swiftly defeated. It had not affected her, or rather it had not been able to extend enough to affect her, so she refrained from dwelling on it.
She was beginning to feel increasingly tentative, as the strange tinge in her gut grew and the gears turned harder in her brain. An idea of where this conversation was heading was already forming, and already she was leaning toward a rejection to his potential request, but she ought to hear him out in case she was wrong.
"I will not mince words," he went on."I plan to invade Outworld, take it from Kotal Kahn since he has proven untrustworthy. I am still making plans for Netherrealm, as there is no solid indication of the new emperor and empress's intentions, so I shall mostly leave them alone for the time being. As you can imagine, I require as many allies as possible, and I have heard of your skills as a schemer and warrior. That is the kind of assistance I am requesting from you."
Nitara blinked, taking a minute to absorb everything he just told her.
This was beyond anything she could have imagined. His bluntless was as appreciated as it was odd, given the nature of his explanation. She supposed she should feel slightly flattered at his recognition of her intelligence and strength, though it did naught to lessen the tinge in her gut that was pushing her to decline.
To hear this from Raiden of all people, someone that wasn't known for such intensity in his duties, was admittedly fascinating.
As she was ruminating this, he smiled and added,"Naturally, I would make it worth your while, as the saying goes. I know you are searching for the orb that binds Vaeternus to Outworld. You have been cautious and patient for years in your search, I can ensure that your patience pays off. Kotal Kahn refuses to free the realms merged with Outworld, whether it be out of selfishness or cowardness or both combined, and you no longer must suffer because of that. The Moroi vampires will be free to openly live as they prefer, and they will view you as even more of a hero than they already do."
That...was correct. He clearly plotted all of this to every last detail. It was impressive, and the longer he spoke, the more tempted admittedly she became to accept. However, her gut instinct continued to urge her otherwise. She'd survived this long by listening to her gut along with her brain and her heart.
Nitara glanced at Raiden, whose smile broadened an inch. She half-turned from him, wrapping one arm around herself and placing the elbow of her other arm on it. She then rested her chin on the palm of the second arm whilst emmitting a contemplative hum.
This offer was undeniably tempting. Raiden indeed came across as someone that grew to share her mindset about survival and leadership. His ambitions were high and her own ambitions would greatly benefit if she cooperated with him. All obstacles to her target would be dealt with. Not only would she potentially find the orb, but once the time came to handle Netherrealm, she might be able to find Datusha and make sure it stayed hidden forever. Both of them had everything to gain from this alliance...but also everything to lose, worse losses than those they'd already endured, and she wondered if either of them could bounce back from those losses if the worst case scenario came to pass.
No risk, no reward. However, the risks here were greater than those of her previous plots put together. She refused to give up her search for the orb, yet she'd also sworn not to condemn her people to subjugation or destruction. The stakes under these circumstances risked precisely that. True, it held the chance that they would be freer and happier than ever...but the risk of the unwanted outcome gnawed at her too much.
Raiden laid a hand on her shoulder, startling her out of her musings. She fully turned to face him, noting his smile had become a grin. He squeezed her shoulder."I can give you a day or two to contemplate it further," he suggested.
She took a step backward, causing his hand to slip from her shoulder. Straightening her posture, she sighed and gave a firm shake of her head.
"Thank you, Lord Raiden," she said sincerely, giving a faint smile out of politeness."Your offer is very tempting and I am honored that you'd consider me a worthy accomplice for your plans to begin with. But the risks outweigh the potential rewards for myself and my people. I prefer to avoid resorting to warfare even though I am perfectly capable of fighting-"
"Have you not tried that way before?" he interrupted, his expression on the verge of a scowl. Displeasure oozed into his voice, now equal to the polite pleading he displayed moments earlier."That is what you have been doing for years. Are you not tired of this cycle? Surely you must realize that you cannot repeat the same actions over and over again and expect it to-"
Now it was her turn to interrupt."Simply because you cannot detect my progress does not mean it isn't there. And even if I cannot unmerge my realm from Outworld, I will always protect my race, and I must repeat: the risks outweigh the potential rewards. I apologize for disappointing you, but I stand by my decision."
Now he was completely scowling. Acid filled his tone as he spoke."Do not be so hasty to-"
Again she cut him off, keeping her tone cool."I do not need long to ponder proposals like yours."
She was in no mood to deal with someone who took rejection so poorly. If he preferred to resort to improper behavior, she was willing to give him a partial taste of his own medicine by interrupting him.
Stifling a sigh, she bowed her head and took three steps backwards. Then she started flying up."Thank you again for your offer, Lord Raiden, and I again apologize for disappointing you, but all I can do is wish you luck in your endeavors. Farewell."
At this point, Raiden's countenance was blank. He gave no reaction to her words, as if he hadn't heard what she just said.
Her gut was now demanding that she leave, and she was happy to comply.
She turned to leave, when his soft and unemotional voice abruptly broke the silence:
"I am sorry, my dear."
A microsecond later, afore she could even begin to process what he said, a lightning bolt struck her. Screeching in surprise and pain, she started to fall and frantically groped for her necklace to teleport herself out of here whilst panic consumed her. But Raiden was quicker; in an instant, he had flown up and at her at full speed. She let out a choked yelp as he crashed into her, slamming her face-first into a boulder and clamping a hand on the nape of her neck to electrocute her.
She weakly squirmed and emmited choked, pained and fearful noises as he pinned her against the boulder. He managed to press her wrists to her back and then wrapped an arm around her waist so that her back was pressed against his front, trapping her arms in the process. She could not access her weapons or her necklace, nor utilize her blood magik, as he kept shocking her with lightning until she was panting and groaning and sweating from agony and fatigue.
When he was postive she lost the strength/ability to resist, he encircled her neck with his free arm and then tightly gripped her chin with his fingers. She let out a raspy whimper as he tilted her head sideways and backwards in a way that allowed him to snap her neck if he desired.
He whispered into her ear:"Unfortunately, my dear, you've left me no other choice." He exhaled in a faux sad manner."Why must you be so obstinate? It did not have to turn out this way." He tsked at her like she was a naughty child."Oh well, I enjoy teaching lessons to those that display such arrogance and ingratitude."
He gave a light jerk on her neck to keep her compliant. She stayed still as a statue as he flew up with her stuck in his iron tight grip and used his powers to open a portal of his own. He took them to the outskirts of the Moroi's current hometown, where her people were oblivious to the danger they and their leader were in.
Raiden hummed with fake thoughtfulness into Nitara's ear, making her shudder. He further tightened his grip as two men stepped from the shadows. Both of his accomplices made no attempt to conceal their mirth at her predicament. She gasped, recognizing the pair as Kano and Tremor. They were doubly pleased by her recognition of them.
"Shoulda behaved yourself, love," Kano told her.
Meanwhile, Tremor was studying the town as if it were an intricate painting.
"How long would it take, and how easy would it be, to destroy this place and everyone here?" Raiden wondered aloud, laughter in his throat.
Tremor nonchalantly spoke over his shoulder:"My earthquake, your thunderstorm, Kano's nukes...each of those on their own would probably be sufficient. A combination of all three at once..." He paused and exchanged a glance with Kano before the two Black Dragon men simultaneously whistled.
"Good," Raiden said approvingly, then spoke to Nitara."What say you to that, my dear?" He jerked her neck."You refused to listen to my polite proposal, thus forcing me to switch to...crueler methods."
Kano sniggered."Brought this on yourself, love."
"And by extension on your people," Tremor added, giving her a look of fake pity."Oh well, it means additional fun for us. Perhaps we ought to thank you for that." He grinned as Kano laughingly concurred.
Raiden dragged Nitara closer to the edge of the crag they were standing on to grant her a better view of the town."In case it is not abundantly clear to you by now, my dear, you may either accept my offer and earn my forgiveness for your foolish initial refusal, or I shall have no other option than to make you watch us annihilate this entire town and all who reside here before taking your life as well. You must fathom that I cannot afford you becoming a threat to my mission just like I cannot afford to let a useful ally slip out of my grasp. Thus, my dear, it is either my way or the highway."
By now, Nitara was pale as a sheet. Tears pricked her eyelids. A light tremble overtook her body. This did not go unnoticed by her captors, all of whom grinned at her fear.
"Any queries?" Raiden prompted, nudging her with his knee. She whimpered as a lone tear she could not control rolled down her cheek.
"No queries," she said, her voice hoarse and shaky.
"Excellent," he replied, nudging her once more."What have you decided this time?"
She shut her eyes, taking a moment to deeply inhale and exhale. Then she quietly answered,"You have my complete support, Lord Raiden."
Chuckling, he loosened her grip on her neck, allowing her to sigh in partial physical relief. "Was that really so hard, my dear? Truly, why did you have to be so difficult? You backed me into a corner and forced me to return the favor."
Nitara did not respond to his comments, too consumed by shock and terror. It had all happened so quickly that she briefly wondered if she could be dreaming, but even the worst nightmare could not compare to this.
Alongside the fear, however, there was anger and determination. Raiden may have won this small battle, and he may win more in the future, but she would do her best to stop him from the winning the war he was dead-set on instigating.
As she gazed at her town, she remembered the history of the Moroi as well as her own history. They outlived Shao Kahn, they outlived Mileena, they outlived Quan Chi, and they would outlive Raiden.
It would be no easy feat, but nothing she achieved was easy. Partly, she welcomed the challenge, if only to enjoy his disbelief when she finally turned the tables on him and granted him his just desserts.
Let the Thunder God laugh all he wanted, his satisfaction would not last anywhere near as long as he liked to think.
Nitara, leader of the Moroi, was no weakling or fool, and she would never break nor would she let her fellow vampires be broken.
7 Days After Shinnok's Defeat:
Raiden had returned from Netherrealm to the Sky Temple with a smug smirk on his face.
The stunned, irate countenances of the new emperor and empress when he tossed their ex-master's living head at their feet would definitely serve as one of the most pleasing memories in his entire existence. He was confident Shinnok's former minions would not be posing a threat anytime soon, if at all.
Regardless, Outworld was currently his main concern. He was eager to get started now that he had managed to check off every intended person on his list of new allies. Some were easier to recruit than others, but he was still proud of his own genius for this near-perfect success. A fine onset to his plotting.
Hanzo was simple to recruit; he was one of the most predictable men Raiden had the humorous pleasure of knowing.
Hotaru was the best of his new enforcers, his equal in devotion to order, who shared his frustration with hydra-like obstacles and lazy excuses for superiors.
Kano was easy to bargain with, an open book when it came to money and revenge and the right boss working above him.
Daegon was not as easy as Raiden hoped for, but he could be patient in slowly roping the demigod into his web, and he would make a perfect enforcer once that waiting and roping paid off.
Nitara was clever and righteous, yet those traits were mainly driven by her loyalty to her people, an obvious weakness to exploit, and he had assigned Kano and Tremor to keep an eye on her in case she developed or acted on any inane ideas.
Five excellent enforcers. Anyone who tried to steal them or turn them against him would beg for death.
The Thunder God found himself tapping or examining the amulet very often. His fondness for the talisman grew everyday, to the point that he was internally fighting not to leap with excitement when the chance arose to unleash it. Well, today would be that day...
Now here he was, awaiting the arrival of his brother and hopefully two of his closest comrades. He was in luck.
Raiden held back a grin when a Shirai Ryu spy messaged him and Hanzo to inform them that the Wind God, the Special Forces general, and the Lin Kuei Grandmaster were making their way up the temple stairs.
As Raiden went to finish his preparations to "greet" the trio, he paused and permitted himself a brief pang of remorse for what he was about to do.
"Forgive me," he murmured."But this must be done."
With that, he continued fulfilling the next steps of his mission...