Mortal Kombat: Reborn

by Froster 23

This hard reboot retells the Mortal Kombat story, focusing on the events of the Original Timeline starting from the tournament and concluding at Armageddon. Featuring a vast cast, including characters from the games, other official media, and original characters, this is the most expansive MK story yet. Constructive feedback is always welcome, and I thank you for reading!

99. The Gathering

After the events that led to not just one but two changes to the rulership of Outworld, several members of Mileena's Union had retreated to Edenia. Over a week had passed before any members of the Union that departed from Outworld made an effort to return there, but the Tarkatans were the first. As the new Chief of Tarkata, Karbrac found it crucial to return not only to ensure the protection of the many encampments across Outworld, but also to arrange the funeral of Baraka…

"Everything is prepared, my love," Korhau told his beloved Karbrac, the new Chief of Tarkata.

"Thank you, Korhau," Karbrac replied. "I understand that overseeing this is…"

"Hard," Korhau finished. "It is an honour to have helped arrange the funeral, however, and visitors are already arriving."

"I must go and welcome them," Karbrac replied and went to walk to the gates to the camp, but Korhau grabbed his shoulder. "What is wrong?"

"I worry that so many guests could draw the attention of unwanted ones," Korhau expressed his concerns. "Empress… Miss Mileena… she always suggested we make contingencies."

"We must do this urgently, Korhau," Karbrac told him. "We will prepare for the Deadly Alliance afterwards."

"They'll no doubt be visiting our land soon," Korhau sighed. "What if we have to… side with them. They're tyrannical like Shao."

"Never again," Karbrac promised. "I cannot force us into slavery ever again."

"I'm afraid we won't have much of a choice," Korhau admitted.

"It'll be okay," Karbrac tried to reassure Korhau but even he shared the same fears in his mind. "We'll have to discuss this later."

"I understand," Korhau said with a sad tone as Karbrac headed towards the gates.

The pair of wooden log gates were pulled open by Tarkatans as Shokan and Centaur royalty stepped inside the main encampment of Tarkata. Karbrac was quick to shake the hands of all five figures present: Prince Goro, King Gorbak, Queen Mai, King Myelus, and Queen Irare.

"Welcome," Karbrac greeted the five royals. "Thank you for coming to pay your respects to Baraka."

"I've never known a finer warrior than him," Goro praised, "and he was a leader as great as our own kings."

"He's earnt the respect of the Shokan," Gorbak commented.

"Apologies that none of our people could come," Mai was quick to apologise. "It's been very busy for Kuatan as I'm sure you can imagine."

"Centaur Hills is in disarray as well," Irare sighed.

"But Baraka deserves the attention of royalty," Myelus stated. "It is the least we could do."

"Thank you," Karbrac said gratefully. "Do not worry about the absences of others, your people are always welcome to visit his grave here."

"That is thoughtful of you," Myelus complimented.

"I presume you're aware of the Deadly Alliance's threat over Outworld?" Gorbak asked just to clarify.

"I learnt quickly what I had missed," Karbrac confirmed. "A much greater threat than Kotal…"

"Unfortunately so," Gorbak sighed.

"Have you heard from others?" Goro asked as he noticed the lack of visitors at the encampment thus far as they walked through the desert and past the tents and huts of mournful Tarkatans.

"Most of the Union is still in Edenia," Karbrac stated. "Sindel used her magic to visit and arrange their arrival with me."

"By way of portal I assume?" Goro asked to which Karbrac nodded. "That at least removes the risk of interruptions."

"My other half was concerned about that too," Karbrac revealed. "Admittedly… we all are."

"You have the backing of the kings and queens here," Goro gestured to the other royals. "They will offer support if those mad sorcerers threaten Tarkata."

"You have our word," Gorbak assured him.

"Ours as well," Irare bowed her head to Karbrac.

"What of Zaterra?" Goro asked.

"They're at the cusp of eradicating tyranny over there," Karbrac stated. "News of the situation in Outworld would be… an unnecessary distraction."

"A shame," Goro sighed.

"They'll be another ally at least," Mai was seeking for any good news. "We've had to help Naknadans earlier today, though they're understandably in little position to repay us for our support currently."

"What happened?" Karbrac asked with concern in his voice.

"An attack," Mai revealed. "You have too many other concerns to worry about the specifics."

"We're offering refuge," Gorbak assured.

"As for the Osh-Tekk…" Myelus shook his head as he paused. "I doubt they'll be willing to remain in the Union."

"They don't even have any leader to make that decision," Irare noted. "To think we're in chaos, imagine their situation."

"I just hope the Deadly Alliance do not tempt them by masking their conquest with offers of stability," Gorbak thought aloud as he brushed his thick fingers through his beard.

"It is possible," Mai admitted. "Oh… and we have Earthrealm support of course."

"Are they attending the funeral?" Goro asked.

"It was hard enough arranging things so swiftly with Edenia…" Karbrac rested his head in the palm of his hand. "Reaching out to Earthrealm is out of my hands and I doubt Edenia has had the time to do it for me."

"Unfortunate," Goro replied. "Perhaps we could've waited a while longer for this…"

"We're in too dire of a situation to wait around on this," Karbrac admitted despite how much it hurt to say it. "Anyway… this is our rendezvous area. I apologise that you'll have to wait here until Edenia arrives."

The Shokan and Centaur royals sat down on a long bench made from half a log attached to a few stumps that was made from a Tarkatan woodworker who used his blades to slice through trees. A pergola covered the area, offering shade from the bright sun of the desert.

"Do you know how long the wait will be?" Myelus asked. "I hate to be impatient but it is as you just said… about the wait."

"I honestly expected them to arrive before all of you," Karbrac admitted. "Portals should've made their travel swift."

"Hold on…" Goro suddenly realised something. "Does Earthrealm even know about what happened to Outworld?!"

"My goodness!"

Sindel staggered back into a chair in the great hall of the Grand Palace of Edenia, the room still yet to be cleaned up since the fatal party. Standing before her were Raiden and Bo' Rai Cho, the Protector Gods of Earthrealm and Outworld respectively.

"I'm so sorry to hear!" Sindel gasped. "Do you know what…"

"Shang Tsung and Quan Chi," Raiden answered.

"Quan Chi has returned?!" Sindel sighed. "This would explain Shang Tsung's absence at the recent battle."

"The Deadly Alliance," Bo' Rai Cho confirmed.

"That's what they're going by?" Sindel asked.

"What can you tell us?" Raiden asked. "I interrogated the Oni and found no answers."

"I-" Sindel went to answer but spun her head to one of the doorways to see Kitana step inside.

"I heard you scream, mother!" Kitana shouted. "What's wrong?!"

"Liu Kang is… dead."

Kitana let out a deafening screech almost like her mother's before collapsing to her knees, sobbing at the loss of one of her closest friends.

"I'm so sorry, Kitana," Sindel ran over to embrace her.

"Shang Tsung and Quan Chi!" Raiden repeated in a loud booming voice over the sobs of Kitana. "What do you know, Sindel?"

"Give them a moment, Raiden," Bo' Rai Cho pleaded.

"I'm sorry but we have no time!" Raiden shouted. "The Elder Gods mentioned that Shang Tsung and Quan Chi took over Outworld, is this true?"

"Yes…" Sindel sighed as she turned to face the Thunder God. "Reiko made his last stand… we stopped him…"

"And the sorcerers picked up the pieces," Bo' Rai Cho concluded.

"Kotal did," Sindel clarified. "He killed Baraka too…"

"That is awful!" Bo' Rai Cho gasped. "I'm so sorry!"

"The sorcerers murdered Kotal and took the throne then…" Sindel concluded. "I hope you can spread the word to our friends in Earthrealm."

"We-"

"Have other pressing matters," Raiden immediately talked over Bo' Rai Cho. "I need to conduct further investigation before arranging a suitable plan of action."

"We can help organise stuff of course," Sindel promised.

"Apparently your leaders can't," Raiden looked over Sindel's shoulder. "The new Edenian Queen is a mess and where is Mileena?!"

"Raiden!" Bo' Rai Cho tried stopping the Thunder God but he found himself ignored.

"Upstairs in her room," Sindel told him to which Raiden immediately went to head to but Sindel stood in his way. "She is mourning too."

"You're coddling a leader of a realm like she's some child!" Raiden snapped.

"Clearly you aren't handling the losses well either!" Sindel raised her own voice.

"How dare you!"

"No! How dare you!" Sindel screamed, pushing Raiden back. "My daughters are not machines, they're not tools, and they certainly aren't weapons for you to command!"

"It has been days since this incident in Outworld and what I'm being told is that Mileena has done nothing but sit in a room crying!" Raiden's eyes glowed a dark purple and lightning began to surround his body.

"Don't talk about my sister like that!" Kitana joined in, wiping her waterfalls of tears as she pulled herself to her feet.

"Tell me, Queen Kitana, what is your plan to prevent the realms from this newest attempt at conquest?" Raiden asked.

"She's only just gotten started!" Sindel snapped.

"Mileena hasn't," Raiden commented.

"She's a person and needs time!" Sindel yelled.

"Time that we lack!" Raiden told her. "After the funerals I expect this mourning to conclude so we can focus on preventing more burials!"

"What a kind way to give us an invitation!" Sindel said sarcastically.

"Bo' Rai Cho will handle taking you all to Liu Kang's Tomb," Raiden announced. "You won't have to worry about me being there. I'm busy."

"Good!" Sindel scoffed.

"When I return the leaders of this Union better be ready to start doing their jobs," Raiden stated. "Replace them if needed!"

"What's happening to you, Raiden?" Sindel asked with genuine concern through her own anger. "This is more than just losing Liu Kang isn't it?"

"Do not try to judge me, Sindel," Raiden warned.

"Yet you can judge my family?!" Sindel raised her voice again.

"What's going on?!" Jade asked as she burst into the great hall whilst flanked by Li Mei. "Lord Raiden?"

"Master Bo' Rai Cho?!" Li Mei gasped, surprised to see her mentor. Bo' Rai Cho waved back but found no room amidst the chaos to let out an audible reply.

"Shouldn't the pair of you be looking after Sun Do?" Raiden questioned in a judgemental tone.

"Must everybody be working endless hours now, Raiden?!" Sindel had her own questions.

"We have the responsibility of keeping the realms safe!" Raiden yelled. "Clearly we've all failed at that lately!"

"We're waiting for Baraka's funeral and then we'll head back home," Li Mei explained. "Why are you so upset?!"

"I do not wish to discuss it further," Raiden groaned.

"Kitana?" Jade rushed to embrace her friend as soon as she saw she was upset. "What's wrong?"

"Liu Kang is dead…" Kitana sobbed.

"I'm so so sorry," Jade hugged her tightly.

"He was an inspiration to us all," Li Mei praised as she began to tear up. "As early as my fight with him at the coliseum, he showed that perhaps I didn't have to comply with tyrants after all."

"Kind words…" Raiden admitted. "It is appreciated, but does little to help others."

"And arguing with us does?!" Sindel asked.

"Your failures just… disappoint," Raiden sighed as he tried to calm down. "Kitana is yet to act on anything and Mileena failed to protect-"

"Don't you dare put that on her," Kitana pushed past Jade and grabbed her steel fans. "Her reign saved countless lives!"

"And destroyed countless more!" Raiden yelled. "I'm… I just… There was so much more to do…"

"We will get the throne back," Sindel promised.

"I have my doubts," Raiden replied.

"Clearly," Kitana remarked. "But I can't believe you of all people would say such… hurtful words."

"I'm sorry…" Raiden apologised, his calmer and friendlier voice finally returning for a moment.

"I think you should leave," Sindel replied.

"I agree," Raiden muttered as he glanced at the floor. "Farewell."

Before Sindel could reply, Raiden teleported away in a flash of lightning that was so sudden yet left a tremendously loud crackle. Sindel wiped a tear from her eye as her other hand was clenched into a fist, trying her hardest to compose herself. Bo' Rai Cho sighed.

"I'm so sorry," he apologised as he embraced Sindel. "It's been hard on Raiden too."

"Clearly," Sindel scoffed. "Let's get you some water, Kitana."

As Sindel and Jade escorted Kitana to the kitchen, many of the Grand Palace guests began to storm the great hall. If the arguing hadn't alerted them then the sound of Raiden's departure certainly did.

"What happened?!" Daahraan asked as she led the group into the room.

"Raiden and Sindel argued," Bo' Rai Cho admitted. "I'm afraid that Liu Kang is… dead."

Everyone in the hall gasped, creating a sizable echo. Nitara flapped her wings anxiously as Skarlet squeezed her hand, the couple was just relieved that their daughters weren't present, as was Li Mei. Topaz and Krimson had been spending plenty of their time together in Edenia exploring the Jolly Forest. Several guards also began crowding the room from outside, prompting Alyssa and fellow Hail members to check out what all the fuss was about. Through the crowd Ermac and Meat stood out, Ermac helping Meat stand.

"I overheard everything!" Meat admitted. "I think I'm gonna be sick!"

"We should get you some fresh air," Ermac decided and headed towards the exit.

"This only makes me more and more worried about Rain," Alyssa sighed. "What if these sorcerers got to him too!"

"That is unlikely," Bo' Rai Cho tried to reassure her.

"How would you know?!" Azaco shouted as he barged through the crowd. "It's not like you're ever around!"

"I've plenty of experience," he replied.

"We sure could've used said experience when Reiko attacked!" Azaco suddenly struck a punch in Bo's face.

"Master!" Li Mei yelled as she went to rush over but Bo' Rai Cho put a hand out indicating for her to stop. "That was completely uncalled for, Azaco!"

"Not again…" Nitara groaned.

"It's alright," Bo' Rai Cho sighed as he wiped his now bloody nose. "I deserve that."

"Where were you?!" Azaco asked.

"Back off, Azaco," Nitara demanded. "I'm sure he has a perfectly good expla-"

"I went back to Raiden's Sky Temple… after the party," Bo' Rai Cho let out a regretful sigh as he paused between words. "I shared drinks with Fujin… oblivious to the danger my realm was in."

"Nevermind," Nitara rolled her eyes. "Didn't you Gods claim to be able to detect major threats to the realm you swore to protect?!"

"Turns out alcohol actually dulls that magic sense," Bo' Rai Cho groaned. "A replacement for getting drunk."

"Because you just had to have another drink didn't you, Drunken Master?!" Azaco continued to complain, getting in Bo' Rai Cho's face.

"I discarded my flask," Bo' Rai Cho assured him. "I'm taking a vow of sobriety."

"It's a bit late for that!" Azaco aggressively dug his nails into a nearby table. "All you've done is empty your liquor for an equally empty statement."

"Don't you use alcohol for some of your powers, mentor?" Li Mei asked.

"I will find alternatives," Bo' Rai Cho promised.

"Here's one for ya," Azaco began scratching the table. "Resign."

"That's a bit extreme," Li Mei tried to defend Bo' Rai Cho calmly.

"I made a terrible mistake," Bo' Rai Cho apologised. "I won't give up the power I can use to rectify it."

"Because Raiden's doing a great job," Alyssa scoffed. "Yelling at the family who has actually kept us safe."

"Clearly we have no need for Gods," Azaco concluded. "We know that well… right, sis?"

"Just like Iris all over again," Nitara sighed before releasing her anger into a punch against the wall.

"Nitara!" Skarlet cried out.

"Your anger is all justified," Bo' Rai Cho stated. "I do not demand forgiveness… but I will not be leaving Outworld again until this Deadly Alliance is stopped!"

"We don't want your help anymore!" Azaco yelled as he flapped his wings and took flight in order to lunge at Bo' Rai Cho.

"Stop!" Li Mei begged as Azaco pinned Bo' Rai Cho against the nearest wall.

"Let me say it how those in the realm you spend more time than your own would!" Azaco shouted. "GO FUCK YOURSELF!"

Before Azaco could attack Bo' Rai Cho, Li Mei shot her signature Nova Blast projectile that exploded against Azaco's wings, knocking the Vampire aside.

"I'm sorry!" Li Mei apologised. "You need to calm down!"

"Not again…" Skarlet groaned.

"How can you possibly defend him?!" Azaco questioned. "Do you just like being at war?! It sure gives yourself a great reputation fighting in them, doesn't it?!"

"Now that's too far, Azaco!" Nitara shouted.

"You think I want this?!" Li Mei asked.

After a long moment of silence, Azaco slowly nodded. Li Mei's response was much faster. Diving at the Vampire knee first, Li Mei unleashed a barrage of punches with the last blow smashing Azaco through one of the newly put in place windows. Azaco collapsed in the courtyard beside the ongoing stream of fresh water. Every guard was unsure how to act against two respected allies, gathering around whilst Nitara flew to the palace's kitchen.

"I've watched my parents die over this violence!" Li Mei shouted as she pressed her foot on Azaco's skull. "I've had to work and fight for and against the tyrant Shao Kahn, crush the skull of the monster who idolised him most, watched countless deaths and caused many myself just in the desperate hope that my people will be safe for another day… and the even more ludicrous hope that we will be free of war and tyranny…"

"Li…" Jade pushed through the crowd to see her fiancée.

"Jade," Li Mei spun her head around to face her lover, quickly withdrawing and stepping back from Azaco.

"What happened?" Jade asked.

"Claims that I like… war," Li Mei sighed.

"Claims of what?!" Jade turned to Azaco and grabbed her bo staff. "Is this true?"

"I take it back," Azaco apologised as he stood up. "I'm sorry."

"Were it not for your sister I would smash my staff over you for that," Jade stated angrily.

"Withdraw your weapons," Ermac ordered as they levitated towards them, Meat nervously following. "We have a funeral to attend."

"I thought we agreed to stop!" Meat shouted.

"Be quiet, fleshy," Azaco hissed, "nobody asked for your input."

"I am this close to skinning you!" Meat threatened as he waved a cleaver in front of him.

"Enough!" Ermac raised their voice as they unleashed a shockwave of soul magic around their body, pushing the other heroes back. "We can't keep infighting!"

"I can't believe we're arguing with each other in the first place," Skarlet commented with a frown on her face. "Ermac's right."

"I'll stop when he does!" Meat pointed a blood dripping finger at Azaco.

"I-" Azaco went to make a rebuttal but was immediately silenced by a slap in the face from his sister.

"We're all struggling here!" Nitara shouted in Azaco's face. "That doesn't give you the excuse to keep mistreating everyone else!"

"You were siding with me like five minutes ago!" Azaco argued.

"Our so-called Protector God is a separate matter," Nitara explained. "We all here have tremendous respect for people like Li, so watch your mouth for once!"

"I didn't mean it…" Azaco sighed.

"I know," Nitara replied. "Which is why I need to ask this now; what's really bothering you?"

"I don't want to say around this lot," Azaco told her.

"I don't care," Nitara replied bluntly. "We need to move on from this right now."

Azaco sighed.

"All this death is one thing… horrible stuff, that goes without saying. But even I'm on the side of believing we should be doing more right now. I'm not even referring to just Outworld… but Vaeternus."

"What do you mean?" Nitara raised an eyebrow that was hidden behind her makeshift headband.

"Respectfully, we would've gotten more done in our search for the orb if we had remained by ourselves," Azaco claimed.

"You really think that?" Skarlet asked, surprised like everyone else surrounding the Vampire siblings.

"I do," Azaco nodded. "Our resources have been misdirected onto this Union, sis."

"How can you say that?!" Nitara questioned. "We're fighting for a cause that's liberating the realms!"

"Which is great!" Azaco clarified. "It's not the fault of anyone, just different matters. Our focus has shifted away from freeing Vaeternus itself."

"Having other responsibilities doesn't mean-"

"When was the last time you went out searching?" Azaco asked.

"You used to hate when I'd be on a hunt daily," Nitara reminded me.

"Because I was worried about you!" Azaco exclaimed. "I didn't want you overworking yourself… but now you're not doing anything at all!"

"I have a family now, Zac!" Nitara yelled angrily. "One that's more than just you yapping nonsense down my ears!"

"So you admit your focus has been sidetracked," Azaco jumped to conclusions.

"We weren't being much more efficient when Shao Kahn was in charge," Nitara gave him another reminder. "We were constantly being hunted ourselves."

"Whatever," Azaco dismissed her point. "You asked me and I've given you my answer."

"Nobodies keeping you here, y'know?"

"Then maybe I should leave," Azaco suggested.

"I don't think you should," Nitara gave her opinion, "but maybe…"

"I'll attend Baraka's funeral first," Azaco decided. "If that's ok."

"If you'll shut up then of course," Nitara approved.

A group of shadows soon cast over the group in the courtyard to the Grand Palace of Edenia. They all looked up to see a flock of Aviens led by Asgaarth soar towards the ground whilst the sun beamed on the angelic feathers on their back. Flanked beside the flock were D'Vorah and A'Vital, two of the remaining six Kytinn. The other four were still in Outworld, having split up due to injuries Re'Enena had sustained during the fight with Kotal. Several of the Avien soldiers stood on the edge of the path beside the stream of fresh flowing water, dipping their beaks inside for a drink.

"Is everyone alright?" Asgaarth was quick to ask.

"Just some more petty drama," Jade revealed.

"On today of all days?" Asgaarth was disappointed. "I hope we're all willing and ready to move on."

"Of course," Li Mei confirmed. "What were you up to?"

"Showing the Kytinn our skies," Asgaarth explained.

"This One is grateful," D'Vorah thanked him.

"Anytime," Asgaarth replied. "You're always welcome in our realm."

"This One also expresses thanks," A'Vital told him. "However, This One and D'Vorah will have to return to Outworld after the funeral."

"I understand," Asgaarth nodded before straightening himself at the sight of royalty. "Lady Sindel! Queen Kitana!"

"Did you all hear the news?" Sindel asked just to be sure, despite the sadness it brought her to dwell upon it.

"What news?" Asgaarth asked.

"Liu Kang was killed," Sindel announced one last time.

"By Argus!" Asgaarth yelled. "The Champion of Mortal Kombat?!"

"He seemed unstoppable," D'Vorah commented.

"This One is sorry to hear," A'Vital apologised.

"Unfortunately there's more bad news," Sindel sighed before taking a deep breath before continuing, "Shang Tsung and Quan Chi have formed a duo known as the Deadly Alliance."

"Those sorcerers will no doubt be a great danger," Kitana clenched her fists.

"I'm afraid the danger has already made it to Outworld," Bo' Rai Cho stepped forth after having remained around a corner of the palace out of shame. "They've taken control of Outworld."

"Impossible!" Kitana shouted. "Kotal-"

"Is dead," Bo' Rai Cho announced. "The sorcerers must've had a plan to murder whoever walked out of that battle the victory… I apologise again for my absence."

"Well apparently we were all absent for that," Sindel leant back against a wall, literally feeling the weight of all the stressful news. She then noticed she was stepping on glass shards and yelled, "what happened to my window?!"

"Sorry," Li Mei apologised quietly. "I can afford repairs."

"Do not trouble yourself with it," Sindel forgave her immediately. "There are far more pressing matters."

"The funerals of Baraka and Liu Kang," Bo' Rai Cho noted. "Preparations for Liu Kang's funeral have also been made, I'd appreciate it if you were all available to celebrate both their lives today."

"Of course, Master Bo' Rai Cho," Li Mei promised.

"Those who can will attend both," Kitana guaranteed. "Many have planned to stay in Outworld once we travel there for the funeral though."

"I respect that," Bo' Rai Cho understood. "I am aware that many of you weren't too close with him after all and I understand having urgent matters that require your attention."

"We all at the very least respect him," Asgaarth assured him.

"This does complicate my plans," Sindel admitted. "I presume you've made contact with Earthrealmers?"

"I haven't…" Bo' Rai Cho admitted.

"Let's start then," Li Mei insisted. "Master Bo' Rai Cho, you've shown me your portal making-"

"I'd need my booze for that," Bo' Rai Cho clarified.

"Great," Azaco sarcastically quipped. "He's sober now but even more useless!"

"Don't you dare start again," Nitara demanded through gritted fangs.

"I'll handle the portals," Sindel stated before immediately beginning to cast one. "Let's start with the Earthrealm Special Forces."

"At the party I learnt they have business in an American desert," Bo' Rai Cho revealed to Sindel. "Somewhere within the Great Basin."

"It will take a moment but my spell will show exactly where to deploy the exit portal," Sindel told him.

"I'll help," Nitara offered. "Where to?"

"I'm certain that the Lin Kuei have a working teleportation system," Bo' Rai Cho told them. "Their main temple in Arctika would be a good starting point as they can also spread word."

"On it," Nitara stated as she removed her necklace, a bright blue gem that shimmered in the sunlight whilst attached to a thin golden chain.

"What are you doing, darling?" Skarlet asked.

"I rarely use it, but the gemstone on my necklace is enchanted," Nitara said as she rubbed the gem with her smooth hands. "With a spoken spell I can summon a portal."

"That's incredible!" Skarlet cheered. "Wait… how have I never seen you use it before?"

"Because I haven't in years," Nitara stated. "It drains a lot of power and we've always had others like Sindel to make portals for us. Azaco?"

"Fine," Azaco groaned as he took his own matching necklace off. "They're only strong enough for one use at a time though, remember?"

"That too," Nitara recalled. "Besides, flying home has always been more romantic, Skarlet."

"True," the blood construct blushed.

"Your portal should go to Arctika then," Bo' Rai Cho confirmed. "You won't have to worry about a way back."

"Understood," Nitara confirmed before she began casting the incantation.

"Azaco, locate your portal to-" Bo' Rai Cho went to give a command but Azaco's violent hiss drowned out his voice.

"Save yours for when you leave," Nitara suggested which Azaco nodded in agreement to.

"I can try making a portal of my own," Kitana offered.

"Save it for your sister," Sindel told her.

"Of course, mother," Kitana promised. "Is she still in her room?"

"With Tanya and her mother, yes," Daahraan confirmed. "Shall we go?"

"We should check on her," Kitana stated as she let Daahraan lead the way.

"I have located the base you spoke of, Bo' Rai Cho," Sindel announced as she finished summoning the portal.

"And I have found the Lin Kuei Temple," Nirara revealed and summoned her portal which mirrored Sindel's.

"We shall split up and meet at the funeral," Bo' Rai Cho decided. "Those in Nitara's group I recommend going to the Shirai Ryu and, if possible, please find Nightwolf. Try visiting the Matoka, the Lin Kuei will know the location of their land."

"Got it," Nitara understood.

"As for my group?" Sindel asked.

"Visit the New York Police Department, officers Stryker, Kabal and Pedro will wish to attend, if they can. Then I suppose you'll have to visit the White Lotus Society, although I'm not sure where exactly to go without the Wu Shi Academy…"

"Understood," Sindel nodded.

"Oh!" Bo' Rai Cho remembered something suddenly. "It'd be worth visiting the Temple of Elements as well, to make the Gods there aware."

"What happened to the academy?" Alyssa questioned.

"The sorcerers burnt it down," Bo' Rai Cho groaned. "So much has occurred that I forgot to share that particular detail. There were no other casualties at least."

"Let's form our groups then," Sindel ordered. "I suppose it matters not who you join, but you'll have to accompany one group or else we'll never all make it to the funeral in time."

"I'll come with you, Sindel," Bo' Rai Cho decided. "I need time to consider the whereabouts of the White Lotus."

"Sorry," Skarlet apologised as she spoke up, "but I'll need to go find Topaz and Krimson."

"I'll come with you," Jade insisted. "We'll come back to go to the funeral alongside Kitana and the others still at the palace."

"Very well then," Sindel approved. "See you both soon."

"Farewell," Jade said her goodbyes as she and Skarlet departed to the Jolly Forest.

Meanwhile, the two groups to travel to Earthrealm had been formed. Alongside Bo' Rai Cho and Sindel were Alyssa, Asgaarth, D'Vorah and A'Vital. Lined up in front of Nitara's portal was Meat and Ermac. Also accompanying Nitara was her brother, however, Azaco stood beside the line with his arms crossed and a grumpy expression on his face.

"Let's get a move on, everyone," Sindel ordered. "See you all soon."

"Resume your normal positions, guards," Asgaarth commanded.

The guards, both Edenian and Avien, all saluted before returning to their posts. As they did this, the two groups of heroes departed through the portals to Earthrealm…

Within the palace itself though, Daahraan led Queen Kitana up the stairway to the second floor of the new monarch's large and magnificent home. The rest of the palace was silent, leaving the sound of a crisp and hollow tap with each step they took up the gleaming white marble stairs. The sheer size of the palace led to the sound creating an echo which made Kitana feel uneasy. His parental instincts always being alert, Daahraan was quick to pick up on the saddened expression on Kitana's face.

"I'm sorry about all the misfortunes as of late, Your Majesty," Daahraan apologised. "The return of Edenia and by extension your ascension to the throne should've been given more time to celebrate."

"I appreciate the sentiment, Daahraan," Kitana thanked him, "but celebrations about me being cut short isn't one of my many concerns."

"I know," Daahraan replied as they reached the top of the stairs. "Your humbleness has never gone unnoticed, Your Majesty."

"Thank you," Kitana said as she stared at the carpet of the corridor they now walked down, spotting the patterns weaving decorating the regal purple fibres.

"Probably not the best time, but I must remind you that as your sister's advisor I've taken up the role for you as well," Daahraan announced as they began walking down the corridor. "I imagine your mother will overtake my role in Edenia if… once we regain Outworld."

"I appreciate it," Kitana thanked him once again, not having much else to say.

"Because of this… I must ask a question," Daahraan requested, which made Kitana look up from the floor and face him. "Shall I schedule your first court appearances? Rebuilding Edenia is still an ongoing endeavour and there will be an audience of people looking to make requests to you."

"This is a lot, Daahraan…" Kitana let out a gloomy sigh as they made it to the end of the hallway. "Here we are."

"I'm sorry, I know," Daahraan apologised. "I'm sure the people of Edenia will understand if I postpone any meetings."

"No," Kitana shook her head and went to open the door to Mileena's room. "I can't neglect my people, Daahraan, when is the first court audience meant to be held?"

"Tomorrow morning was the original schedule," Daahraan revealed, which made Kitana pause her action and groan. "Your Majesty, it is perfectly acceptable to postpone if you're struggling with the countless other ongoing incidents."

"I'm fine, Daahraan!" Kitana raised her voice, a rare instance of anger from her.

"I don't mean to judge, Your Majesty," Daahraan clarified, "but nobody wants you to be putting this much pressure on yourself."

"I-" Kitana went to reply but the door before them slowly opened.

"Is everything alright?" Nyah asked as she stepped outside the room. "I heard shouting just then… and plenty more fifteen minutes ago."

"The people will have an audience with me tomorrow, Daahraan," Kitana promised. "Do not postpone anything."

"As you wish…" Daahraan reluctantly obeyed her wish.

"There was just another argument, Nyah," Kitana admitted bluntly. "It's been resolved and many of our allies have left for Earthrealm to gather our friends for the…uh… the funerals."

"Funerals?" Nyah raised an eyebrow and clutched her blouse. "Plural?"

"Liu Kang, Mortal Kombat Champion… and a dear friend… he was…" Kitana tried to explain but found herself overcome with sadness and grief. She staggered back as she wiped a sudden stream of tears from her eyes.

"I'm sorry, Your Majesty," Nyah apologised. "I had heard tales of his victory in that legendary tournament."

"After attending Baraka's funeral we shall go to Liu Kang's," Daahraan lowered his voice to elaborate.

"Understood," Nyah nodded. "You two should come on in. Empress Mileena!"

Nyah guided Daahraan and Kitana inside the dimly lit bedroom. At the furthest corner of the spacious guest room was a queen sized bed. Sat on the edge of the mattress, wrapped up in a blanket, was Mileena. Her demeanour was heavy with melancholy as she sat opposite Tanya who sat on a velvet stool with a polished chessboard resting on a small table in between them.

The room was almost completely silent, only infrequently broken by the soft clink of chess pieces being moved. Mileena's movements were slow and lethargic, her eyes reflecting profound sadness as she gazed at the board, lost in thought. Tanya watched her carefully, her expression showing visible concern at the clear sight of Mileena's depressed state. Hearing the sound of footsteps, both women turned to face their guests.

"Queen Kitana," Tanya waved to her. Kitana managed to muster a smile as she waved back.

"How's my little sister doing?" Kitana asked as she sat on the bed beside her.

"What happened downstairs?" Mileena asked, ignoring Kitana's question about her own wellbeing.

"There's been more upsetting news…" Kitana admitted.

"What now?" Mileena asked, panic already beginning to set in.

"I don't know how to put it," Kitana told her.

"Tell me!" Mileena demanded.

"Uh…" Tanya wiped sweat from her forehead as she moved her piece over Mileena's queen piece. "Checkmate."

Mileena watched as Tanya slowly moved her queen piece off the board, a sign of Mileena's defeat. The sight immediately reminded Mileena of her recently being overthrown and how she had been discarded aside in the aftermath of the Outworld civil war. In a blind rage, Mileena swatted her hand across the table, launching the chessboard and its pieces to the floor before she kicked over the table.

"Mileena!" Kitana cried out.

"What?!" Mileena spun her head around to face Kitana, her dishevelled black hair covering one eye whilst the other glowed orange through the darkness.

"Calm down," Kitana begged.

"I'm sorry," Tanya apologised. "I thought maybe a game would help cheer you up."

"I'm sorry, Tanya," Mileena apologised. "I'm not upset with you… thanks for trying to cheer me up."

"Of course!" Tanya replied with a warm smile. "Although I am curious myself, Queen Kitana, what happened?"

"Another major death…" Kitana paused as Mileena groaned and Tanya grimaced. "Liu Kang was slain."

"No!" Mileena screamed as she violently threw the blanket around her across the room.

"How could this have happened?!" Tanya could hardly believe the news. "He was one of Earthrealm's greatest fighters!"

"How did he die?" Mileena asked through her sharp gritted Tarkatan teeth.

"Shang Tsung and Quan Chi…" Kitana revealed.

"Now I know who to kill!" Mileena growled as she stood up. "Where can we find them?!"

"They've… taken over Outworld," Kitana announced. "We won't be able to immediately go after them."

"Not more tyrants," Tanya sighed. "Outworld has seen enough of them."

"Indeed," Daahraan agreed. "I'm terribly sorry, Empress Mileena."

"I wish there was another way to break the news," Kitana told her sister as she sat back down onto the bed to process it all. "After dear Baraka's funeral we will go to Liu Kang's in Earthrealm."

"When do we leave?" Mileena asked.

"As soon as possible," Kitana revealed. "I honestly thought you'd be getting ready."

"It's been hard too!" Mileena was quick to defend herself.

"I wasn't judging you, Mileena," Kitana clarified as she hugged her.

"Nobody is expected to attend in formal attire considering the urgent situation," Daahraan told Mileena. "Try not to stress yourself out further."

"One of these dresses would look wonderful," Nyah stated as she looked through the wardrobe within the bedroom.

"They'd belong to Mother," Mileena assumed. "I never had the chance to bring anything with me after the battle."

"She won't mind if you borrow one," Kitana reassured her sister once more.

"Alright," Mileena replied as Kitana helped her stand. "Give me a moment…"

As they prepared to depart from the Grand Palace of Edenia, Topaz and Krimson were playfully chasing each other through the trees of the Jolly Forest. Sitting around the magnificent but uneventful palace all week wasn't the most exciting experience and got boring fast. Topaz found herself gaining second hand anxiety from the understandable stresses of everyone else. The Jolly Forest had served as an escape on their visit to Edenia, from all the conflict that their inexperienced selves had been thrust into.

"Boo!" Krimson shouted as she leant around the side of one of the Living Trees, spooking Topaz who was leant against it. "Found you!"

"You're too good at this," Topaz laughed. "With the other kids back at my village, I was considered a hide and seek master!"

"My village has much more scenery," Krimson pointed out. "I think my experience was just better."

"Well there's plenty of cover here!" Topaz pointed out as she stepped away from the tree she had tried hiding behind to admire the Jolly Forest.

The pair of young women had never seen a place full of such wonder and magic, an expansive forest where the trees were alive and the air was filled with the sound of birdsong. The trees varied in size both height and width, but they all towered above Krimson and Topaz, their branches reaching towards the sky like outstretched arms. The leaves rustled in the breeze, creating a symphony of sound that echoed through the forest.

The forest floor was a carpet of lush green moss, soft and inviting. Flowers of every colour imaginable dotted the landscape, their sweet scent filling the air. Small rodents scurried about the leaf and twig covered ground below, whilst avian creatures and sometimes Aviens themselves chirped from the branches above. Krimson and Topaz found themselves in the heart of the forest, where the Living Trees grew so close together that it was possible to jump from one to the other, like a giant game of hopscotch. This gave Topaz an idea.

"Are you a good climber?" Topaz asked Krimson as they looked up at the towering trees.

"I'm a big fan of heights," Krimson admitted. "I want to learn to fly actually, using blood magic."

"I'm sure you could do it!" Topaz affirmed her dream with her regular positivity.

"Thanks," Krimson smiled at her. "I never took you as a fan of them though."

"Flying?" Topaz asked, puzzled by the comment.

"No, silly!" Krimson giggled. "I meant heights!"

"Oh!" Topaz let out a gasp of realisation. "That makes a lot more sense."

"Well?" Krimson asked. "Do you like heights or not?"

"There was initially a lack of nature around Sun Do when I was growing up," Topaz revealed. "Then the realm started to heal from what Shao Kahn did to the Jinsei long before our time… I was so eager to explore the trees. They grew up with me."

"I'll take that as a yes," Krimson chuckled, which made Topaz smirk. "That's a very cute story though."

"Do you want to climb some trees then?" Topaz asked but Krimson's focus was on something behind her.

"Look at the sap coming from that tree!" Krimson pointed past Topaz who spun her head around to see a glowing blend of yellows and oranges.

"Speaking of Jinsei," Topaz gasped as she recalled the stories she had heard. "This reminds me of the descriptions Bo' Rai Cho gave me during one of his visits to Sun Do!"

"That's an odd way to flex that you talk regularly with God!" Krimson replied jokingly which made the pair share a laugh. "C'mon let's check it out!"

"Wait for me!" Topaz yelled as she ran after Krimson towards the Living Tree that had caught their eye.

"Greetings, young travellers," the Living Tree greeted the pair. "I am Willow."

Willow stood out as one of the largest Living Trees within the Jolly Forest. Its thick tree trunk was gnarled and weathered, signs of its age. The trunk split higher up the tree, leading to an extensive range of branches from all sides. Narrow and elongated leaves sheltered the tree, creating a large circle of shade, which highlighted Willow's glowing sap. A branch lower down the tree suddenly moved, leaning downwards and pointing at Krimson and Topaz to offer a handshake of sorts. Like the other Living Trees, Willow's face appeared as if it had been carved out, however, bright white dots for eyes emerged from the dark holes for eyes and the hollow mouth opened and closed.

"I'm Topaz," she introduced herself as she shook the branch gently. "This is Krimson."

"Hi there, Willow!" Krimson greeted as it was her turn to eagerly shake the branch. "We were wondering about your sap."

"Ah yes," Willow replied with a deep voice. "What about my 'sap' interests you?"

"Does it glow for all Living Trees?" Topaz asked out of curiosity.

"No," Willow answered honestly. "It is a unique quality that was bestowed upon me."

"Well now I'm even more curious," Krimson commented to which Topaz nodded in agreement. "Bestowed upon?"

"Perhaps I have said too much," Willow realised. "I'm sorry, Topaz and Krimson, but such information is confidential."

"I don't understand," Krimson was puzzled.

"It's fine if you don't want to answer," Topaz told the Living Tree, "but I can't imagine something like sap is so important that it must be confidential."

"Please don't pry further," Willow requested.

"Sure," Krimson agreed.

"We'll respect that wish," Topaz promised.

"Thank you," Willow said with gratitude. "Now I think I overheard one of you mention Jinsei?"

"Your sap reminds me of Jinsei," Topaz explained. "Or at least the stories I had heard."

"Ah!" Willow sounded relieved. "Well it was nice to meet you both."

"You too," Topaz replied. "Oh, strange request; can we climb you?"

"Of course!" Willow approved. "None of us Living Trees mind."

"After you, captain," Krimson stepped aside for Topaz to begin the ascent.

They spent the next several minutes gripping onto the rigid bark and standing atop branches as the pair made the dangerous but fun climb. Pushing the dangling leaves that were like Willow's hair aside, Topaz searched for the nearest tree before leaping from Willow onto the next.

"Woah!" Krimson gasped as she ran along the thick branch to watch Topaz cling to the side of another tree. "You did not just do that!"

Topaz began climbing from tree to tree, and Krimson wanted to follow her. After taking a deep breath, Krimson leapt from Willow to the next tree. Unfortunately, she didn't jump far enough to make it to the next branch, and Krimson smashed into the tree stump before gravity started to drag her down rapidly. Reaching for her staff infused with blood magic that she kept attached to a pair of leather straps on the back of a thin shoulder belt that her blood red cape concealed. Grabbing the staff, Krimson began spinning it behind her in order to conjure a pair of wings made of blood. Turning her body over, Krimson began gliding down towards the ground.

"I'm doing it!" Krimson screamed. "I'm flying!"

Krimson's screams of joy soon turned into screams of terror as she realised she was heading straight into a tree. Bonking her head off the stump, Krimson lost her wings and crashed onto the hard ground below with the leaves doing little to break her fall.

"Krimson!" Topaz cried out as she turned around at the sound of her body creating a thud against the ground. Topaz was quick to climb down the Living Tree she stood on and rushed to Krimson's side.

"My leg…" Krimson groaned. "I think it's broken!"

"I'm so sorry!" Topaz apologised as she stressed about Krimson's situation. "I should've never suggested climbing!"

"Is everything alright, travellers?!" Willow asked out of concern, unable to turn to face them.

"I fell!" Krimson yelled.

"We need to get you help," Topaz stated.

"Bring her to me," Willow suggested. "I can heal her."

"How?" Topaz questioned.

"Just do it!" Krimson begged.

"I've got you," Topaz said as she scooped Krimson up in her arms which made Krimson's face turn almost as red as her blood wings.

"Here!" Topaz yelled as she carried Krimson to Willow and stood before the Living Tree.

"Hold still," Willow requested as they aimed a tree branch over Krimson, and the glowing sap soon slid down the branch and dripped onto Krimson's broken leg. "How does it feel now?"

"Fine I think?" Krimson suddenly felt the pain wash away. "Try putting me down."

"Are you sure?" Topaz asked with a concerned look.

"It should be safe," Willow assured her.

"Alright…" Topaz said as she carefully put Krimson down on her feet and she walked around for a few seconds.

"Good as new!" Krimson cheered. "Thank you, Willow."

"You're very welcome," Willow replied as their carved face shifted into a comically large smile.

"Wait… how?!" Topaz asked. "You just have magical healing sap?"

Willow sighed.

"I'm just curious is all," Topaz clarified.

"Can you girls keep a secret?" Willow asked to which they both nodded frantically to. "Please swear it."

"I swear," Topaz declared.

"I swear too," Krimson echoed. "This must be an important secret, huh?"

"You mentioned Jinsei," Willow recalled. "My 'sap' suits your description of Jinsei Essence because that's precisely what this is."

Topaz and Krimson gasped in unison at the realisation of what stood before them.

"You're… the Jinsei Chamber of Edenia!" Topaz shouted.

"Not so loud!" Willow replied.

"Doesn't that put you in danger?" Krimson asked.

"Nobody suspects a tree," Willow laughed. "But that is exactly why this is a secret that must be kept."

"We promise not to share," Topaz assured Willow. "We're family to members of the Union."

"I'd argue we're part of it ourselves," Krimson confidently crossed her arms.

"Not yet," Topaz snickered.

"I do trust the Union," Willow stated, "but please refrain from sharing this to even them," they requested. "I made a promise to Argus, the former Protector God of this realm, that I'd never share that I in fact store this realm's lifeforce."

"We understand," Topaz stated. "Why tell us though?"

"I couldn't look the other way to an injury," Willow told them. "I suppose if any of your trusted allies need healing, then they are welcome to visit me."

"Thank you, Willow," Krimson said gratefully. "This was kind of you."

"It's the least I could do," Willow replied. "On an unrelated matter, I do believe there's a woman in the distance that could be looking for you."

"Huh?" Krimson spun around to see both Jade and Skarlet walking through the Jolly Forest. "Look who's here."

"I see them," Topaz confirmed. "I guess we should get going."

"Sure," Krimson agreed. "Goodbye, Willow."

"Bye!" Topaz waved as they began heading towards their parents. Willow raised a branch and let the wind sway it from side to side, as if they were waving back.

"There you two are!" Skarlet exclaimed as Topaz and Krimson rushed towards her.

"We were tree climbing," Krimson told her.

"A Topaz idea?" Jade asked, to which Krimson confirmed with a nod. "Of course."

"Is it time for…" Topaz's smile soon turned to a frown at the thought.

"The funeral?" Skarlet asked. "Yes."

"It'll be alright, Topaz," Krimson placed a hand on her shoulder. "Let's get this over with."

"You don't have to come," Jade told her.

"I want to," Topaz clarified. "It's just hard."

"I know, sweetheart," Jade hugged her. "Let's head back to the palace."

"This is awful news," Sub-Zero sighed, fog pouring out his mouth from the cold. "We shall attend these funerals and offer any future support… but we've only just begun training new recruits."

Standing in the large doorway to the Lin Kuei Temple in Arctika was the group of Nitara, Azaco, Ermac, and Meat. They had just shared the news of Baraka and Liu Kang's deaths, alongside an invitation to each of their funerals.

"It seems there's no plan currently on how we'll respond to the sorcerers," Nitara admitted. "We're just messengers regarding the funeral."

"Is everything alright, Sifu?" Frost asked as she walked down the hallway, her posture confidently upright.

"I'm sorry, Frost," Sub-Zero apologised. "I'm afraid today's lesson must be cancelled."

"What's happened?" Frost looked past her teacher to see the four guests from Outworld. "You were all at that party!"

"We're not here for another sadly," Meat sulked.

"What's happened?" Frost repeated her question, more concern in her tone of voice now.

"Baraka and Liu Kang have been killed," Sub-Zero spread the news quietly, still shocked by the situation. "I must attend their funerals now."

"Killed?!" Frost gasped.

"Another war is brewing," Ermac elaborated. "The Deadly Alliance must be stopped."

"The what?!" Frost was completely puzzled.

"The Lin Kuei will lend their support," Sub-Zero promised.

"We will?"

"I'm sorry, Frost," Sub-Zero apologised again. "Please don't worry, I won't force trainees into a battle."

"I'm not worried about me," Frost claimed, a lie but she didn't want to make the situation about herself. "What about you? What's the Deadly Alliance?"

"Two dangerous sorcerers," Skarlet told her.

"And I'll be alright," Sub-Zero promised. "You're dismissed, Frost, please take the day off."

"Fine," Frost sighed as she walked back into the temple, Cyrax and Sektor soon walking past.

"Is she alright?" Cyrax pointed a thumb behind him.

"He heard a distressed cry," Sektor clarified. "Apparently Cyrax has enhanced hearing."

"I had magic infused with my cybernetics," Cyrax told him as he recalled his undesired gift from the Elder Gods. "But that is another story."

"Magic and technology isn't a good blend," Sektor told him. "Anyway… what's going on here?"

"The sorcerers Shang Tsung and Quan Chi have killed Baraka and Liu Kang," Sub-Zero revealed.

"What?!" Cyrax yelled.

"Those bastard sorcerers are still around?" Sektor asked. "Unfortunate."

"That's horrible!" Cyrax continued to shout. "What will we do about the sorcerers?!"

"That is a concern we'll deal with after their funerals," Nitara promised. "Today the funeral of Baraka will be hosted, and Liu Kang's shall be conducted immediately after."

"Then I'll come with you," Cyrax decided. "Sektor?"

"I'm sorry for your loss," Sektor apologised. "But those names are only familiar to me because of the tournament, I'd prefer not to attend."

"I understand," Cyrax replied.

"Look after the clan whilst I'm gone then," Sub-Zero requested.

"You want me to be in charge?" Sektor was surprised.

"I believe I can trust you," Sub-Zero replied. "Can I, Sektor?"

"I would've preferred to have time to handle some matters," Sektor admitted. "But you can, Kuai Liang, I'll keep watch."

"Thank you," Sub-Zero said gratefully as they both placed the sides of their fists against their heart as a symbol of respect.

"What matters?" Cyrax asked.

"None of your business," Sektor snapped.

"So much for trust," Cyrax muttered. "Well-"

Cyrax was interrupted by the sounds of laughter as Chloe Starr ran out of one of the nearby training rooms whilst Smoke pursued her out the room. Chloe clutched onto the handle of a karambit dagger as she ran from her teacher. Using his powers to create a small makeshift smoke bomb, Smoke hurled the bomb over Chloe's head which burst into a cloud of smoke. As Chloe turned around, Smoke took her down with a hurricanrana grapple that flipped Chloe onto her back.

"Nice try," Smoke complimented as he wrestled the dagger from Chloe's grasp.

"Thanks," Chloe chuckled as Smoke helped her stand up.

"I don't recall this being part of the curriculum," Sektor judged as his eyes locked onto Smoke.

"I've been mixing two basic lessons together," Smoke explained. "Disarming and making an escape."

"What's this dagger?" Sektor asked as he scanned the object. "That's yours?"

"No," Smoke shook his head. "I'm no fan of weapons."

"Truly a great mindset for a warrior trainer to have," Sektor said dryly.

"Look at that," Smoke smirked. "The robot does know sarcasm."

"Maybe I'll use one of those daggers," Chloe suggested.

"Absolutely not!" Sektor refused. "I already have weapons under construction for you that are far safer and greatly surpass this menial blade."

"Would you care to show us then?" Smoke asked.

"I-" Sektor was going to immediately accept the request, but Cyrax put a metallic hand on his chest.

"Not a great time, mates," Cyrax told them as he gestured to their guests.

"Sorry," Smoke apologised as he looked past the two cyborgs to see their Outworld guests. "I didn't see you guys."

"Chloe is dismissed for the day, Tomas," Sub-Zero informed him.

"Really?" Chloe asked with Kuai nodding in confirmation. "Cool! I'll go see Frost!"

"I could've been training her today still," Sektor muttered as Chloe skipped away.

"What's happened, Kuai?" Smoke was now curious and concerned.

"Baraka and Liu Kang have been killed," Sub-Zero revealed as Smoke's eyes reflected his horrified state, his jaw agape behind his mask. "Funerals for them both are being hosted soon."

"Which is why we should probably get moving," Azaco advised with his arms crossed impatiently.

"Stop being rude," Nitara hissed through gritted fangs. "But yes, we are unfortunately short on time."

"Are you both ready, Tomas and Pako?" Sub-Zero asked Smoke and Cyrax.

"Sure," Cyrax said as Smoke nodded.

"Hold on a second," Sektor spoke up, which made the three Lin Kuei warriors stop walking and turn to face him. "Your name is Pako?"

"Pako Cyusa," Cyrax revealed. "Doesn't sound it but that's with a C and a Y at the start, my codename came was based on that, but your father couldn't get used to my pronounciation of it, so now it sounds like an I."

"Truly riveting," Azaco rolled his eyes. "Hurry up would you?"

"Manners cost nothing," Smoke replied, which made Azaco growl.

"You never told me," Sektor realised.

"We knew before you even left," Smoke revealed, which only upset Sektor more.

"Why?!" Sektor raised his voice. "I thought I was your best friend."

"You'd refuse to tell me your name when I'd ask," Cyrax recalled. "So I didn't reveal mine, figured it was some vague code of honour thing you picked up from Oniro."

"I refuse to answer because-" Sektor couldn't explain it. "Forget it!"

"I'm sorry, Sektor," Cyrax apologised. "It's really no bother, mate, I'm more used to Cyrax than I ever was used to Cyusa."

"I won't waste anymore time," Sektor decided as he looked away. "Goodbye."

"We'll talk later," Cyrax promised as Sub-Zero led him and Smoke outside the temple.

"Oh!" Nitara suddenly remembered something. "I was told you'd have some portal system?"

"We built a teleporter in this very courtyard," Sub-Zero revealed as he pointed to a metal platform on the mountain that was surrounded by an amalgamation of technology foreign to even the most modern Earthrealmers.

"I'll get it running," Cyrax insisted as he rushed over to operate the device. "Where to?"

"The Shirai Ryu please," Nitara requested.

"They have many temples across the Himalayas," Cyrax stated.

"Try their main base," Sub-Zero suggested. "We'll likely find Hanzo there."

After a few button presses on the control panel, Cyrax soon created a portal to Japan. The group quickly headed through and moments later they found themselves standing in the fire gardens of the Shirai Ryu…

"NOOOOO!!!"

Johnny Cage's scream echoed throughout the Special Forces Desert Command, causing the other members to rush towards the training room where Johnny had been standing in a booth beside it, controlling the interactive hologram environments.

"Johnny?!" Sonya cried out as she was the first to make it to his scream. "Baby, what's wrong?!"

Johnny rushed into his wife's arms for a tight hug, balling his eyes out as he did so. Sonya looked over his shoulder to see Lord Bo' Rai Cho, Sindel, Alyssa, Asgaarth, D'Vorah, and A'Vital. Whilst she hugged Johnny back, trying to calm her lover down, other Special Forces members marched into the room including Jax, Gemini, and Vera amongst the group. The crowd gathered around within a large bunker space used to store armoured military vehicles such as tanks. In recent years, the bunker had been divided to have a space for the training room, with a small booth beside it with a separate doorway. The guards intended to lead their guests to Major Sonya Blade, but Johnny had seen them walk past and went to greet them… only to be met by the crushing news.

"Baraka and Liu are dead!" Johnny wailed as Sonya hugged him tighter.

"Holy shit!" Jax swore loudly, taken aback by the sudden news.

"I'm so sorry," Bo' Rai Cho apologised.

The rest of the room collectively gasped, unsure how to react to something so horrible and surprising. Even whilst training, Cassie and Jacqui could hear the ruckus occurring outside the training room and they exited to check on everyone. Cassie immediately rushed over to his father after seeing him in such distress whilst Jacqui froze in place with concern.

"Dad!" Cassie shouted. "What's wrong?!"

"I can't… repeat it…" Johnny replied with his voice trembling.

"Bo'?" Cassie turned to the Protector God for answers.

"Liu Kang and Baraka were… killed," Bo' revealed. "I'm sorry."

"No fucking way!" Cassie yelled as her eyes widened.

"Their funerals are occurring as soon as possible on this very day," Sindel elaborated. "This certainly is far too urgent but if you wish to attend their funerals you must come with us immediately."

"We are indeed pressed for time," Bo' Rai Cho confirmed. "I'm sorry again."

"Stop saying that," Johnny requested as he and Sonya finally let go. "I… we'll go."

"How were they… y'know… killed?" Sonya cautiously asked.

"A traitor to the Union murdered Baraka," D'Vorah revealed.

"And two sorcerers ambushed Liu Kang," Bo' Rai Cho stated as he wiped a tear from his glowing eye. "I still can't get used to saying that."

"Damnit," Jax muttered. "Who is the traitor?"

"Kotal," A'Vital informed him.

"The sorcerers killed him too," Sindel added. "They rule Outworld now."

"And I thought it couldn't get much worse," Sonya sighed. "How are we going to-"

"We'll plan on dealing with the sorcerers after we mourn the fallen," Bo' Rai Cho declared. "That is why we're short on time… we unfortunately must move forward after this day."

"I assume we're talkin' about Shang Tsung and Quan Chi here," Jax guessed.

"Yes," Bo' Rai Cho nodded. "They call themselves the Deadly Alliance."

"What do they want?" Jacqui asked, finally taking a step forward.

"To rule all the realms," Sindel sighed. "Without any concern for the satisfaction of their subjects."

"I thought you said this had all stopped," Cassie remarked as she looked at her parents. "We all know the story of Shao and Shinnok by now, but…"

"I thought it had," Johnny sniffled. "I thought…"

"What exactly happened in Outworld?" Vera spoke up after taking many minutes to process the losses in silence.

"I said we'll sort this out later," Bo' Rai Cho repeated.

"If there's more people who were involved in whatever conflict happened then I think saving them is urgent, sir!" Vera protested.

"There was a battle ending the civil war in the capital," Bo' Rai Cho explained. "I… missed it all."

"My people in Edenia are handling the wounded," Sindel assured the medic. "Please do not worry about them."

"My army contains medics too," Asgaarth revealed. "Perhaps we could share research on the matter another time."

"Your, and I say this with all due respect, outdated technology has always concerned me," Vera told the Avien warrior. "Sorry… this ain't the time."

"Yes," Asgaarth agreed. "The need to distract oneself is most understandable though."

"Focusing on the funerals then…" Johnny started to regain his composure as he wiped his eyes. "Should I go home and grab my best suit?"

"Considering the urgency of this, there's no need to be concerned about cosmetics," Bo' Rai Cho told him.

"This doesn't feel like a proper send off," Jax admitted.

"I'm afraid it's the most we can settle for as of now," Bo' Rai Cho replied.

"Let's get organised then," Sonya insisted. "I take it you're coming too, Jax and Vera?"

"Of course!" Vera replied as Jax nodded.

"Kids?" Sonya turned to face Jacqui and Cassie.

"It's Uncle Liu," Cassie said with a saddened tone, "we've gotta go to his funeral."

"We'll be heading to Baraka's first," Bo' Rai Cho clarified. "Then we'll escort everyone to Liu Kang's directly after."

"Baraka was cool when I met him at the party," Cassie replied. "So sure. Jacqui?"

"I'm not comfortable with it," she crossed her arms. "But of course I'll go."

"Then it's settled," Sonya finalised the arrangement. "Resume your posts, troops, remember that our comms now function between realms so if something happens then give us a call."

With heavy hearts, the members of the Special Forces salute their leader and return to their positions. With everything arranged, Sindel begins creating the next portal. As she develops the portal, Bo' Rai Cho approaches Johnny and Sonya with a solemn expression.

"I'll ensure that justice is served for our fallen friends," he says, determination flickering in his eyes. "But for now, let us honour their memory."

"That sentiment is shared, I assure you," Jax told the Protector God as he lightly pats him on the back with his cybernetic arms. "Scum like Shang and Quan will get theirs soon enough."

"Are you alright, Alyssa?" Sindel asked her loyal ally whilst summoning the portal. "You've been awfully quiet."

"I'm fine, Miss," Alyssa reassured her. "I'm just… thinking."

"About Rain?" Sindel presumed.

"Yes…" Alyssa nodded. "What if… what if this Deadly Alliance got to him too?"

"I wouldn't worry about that," Sindel tried to ease Alyssa's nerves, "we don't even know where Rain is, how possibly could the sorcerers?"

"We don't know how they operate," Alyssa shrugged. "You make a valid point though."

"If you need to talk to anyone, then I'm always here," Sindel offered. "Anyway… the portal is ready, everyone!"

The news of Liu Kang and Baraka's deaths, as well as the revelation of the Deadly Alliance, was spread to another faction; the Shirai Ryu. Grandmaster Hanzo Hasashi had to kneel down in his dojo as he felt unstable from the sudden reveal.

"You're all dismissed!" Scorpion yelled to his class.

"Is something wrong, Master Hasashi?" Forrest Fox asked as he and Takeda approached their teacher.

"Something has come up," Scorpion answered vaguely. "Takeda, if you could run to your parents and call them over then that'd be appreciated."

"I can do that, sure," Takeda replied as he scratched his head. "But… why?"

"I suppose there's no point in hiding it," Scorpion sighed.

"Amidst a long series of events, there have been two notable murders: Liu Kang and Baraka," Ermac revealed so Scorpion wouldn't have to say it.

"I remember Baraka from that party," Takeda frowned at the sad news. "And… Liu Kang?!"

"Haven't you said he's the most powerful Earthrealmer?" Forrest recalled. "Who could've possibly-"

"Two wicked sorcerers," Scorpion revealed. "We'll discuss it more later."

"I'll get my parents then," Takeda replied.

"Thank you," Scorpion said as his students hurried out of the room.

"Sorry for the abruptness of all this," Nitara apologised.

"It is necessary," Scorpion told her. "You have nothing to apologise for."

"Is there a set time for the funerals?" Cyrax asked.

"Just whenever we gather anyone," Nitara replied.

"As soon as possible," Azaco answered as he leant against a bamboo partition wall and began tapping his foot.

"We can leave as soon as Kenshi and Suchin arrive," Scorpion assured the group. "They were both friends of Liu Kang over the years… such a shame."

"This has been very unexpected," Cyrax commented. A silence then fell upon the dojo momentarily, which Cyrax chose to break. "Do you still have the teleporter I gifted you, Hanzo?"

"Of course I do," Scorpion nodded. "I'm too old fashioned to understand it myself, but I wouldn't throw away such a valuable device."

"Is it here though?"

"It's hidden away at the bottom of the fire gardens," Scorpion assured him. "Takeda normally operates it, but since he's not coming with us then-"

"I'll handle it," Cyrax reassured him, "don't you worry."

"It's like watching two bees in a hive," Smoke joked which made the two yellow clad ninjas chuckle.

"It always impresses me how you can find light in a situation, even in our darkest hours," Scorpion complimented.

"He needs to be light-hearted to warm up Kuai's cold one," Cyrax added.

"Oh, that's nonsense," Smoke said as he flicked his wrist dismissively. "If it weren't for my snowman's Cryomancy, his heart would melt!"

"Thank you, Tomas," Sub-Zero smiled as Smoke held his hand. "Sorry for being quiet."

"Admiring the dojo?" Scorpion asked.

"It's cosy," Sub-Zero praised, "very traditional too."

"Our head temple's more like a palace!" Smoke exclaimed.

"A fine temple it is though," Scorpion complimented. "I'm no fan of the cold, though."

"Will your friends be here anytime soon?" Azaco asked rudely, with Nitara jabbing him in the arm.

"Cut it out!" Nitara hissed.

"We would benefit from a shorter wait," Ermac admitted.

"Their home is in the neighbouring small village that our walls protect," Scorpion informed the group. "A few more minutes and they'll be here."

"It's a lovely temple, Hanzo," Sub-Zero told him.

"Thanks," Scorpion replied as he began heading towards the exit. "If we step outside then we can keep an eye out for Kenshi and Suchin."

"Let's go then," Cyrax said as the group started to walk out the dojo.

"Oh…" Meat stopped as he looked over his shoulder to see his footprints had left blood stains on the formerly perfectly white training mats. "Sorry."

"It's alright, Meat," Scorpion assured him as the rest of the group stepped outside into the beautiful fire garden. "You can't help it."

"It's annoying," Meat sighed. "I've been told you Earthrealmers can do skin surgery, but…"

"I'm sure the Outworld royals would be happy to help fund it," Scorpion suggested.

"Former royals," Meat corrected.

"Oh right," Scorpion frowned. "I'm sorry."

"I haven't gotten surgery because my village looks at people like me as role models," Meat revealed as he sat down on the brick stairs leading down to a patch of camellia flowers. "I'm not worthy of their admiration, but I'm not going to change how I look to be perceived as 'normal.' There's many friends I know with far more unique mutations, disfigurements, and disabilities than I."

"We all respect that here, Meat," Nitara assured him.

"Thanks for always looking out for my people," Meat said gratefully. "Especially my sister."

"Of course," Nitara nodded. "I love her."

"I know," Meat smiled.

"I do understand, and I can somewhat relate to it," Scorpion spoke as he sat beside the Flesh Pits creation. "These eyes of mine certainly standout in public, although I'm rarely around normality."

"And I look like a robot!" Cyrax exclaimed as he crouched beside the flower patches, admiring the nature.

"Does your body suffer from any conditions though?" Scorpion asked. "I don't mean to pry, but if there are genuine disabilities from your state then you might want to consider treatment."

"Not me," Meat assured him. "I've known others with difficulties that impact their lives far more than my condition. Back when we released my whole family from the Flesh Pits… some weren't in any healthy state to… to survive. They were put down and buried. That's the only funeral I've been to, and that'll sadly change soon."

"That's awful," Scorpion replied as he placed a hand on his shoulder. "I wish I had the time to bury my family and clan… but I was too blinded by vengeance to take the time to properly grieve."

"Can't you go back?" Meat asked. "To bury them I mean."

"Unlike the Lin Kuei, we only had one home," Scorpion sighed. "It was burnt to the ground, and I'm sure that it disintegrated several corpses. I think the fire spread to the forest, and that alerted authorities who I assume would've followed whatever procedures with the bodies. I did return at one point, there's no trace left of it, just newly planted trees. At least there's some new life sprouted from that land."

"I'm sorry," Meat apologised. "I didn't mean to bring up bad memories at a time like this."

"It's good to remember," Scorpion replied, "to let your feelings out."

"I suppose so," Meat agreed.

"And I'm sorry about your family," Scorpion told him. "How Shang Tsung treated you all I'm sure was abhorrent."

"Those sorcerers just take!" Meat yelled. "Our families… good people like Baraka and Liu!"

"Many others in their path before," Nitara said without doubt.

"It has to stop!" Meat declared.

"It will," Scorpion hoped.

"I think it'd be best to keep those monsters out of our minds and mouths," Cyrax advised. "Think about the good people in our life both before and now."

"You're right," Scorpion agreed as he thought to change the subject. "Again I mean not to rudely judge, Meat, but what about your eye?"

"Don't worry, I'm fit as a fiddle," Meat chuckled. "Got me a loose eye sure, but besides that I'm immune to whatever infections or other illnesses wounded individuals normally encounter."

"That's good," Scorpion said. "Does that loose eye work?"

"Yep!" Meat smiled as he pulled the eyeball before releasing it, causing it to slingshot back into its socket. "Gives off a peculiar vision sometimes, but trust me, I'm well!"

"I trust you, friend," Scorpion replied.

"I just wish my blood wasn't so… messy," Meat sighed. "It tends to stick to my body, but it can get everywhere. I normally wrap my feet, but I didn't have the time with all that's been happening."

"I understand," Scorpion told him as he continued to listen intently. "What's happened lately is truly horrible, I hope it doesn't seem like we're downplaying that."

"It's nice to hear discussion on a different subject," Nitara stated whilst leaning against the railing to the stairs. "Who's that in the distance?"

"The Takahashis," Scorpion smiled and stood up to greet them. "Kenshi. Suchin."

"Sorry to keep you all waiting," Suchin apologised to the group. "And sorry about the news."

"Truly awful," Kenshi nodded. "We absolutely have time to attend their funerals."

"Let us get going then," Azaco insisted.

"We have to go find Nightwolf first," Nitara reminded everyone. "Do you Lin Kuei know about his people's land?"

"I do," Sub-Zero nodded, "but he's more likely to be working at his job at a museum. I've visited a few times to donate various artefacts found in our more ancient temples."

"Let's head there then," Nitara decided.

"Where's your teleporter again, Hanzo?" Cyrax asked, eager to begin tinkering with it.

"Right this way," Scorpion began leading the group to their transporter…

"Shit!"

Stryker swore as he suddenly stood up from his desk. He was in his office doing paperwork, now standing opposite Johnny Cage and Bo' Rai Cho alongside the rest of the group that had gathered the Special Forces minutes ago, who watched through the glass panes that led into the open office, where the rest of the department operated whilst at the headquarters. Stryker's personal office was relatively small, the space dominated by a large desk cluttered with tactical plans and reports, the room oozing efficiency. The walls were adorned with maps of the city, marked with strategic points and potential trouble areas. In the main office area there was a row of monitors lined one wall that Stryker could see through the glass, it displayed live feeds from surveillance cameras across the city. Stryker had a tendency to look up at the monitors whilst working in his office, constantly alert for crime. He was shocked when he peered up to see familiar allies visiting… and Johnny and Bo' Rai Cho stepped up to inform him of the news.

"That's…" Stryker looked down and shook his head, "that's awful… I'm so sorry."

"We've gotta head out and attend their funerals," Johnny told his old friend. "If you're free that is."

"I have to stay here," Stryker insisted. "I'm working the night shift."

"For real?"

"I can't just abandon my officers," Stryker replied.

"What's really going to happen with you gone for a few hours?" Cage asked.

"Probably whatever the Hell happened in Outworld," Stryker shrugged.

"Oh come on, dude," Johnny sighed. "Not cool."

"I'm sorry," Stryker apologised. "I wasn't saying that to blame anyone, but what Bo' described about Reiko's attack in Outworld… it sounds like he took advantage of everyone being absent and at that party."

"It would seem so," Bo' Rai Cho agreed.

"What about those weird angel guys?" Johnny asked. "The polygons or whatever?"

"Paragons of Virtue," Stryker sighed. "I don't even trust them, honestly, it feels like all we did was legalise vigilantism but for them specifically."

"Don't they comply with the police's orders though?"

"For now," Stryker admitted. "Maybe forever, I don't know, it's just strange is all."

"Well we aren't here to discuss politics," Bo' Rai Cho spoke up. "We understand your absence, Kurtis, we'll leave you be."

"Cya," Johnny said as they began to walk out the room.

"Wait!" Stryker shouted as he walked around his desk. "I just thought… I can ask Pedro to take over, he's normally on patrol but he got hurt dealing with some Black Dragons."

"That's great!" Johnny cheered. "Uh… you being able to go, I mean."

"I know," Stryker chuckled as he picked up a radio. "Kabal, you there? Over."

"Just running back from a mugging," Kabal answered. "What do you need? Over."

"Baraka and Liu Kang were killed," Stryker revealed. "Sorry to spring it onto you so suddenly, but the guys I'm with right now did the same to me."

"No…" Kabal groaned.

"We have funerals to attend right now," Stryker revealed. "I feel we should stay, but since I'm going I figured I should give you the same over. Kabal?"

Kabal suddenly appeared in the office, having run straight over using his super speed powers. Although the mask covered his face, he was very upset behind it. Kabal and Stryker hugged each other.

"I'll go," Kabal decided. "Who is running things tonight though?"

"Pedro!" Stryker shouted for.

Pedro got up from one of the workspaces in the main office and walked gingerly to Stryker's office.

"Easy," Stryker said with concern in his voice. "I'd much rather let you off work for tonight too with your injury, but I need you to take over operations for tonight."

"Sure can do, boss," Pedro immediately accepted the order. "May I ask why though?"

"You weren't close to him like us, but Liu Kang amongst others was killed," Stryker informed him. "We want to attend their funeral."

"Damnit," Pedro cursed. "Go then, things'll be fine here."

"Thank you, Pedro," Stryker said as they shook hands. "I'll return as soon as possible."

"We do have one extra stop to make first," Bo' Rai Cho admitted as he nodded to Sindel as a signal to begin creating the next portal.

"Make it quick then," Stryker requested as they walked out his office with Pedro taking his seat. He then turned to his fellow officers and announced, "everyone, can I have your attention?! I have to go with my friends here for a few hours, which I'm sorry about, but I shall be back soon! Deputy Pedro is in charge whilst I'm absent!"

The gathering of police officers and operators all nodded in acknowledgement of Stryker's announcement and returned to their work, trying their hardest to ignore the bright portal being concocted in their workspace.

"Where's this portal going, Bo' Rai Cho?" Sindel questioned.

"I've decided on a place called Lianhau Village," Bo' Rai Cho informed her. "It's the nearest settlement to what was the Wu Shi Academy, if you've ever visited."

"I'd take Kitana there frequently," Sindel confirmed. "Taught her how to make her own portals thinking she'd be able to go on her own… I suppose it's too late now."

"How were they killed?" Kabal asked as Sindel completed the portal.

"It's a long story," Stryker replied.

"You'll hear it when we have to speak to the White Lotus," Bo' Rai Cho said with a sulk on his face, realising how hard this would be, "if they're even in the village…"

"No…"

Nightwolf looked down at the path mournfully, Nitara's group having caught him as he was leaving the museum after his shift was complete. Like everyone else, he too was shocked by the news of Baraka and Liu Kang's deaths… as well as the cause of them.

"That is most unfortunate," Nightwolf looked back up at the group. "I'm very sorry."

"Because of the severity of this situation, we require their funerals to be done as soon as possible," Nitara explained once more. "Are you available to come with us?"

"I'll need to text my wife," Nightwolf replied, "but I'll come."

"She is free to join us if she was close with Liu Kang," Nitara offered.

"Thank you," Nightwolf replied gratefully, "but she's never been particularly close to anyone in the Union due to us living more regular lives… or I try to at least."

"A lot of us have been trying to do that too," Nitara related, "but tyrants make that difficult."

"I shall help fight the Deadly Alliance when the time comes," Nightwolf promised as she sent a text message to Zonta who quickly replied. "My wife sends her regards."

"Are you able to join us then?" Nitara asked.

"Of course," Nightwolf confirmed.

"Did you call my name, Akicita?"

Nightwolf turned around to see his coworker, a woman with chestnut brown hair dressed in a black suit, as she carefully walked down the stairs leading into the museum's parking lot.

"Woah," the woman looked up as she reached the bottom of the stairs and saw the peculiar group. "What's going on?"

"It was a different Shang we were talking about, Jing," Nightwolf told the woman. "Shang Tsung."

"Tsung?!" Jing's eyes widened before she suddenly turned away. "I err… I assume these are the friends you mentioned you worked with when fighting for Earthrealm, Akicita."

"Some of them, yes," Nightwolf nodded. "I must leave with them tonight."

"Is something wrong?" Jing asked.

"Please don't worry," Nightwolf requested.

"What about your car?" Jing pointed across the parking lot.

"There's no rules for staff on parking," Nightwolf clarified. "I'll come back for it."

"Well then… this was certainly strange," Jing commented as she began walking off to her car, "but enjoy your weekend, yeah?"

"And you!" Nightwolf waved. "I won't waste anymore of your time, my friends, let's head to that funeral."

"Alright…" Nitara muttered as she clutched onto her necklace. "Let's see if I can do this twice."

"I'll do it," Azaco offered as he lowered his sister's hands. "I'll just use my wings to leave the funeral instead… I could probably use the time to think."

"You need rest," Nitara sighed, "but at least you're self aware."

Azaco ignored her response and began casting the spell needed with his own gemstone to make a portal leading to Tarkata. One by one the members of the group stepped through the swirling magic, ready to celebrate the life of Baraka.

Bo' Rai Cho led his group through a street in the search for key White Lotus members. Lianhua Village was a peaceful and old fashioned settlement nestled in the edge of China's countryside, the same land where the Wu Shi Academy and many other Order of Light temples resided.

Surrounding Lianhua Village were solid stone walls, once used for protection in older times but now simply served as a beacon for travellers to find the village and identify the area of land that could be built upon. Past the walls were lush green fields and rolling hills everywhere but the west which featured rocky cliff edges hanging over the sea. It was a humble place for its residents, very cosy and community driven.

Lianhua Village's housing consisted of traditional huts, crafted from local materials like bamboo, wood, and straw. These quaint dwellings blended seamlessly with the natural landscape, their thatched roofs and simple structures echoing a bygone era. Each hut was a testament to the ingenuity of the villagers, who skillfully constructed these homes countless years ago. The huts demonstrated the age of the village, but the ones that remained stood tall and were well kept. The taller buildings of the village were more modern, but still reflected a traditional design. To somewhat modernise the ancient village, overhead power lines extending from sturdy wooden posts provided electricity across the village, and a chunk of land outside the walls had been dedicated to creating a layer of tarmac for cars to park.

In the heart of the village stood a lively marketplace, where locals gathered to barter for fresh produce and handmade crafts. Generations of families lived and worked together, preserving centuries-old traditions and customs. Life in Lianhua Village was simple yet rich with community spirit, making it a spot that the White Lotus placed in high regards. Bo' Rai Cho led his friends who were all unfamiliar to the village along the gravel paths, walking through the marketplace where many residents cheered and waved at Bo' Rai Cho.

"You're a real star here," Johnny Cage laughed.

"Did you see those dojos?" Bo' Rai Cho asked. "I've taught many lessons to many students in each of them."

"This was your home, wasn't it?" Sonya presumed.

"When I first moved to Earthrealm, yes," Bo' Rai Cho nodded as he recalled the time spent at the village. "These villages connected to the White Lotus were one of the only communities in Earthrealm at the time who were exposed to the truth of the realms."

"Why did Raiden keep… well, everything, a secret from Earth?' Johnny questioned.

"For so long too," Jax added, "even as a Special Forces Major, I was completely in the dark about it all until my abduction."

"I almost forgot about that," Johnny admitted. "All the fucked up things Shang's done…"

"He'll pay," Sonya promised, "for all of it."

"Baldy too," Cage agreed.

"Do we even know how we're gonna deal with them?" Stryker asked.

"As I've said, we'll start planning tomorrow," Bo' Rai Cho guaranteed. "As for Raiden's secrecy, he just never wanted to cause any fear or panic, especially when Earth was already one of the more conflicted realms."

"I imagine the history of wars within other realms is far more brief," Sonya sighed.

"Outworld had a very notable one long ago," Bo' Rai Cho recalled, "but that's a story for another time."

"Outworld's going through Hell right now as is," Jax commented, "and I doubt the people there are going to be willing to accept another tyrant."

"Tyrant's plural," Cage added.

"Fear is a key motivator," Bo' Rai Cho told the group. "It's how Shao Kahn would build an army, I'd know."

"He tried to recruit you?" Kabal presumed as he raced to the front of the group as they exited the market, taking a turn to another street full of houses.

"Forced enlistment," Sonya concluded.

"Unfortunately so," Bo' Rai Cho confirmed. "Imagine a leader instilling that upon the whole realm and without a break in the thousands of years Shao Kahn ruled."

"He'd want your skills, wouldn't he?" Cage asked with Bo' Rai Cho nodding in confirmation.

"I had always rebelled against the Kahn Guard, I was a trainer for a small rebellion at a time," Bo' Rai Cho recalled. "I travelled Outworld and I'd help whoever I came across, fought whoever threatened innocents, and in the end that led to me accidentally making too big of a name for myself," he sighed, "and so Shao Kahn soon had people tracking me down. I defeated every ambush, but they were so consistent. One soldier made the offer of joining the Kahn Guard and I refused immediately. Being hunted all my life wasn't something that appealed to me, so I took a portal to Earthrealm at the news that it was Shao Kahn's next target. To help train warriors to fight against him in those ridiculous tournaments that I couldn't fight in."

"That rule was bullshit!" Johnny complained. "We saw Earthrealmers fighting for Outworld."

"Outworld always took advantage of being the hosts," Bo' Rai Cho recalled. "Even in the final one at Outworld where I thought the rules had changed, Shao Kahn dared to deny me entry as I stared an enemy Earthrealmer who looked like he was from old western in the face."

"There's another dojo!" Asgaarth stretched an arm out, perfectly white feathers sticking out beneath as he pointed to the fifth dojo they had spotted on their walk.

Bo' Rai Cho noticed beside the dojo was a Shaolin Master teaching a couple of students beneath the shade from an oak tree. He approached the Shaolin Master, who immediately smiled as he turned to face the Protector God.

"Ruo!" Bo' Rai Cho greeted as he briefly embraced the monk.

"Master Bo' Rai Cho!" Ruo yelled cheerfully. "I heard what happened at the Wu Shi Academy… I'm truly sorry."

"Thank you, Ruo," Bo' Rai Cho replied. "Where's your brother?"

"Guang's teaching in one of the other dojos," Ruo informed him. "No more sleeping under a tree to avoid his chores!"

"You were a funny pair of twins when you were young," Bo' Rai Cho recalled. "Remember the times you'd pretend to be Goro?"

"Of course!" Ruo pointed to his ponytail. "Still got the look. Do you see that Shokan often now that you're the God of Outworld?"

"I will be later on today," Bo' Rai Cho confirmed. "Unfortunately there's been worse incidents in Outworld and we need to discuss it with those who came from the academy. I heard they were here from one of the guards, do you know where they went?"

"I think they all headed to the teahouse," Ruo recalled. "It's what's become of your brewery that you donated before leaving to Outworld."

"Oh!" Bo' Rai Cho was surprised to hear. "I'll check there now then, Ruo, thank you."

"I hope everything is alright, Master," Ruo replied as the two hugged once more. "Is Apep with you?"

"He'd be with the others from the academy."

"No," Ruo shook his head. "I didn't see him when they walked past."

Bo' Rai Cho sighed, "I guess that's another potential problem then."

"Just stay safe," Ruo requested.

"And you," Bo' Rai Cho replied as he stepped back onto the main path. "Let's get going, everyone!"

"You had a brewery?" Johnny laughed.

"How did you have time for that?" Sonya wondered.

"I like to keep myself busy," Bo' Rai Cho shrugged as they made it to a pair of large doors at one of the village walls. Two guards stood at the doors and immediately opened them at the sight of Bo' Rai Cho. "Thank you, gentlemen."

"Lord Bo' Rai Cho is indeed a very dutiful man," Sindel complimented as the group walked through the gate.

"Hey it's like Sonya," Johnny commented and then paused as he saw his wife glare at him. "Only kidding, dear… mostly."

"We're here," Bo' Rai Cho said as his jazz hands stretched out to display the teahouse. "Ta-da!"

Standing in the tranquil countryside was the teahouse that looked quite charming as it overlooked the many farming fields opposite it that displayed vibrant crops that would feed the village. The teahouse's exterior boasted intricate wooden architecture, with gracefully curved eaves and ornate lattice windows that allowed sunlight to filter through. A quaint stone path led up to the entrance, with a set of old oak stairs leading to a deck where a few of the village residents sat under parasols as they enjoyed their drinks. Decorating the deck was more plant life in the form of blooming flower bushes and delicate bonsai trees, creating a serene ambiance for visitors.

"Well ain't this something," Jax commented as he began walking up the creaky old stairs.

"It's cute," Vera praised as she followed her husband.

"I bet he's gonna try to say he built this now," Johnny joked as he looked at Bo' Rai Cho who gave him a serious look. "No fucking way, dude!"

"I wasn't alone in doing it," Bo' Rai Cho couldn't take full credit, "but I was involved in designing and building it, yes."

"What can't you do?" Cage asked.

"Lose weight!" Bo' Rai Cho chuckled. "I also built a house now far from here, my most skilled pupils from the village would stay there and train sometimes."

"Who owns this bar now?" Vera asked.

"A woman named Jo," Bo' Rai Cho revealed. "I haven't seen her in years sadly, but she was another of the many great students of mine," he smiled at the fond memories. "She would work at the brewery often, so I decided to leave it to her when I knew my duties as a God would prevent me from running a business."

The group entered the teahouse through a pair of swinging doors, like the ones seen in a wild west saloon. The teahouse was spacious but with fewer customers inside so early in the day. The teahouse had been expanded to have a second floor which was used to offer rooms to guests like an inn. Back when Bo' Rai Cho ran the building, there was only the first floor and a basement where all the resources for a brewery such as the kegs were stored.

The main floor was similar in layout to how Bo' Rai Cho had left it, wooden floorboards surrounding a mini indoor oasis that took up a middle square. It was surrounded by actual plants and small bonsai trees, with a warm pond in the middle. A sunroof on the ceiling would be opened every morning to let the light shine down in the beautiful area. Surrounding the oasis were wooden pillars that were installed to hold up the second floor which was essentially a balcony going around the whole of the building, as the whole floor space wasn't needed and it would've gotten in the way of the oasis' natural sunlight. Attached to some of the pillars were old television monitors shaped like cubes, typically broadcasting the news or a live sport event. Numbered tables were scattered throughout the teahouse, with a bar neatly slotted in the side of the room with a door leading to a break room behind it, which Bo' Rai Cho recalled having a stairway leading to the basement.

It only took a brief glance of the room to spot Kung Lao based on his distinct razor hat that he had put on his back to keep it out of the way of any villagers. Also at the bar with Lao was his cousin Jin alongside Kai and many other familiar faces of the White Lotus Society. The group followed Bo' Rai Cho as he approached the bar, eager to converse with another one of his pupils.

"Not drinking alcohol, I trust," Bo' Rai Cho smiled as he sat beside Kung Lao.

"The Liu Kang Special," Kung Lao sighed as he raised a glass of plain orange juice.

"I'm so sorry," Bo' Rai Cho apologised. "The loss must really hurt you…"

"I don't want to talk about it," Lao muttered. "Not right now."

Suddenly, Lori jogged over to the bar. She wiped sweat from her forehead and she glanced at the group of friends and other allies.

"Masters Wen and Shen confirmed that everything's ready," Lori revealed to the group as she had just returned from the White Lotus Tomb. "For Liu's funeral I mean."

"Good to see you, Lori," Bo' Rai Cho smiled.

"Likewise," Lori replied. "It's been an awful time."

"I know… I know," Bo' Rai Cho spoke softly. "Unfortunately, I bring more bad news."

"What now?" Lao asked as he slammed the glass down on the bar.

"Outworld had an incident," Bo' Rai Cho put it mildly. "Reiko and the remnants of the Kahn Guard made their final stand, they're all dead at least. But in the aftermath…"

"Shang Tsung and Quan Chi now rule," Sindel finished Bo's sentence.

"Baraka is amongst the dead in the battle," Asgaarth announced. "Kotal as well… but he was a traitor."

"This One shares no sympathy for Kotal," D'Vorah remarked as she and A'Vital stood in the back of the group.

"Kotal killed Baraka," A'Vital elaborated, "Kotal took the throne… then the sorcerers soon took over."

"By the Gods…" Kung Lao planted his face in his hands. "Wait… no…"

"What is it?" Lori asked.

"Shang Tsung and Quan Chi!" Kung Lao screamed as he stood up, accidentally knocking his glass over which shattered on the floor. "It must've been them who killed Liu Kang!"

"Most likely," Bo' Rai Cho nodded. "They call themselves the Deadly Alliance."

"They'll be dead alright," Kung Lao clenched his fists. "Where are they?!"

"Not now, Lao," Bo' Rai Cho gently put his hands on his shoulders. "There is a funeral for Baraka in Outworld and the Tarkatans are waiting for us, we will mourn him there and then do the same for poor Liu."

"Jin…" Lao looked over to his cousin who had joined the group. He had previously been at the edge of the bar, comforting his new boyfriend at the loss of his teacher.

"We heard what happened," Kai confirmed as Jin wiped tears from Kai's eyes with a tissue.

"I'm so sorry, boys," Bo' Rai Cho apologised.

"Just… when do we go?" Kai asked.

"Right now," Bo' Rai Cho requested, "if you're ready."

"I'm as ready as can be," Kai sighed.

"Before we get going, has anyone seen Apep?" Bo' Rai Cho asked. "Or Inka for that matter."

"They still haven't returned after they went exploring together," Jin recalled. "Do you think they're alright?"

"I honestly don't know," Bo' Rai Cho admitted. "I hope to see them soon."

"Madam Jo!" Kung Lao shouted for the owner of the teahouse as the older woman walked back to the bar after serving food to a table.

"Who's Jo?" Johnny asked.

"Oh!" Jo gasped at the sight of so many peculiar guests. "Welcome, everyone!"

"It's been a while, Jo!" Bo' Rai Cho greeted his old student.

"Huh?" Jo turned to the Protector God. "Ah yes!"

"Unfortunately, we must get going," Bo' Rai Cho apologised, "I'm sorry we can't catch up."

"That's quite alright!" Jo replied. "Would anybody like some free water for your travels?"

"No thanks," Cage declined politely. "We've already got a water dispenser."

"Hey!" Alyssa crossed her arms angrily as she noticed Johnny pointed a thumb at her.

"Have we gathered everyone?" Sindel asked as she prepared to create another portal.

"We need to visit the Temple of Elements," Bo' Rai Cho reminded her. "Fujin learnt everything at the same time as me, but the other Elemental Gods will want to know."

"Fujin would've told them right?" Vera assumed.

"True," Bo' Rai Cho acknowledged. "This should hopefully be an easier visit then. They'll want to attend the funerals, so we should still go to them."

"Turns out we won't have to," Jax looked out the window to see Fujin flying down from the sky, wind surrounding the God as it blew the nearby crops. "Fujin's here!"

"Some good luck at last," Johnny Cage commented as the group rushed out of the teahouse.

"Goodbye, Jo," Bo' Rai Cho said to his old student.

"Here's what I owe you," Kung Lao dug into the pocket of a sleeveless sky blue hoodie he had put over his usual attire to pay for the drinks. "Thank you for the service, Madam Jo."

"Anytime," Jo grinned from ear to ear as she snatched the money from the bar. "Stay safe now, dear."

"I'll try," Kung Lao murmured as he rushed out of the teahouse to join the others. "Why are you here, Fujin?"

"I bring news," Fujin revealed.

"The tables have turned," Bo' Rai Cho sighed. "What's happened, old friend?"

"Splash… Geode… Torch… many other monks…" Fujin's sombre tone was almost drowned out by the violent wind that surrounded him amidst his emotional state. "They're all gone."

"What?!" Bo' Rai Cho yelled as the rest of the group gasped.

"Was it the sorcerers?" Kung Lao asked.

"Quan Chi specifically," Fujin recalled. "He sent his Netherrealm followers to the Temple of Elements and they killed many on their way to retrieving Shinnok's Amulet… which they handed to Quan Chi. He has captured the other Gods, and the Amulet now possesses their elemental powers. I failed to protect the Amulet… I had to flee… I-"

"It's alright, Fujin," Bo' Rai Cho quickly hugged the Wind God. "We will fix this!"

"I genuinely don't know how," Fujin admitted his feelings of dread. "For once, I don't see a way to overcome this threat."

"We'll figure it out!" Bo' Rai Cho promised. "The funerals come first. Will you join us?"

"Of course," Fujin nodded. "Is my brother going to attend?"

"I don't think so," Bo' Rai Cho shook his head.

"We argued," Sindel admitted. "He said some things that I could've never imagined coming from Raiden's mouth!"

"I'm starting to think his new irritable attitude isn't just grief," Fujin sighed.

"Just another problem we'll resolve," Bo' Rai Cho tried to reassure the Wind God. "Sindel, please make a portal to Tarkata."

At long last, almost everyone had been gathered to attend the funerals of Baraka and Liu Kang. Despite the dire circumstances, the heroes finally found time to begin celebrating the lives of their fallen friends…

As the group departed to Outworld, Madam Jo walked into the backroom of the teahouse and walked down the stairway into the basement. The storage space that was once filled with beer kegs, was now replaced by explosive barrels, boxes of dynamite, and other explosives. Recklessly kicking a barrel aside, Madam Jo looked down on a woman of matching appearance; the REAL Madam Jo. The only difference between the two was that the actual Jo found herself gagged and tied to a pipe on the brick wall. Picking up a glowing knife that had fallen from the barrel, the bright white light covered the imposter's body to reveal the mysterious woman cloaked in black named Kasem. Slicing the knife in thin air, she created a mirror effect that appeared in front of Shang Tsung's Palace before the Outworld Emperor himself.

"Lord Shang Tsung," Kasem bowed as the mystical mirror created a reflection that acted as a gateway to communicate with her master from afar. "They're heading to Tarkata now."

"Was everybody there?" Tsung asked as he sat on his throne.

"A small group," Kasem recalled. "There must be more though!"

"I'll find out soon enough," Tsung remarked. "Set off the explosives."

"I'm sorry, My Lord," Kasem apologised, "they left the building before I had a chance to get down to the basement."

"You idiot, Kasem!" Shang Tsung shouted which made her look away, cowering behind her hood. "What about the poison?!"

"I offered the water," Kasem informed him. "They refused."

"I said to poison everything!" Shang Tsung snapped.

"I thought I had," Kasem sighed. "I missed the soft drinks, however, they ordered orange juice."

"Orange juice?" Shang Tsung scoffed. "Orange juice?! Who orders ORANGE JUICE?!"

"Liu Kang apparently."

"Once again I have to kill these fools myself!" Shang Tsung complained as he grabbed his straight sword. "New plan, Kasem, I will call for those Red Dragon crooks to arrive at that village and they will assist you in planting the explosives around the village."

"Forgive me, master, but what purpose does that serve?"

"They suffer," Shang Tsung concluded. "That's enough of a reason for me."

"I'll do as you ask."

"It'll lure our enemies to the village, however, allowing myself and Quan Chi to attack," Shang Tsung added a more logical reason to his never ending schemes.

"Oh!" Kasem looked back at Tsung with some confidence, remembering something that would please the sorcerer. "I know where Liu Kang's funeral is being held!"

"That pathetic little tomb," Tsung already knew. "My other spies beat you to it."

"Oh…" Kasem looked down with disappointment. "I… I still don't trust those people you hire."

"You're no more reliable," the sorcerer shrugged. "I certainly don't trust them, but I'd never trust anyone."

"Not even me?"

"It's been what? Over ten thousand years?" Shang Tsung asked.

"Ten thousand two hundred and seventy four," Kasem remembered perfectly.

"Your lasting loyalty is certainly commendable," Tsung praised, "but I still don't place one hundred percent of my trust in you."

"Why not?"

"I literally shared my intellect with you!" Tsung complained further. "How do you not realise?!"

"You've been awfully generous," Kasem acknowledged. "You've even shared sorcery with me."

"You've studied those books perfectly," Tsung noted, "you just can't execute a plan as well as you can read."

"Sorry…"

"Going back to trust," Tsung rewound the conversation. "I clearly cannot trust you to carry out a plan, but me not having complete trust in you isn't due to any of your many flaws… I just literally cannot."

"What do you mean?"

"I'm incapable of trust," Tsung revealed. "Full trust, I mean. Anybody who is capable of such is a naive fool, they're opening themselves up and making themselves vulnerable. It's a weakness, and I've finally cut off all of mine."

"How… insightful…" Kasem considered the words.

"Anytime else I should know, Kasem?" Tsung questioned. "Or will you just keep wasting my time?"

"I have the owner of this bizarre establishment tied up still," Kasem informed him.

"Alive?"

"Yes," Kasem confirmed as she picked Madam Jo up to reveal her to the sorcerer, holding her knife to Jo's throat. "It was hard to resist the urge, sir, I had to take a few of her fingers…"

"I'll make a portal for you to bring her to my Dark Prison," Shang Tsung decided. "A weak soul, I imagine, but she might have relevant memories of the pathetic White Lotus that I can exploit after consuming it."

Madam Jo began struggling in Kasem's grasp, her screams muffled by the makeshift gag around her mouth.

"Let me hear what she has to say," Tsung ordered.

"If you raise your voice at all… then I'll slit it," Kasem threatened as she removed the gag.

"I have nothing of interest to you, sorcerer," Jo claimed as she begged to be released. "Please just let me go."

"Well I can't do that now, can I?" Tsung chuckled as he paced around his throne room. "You know too much now, old lady, so I think I'd rather devour your soul."

"No…" Jo sobbed before finding the remaining strength in her old body to kick her leg back, knocking Kasem onto a knee.

"You old hag!" Kasem yelled as she tackled the elderly martial artist and began wailing down punches on her face in a fit of rage.

"That's enough, Kasem!" Shang Tsung yelled. "I want a prisoner, not a hideous corpse! For now, at least."

"Yes, My Lord," Kasem complied as she forced the gag back on Jo's mouth whilst she was unconscious. "I'm ready to deliver her to you."

"Once you do that, I will summon the Red Dragon to this location… Maybe I'll even give those Black Dragons a chance too," Shang Tsung contemplated his plans. "I will give our enemies their minute of peace in Tarkata… then me and Quan Chi will attack them at Liu Kang's pathetic little tomb, whilst the destruction of this village divides their depressed little group!"

"They will all die!"