Final Kombat

A/N: This is it, fans. This is no accident that this would imply it's the end, the last book of my MK Khronology. It's based on Mortal Kombat Armageddon, and sometimes these epics, even the material I'm unfamiliar with, can really be a grind. Perhaps in the future, I might make a oneshot here and there as filler, but as always, my brain won't shut up on closing the last chapter of the klassic era. Just like what the Great Clement did saying farewell to classic Sonic and eventually his Sonic retrospective, I'm doing the same here...

Of course, it's gonna be a large chore to create, even when highlighting the end and Konquest, like the other epics, but it's to be expected.

For now, it shall take place soon after the events of Return of the Dragon King...

Prologue

After Liu Kang reunited his soul with his recovered body, courtesy of Raiden and Fujin in the Sky Temple, he settled with Kitana at Edenia for a while, away from the konstant konflicts. The Palace Grounds had astonishing sights to explore, and the royals and inhabitants were surprisingly friendly, including the Shokan and Centaurs who used to war with one another. The guards and monarchs were just as welcoming, and Jade and Sindel gave the pairing the greatest appreciation. Night soon fell, and the beta couple began to relax within Kitana's chambers. She...even proposed to him with an Edenian opal!

Their love began to flourish since that serene day and evening, and Kitana wished it would last forever, even the pyrokinetic.

However, due to having his duties as protector of Earthrealm, Liu soon left and mingled with the stupefied and ecstatic monks. He went, leaving a bewildered Kitana recollecting all the wrong doings she committed as being one of Onaga's generals and lamented on all the wars she and her allies fought, deep within her violet chambers. She even looked out her tall, arched window which was slightly agape as she breathed in the crisp air...

Suddenly, she felt a rush of hot air at the back of her neck... and saw a bright orange hue in her peripheral vision. She looked behind her abruptly, only to find what looked to be like a male humanoid, who almost had the same shades and koverings like Iron Man klad in krimson and canary. He stood as stiff as one of the stagnant trees contrary to those in the Living Forest.

In a vehement tone, he introduced himself as Blaze, the embodiment of fire, heat and lava.

Kitana was astonished, "Agh-Blaze...? The deity of Edenia, the creation of Lady Delia and Lord Argus...!"

"Indeed, I have come to alert you on a very serious manner."

He informed Kitana that her premonition of a looming conflict was correct, and that she must unite the forces of good once more for a koming battle to preserve the realms and all of existence. Disheartened, Kitana just fell to her knees.

She began to hunch over as she sobbed, her eyes flowing with tears. "When will it end...?" she implored in a shrill cry. "Every victory leads to more conflict and greater adversaries!"

Blaze simply just rose a hand and replied, "If all goes as planned, your enemies will be destroyed."

The Edenian slowly rose her head, pondering on the foreign entity's words...

Meanwhile, there was a disturbing vision in which all the Kombatants, within two factions, clashed each other brutally and to the death, scaring away a lone vulture who was munching on the remaining meat of a leftover corpse. Kintaro led the charge as he rose his arms and roared, while a massive army of darkness ran into a devastating fray. The forces of light rushed into the same wall of enemies within a steep crater!

A gruffy voice with an otherworldly accent boomed,

"There have been many powerful warriors throughout the millennia. But ages of Mortal Kombat have begun to tear and shatter all the realms. The critical point has finally been reached. It was foreseen the Kombatants would one day would grow too powerful and too immerse. If left unchecked, there would intensify a Kombat that would later shatter all the realms. To bring about the apocalypse.

"The Elder Gods demanded a safeguard, to avoid total destruction. One that would make peace of the Kombatants' insatiable blood lust. Like moths to the flame, they would be drawn to battle."

Numerous warriors were slain left and right, making the living and deceased hardly distinguishable. Moments later, a colossal pyramid rose from beneath the quaking ground, and just standing before the staircase, Stryker punched an assailant which kickstarted the murderous race to the summit!

"At the heat of destruction... alliances would be broken... and old hatreds...would be revived."

Kahn was carried away by Onaga, Bo' Rai Cho was slaughtered by Shang after he impaled Quan Chi. Shang then finished off Kenshi who was just mangled by the Oni, and then he was being halted by a chain strangling him. The warriors witnessed the same elemental Kitana met, only fully engulfed in flames as bright as the Phoenix, roaring and declaring to erase everyone!

"Armageddon...has begun...!"

That lethal battle faded in light...as that vision played out inside Raiden's mind, filling him with dread and panic, amongst other negative emotions. After he calmed from what seemed to be a night terror, he looked down at his amulet after he held his head and his vision cleared; it was beginning to show cracks on the fragile, grey-blue surface...

"Master Raiden?"

From behind, Liu Kang witnessed his mentor in distress. The Thunder God turned to see his most promising disciple, though he wasn't relieved. "Oh, Liu Kang..."

"I followed the sudden booms of thunder and erratic bolts of lightning emanating from the Temple. Are you hurt?"

"Ergh, no. But I have grown despondent over this vision I had..."

His eyes perked up, "A vision...? You mean...?"

"...You saw it as well? The impending battle of Armageddon?"

He bit his tongue and only let out a slow nod. Raiden just stood up and walked slowly over to the devoted monk. Liu looked up, with his guardian wearing a somber expression.

"Liu Kang... What I'm about to describe to you was a long-lost secret, only shared amongst us within the pantheon. And is forbidden for mortals to know... Those malevolent visions that we apparently both saw... Was the beginning of the end. The end of all the realms, all of existence. And that fiery entity was Blaze, who's supposed to be the embodiment of the end... Armageddon has begun."

At an opaque cavern, a female Edenian received word from her lover as she walked up to him. A male which looked Oriental consisting of a pair of white eyes and a thick, silvery do tied back into a thin ponytail gazed onto the same sacred medallion with golden and clear blue. Cracks began to form on its surface as he muttered in despair, "It has begun..."

A/N: I won't unveil the identity of the...random Oriental just yet. Although he would be a special addition throughout the story here! In fact, I'd been dropping hints here and there of this...God's involvement. But I won't fill in all the details.

I can't seem to find the transcript of the opening dialogue, so unfortunately, I'd have to do all this myself, muffled and otherwise... It sucks I need to mimic as much as possible especially the fight scenes, which seemed contrary to the roster I have; if you guys had read my previous epics, you'd see how different.

Songs here would include Intro from MK Armageddon, the Overture in MK9, and the epic cinematic trailer theme/remix of the MK Immortals theme by Alex Besss; no the three s's are no accident like I thought.

Only three people received disturbing visions of the end. The rest shall fall into place later on...

Con't I: Welcome to the Jungle...

Under an archway and two curved dragons made of dark granite, an elderly man wearing a large cape and a regal outfit of dark crimson, black, and blanch innards stood over a spacious, rectangular balcony looking over a vast, foggy valley of steep, rolling hills and a forest of evergreen. It was an opaque and humid night, although he was never irritated by it, but rather something different...

He spoke aloud, "It is done. Taven and Daegon have been hidden. The dragons, Orin and Caro, will be at their sides."

A woman with her upper face and head covered by an elaborate bucket of sorts, along with a long dress of bright red and faded pink, walked up to him. She might had been blind, although the woman was rumored to be a prophet and her third eye seemed remarkably clear. "I trust they will be safe in the caves. I only hope Shao Kahn shows no interest in Earthrealm."

Argus just disregarded the serious matter as he turned to the distant air. "It is unlikely. His attention seems focused only on Edenia. The pyramid is completed. You are certain the battle will take place here, Delia?"

She replied, "I am. I have sent Blaze to monitor the realms. When the time has come, he will signal the dragons and the quest will begin." She then hesitated as the bottom half of her face shown some doubt with the fallen lips, "Are we doing the right thing, Argus?"

He spoke confidently, "Your visions determined this course of action." He pointed toward the distance in speculation, "The powerful warriors to come... the corruption of a Mortal Kombat tournament... The chain of events you foretell will lead to a conflict that will destroy us all!" His voice rose a little by every sentence, then faced his lover, "These kombatants must be dealt with!" He spoke with the utmost contempt.

It seemed that Delia received premonitions of Armageddon, which were driving her husband, Argus, to construct the Pyramid, put their sons into an extended slumber, and await the awakening of Blaze to put an end to their enemies, including Shao Kahn; he hoped that Delia's visions were true and accurate, and their sons shall be ready to end the apocalypse. And that their guardian dragons would watch over them.

"I am talking about Taven and Daegon." Delia clarified with earnest, changing her serene tone. "Must they be involved?"

"Our sons are the only ones we can trust. Furthermore, they will prove their worth before the Elder Gods. They will bring honor to Edenia."

"And to you... If they survive..."

He pointed to the barren portholes at the rear, also made by the sturdy stone, "We have equipped them well. And the monoliths will hone their skills. This must be done.

"Daegon and Taven will remain dormant. When they are revived, they will embark on a quest to save the realms from Armageddon. May the Elder Gods watch over them."

Within Earthrealm, a monolith of golden etchings beside a lava river shattered, awakening the oldest of their sons, Taven. He was abruptly pushed forward and made him crawl out. He was still groggy and stunned by the sudden, rude awakening.

A vehement voice spoke down to him, which belonged to a serpent with dark golden scales and a pair of flaming eyes that looked like liquid gold. His mouth never moved as he talked, almost as if he was speaking into the sleepy man's mind. "Taven! It is good to see you have awakened. Do not worry - your strength will soon return."

"Orin? What happened?" For such a tired demigod sleeping for so long, he was surprisingly coherent. He also stood up with little to no issue on balance and fatigue.

"You were encased in stone - to protect you from harm until I received the signal to awaken you. You are no longer in Edenia, Taven. You are in Earthrealm."

He was indeed dumbfounded, "I...I don't understand. Why am I in Earthrealm?"

"Your father has a very important task here for you. Your brother, Daegon, will also be participating. It is a competition between the two of you, from what I understand."

"Competition? Last I remember, Daegon and I were summoned to Father's throne room, and..." He lost his train of thought.

Orin just finished his query. " ...and there you were both rendered unconscious. I don't know the details of this quest. I was charged only with hiding you in Earthrealm and awakening you when the time came. That time is now."

"No..." He shook his head in disbelief, and to clear some of the dizziness, "This is all too strange. Where is my father? I wish to speak with him." His voice grew with a tad of desperation.

"I will send you to his temple. Find the main chamber and place your hand on the altar. Your father will speak to you there and present you with a weapon to use on your quest. No doubt your brother has been awakened by Caro and will be sent there shortly."

"Why will I need a weapon?" Realizing there wasn't time to question him, he almost immediately switched gears, "Very well, Orin, lead the way."

As his navigator and personal friend, he conjured a sap-colored portal leading to the Botan Jungle en route to Argus' temple.

He wound up in a muggy jungle, at the edge of a precipice which ended behind him, and a waterfall was making its thunderous roar beside it. He made some swift punches and kicks to loosen up his stiff muscles from the extended slumber before he made the first foot of his journey.

He took out a thick sheet of paper which looked as if aged as long as he was asleep. "Hmm...this map should lead me to my father's temple."

He followed the dirt road to some fallen, bare branches blocking it. He made some strong maneuvers to break thru which added some sensation to his rusty limbs. After some steep declines as well as removing more coarse detritus, he spotted a skinny woman clad in an indigo garb and matching headband as she stood before a durable, wide bridge.

She was nearly startled as she heard the sudden ruffle from behind and made out the muscular figure clad in bright golden and black armor.

"Who're you?" Taven asked in a curious tone.

"I am Kitana, the princess of Edenia. I've been roaming down this jungle in search of my allies. Though I must remain discreet, as I had more personal matters outside of my watchful kingdom."

"I am Taven, my parents are Argus and Delia. Edenia, you say? I want to be on my way there, but I wound up far away from it in Earthrealm."

Kitana stood upright and agog, "Taven!? The mythical demigod of the Edenian God and prophet?"

"Indeed, I am." He replied humbly, no show of arrogance, "I'm on a quest myself. In search of my father's weapon located in his temple yonder this jungle."

"So, you're on your way to look for an artifact in the protector's pyramid." Kitana felt a little uneasy, then she held her chin in deep thought, "Hmm... If you really are the son of Argus, then I challenge you. Prepare for battle, if you dare behold my wrath!" She drew out her dual steel fans, while Taven put up his dukes.

She blocked Taven's advances, until he spun kicked her in the chest. She regained her composure as she jumped to her feet and made her own advances with her sharp, reflective fans that were clear but lethal. They left some minor abrasions on Taven's arms as he recoiled, like fists clashing with the precise fans. Until she unleashed some irritating soundwaves while the fans spun against each other, driving the rookie back. He continued to lash harder, even to the point on emitting small flames from his arms and fists! His brute strength and resilience were returning to Taven blow by blow, which seemed to make Kitana waver. The fans, though, were decent shields upon Taven's rushes, though she'd still feel some discomfort, making her vulnerable to another blow or two. This gave the newbie the advantage overworking her weary muscles. Kitana's kicks were the most direct and impactful, although Taven's thick cover helped endure the strikes. Just like a ferocious bear, though, he backpedaled once she dropped as he recalled he was only fighting a woman.

Down but not out, Kitana stumbled slowly back on her feet, and she grew impressed with the newcomer. She puffed, "Well, the Elder Gods must've blessed us yet. You truly are the skilled warrior of Argus. Where is your brother, Daegon?"

"Uh...sorry, I haven't seen him since before my slumber. My guardian, Orin, said he'd meet me soon. He mentioned that he and Caro needed to prepare us for some competition."

"A competition, between you two..?" Kitana perspired, "This isn't good. I'd been on a lone journey to gather all my friends for Armageddon as prophesized by Blaze. But since I'd heard you're one of the chosen along with your opposing brother, I felt great relief. Although, I was searching in seclusion, even slipping away from the kingdom without noting anyone..." She pointed Taven toward the ruins. "Go, follow the dirt road till you reach a clearing. A village shall await you, and the temple shall be towering over it like a steeple. Go to it, and hurry. I look forward to seeing you again."

Taven thanked Kitana and did just that.

After a few beats when he left, Kitana came to an inclination, The protector god and his wife were dead...

He came across a thin stone with illuminating green etchings both shining at the top and down its body.

"Taven, place your hand on the monolith," a deep tone emanated from it.

Taven just stood upright, like a deer in headlights. "Father?" He hesitantly did what he was told and touched the stone which produced a blinding light spreading.

By the time, Taven cleared his vision, he wound up inside an obelisk, complete with an elaborate, vast chamber of purple walls and teal tiles. He wound up smack dab in the epicenter of a small circular platform along with his new guide "Where am I?" he spoke with confusion and exasperation.

"This is a training area." The same voice greeted him, though the same elderly man was shown in a translucent hue which projected from an altar.

"Father, is that you?"

"No, Taven." He responded casually. "I am merely a reflection of your father. My purpose is to train you for your coming challenge."

"Would you tell me what this is all about?" Taven's expression became more desperate.

"You will find your answers within the temple. This monolith was created to help you hone your fighting skills. There are others like it scattered throughout the realms. They can only be activated by you or your brother. ...Now then, let us begin your training." They bowed to each other, before the hologram dissipated.

Behind him, he encountered several Onis, although they only appeared one, then a few at a time. Taven used his honed, not forgotten, melee skills to deal with the hordes. He even recollected a powerful technique that literally shattered the wave of enemies with his ground pound! It was a critical move, even combusting some flames toward them, making them stunned for another counter. He also practiced his evasive ability by somersaulting, so too while juggling his opponent. He also recalled how to grab and throw or strike an enemy head on!

With all those skills mastered, another swell of white light enveloped, and he was back in the Botan Jungle within seconds.

Was I inside the monolith? How is that possible? Maybe Father will explain when I find him in the temple.

He soon came to the same fork in the road and took the left passage with the stone wall removed. He wound up with some small statue mouths at each side of him, before he hesitated as he witnessed taller maws. One side was spitting out darts, while the other received them, before the pattern repeated. He timed the spits rhythmically and evaded each volley with his somersaults which helped him gain momentum. clearing as he removed the prickly, thick brush and wound up near a primitive village, like a square littered with behemoth houses.

He saw each structure have a fierce man exit from each one, surrounding Taven. He braced himself as he klobbered the gangsters, especially with his handy flaming ground pound which decimated several thugs almost instantly!

By the time the way was clear, he spotted a colossal temple with an eerie face that could've belonged to those scary portal mouths found in the Elder God Halls.

There was another square with the same type of criminals from the previous area, only this time, Taven wiped them out easier thanks to the Battle Axe he picked up! Some of the terrorists hesitated to attack the demigod as they noticed him behead their comrades, yet still he bashed thru them.

He didn't mind the puddles of blood staining the stone floors, as his eyes scanned another sacred structure.

Looks like I've finally arrived at my father's temple. I didn't know he had one here in Earthrealm. I'm sure he'll explain everything once I locate him in the main chamber.

He was met by the 20-foot tall, thin goddess which was holding her hands in prayer to the Elder Gods as he found some unknown though valuable relics, including Hotaru's flag and Dairou's keys, before he scanned the mysterious engravings on the walls surrounding a circular platform.

"What are these images supposed to represent?" "That looks like Mother having one of her visions... and this must be Father speaking with the Elder Gods. These sleeping figures might be my brother and I." He perspired, "How long was I unconscious? And what's this? It appears as if my brother and I are attacking some... demon. I have no memory of that..." He shook his head in confusion, "What does this all mean? Where is everyone? Doesn't seem like anyone's worshipped here in ages."

Suddenly, several of those fanatics descended at the epicenter, and Taven fought off each of the three waves diligently! His bear-like hide, as well as the lethal grabs and throws or punches, even his minor pyrokinesis, was more than enough to exterminate them! Conveniently, an aperture rose its door after the enemies were killed.

Although Taven needed to watch his footing while a side statue exhaled a wall of fire! The streak nearly burnt him as he was anxious to reach the center chamber. It then became a sort of obstacle course as he encountered more of those same mouths which kept on breathing out flames like a dragon's. Thanks to his momentum and flexibility, Taven managed, even in the steep incline before meeting another deadly trap.

Around another corner, there was a straightaway, but the floor shook for a brief second. The reprieve didn't last as the ground continuously quaked by those wide bases of a series of slammers coming from the ceiling! They even had rows of spikes underneath to make the trek more fatal. Thanks to memorization of their rhythmic patterns, Taven went straight away.

He ran across the grates, then thru some thick cobwebs, before he entered another wider room where the black armored thugs awaited him! Taven kept on the same strategy as before with his Battle Axe and lethal ground pound; what made the melee easier to manage were not only he had more wiggle room, but he hardly noticed the long balcony in which he threw his opponents over!

That death trap wasn't entirely safe afterwards as the two chests were littered with poisonous gas! Taven was still eager to find more artifacts within his father's sacred temple, but not all treasures were beneficial... Taven constantly dropped and rolled to give him more oxygen till his airways were clear enough.

He continued thru where he met more of the same lethal pillars, and it wasn't easy remembering their patterns since the constant slams distracted him from the current traps. There were a few errors as the spikes caused some bleeding on his arm. Thankfully some of the relics like Hotaru's flag provided a cast for one of his limbs. As he gotten further in the straightaway, the slammers became less overwhelming, unlike the first one.

After descending a narrow ramp, he beheld three stairwells at the sides and front connecting to a higher platform! There was a smaller side pedestal in which the engravings from the monolith were on the top. Taven touched it, and it let out a gong noise as it emanated red light, while the center ledge shined bright blue which caused Argus to arise!

"Taven, the time has come for you and Daegon to prove your worth to Edenia. I must choose my successor as Protector of the Realm. I give you each a weapon of great power. You will find them on the wall behind this altar. Your mother has also left you items of great importance. You will find them in her temple to the north."

"What are they? What is their purpose?" Taven asked in slight desperation.

"You must find Blaze, a firespawn created by your mother. Use the items we have given you to defeat him. The victor will not only succeed me as Protector of Edenia, but he will receive a gift worthy of a god. Go now, and may the Elder Gods watch over you-"

Before the transmission finished, the demigod was knocked out by one of the rockets in which a robot shot! It let out a quiet metallic noise as it moved, before it broke off its camouflage. Sektor, the red robot assassin emerged and spoke into his communicator, "Sektor: Sektor to warship. Rendezvous for immediate evac."

Unfortunately, Taven was already blacked out by the unsuspected assault...

"Grandmaster Sektor, the prisoner is awake."

Taven moaned as he weakly opened his eyes. At first, he didn't know he was suspended just a few feet from the hard floor, nor was he immobolized by a magnetic field.

"Good. Now I can get the information I need," Sektor stated with eagerness as he turned and faced his newest catch.

Taven wasn't able to see his other assailant who just left his leader be. "Unh... Uh-What are you?"

"I will ask the questions! I need to know what you learned in from the altar in the temple! What message did you receive?" The incapacitated prisoner didn't respond. "Answer me!" Sektor replied with a deathly tone.

"Ergh. You are going to regret having-"

Sektor just flipped a switch which made the sonic waves behind Taven larger as he was being shocked!

When the bolts dissipated, Sektor roared, "What information did you acquire from the altar?"

The warship violently shook and the fluorescent lights flickered!

"Grandmaster Sektor! The ship is being attacked!" One of his mechanical associates broke the news as he huddled against one motherboard.

"Incoming fighters! Special Forces!" said the other bot against another of the same gizmo.

"Tekunin warship! This is Sonya Blade!" An authorative woman broke over the loudspeakers. "You are in violation of the Earthrealm Accord! Surrender immediately or risk annihilation!"

Sektor just demanded his troops after his base was shot again only this time debris fell from above, "Remain at your posts! Initiate code K-0-N-N-1-H-5!"

"Affirmative!" They both sounded altogether.

As the alarm blared, Taven was still immobilized until a few more volatile shots were initiated, disabling the forcefield! He came down on all fours and headed straight where he met a wave of those krimson klankers!

"I must get off this warship before it's destroyed!" He stated as he ran for it.

"Estimated time for impact, 30 minutes and counting."

The announcer prompted Taven to look at Hsu Hao's watch in which he found back at Argus' temple. He began to sprint while also collecting more of those leftover scraps around. At the topmost corridor, he found a few deactivated units. One of them he managed to snatch the card key from which allowed him entry to another corridor with more of the same sentinels. Hell, one unit actually kept Kung Lao's lost razor-rimmed hat! Kourtesy of the kard key, he was accessed to a chamber with a large rotating fan as well as an array of cybernetics!

Upon his strategy, he uppercut and even grabbed and tossed his foes into the fan which splattered their circuits and sprinkled oil everywhere! Due to the sudden leakage, the impacts were able to stun some of the approaching units before being thrown aloft! Taven, with his keen vision, found an axe emitting a neon green glow from a side room before he ran further.

With about ten minutes to spare, according to the watch, Taven hurried into another kard key access point where he met another swarm! He hardly heard Sonya demanding to surrender the ship! Thanks to the adrenaline rush, Taven was able to unleash some wide blasts of fire onto the terrorists!

He was finally able to progress, with assistance from the constant demolitions of the vessel being attacked! He managed to find Sektor's rocket and Jade's bracelet amongst the chaos! With the Battle Axe, ground impact, and the increased pyrokinesis, he plowed thru another squad!

He ran onto a narrow corridor where three more units ambushed Taven; one of them even snatched a Special Forces ID badge before he reached another kard key access point.

"I have to find some way out of this ship and back to the portal." Taven anxiously mentioned as he finally breached the main deck where his assailant snuck in from behind.

"You are not leaving until I get all the information I need, even if I have to beat it out of you. Fight!" He curved his arms, intimidating his opponent.

Taven used all the Golden Dragon moves he mustered thus far, even countering Sektor's own Kenpo, though he needed to watch himself as the machine could endure more than a fleshy human! Taven thought he'd be at a disadvantage, even with Sektor's precision, but the demigod's elemental abilities made some even footing.

Unfortunately, the harder lunges gave Taven more pain, so he switched to the Drakesword he was equipped with at the start of his journey. This made him slice and dice Sektor's durable chest cavity which made him falter. With his rockets beneath his feet, he soared and stood. Sektor took out a pair of Pulse Blades, making it more like an en guarde duel! Although with Taven's fiery lunge similar to Johnny's Shadow maneuvers, the licked flames made Sektor falter which gave him the homefield advantage.

Over the Amazonian landscape, the warship was several feet above as it sharply descended toward the thick vegetation! Spotting a side window, Taven threw Sektor's retrieved rocket which exploded a large hole which was twice as wide for his body to leap out! Making kontact with some tall, thick canopies, he cushioned his fall onto the soddy jungle floor!

Finally, I found a way out of the warship. I'll have to get back to the portal and return to the cave. Maybe Orin has some idea who these strange warriors are... I can't help but wonder if my brother, Daegon, has encountered the same foes I have.

By backtracking with the map, Taven soon returned to the same honey portal. Orin was there awaiting his friend as if he had never moved from his perch! "Welcome back, Taven. You were away quite a long time."

He dusted himself and sighed, "I was ambushed. More than once..."

"By your father's holy men?"

"No. His followers apparently abandoned the temple long ago. Warriors in red occupy it now."

"This is not right. Something is amiss. Did you learn more about the quest? Where is the weapon your father left you?"

"There was no weapon. I'm assuming it was stolen long ago. As for the quest, apparently, it's a race to kombat a firespawn named Blaze. Whoever defeats him will succeed Father as Protector of Edenia! There was also the princess of Edenia, Kitana, who'd been searching for her friends to prepare for Armageddon. Even SHE knew who Blaze was!"

"Yes... Blaze! He is the watcher who sounded the call to awaken you. But how can defeating him in battle grant you the title of Protector? Your mother was mortal. You are only a half-god. Transforming you into a full god would require..." Orin seemed nervous to continue his sentence.

"Require what?"

"What else did you learn?" He changed the subject.

"I must travel to the north. Mother has left me an item in her temple. I hope it's still there. I also escaped from a warship that was operated by Sektor and his men."

Orin's eyes widened, "Sektor! He's still alive!? Impossible! I also noticed the Black Dragon's had increased in numbers! I believe that temple is now currently in a territory called Articka! The Lin Kuei occupy that place, and Sektor was a part of that klan several years ago! I will send you there at once."

Orin conjured another portal without hesitation, and Taven went thru it post-haste!

A/N: Whew... This was the longest, toughest chapter I ever have to pull off. Glad to be done with this one, and I hope the others won't be just as long.

Quickening from Dissidia Final Fantasy would play whenever Orin talks to Taven, Konquest: Botan Jungle from Mortal Kombat Armageddon would play during the first leg of his journey, Battle Arena would follow when he gets into a melee, Konquest: Inside the Obelisk, Konquest: Obelisk Battle, Konquest: Tekunin Warship, and Tekunin Prison will follow in their corresponding moments.

Also dare I say that Kobra, Kira and Kabal were cut, as much like Ian in 616Entertainment, I wasn't into the faction wars between the Red and Black Dragons. I also made Kitana meet Taven, another Edenian, who was determined to prevent Armageddon; thought it'd be kool for two of them to go the same path but in different directions. And MK Konfessions gave me the idea that since I felt 2006 was too long from 1995, he said it'd be a few months upon Kitana's desperation after meeting Blaze. I hope the relics would be helpful for Taven in the long run, like making up Hotaru's flag used as a cast for his bleeding, or Hsu Hao's clock to keep track of time to escape the warship.

So, another strenuous chapter done; hopefully Taven would find the answers in Articka, especially with the sudden rise in the Red Dragons and Sektor's revival...

Con't II: Expedition in Arctika

Taven made his way to Arctika, to the far reaches of the Northern Pole. The impact when Orin's portal ejected him left massive cracks onto the clear, icy path. Although Taven wasn't wavered by the bone-chilling air as his body heat was as strong as a dragon's fire, and his boots made him as more sturdier than the tall pillars and sharp spikes; amongst the rubble, he was able to find a Tarkatan blade, although his expedition was thwarted by the sounds of scuffling when a swarm of vicious tribesmen wearing orange garb ran straight for him! Thanks to his honed abilities, and with some help from the dagger he found, he was easily able to wipe the way as clean as the ice underneath him. Not even the storm picking up in wind, golf ball-sized snowflakes and loose friction slowed him down! Surprisingly, the ice path never melted nor caved in despite the brute and heat of Taven's moves!

Still, he continued on till another swarm of those same wild men approached him. It was unfortunate for them as Taven tossed some of the men into protruding spikes. Even when they detached some icicles were of little issue for the unstoppable Edenian!

As he progressed about a mile further, he made out some beastly roars emanating thru the blizzard. The snarls belonged what appeared to be a yeti, complete with a horned back, white and grey fur as thick as an ungulate's hide, black hands, and sharps claws! It let out an ear-piercing bellow at Taven as he prepared for battle. Just like the Ice Beast, he never lost balance, although he was agile enough to avoid its swipes. The Tarkatan blade did little to no infliction, letting Taven get caught and beaten a few times in the monster's constriction! Still, Taven let out his fiery ferocity as he kept his distance and unleashed some large fireballs into the Abominable's open chest! It even tried to conjure a massive pound, although Taven made his own while avoiding the shockwave, stunning the foe. It was his chance to klose in with some pyro punches before the beast crashed back to the metallic, barred door.

Treading onto the fallen corpse, Taven headed thru the broken exit. The blizzard picked up more that it almost blinded him while the coarse wind made him weary. He was unable to notice another one of the monstrosities looking down at its prey from on a nearby steep hill. It actually leapt from its perch and onto the icy path, just a mere foot from its next meal! Taven still put up his dukes as the beast drew nearer. Only to have it hesitate and squeal as its back spewed some blood! A strike as if belonging to a rocket hit the intruder on contact, before it collapsed in a heap! Taven's eyes hardly made out the opaque figure, with its symmetrical body descend by thrusters beneath its feet. It gently descended, then a group of ninjas donned in blue and black raced to them.

"Looks like I don't need my smoke to make the entrance." A metallic tenor echoed.

Before Taven replied, "Commander Smoke, we scouted the wilderness and noticed this man here. Oh, this must be him," a warrior spoke in a more organic tone.

"So, it is...!"

Taven just bowed, "I really want to thank you for saving my life. Who are you?"

The armored man pointed himself as Smoke, a member of the Lin Kuei. "We occupy most of Arctka, but the wilderness is fraught with many dangers." Acknowledging Taven's garb, he reached out a hand. "You don't look to be around here. Come, we will help you seek shelter from the storm."

"I appreciate the offer, Smoke. Lead on."

The Lin Kuei escorted Taven to their own home turf just a few miles away; lucky for them, thanks to the cybernetic enhancements, each of the men were able to follow Smoke as they activated them and pierced thru the arctic air as they flew to the looming temple. Taven mistakenly identified it as Delia's temple, but he'd mistaken as it was known as the Lin Kuei base.

Two patrolmen stood side by side from the large slab of alloy. "Smoke, you have returned safely."

"Yes, I have. We were scouting the outer perimeters until we spotted this man lost in the storm."

The other guard sighed, "...It's not the first time we accepted an outcast. Go, you may pass."

Inside the bright blue throne room consisting of the glacier walls and regal flags plus the rug leading to the Grandmaster, Kuai Liang, who stood before Taven, even his close apprentice, Frost, he spoke, "Brother. It's about time you had returned. The snowstorm is becoming worse for scouting. Who is this weary traveler?"

Smoke uncovered his face which had a Czech composure and short, black hair. "This is Taven, mui pøítel. We had found him lost in the blizzard."

"We even saw him wipe out those swarms of the vicious Tengu klan, even an Ice Beast!" one of the ninjas declared enthusiastically. Even the cryomancers were impressed.

He held his chin, "Has he now...? It would take several of our warriors to achieve the same feat as you have. Unless if you are Smoke. I am intrigued." Frost's eyes just glistened upon the admiration. "He may stay, or at least until the storm has passed."

Taven bowed, "Thank you, Grandmaster. I am humbled by the offer."

"So, why have you come here, stranger?" Frost queried.

"I am looking for a temple here. One that belonged to my mother."

The Lin Kuei were flabbergasted. "This IS a temple here, newcomer."

He shook his head, "No... I'm looking for my mother's temple. Her name is Delia. I was told there was supposed to be sacred weapons there. Have you heard of it?"

Everyone just mumbled as they wore expressions of doubt. "Eh...we would try looking it up on the ethernet, but in this storm!? ...It can only do so much."

"I believe I might know." A slicker woman with black and white locks marched out from a corner door behind the throne. Kuai introduced her as Sareena, a defector from the Netherrealm. "That name Delia seems remarkably familiar. She was revered as the Empress of Flame."

"Yes, she's my mother, Sareena. Do you know the whereabouts of her temple?"

"Rumors say she once occupied it around these parts, but it's still further into the dangerous wilderness." As she pointed yonder, her eyes abruptly noticed some red shines igniting from a nearby monolith. "-Hmm, those lights. They were never there before!"

Everyone went over to the stunning sight which glowed like a beacon thru the inclement weather. Sareena said she couldn't make out the symbols on its base, but Taven came to the conclusion it looked similar to the ones he saw at the Botan Jungle.

"As soon as you have recovered and if the storm should pass, you are free to investigate," the Grandmaster offered.

By the time the snowstorm finally subsided minutes later, Taven went to it and then touched its basaltic surface.

"Those hieroglyphics are now brightening as much as those mysterious Soul Stones! Astounding, even though it's by the abbot and his monks, but I don't believe it." Sareena mentioned.

Just then, Taven was engulfed in a blinding white light, and he vanished! The ninjas just muttered to themselves of the incident.

Instead, Taven was just transported inside another obelisk, only this one was imbued in red instead of the forest green like the previous one. By the time Taven unshielded his burning eyes, he received a transmission behind him. He instantly recognized her regal attire and voice, "Taven. You have entered an obelisk of your father's creation. I have empowered it to train you further in the art of kombat."

He faced her with doubt, "You're not really my mother, are you?"

"No, I am not your mother. I am merely a reflection of the woman who enchanted this stone. My purpose is to aid you on your quest."

"Can you tell me more about this quest?"

"Only that you will find a gift in the temple. It lies behind a wall. Place your hand in the recess to unlock the door. Your training will now begin." As soon as she addressed this, masked figures materialized with black and magenta garb; at first, Taven figured they belonged to the same assassins he dealt with in the rough jungles, yet still he fought them off.

Sareena and the Lin Kuei still remained outside in the bitter cold, though their keen vision noticed a flash of lightning reflecting from the icy path; at first, they thought it was snow thunder, "Ergh, as if that storm hasn't ended yet!"

All a sudden, there was an even larger flash that completely covered the entire area, and they almost instantly beheld the original guardian of Earthrealm!

"Lord Raiden...!" The startled onlookers gasped and felt as if their throats were stabbed by ice shards, then they bowed low.

They reiterated Taven's disappearance and were now awaiting his return, but the Thunder God had other ideas... "I have come to reassemble your best warriors. There is a greater threat that will change the fate of all realms. Sareena, I will send you to our new protector of Earthrealm; your close ally, the Goddess of Light, Ashrah. She's waiting for you in the Sky Temple. She will tell you on what's about to unfold."

The reformed demon nodded before he opened a portal there.

As Taven fought off another fleet of Snow Ninjas, one of the assailants threw a shot glass toward him; it shattered as the Edenian blocked, only then he was subdued by dark olive poisonous gas. This was causing him to cough at times, yet still, while his vision was less keen, he was able to use his potent pyrokinesis onto two remaining swarms. By the time he took out the latter group, the effects of that toxic cloud wore off.

He was then exposed to the bone chilling air of the arctic, which merely took him off guard since it was a stark contrast to the cozier obelisk; it was empowered by his mom's fiery aura, after all.

Still, some of the Lin Kuei wished Taven a safe journey while others escorted him to Delia's temple.

The small gathering warned Taven of the traps ahead, although they seemed vague in their memory as the slight, though blinding, bites and volleys of snow. It was until a series of loud clangs coming from a pair of lethal crushers boomed! The ninjas had a bit of a struggle climbing over the handles, even when they needed to lift them by their feet, while Taven took on the challenge of memorizing the rhythmic patterns like he did with Argus' traps. A few of those deadly contraptions awaited the little team, but they managed to press on. Taven even found a Chaosrealm kleric's mask amongst the traps.

He also found a special emerald that shined brighter than the thick flurry as he fought off more of those aggravating Tengu while his teammates assisted with their swift martial arts and ice blades for klose kombat. He then managed to enter a nearby stone chamber where he found a longer and sharper Drakesword, which proved to be twice as effective against more of the feral Tengu klan! After he bashed thru a chunk of snow stuck in a rocky wall with minimal effort, he found a red beret cap; he wondered if it'd help protect his head from the nippy weather.

As he headed further following the icy paths, one of the ninjas halted him as he stuck out an arm; he noticed the thin contraptions that possessed two blades which were rotating and moving rapidly like helicopter rotors. They advised Taven to be wary at all times and be as nimble to avoid lethal abrasions. One of them even wished he could possess cryomancy like Kuai and Frost... Nevertheless, Taven's agility was useful, as were the Lin Kuei, even when temporarily stalling them with their thrown shurikens. They too used them for the side hammers to activate their lunges before they should lose a limb.

It wasn't long before they were ambushed again by another wave of the Tengu, even when Taven found a pair of Sedio sunglasses. "Man, there's just no end to these guys...!" one of the men sighed with irritation.

As the flurry suddenly cleared, one of the warriors exclaimed, "Good! With that storm gone, I can see that looming temple up ahead! It's yonder up this path here. But beware for traps."

More of those deathly rotors greeted them, only this time the small one moved left to right, while three larger ones swayed from front to back in different tandems; narrow scars in the snow were shown as they cut thru the air like scalpels. Still, the team stopped them with their shurikens assisting Taven to progress.

After another army of Tengu, the Lin Kuei had their hands full while Taven wandered ahead. He hardly noticed the warrior clad in golden linings with his hot velvet gear and cape as he leapt down just inches in front of him!

"What!?"

"So, it is true!" The masked assailant challenged him in a high tenor voice. "Delia's son has returned to claim the prize and save the realms. I figured you would eventually come to this place...Taven."

"You seem to know much about me, but I know nothing of you, 'friend.'" He stated the last word with bitter sarcasm.

"I am no friend of yours. I am Rain, a Prince of Edenia. Once I have defeated you, I will find and kill your brother as well. Then I will claim the prize!" He declared pointing at himself.

"Well, 'prince', let us see what you can do."

They both put their dukes up. At first the battle was just between them, exchanging blow after blow from their basic assaults, until Rain rose the bar utilizing his own blade clanging with Taven's new Drakesword. Then, he upped the ante more as he finally unleashed a hydro pump from his palms which knocked the Edenian down; they were almost as pressurizing as a water cannon, yet still, Taven's momentum allowed him to evade and charge with his own pyro strikes. Later on, the hydrokinesis disabled his pyrokinesis temporarily, but due to the frigid climate, they sometimes shattered onto the path below like glass. And thanks to his brute strength and his newly found weapon that Taven found, Rain eventually evaporated with a shrill cry!

The trio of Lin Kuei then caught up with Taven. "Are you alright?"

"That was close."

"A hydro wielder can be very powerful in this unrelenting environment!"

"He was no match for me." Taven boasted. "I guess all this time sleeping hasn't deterred me. Yet."

They spotted a couple more of those cutthroat rotors, one moving faster in the front than the one in the rear. Again, the Lin Kuei threw their ninja stars to pause the blades, before the group was met by a sudden fire dart shot from above! Following the assault, Taven conjured and thrust his pyro balls toward the occupants in the multiple towers whenever he should see them. The nearby place was defended by more archers and some flaming cannons. Many shurikens were thrown, though it was Taven who managed to clean house. The low-ranked warriors rotated as they disabled the cannons and took down the archers which seemed more nimble than the latter. Though it didn't take long with their team efforts.

En route to Delia's temple, Taven found the same purple and golden vial his other assailant was wearing as he bashed open another indention covered with a thick wall of snow. He also found a ragged doll of sorts in another indent which seemed to give him a bit of nostalgia.

Still, the tumultuous journey turned favorable as the group was finally able to enter the foreboding stronghold, but they all knew the expedition won't be easy.

"Whew... This must be Delia's temple." The gang beheld a multi-story shrine with numerous icicles and sharp stalactites all over the bleak grey-navy blue stronghold.

"My mother's temple must be here, but it's now occupied by a clan of ninjas. Locating the item she left me will not be easy. I'll have to fight my way inside."

As the group went inside the spacious cubicle, the two entrances were suddenly blown shut! Swarms of enemies wearing black and blue garbs leapt out of the many portholes; the Lin Kuei knew it wouldn't be one of their kind! They were nervous despite the chilly air that someone must've beaten them here, but the enemies seemed more easier to sweep away.

Through a couple corridors, the ninjas followed the Edenian, even when he bashed open a nearby glass cannister revealing a massive jade which might have once belonged to a powerful sorcerer. Taven entered another large cubicle which had the Ice Scepter laying on the ground! "I wonder if THIS was the weapon my mother left me... But I still have a long way to go."

There was a rear door encased in ice, but of course more of those familiar though foreign enemies preceded. Taven wielded the spanking new weapon as if it were a Keyblade, having it emit below zero mist and then cutting thru! Eventually, the momentum made Taven pound and break apart the sealed door.

Amongst several more of those skinny halls, Taven helped the ninjas bash thru a wall of spiked ice and also found a thin, rubbery teal blue mask as if it belonged to Frost from before. He then looked dazed as he stared into space.

"Hey, what gives?" One of the ninjas tried to snap him out of his reverie.

"Oh, I, uh...seemed to have remembered something." Taven held his head. "I... I think I can escape out of some place while envisioning the outside in my mind. I just now can recall this..."

"Well, it's about damn time you remembered! This can be useful!"

He tried it for himself as he spun around on his toes rapidly, similar to Kung Lao's Tornado Kick, and his body disappeared in an abrupt burst of flame, then he reappeared. Still, the Lin Kuei were anxious as they called for him to follow them.

There was another roomy chamber, no longer covered with rows of enemies. "At last, an empty room. Maybe I can-"

"Rest? Think again, intruder." Suddenly, the small group was taken off guard by a more broader man in the same-colored uniform. The Lin Kuei warriors just gasped before they'd been frozen almost instantly! He responded in a wrathful, deeper tone, "You may have bested my Lin Kuei warriors, but you will not get past me."

"And you are?"

"I am Sub-Zero. Grand Master of the Lin Kuei. And you are trespassing. Fight!"

Courtesy of the Ice Scepter that the Edenian found, as well as his own pyrokinesis, the lethal guardsman had his swifter, wider ice blasts cushioned. He almost had the same type of brute as Taven's, but not quite as much brawn. He noticed his Drakesword wasn't effective against Sub-Zero's Shotokan, until he took out his Kori Blade. However, with the increasing body temperature, it surely melted the ice, especially around the opponent's heart by the time he was defeated.

"Wait! You are Sub-Zero!? You don't look like that other ninja with that name! Are you two somehow related?"

As he slowly rose to his feet by his sore muscles, the rival took notice of the dragon tattoo Taven had on his face in the left cheek, while the rest of his team finally recovered. "Your tattoo!"

"What about it?"

"It resembles the dragon image on the door behind you! Who are you? And why are you here?"

Following the elder's point, Taven examined that same engraving. "Hmmm, this must be it!"

"This must be what?" He responded impatiently.

"This temple was a shrine to my mother...before those Snow Ninjas and those assailants commandeered it."

"I assure you it had been abandoned long before we arrived."

"I realize that. My name is Taven. I merely came here to retrieve something. A gift from my mother."

"Then tell me: Where is this 'gift'?" Sub-Zero crossed his arms.

"Most likely behind this vault door." Taven motioned to the wall that had the similar design, just behind a flaming torch.

"The door on the right was unlocked when we first arrived here years ago. There was nothing inside. The other door has remained sealed, despite my best efforts to open it."

"It seems my brother has already been here to retrieve his gift. Strange... That would mean he's been awake for quite some time."

"I assume you have a key."

"You could say that."

Remembering his mom's advice that only he had the key to place his hand in the recess, Taven just reached into the porthole beside the dragon symbol and conjured his pyrokinesis and all his strength. Eventually the door just slid open and revealed an Ottoman with a fresh suit of armor. The Lin Kuei warriors were in awe.

"You have your 'gift'." The ice wielder replied with that same callous attitude. "Now tell me: For what purpose would a sorceress leave her son such a powerful set of armor?"

"Apparently I need it for my quest. Something important is supposed to happen once I complete it, though I do not know what that 'something' is yet. At first I assumed the quest was nothing more than a game. But I'm no longer certain."

"What do you mean?"

"A warrior named Rain mentioned something about saving the realms. And I've also been repeatedly attacked by assassins in red, I don't recognize their crest though it seems vaguely familiar. A dragon, I believe. Do you have any idea who they are?"

"I may." He then hesitated.

"What?"

"Ergh, nothing. To answer your question, I'd been searching for my younger brother, Kuai, during these past few, tumultuous months. I would be damned again while I discovered he was willing to relocate to Arctika."

"Your brother!? I thought you two would be related..."

"Yes, it's been too long since I'd seen him. I... need to make my word for it. He must be at that other temple, wearing the Dragon Medallion even!" He then noticed the scuffle of feet from the trio. "Oh, you must be the Lin Kuei!"

"Uh-yes, we are."

"I don't wish to attack you, but...I must have some business to attend to with my missing brother."

"Did you say something about a dragon? Was it in red?" One of the ninjas recollected.

"I believe so." Taven replied. "As if it was a tattoo of fresh blood. Why?"

"Those must be the Red Dragons that were hunting you down."

"Yes." Bi-Han added. "Quite suspicious since they had a rivaling gang that broke off from them named the Black Dragons; we had heard about them many times since...we were all from China. Although the Japanese Shirai Ryu is our primary enemy." Before the ninjas corrected him, Bi-Han continued, "I...can't help you get inside their base, but I can reveal its location."

"Where?"

"...Charred Mountain."

As Taven made it out with his acquired Escape maneuver, the ninjas grew petrified, not just from the bitterness in the air, but by anxiety's icy grip as well. They received word from the Grandmaster who also had intel from the Special Forces that Sektor returned form the dead; they thought it was Oniro that rebuilt and reprogrammed him, before Sonya identified the new Tekunin clan.

"The Tekunin clan!?i Hmm, this sounds familiar, from that warship I was held captive in. Still... I wonder why my parents' temples would reside here in Earthrealm, instead of Edenia. Perhaps they had been relocated, but why?"

"But all those uprisings as of late!"

"The Tekunin? The Red Dragons...? And Master Raiden said there was a battle he needed to prepare for with our best men!"

"I wonder what in the Netherrealm it bodes."

"Then I must find my brother, if it's not too late." Hearing the Thunder God's name gave Bi-Han a sense of irritation, but his brother's whereabouts were more important. "I want to thank you for hinting me of Kuai's predicament. Good luck on your quest, Taven." He mentioned before he just slammed down a nut which emitted a blinding flash of light deflecting from the icy surroundings.

As Taven's vision blurred for a while, he looked up at the patchy sky of grey and orange, "I hope you would reunite with your brother, someday." He then sulked, "I wish I could do the same with mine..."

Taven noticed Bi-Han left behind an amulet of the dragon's engraving on it, a cerulean fan with sharp spikes protruding from the tips, and a piercing sharp armband as souvenirs before he reached the portal where he started...

"It was unfortunate that Bi-Han lost connections with his brother as he had chosen a path of darkness. I wish I could help them reunite and perhaps someday I would do the same with Daegon. I pray...that he hadn't suffered the same unfortunate fate and be broken off like they had.

"But now that I know the location of the Red Dragon's stronghold, I must return to Orin. He will be able to transport me there. Maybe then I will find some answers as to why I'm being pursued."

Taven returned to Orin at the same cavernous, magmatic location; relieved for once to no longer be exposed to the uncomforting arctic. "Taven! You have acquired a suit of armor," the dragon was amazed.

"It's the item Mother left me to help with the quest."

"Are you ready to begin your search for Blaze?"

"Not yet. The warriors in red ambushed me again outside the temple. I met someone there named Sub-Zero, also named Bi-Han. He said he was looking for his lost brother and he gave me information that could lead me to them."

"Who are they?"

"He said they're called the Red Dragon Clan. His Lin Kuei recently located their stronghold. It is in Charred Mountain." Taven then made a wry tone, "I would like to 'visit' them, before I search for the firespawn. They may be the ones who stole my father's sword. Will you send me there?"

"As you wish." To some extent, the serpent replied with a slight hint of bewilderment or disappointment, Taven noticed. He quickly disregarded the change of heart as he bowed and marched thru the liquid gold portal.

A/N: Goddamn... This was a very long and tumultuous chapter to write...! I'm so glad it's over, and it was more irritating since there were so many parts I had to cut out! Honestly, I never cared about the monk leader nor the head of the Tengu, and since Frost was recruited and never turned corrupt, she didn't had to become delirious as she broke out of her prison. There was no Noob nor Smoke as the cyborg helped Taven, and the elder brother was in search of Kuai, whom was the Sub-Zero that Taven met. Also, the second part of the Lin Kuei Palace was cut since it was pretty much optional, and I figured there shall be two temples instead of just the Lin Kuei's turf since they never abandoned their post; so unfair since they'd literally lost everything after Frost's shitty betrayal!

Konquest: Arctika would start things off, Konquest: Arctika Battle would follow suit, Air Area - Day from Drakkhen would play as Taven meets up with Smoke and the Lin Kuei, Rain's Theme from MK Conquest would play when Taven fights the treacherous prince, Naaktkha's Castle from Drakkhen will play as Taven and his ninja allies investigate the abandoned palace, Lin Kuei Palace Battle would chime in, and finally Air Area - Night from Drakkhen would play as Taven comes to terms with Bi-Han.

I didn't find much use for most of the characters anyway; this chapter was a backbreaker here. Especially those expeditions in Arctika and all the changes I'd to make. Even when Raiden needed to recruit the best warriors.

So...I think I'd switch gears and focus on the MAIN cast for a while. Like in the Return of the Dragon King epic, Konquest has certainly been a grind to me; I hope Charred Mountain won't be as tedious as this...

Con't III: Double-Cross

A pair of those same mysterious white eyes shot open, as if he'd awakened from a nightmare. They narrowed as he listened to the crashing ocean waves in the distance and the sea breeze hit the sleepy warrior. Surrounded by palm trees and amongst a grey, rocky wall, he looked through a mystical, bright light just ahead of him, revealing a thin portal of sorts as if it were an eye of a hurricane. He gazed over a thick forest of thick red and orange vegetation. The Oriental watcher noticed the tiny, armored warrior march thru it and soon paused as he fought against a swarm of the Red Dragon klan. He then rose his head as he breathed in deeply and exhaled slowly. His upper chest warmed as he was still in his lotus position. "Yes... It is him; it is Taven. I sensed Blaze's fiery essence resting inside of him. He must have conjured it as he first traveled thru Arctika. He shall help us prevent Armageddon and save all the realms."

"You found him." The female Edenian hiding her face in a large, silky, cerulean mask appeared behind him. Her outfit matched the same shade and material as her vial, even her pair of black and blue gloves as soft as the night sky. The Asian holy man nodded.

His eyes then followed a slightly taller traveler konsisting of a thin, long, white ponytail, a bare chest and a red cape as if belonging to a superhero with his denim jeans. He was heading straight for the Edenian. "...Fujin."

He spotted the otherworldly lone warrior trodden toward the massive warehouse after sticking a small, purple hairbrush in his pocket, completely armored like a steel-tight military base, just smack dab next to a steep mountain slope as if it was just incinerated by a wildfire; it was barely noticeable amongst the heavy steam.

Fujin followed Taven as he spotted him head in the same direction as that terrorist workstation. He reached for him, as he was blowing a squall of wind from his palm, but it only let out a thin breeze. His hand just stopped, as if frozen in time. The same mysterious Chinese man stretched out to the Wind God's arm, only it stayed in place. He gave it a slight tug and the inanimate elemental was paralyzed. Seeing he was satisfied, he gazed upon Taven's destination.

"I need to discover why the Red Dragons have been hunting me," Taven said aloud.

While inside the opaque chambers, Taven managed to bash thru about four swarms of the same Red Dragon assassins wearing the usual blood-red uniforms with black hoods and cream innards, and they seemed skilled than the radicals at the Botan Jungle.

He also found a red, thick cape almost as soon as he stepped foot into the cavernous, natural entryway; although it never seemed cooler, but just as humid as the outer, hefty Krimson Forest. Only flaming torches lit the ways stuck in one of several indentions within the stone walls. A choker bracelet with a golden handle was laid out beside a door Taven couldn't budge, so stayed the kourse. Within a fork, he turned right, and a door of inaccessible titanium alloy blocked his way. The left path led him to a massive chamber where a motherboard was located.

It may not have been the buzzing noise emanating from the heavy machinery, but Taven held his head for a short while; a vision of him raising his hands and creating a funnel made a group of enemies stop dead in their tracks.

Some fires beneath the massive slab of rock burned in hearths as sudden landings of pairs of army boots interrupted Taven's reverie. With the technique he had just recalled, he utilized his Time Stop maneuver which had the same effect he envisioned in his mind, albeit lasting for about five seconds before his assailants continued to sock him!

During the melees, Taven found a thick, rubbery blackbelt as if it was worn by a runaway fanatic near the few giant motherboards, a pair of hook swords in the backwall, and he needed to pay heed from the numerous combustibles and gas tanks around; the biohazards were proven useful as Taven broke those cannisters instead while throwing his enemies into them, and also letting them spread to more of his assailants gaining on him.

It wasn't long before the main deck was silent, yet still Taven remained on guard.

"Taven." A deep tenor nearly startled him.

He was undoubtedly surprised as he cried with a tight throat, "Daegon!"

A tall, well-built man with tan skin who was completely bald walked up behind him. On the left side of his face, he wore a dragon tattoo much like his brother's and his left eye looked blinded while a long scar ran over his right. He had a small goatee on his chin. He wore no shirt, only a black belt with a golden sigil of the same emblem belonging to the Red Dragons with a hakama, arm guards with spikes and a long red cape with gold linings and another sigil embroidered on the back. He wore red pants with gold linings and black boots with studs along their fronts.

Upon close evaluation, Taven's voice dropped, "You look...older..."

"I am. Much older than you, big brother," he replied with such dissonance.

"So you were awakened long ago. Why are you here?"

"This is my stronghold," he stated proudly as he opened his arms.

Taven pointed to him, "YOUR stronghold? And these warriors...?"

"I formed the Red Dragon Clan many ages ago," Daegon stated with each sentence building in pride and also...callous.

"There must be some misunderstanding." Taven could've sworn his throat was growing coarse. "Your soldiers have been hunting me."

Daegon just shook his head without any trace of remorse, "There is no misunderstanding. For years my clan has infiltrated every corner of Earthrealm searching for you. Scouting parties were placed in locations where you were likely to appear. At our parents' temples, for instance." Taven could've sworn Daegon's eyes glazed as he smiled and put his hands on his hips. "I see you found your armor. I wear mine always."

"Why would you send your clan after me?"

He smirked. "Isn't it obvious? I intend to kill you."

"What?!" Taven was definitely taken aback, how his only living and trusted family member can turn on him almost instantly!

Daegon pointed at himself, "The prize will be mine, Taven. I will not risk losing it to you." He pointed to his weaker sibling, so he claimed.

"Grand Master! Please excuse the intrusion." Another tenor clad in black, including a large cape, marched up to him.

"Speak, Mavado."

"Blaze has been found."

Daegon raised his clenched fists in triumph. "Excellent! I must make preparations. See that my brother never leaves this stronghold alive."

While the Red Dragon elitist was circling Taven, before he lunged out with his elongated hook swords, the strange meditator just rose beneath the sun still shining amongst the creepy vermillion sky. He gradually dropped his white-tattooed arms as his eyes began to fizzle as if they were generating lightning, before his entire being glowed and combusted with fire! Hovering over the resistant stronghold, his righthand cupped a pyro ball within his palm...

After several clangs with his Drakesword, Taven was able to outmaneuver the count of the clan. He then picked him up as he wringed his throat, "Where is he!? Where is Blaze?" Mavado's only reply was a sly smile. As Taven reached for his foe to make his point more strenuously, Mavado snapped away on a concealed elastic cord. He disappeared thru a hatch, which sealed behind him...

All a sudden there was a tremendous flash of light coming from the lower deck beneath Taven's perch! The ground trembled and it made the ceiling rain down some debris while a humongous wall of flames began to lick portions of the cavern!

A monstrous Saurian and a blanch, bold sorcerer stood within the circular room surrounded by machinery, just before it felt the violent tremors, chunks falling from the ceiling as if they were starting to be buried alive, the foundations became fractured, and the alarms blared; amidst the chaos, an elongated red dragon was limp amongst the electric chains keeping him suspended. Instantly, the keyboards sparkled and soon lit up as bright as the sun, and the duo of warriors ran to a nearby red and white portal made of radical energy, leaving the serpent trapped! However, he was too weak to even protest or yelp for help!

At the same corner of the chamber, another portal appeared, only this was made by swirling flames! The same man just rose his left arm after he stepped out, allowing electricity to shoot thru it and onto the remaining restraints! The power to them shut down as they collapsed with noisy clangs onto metal, and he marched over and bashed open the shackles with his durable fists and wristbands, covering the dragon's sore feet and massive tail! With a hint of anger, the warrior broke apart the contraptions with one blow at a time, even shattering a chain in half before slamming them down!

"Stand still!" His voice boomed in a low, stern tenor before he rushed over to unwrap the metallic shackles. "Can you move your feet painlessly?"

The beast demonstrated that he could as he moved his toes, feet, and his legs warily, never wanting to break or strain a bone. The stranger with the igniting white eyes urged, "You must escape into the portal before your slaver should get here!" The crimson serpent hardly saw the epicenter as it shown within its swirling flames a tropical scenery with palm trees, thick foliage and an indigo sky. "Now, come with me."

The dragon was reluctant as he followed the kind stranger, but he knew his time was short. He grew limp, yet he was still desperate to evacuate from his master's abuse as he cantered! The portal still roared with the bright flames, yet the aperture was closing as every second passed!

Luckily, the two escapades breached the fiery portal with no incident of burn, blister, nor heat exhaustion. The ejection, however, did give him some imbalance before he toppled over. To his surprise, a calm, cool breeze greeted him, the loose, damp sand soothed his irritate feet, and to his surprise, he heard ocean waves in the distance. He actually stuck out his forked tongue a few times like a snake's, taking in the refreshing aromas and scenery.

The Edenian female approached the fugitives as she came with a silky cushion to rest the poor dragon's head on it. He actually began to slowly close his eyes as they fluttered, and his breathing became fainter...

"Don't die on us now! ...Caro." The man urged him to stay awake. He then touched his scaly face, "Stay still, you will feel a deep sting." His hand and arm lit up in a bright blue hue before he ejected the holy energy onto the wounded dragon who whimpered at times as he felt the singing pain! He was still widely awake, though, even when his head and body trembled here and there. The man roared as he konjured more energy into the dragon and the hue grew brighter, until it instantly shut off when he was done and uncurled his fingers. Caro became limp, until he slowly moved his head with a few growls.

"His vital signs seem normal." The woman stated with serene relief as she felt the stronger pulse in his neck.

"Thank you." The savior added. He faced his subject. "You are now safe, Caro. Far away from the accursed Red Dragon base."

"What...? Am I... back in my own cave?" He spoke with a tangy voice, as if belonging to another species like a reptilian's or a robot.

"No, you are at the peaceful beach of Yin Yang Island. This is the most ideal place for anyone to hide. An isle between Earthrealm and Outworld, and within the Lost Sea."

"Ergh, I am grateful for your sudden rescue. Mind telling me who you are...?"

"The answers will come in another time. But before I do, what is this calamity? Who is Blaze? And why were you held captive against your will by your master?"

The man knew this won't be easy. Caro just took in a deep sigh as he stuck out his tongue a few times, "I have been enslaved by Daegon. He uses me to teleport his clan anywhere in the realms, including Earthrealm."

"Anywhere...? I hope I had destroyed the lot of them, including their wrathful counterparts, the Black Dragons; I saw Kano there earlier. But..." The Oriental's fist just clenched. "I can't believe he could be capable of something like this! I too decimated those accursed experiments, the foul Red Dragon hybrids."

"He is not the man we once knew..." Caro replied with disappointment.

"We...?" His expression instantly changed by to seriousness, although his voice seemed reassuring, "Tell me, Caro, what happened?" He laid a comforting hand on Caro's head, relaxing him as his partner gave the dragon fresh fruits.

"I am partially to blame... Long ago, I lost mental contact with the fire spawn, Blaze. I mistakenly took it as the signal to awaken Taven's brother. But it was too soon - reviving him early had unforeseen effects. ...Daegon was unbalanced. He was outraged that he had been manipulated by his and Taven's parents and demanded to know the true purpose of the quest."

"Did his parents tell him, by force?"

"Perhaps. Whatever he learned must have disturbed him greatly. He killed them both."

"What!? Killed them?! How callous! And he was about to slay you!"

"No... that's impossible." The Edenian added, "Argus was a god and protector to all of Edenia! Delia was a powerful sorceress! Although, I was never one to believe in visions. Just like the future, everything changes."

These last statements tugged some disturbing thoughts in the Oriental's mind, fighting a lightning god in multiple fashions, as if they'd been destined to destroy each other...

Caro's wispy voice broke out the reverie, "How he did it is of little importance. They are gone, and I am to blame." His voice seemed cracked in despair.

"No, do not condemn yourself. You may have been the mascot and catalyst of the evil Red Dragons, but this was all against your will. I blame your slaver, Daegon, for all of this."

"Taven is still alive, Caro. There is still hope, if he truly is the savior of Armageddon. And, if Daegon were to round up our adversaries..."

"...My wife has been watching over him, Caro. It is not too late." The Oriental gazed down onto the relic, with cracks beginning to thicken at the top. His face fell a little with worry.

"Nevertheless, I wish to atone for my mistakes. Moments ago, I created that portal to the Netherrealm for Daegon. She is right, he truly is evil incarnate, as tainted as those living in that horrid realm...! He is there now. You must follow him. And... slay him if you must."

"I will. I promise you." He bowed with his hands together, as if his display of gratitude was similar to that of the Shaolin...

"I intend to destroy these atrocities Daegon has created in my name. When I am done, the Red Dragon will be nothing more than broken bodies strewn throughout the hollows of all the realms!" Caro's eyes appeared to be like raging flames as he roared.

His caretaker stuck out a hand, "Shhh... Save your strength, Caro. I'll see to it our enemies are destroyed, and Armageddon is prevented."

"You should never blame yourself for these calamities, Caro. My husband is known as Earthrealm's most prominent warrior."

"Then...there is still hope."

"I saw some of our enemies escape from the wreckage. Mavado, Quan Chi, Reptile, along with Taven and Daegon hurried out. I will defend Taven, and my friends, with my life if anything should happen."

"And... what of Orin? He would be vulnerable alone."

The Edenian sighed, "The millennium-old dragon can do so much..."

"Perhaps, I will check on him." The multi-elemental rose and walked back to his main portal while the gentler keeper stayed by the crippled dragon's side.

"Go now, and may the Elder Gods watch over you."

All he gave was a smile and a thumb up before he returned to his perch.

Meanwhile, Fujin's body nearly took a jolt as his arm suddenly lurched as he noticed he was mobile again. It was as if he woke up from a night terror and was flabbergasted by the sudden destruction just ahead of him! The humongous bonfire was once the Red Dragon base, he recognized. Before he had an inch of worry, Taven suddenly materialized a few feet away!

Through a puff of dark smoke and a small fiery funnel, Taven emerged back outside in the Krimson Forest!

He perspired, "...That was too close! That sudden firebomb destroyed the Red Dragon base, and nearly annihilated me... As something my brother would've wanted." He began to catch his breath. "I csn't believe Daegon betrayed me! I wonder if his guardian dragon, Caro, knows. He must've had this idea from his own dragon, possibly abusing him!"

Looking at the stunning display, as the mountainside finally caved in and doused the flames, he brought himself back to Orin.

The golden serpent was surprised to see him! "Agh-Taven! You made it!"

He dusted the layers of hot soot off himself. "Yes, that was just a hot mess I went into!"

"Are you hurt?"

"No, but the Red Dragon base was destroyed. They were attacked, firebombed." He abruptly stopped as the fire spawn re-entered his mind. "By the Elder Gods... I hope it's not Blaze...!"

"I sensed it from an unknown assailant; it wasn't Blaze, nor was it ill will from their bloody rivals, the Black Dragons."

"The Black Dragons!?"

"They were members of the Red Dragons that formed their own clan. I had received word from someone in Earthrealm. He seemed to be almost like a god. One I have never foreseen."

"A god...? Well, I hope it has vanquished a lot of those bastards! All because of...my brother." Taven sulked.

"Daegon?"

"Yes... I'm not certain whatever happened to his own dragon, Caro." He began to pace with a clutched fist as tight as an airlock. "But he has woken up centuries before me and created the Red Dragon klan. And he sent them to kill me... All because he and Rain wanted this prize! From this competition between us!"

Orin felt just as disheartened, "My sincerest apologies. I am deeply sorry of your plight, Taven..."

He then stopped and faced his monolith where he awakened from, only he used it as his own punching bag! His ferocity left several cracks on its basaltic surface. His struck fist began to ache, and all Orin did was remain silent, with many unanswered questions...

What if my parents were slaughtered as well...?

A/N: Much like the Konquests in Deadly Alliance and in Deception, Taven's journey has been taking quite a mental grind on me... Especially with all those fake leaks and rumors for MK12... I couldn't wait to be done with this, and a lil spoiler alert, I really do want the dragons to live here. I also wanted the Yin Yang Island to be a significant place as a safe haven since it's known it's smack dab in between Earthrealm and Outworld thus being on the Lost Sea so many people won't find it. So, why not use it as a sanctuary.

Also, I don't want to reveal who the identities of the mysterious Oriental nor his wife if you will... You probably might know who they are, but I won't tell. And I'd been pretty miffed the way Konquest was going; as I hated Daegon and his double-crossing, even enslaving poor Caro, and making abominations of actual Red Dragons! The whole base was a shameful outrage, even when Quan, Reptile, and others were involved! So, I couldn't WAIT to get rid of that accursed base! Why not make a sneak attack to wipe out most of the Scrappys like the Red and Black Dragons, eh? I hope I would explain more in the next chapter; it was just too exhausting here...

Again, Drakkhen has done it, giving me inspiration music-wise during Taven's quest. The Fire Area - Day shall play as he breaches the Krimson Forest since sadly Armageddon never had its own theme... The Red Dragon Hideout would chime in once he investigates the terroristic base, A Formidable Opponent from the Pokémon series plays as Daegon double-crosses Taven, while Raid plays as the base in under assault. Fire Area - Night would play as Caro explains everything as it may be his remorse theme, House in Fire Area would sound as Taven gets outraged over his brother's plots.

So, another section of Taven's Konquest is komplete. Hopefully, I'll get refreshed for the next one...

Con't IV: Summons

It was smack dab in a dystopian world. There was hardly any sunlight unless you'd see an ashen vermillion sky as if it was greatly polluted and the ozone was decimated, or as if the Gods had died and bled into the sky itself! Places were in shambles and even Nature was dead as there was no life, not many animals tweeting, chirping, meowing, barking or however else it displayed life. Even vegetation and water were scarce since resources had been poisoned.

Groups of refugees had been roaming from place to place, as if they were nomads of weak cattle, searching from haven to haven scavenging for food and shelter while also being hunted. Figments of an undead legion, some coated with dragon armor and leather, had been invading and massacring, doing the dreaded deeds of two necromancers! Aiko was a part of one of those fugitive kamps, as they'd just found a desolate shelter with sundries still available. An elderly man with disheveled white hair led the group and he was preparing to leave while Aiko assisted. When suddenly...they beheld several looming shadows on one of the backwalls, growing in height the more they drew nearer...

"Oh my God... They found us. I don't know how but they found is. Run for it, Aiko!"

"From who, who!?"

"Who do you think!? The Revenants!"

The cardiokinetic paused and gazed upon those terroristic zombies she kept hearing about but never saw! She was kompletely immobilized on who she made them out to be; with the pairs of orange eyes that glowed as much as beacons, each one sneered down at her...as she recognized them as the deceased Kombatants she encountered when she was young! Liu Kang led the charge with Kung Lao, Nightwolf, Kitana, Kabal. Stryker and Kuai! She just turned tail and ran dastardly for her life, while the corrupt Champion pointed them to halt and be fixated on the main refugee, possibly demanding ransom. From a distant closet, Aiko witnessed one of the kohorts shoot him as he refused!

Aiko just hollered, "NOOOO! You BASTARDS!"

Hearing the outcry, the future Emperor motioned his allies to chase after her whom just found a nearby vehicle! Unfortunately, she never knew how to drive, she still managed to turn the key and raced within the sanctuary outmaneuvering the Revenants! A few managed to keep up, licking the vehicle at times. Fueled with adrenaline, Aiko turned the defective automobile and saw the kluster!

"Let's see if you bastards kan survive this!"

Aiko then charged toward the legion, thinking if she should die and finally leave the Elder God forsaken realm, she shall take them with her! She was DONE living in terror, always being hunted down by them, and konstantly being relocated as a refugee travelling with other disabled fugitives hiding and looking for sanctuary or a haven full of food and sundries.

Looking at the undead faces of her former friends she met when she was just six years old, she went all out as she began to ram into them-

Only to receive a flash of light, which instantly took her to a world she didn't recognize! There was no debris nor rubble, every structure was clean, neat, and dazzling underneath the clear night sky! All a sudden, she steered into an opaque alley, trying her best to hit the brakes! She could only scream and jump out of the runaway vehicle! She simply rolled onto the concrete while her devilish ride crashed into the nearby barrier and exploded! Aiko just gazed onto the newly made barbecue and readjusted to her spanking new environment...

"Aiko...! Aiko!"

She looked back at the male voice, startled thinking it was still the zombified Liu Kang calling her...

Although, it was only Kung Lao who awakened Aiko who let out a faint screech. They actually shared a bed together in her room, the morning sun was shining thru at the unisex chamber. Aiko kept wiping thick layers of sand from her eyes as her lover expressed his concern, "Are you alright? You were flailing as if you had a nightmare." He leaned and made a warm kiss on her forehead.

She murmured, "Mmm... It was nothing..."

Lao just rubbed her back tenderly, "No, I don't believe it, Aiko. I had seen you thrash around. You...actually woke me up."

Aiko sulked, struggling to keep her eyes open, "Oh, I'm sorry... I never had a... episode as bad as this... ...And I thought my stims were as bad..."

"Actually...this was the third night in a row you'd subconsciously acted like this."

Aiko was dumbfounded, "Oh ma-i..." She held her head in shame and fatigue.

Lao just simply rubbed her shoulder, "C'mon, it's late. We should rise up and get ready."

As they had breakfast, Jin's mom was chirpy as she couldn't get enough of the sudden newsbreak; she was jabbering in Mandarin in which only her brother-in-law knew. Jin himself just rose for school, and as a teen now, his schedule was hectic with the sporadic routines starting at eight in the morning to four pm. After she turned on the nearby small screen standing on a small counter, Lao translated for Aiko with the white banner there was a sudden firebomb in Charred Mountain specifically in Amazonia. She wondered why China would take interest in a very distant location at the other side of the world. Even Lao and Jin's mom were puzzled, but the alert kontinued the impact was as if by a meteor, which incinerated many Red and Black Dragon members. Aiko and Lao were thrilled, although a sudden series of chirps interrupted their joy.

Following the sound, which wasn't necessarily an alarm clock, Lao picked up the digital wristband he attained as kommunication. He answered the kall, and Raiden broke the static. "Kung Lao, Aiko, are you two awake?"

"Raiden!" The female chimed.

"Yeah, we are. What is it? Is it from another troubling vision of Blaze?" Lao was aware of the Thunder God's dread after he discussed the matters with Liu Kang who soon passed it on to his Shaolin siblings, as they grew curious of the sudden rumbles and electrical bursts, even the elemental himself...

"I have assembled the Lin Kuei's best warriors in Arctika. They had grown very anxious with the discovery of the uprisings of the Tekunin clan. Sub-Zero, Frost and Smoke are willing to prepare for the summons at the Dragon Grotto, while Sareena would discuss the matters with Ashrah at the Sky Temple."

"Ashrah...? I hadn't heard her name in so long." Aiko replied with amazement.

"I must send the defector to the new goddess of light, to keep her away from...a certain demon sorcerer; we believe he has hatched some machinations."

"A demon sorcerer...? Who? Shang Tsung., Quan Chi?" Lao reiterated.

"I will explain it all once we set our summons in the Dragon Grotto. You two must prepare. Meet us at the entrance to the sacred ground. I will see you there." The signal went dead afterwards.

"The Dragon Grotto..." Aiko repeated. "This doesn't sound good. I hope we won't be dealing with its traps." Even after several years, Aiko was still unconfident dealing with the guardians' deathtraps alone, she even had to study them multiple times. One fell swoop could cost a person's life instantly, while the innards were being monitored kourtesy of Nightwolf.

They eventually met up with Liu Kang as the two Shaolin lovebirds were in heated discussion over Blaze and the so-called end of days. Even the Champion was just as alarmed. "An embodiment of the end... It's insane...!" His partner exclaimed.

"I'm beginning to show quips of doubt, Kung Lao. We may have beaten past overlords like Shang Tsung, Shao Kahn, Quan Chi with the accursed sorcerer and Onaga. But...I fear this time there may be no stopping him. Something tells me he's NOT the only adversary."

The tension was briefly halted as Aiko noticed some barks from a nearby dog, or rather a wolf as Kiba scampered over to the trio; she giddily petted him as he kept licking her and then the Shaolin duo.

"It's not often we get a personal powwow." Nightwolf marched up and Kiba returned by his side. "Our boy Raiden certainly does have his angsts... I've seen them too."

"So have I, Liu Kang." An alto approached and Liu kouldn't help but storm klose and embrace her tightly as she did the same.

"Kitana. You made it."

They broke off as she expressed her plea, "You have done so much for all the realms, Liu. Now I'm asking you to do so one more time."

Somehow, this filled the Champion with more esteem, "Sure, Kitana. Anything."

She actually introduced someone who was shyly hiding behind her. A young man smaller in structure with the right eye being kompletely imbued in a violet hue, kontrast to the left eye which seemed to shine like a moon in a cerulean night sky. A red scarf neatly wrapped around his neck, a pair of leather boots, brown overalls which seemed to match his unkempt hair over a grey shirt and denim jeans shown himself. Kitana introduced him as Frederick, a scout exploring all realms for the sake of adventure and knowledge of a... multiverse which was an unusual term to comprehend. Nevertheless, he was the one who found her at the dirt road of the Botan Jungle soon after she met up with Taven. And thanks to his ability on blipping people to other locations, she was glad to find her klosest allies again.

"Heh, well, looks like we owe you one, Frederick." Liu Kang replied with a smile and a bow. The others followed suit appreciating him, till some ice slides appeared. Sub-Zero and Frost slid down then jumped off while Smoke descended with the rockets beneath his feet. Kenshi and Hanzo weren't too far behind them.

"Don't forget about us." The blindman remarked. And for once...he was no longer wearing the usual crimson blindfold, but instead, his eyes were shown but only with glowing opal, as contacts enabling the same shade instead of komplete darkness.

"Kenshi! What a surprise, and you don't have your blindfold." Aiko noticed. He and Hanzo explained it all, of his miraculous operation in Japan! And pleased that Takeda has been raised well with the Shirai Ryu, as Kenshi never regretted them as his only option aside from foreigners that'd be either imperial or primitive... The junior just learnt how to use his mind, which was developing rather quickly!

Next, a sudden portal of pale blue energy filled the entryway. Raiden emerged, "Alright, then, this is it. Are we ready." Everyone walked thru the rip one at a time, even the newcomer who stuck klose to Aiko.

They arrived within the heart of Earthrealm's lifeforce, and it was shady, balmy and calm to all the occupants; even Kitana, Aiko and Frederick were thrilled. Raiden motioned for everyone to settle before he gave them the nitty gritty. He gave off an irritated sigh, "...Where is my kid brother when I need him... Fujin can only do so much."

"What's wrong, Master Raiden," Kuai queried.

"I assigned Fujin to gather the Special Forces. But he is late."

"No worries, I can simply record our konversation and just transfer the data to them." Nightwolf offered taking out a small gizmo before activating it.

"I knew our new Lin Kuei technology would pay off." Tomas added.

"My apologies to you all, we have much business to discuss. As you are all aware, excepting you," he motioned toward the new kid, "I had been receiving unrelenting and nerve-wrecking visions of the end of times, as well as the mysterious elemental named Blaze. I had foreseen all of us reach a large pyramid as we found ourselves in a gruesome battle determining the fate of all realms and all of existence.

"Armageddon is truly upon us."

Everyone muttered their disbelief.

"Blaze... You've seen him as well, Lord Raiden?" Kitana spoke.

"As an Edenian, surely you would know."

She nodded, "Yes, as a matter of fact I do." She stood up. "I... recently met him in my private quarters after Liu Kang left for Earthrealm. He...insisted I should know of Armageddon, assured that our enemies shall be vanquished if events would unfold as plotted by him. He assigned me to gather all of you for the war ahead, but..." Her face fell, "I needed to leave Edenia discreetly, so that my people wouldn't be so heartbroken and afraid. If I'm right...then, our old nemeses may be involved in this... Then, I found this young traveler after I spotted the awakened son of Argus, Taven. He seems to be our last hope to save all life."

No one had ever heard of him nor his name...

"I had also recently received word of a sudden attack on Charred Mountain; the Red Dragon base was hit, and the Special Forces discovered that Sektor and his new Tekunin klan are also on the rise. I still believe that wasn't an act of nature, but perhaps by Blaze himself."

"He must be making his move." Kenshi stated as if he read Kitana's mind. He offered to transfer Raiden's visions to everyone, even though it'd kause some fear and anxiety.

"I have also received this, as a gift by the Elder Gods once I had attained their status after decimating Shinnok." Raiden took out the omnipotent amulet. "I never knew what its purpose served... Until now..." The top was still being fractured by cracks. "If I'm korrect, this may be the key to averting or rather enduring the battle of Armageddon."

Kung Lao stood up, "Raiden, Aiko's been having some night terrors too, of her escaping from the Revenants in her dystopian time. Could they...somehow be konnected?"

Raiden held his chin in deep thought, "Hmm, it may be possible..."

"Pardon me for the intrusion, but Liu Kang fears that it might not just be Blaze we'll deal with... But our own adversaries as well." Kenshi stated.

Hanzo's eyes widened in alarm, with the inevitable possibility on dealing with his own dreadful assailants...

Kontinue here

"Which was why I let Sareena talk with Ashrah, thus not being here. But you and Liu Kang kan be korrect. If my theory is true, then they kan be hatching their own agendas...in the Netherrealm."

"Then...we must cut down their numbers first! BEFORE we should fight them in Armageddon!" Frost exclaimed, in which Aiko agreed instantaneously.

Most of the crowd just cheered agreeing with the apprentice. But Hanzo held up a finger, "I don't know. If we should take out our enemies in the Netherrealm, it would all be suicidal. Besides, even if we should kill them, they'd return to Hell and kome back eventually."

"So... what must we do?" Kuai for once was actually klueless. "What if Oniro should return, besides Sektor? My klan became paranoid of the sudden return of that cyber assassin."

Kitana took a deep sigh, "It was bad enough resolving that incident with the Shokan..."

Everyone listened as the Edenian princess was caught in the possibility of the Shokan relocating from Edenia and even Kuatan; they had enough problems relocating to Australia to start anew inside the Palace throne room.

Goro and Sheeva were discussing with Queen Sindel on not being bodyguards nor staying in Outworld...

She was surprised at the sudden thought, "Sheeva... You have served me for many eons as my personal bodyguard and most trusted friend. Why are you and the Shokan willing to leave?" Even Jade, Kitana, Asgaarth and King Jerrod were just as tongue-tied.

"The Centaurs had no intention on quarreling with you nor your kind." The promising warrioress spoke. "And you have the Saurians behind your back too."

"There may still be the vicious Tarkatans, but with the allegiance of the more docile Baraka, this may turn the tides." The hawk-like knight added.

"We just...want a change of scenery. We hadn't yet made it official nor set in stone."

"I... understand relocating some of the Shokan to Earthrealm, to defend it still. And the inhabitants may be intrigued." King Jerrod added.

There was a series of hard stomps heading toward the exit! An Edenian Knight was frantic. "Your Majesties! It's Kintaro! He's bashing thru our men!" He was simply tossed like a discarded toy a hissy kid didn't want, and Sheeva went on the offensive.

Sure enough, it was him with the orange and black stripes, the elongated four arms, and his other feline traits. He was none other than the most lethal Tigerian himself!

Sheeva tried to reason with him, "Kintaro! We have made allegiance with the Draconians honor Queen Sindel and Kong Jerrod now! There's no need for bloodshed nor to serve the corruptive Kahn anymore."

All he did was unleash a fireball which forced her back! The female Edenians put up their guard, before Goro stormed in and punched the feral beast!

By komparison, the Outworld Champion was more bulkier than his furry kounterpart and demonstrated his brute strength. Both Shokan could perform their usual fiery projectiles and fatal Jumps, so it almost seemed to be at a standoff, until Kintaro had his limbs klipped by the unstoppable ferocity as Goro wrecked him like a truck!

Severely wounded from the brawl, Kintaro looked up at his victor who growled over him. Goro flexed his arms then stomped toward the powerless beast, and... he just offered a hand. With a disgusted sigh, Kintaro never accepted, although his body was encased in a green mist for a short while. He noticed he was healed, by Jerrod's soulkinesis!

The ferocious feline was shocked, seeing his arms as flimsy and painless as ever. He slowly stood up agog, "But, why?"

"I had realized there's been no purpose on fighting amongst ourselves, Kintaro. As long as you no longer work for Shao Kahn!"

"Goro and I had even brokered a deal with the Centaurs just several years ago." Kitana offered with a serene, konfident tone. "Kung Lao was the one who helped to make it all possible, even resolving the dispute between him and the prince."

At the sound of his name, Kintaro became irate, almost as if his eyes shot red! "Kung Lao! That Earthman who killed me in Mortal Kombat!?"

"Silence, Shokan!" Jerrod raised an arm and demanded him to remain kalm.

"WE have kome a long way since that victory!" Kitana protested. "We have no intentions on harming you, and neither do the Shokan nor Centaurians. I know that kindness is forbidden, but without the diabolical Emperor, many kustoms had changed for the greater good. Otherwise, Edenia would not be standing."

"War has been happening for far too long. Kung Lao realized we must settle our differences. I promise you he won't fight you, unless you're still one of Shao Kahn's ranks." Goro said.

"Besides, he has already betrayed me and my klan and favored the Centaur, Motaro, as we had failed to meet his expectations in the previous tournaments; the Champion was korrect when he'd said Kahn never supported us. And...me and Goro are planning to start anew in Earthrealm." Sheeva added.

His eyes grew wide, "What...? It's as if I am...in some wild dream!"

"This is no dream, Kintaro. If you kan just quell your violent heart and use it for the greater good, you kan achieve almost anything." Queen Sindel addressed. "And we all had done the same."

"We offer you to be Edenia's royal protector, if we shall plan on relocating to Australia. We would love for you to take this offering."

"Kintaro was...reluctant on accepting Edenia's peace offering." Kitana recapped. "And...it wasn't until I met Blaze that...dwindled my hopes..." She moped, and Liu kouldn't help but tend her.

Hanzo stated, "Raiden, if this fire spawn is surely to awaken, and if our enemies are for certain plotting in the Netherrealm, then...I shall accompany you."

"Me too." Kung Lao offered.

"We will need a spy or a mole in order to infiltrate with their plans. Perhaps I should tag along." Nightwolf pitched in.

"Only tainted souls can enter it... And I've no jurisdiction there." The Thunder God took in a deep sigh... "Alright. I would need some willing Kombatants for assistance."

"I... think I might still go. I remember Kung Lao and I being corrupt thanks to Shinnok. ...What if he's plotting Armageddon...?" Aiko was full of doubt.

"I hope there'd still be some who're against their evil plots, those who're willing to fight alongside us." Kenshi koaxed.

"Frederick kan be of some assistance; he may be a rookie, but I'm certain he kan be of some assistance." Kitana pointed to her found friend.

Liu decided to be of some assistance; however, Raiden turned him down as he and Kitana hadn't been corrupted, and that she needed his support more than ever. He also wished for Fujin to show up...

"The rest of you should alert the Special Forces and our allies in Edenia and Outworld. We will need all the help we can possibly assess. If they are unwilling to fight one last battle, then so be it. Ready?"

With the oblige, Raiden conjured a portal leading to the most foul depths that was kapable of absorbing light and time. Nightwolf kommandeered Kiba to jump in his body and merge with his energy.

Kitana was still taken aback after Liu offered to help settle matters with her cause.

They were about to make a passionate kiss, until a sudden funnel formed! At first, the spectators thought it was impossible for a tornado to develop in the Grotto, but a certain someone who rushed out made the decision.

"...Did I miss it!? Did I miss Brother's summons?"

Everyone just looked at each other before the konfirmation, "You did."

"Goddammit, man!" Johnny stomped in disgust behind him.

"Relax." Kenshi rose an arm. "Nightwolf and even Smoke recorded the briefing."

"Why...were you late, Lord Fujin?" Liu queried.

He perspired, "You won't believe what in all of the realms has happened...! Throw me into the Chaosrealm if you think I'm crazy!"

The remaining heroes listened attentively before Smoke activated the shaman's gizmo he left behind.

A/N: Yeah, I know... There wasn't much of a fight scene here, but I didn't want to waste my time and effort on this. I was busy brainstorming ideas and I wanted to get as much stuff done as possible.

'85 Twin Pines Mall from Back to the Future plays as Aiko escapes from the Revenant horde hunting her; admittedly, the scenario was loosely based from it, as the og film and Part 2 were the most inspirational! Deku Tree from Ocarina of Time would play as she wakes up from her nightmare, Dark Ice Mines Waterfall from Starfox Adventures would play as everyone meets Raiden in the sacred Dragon Grotto, the same theme from my first epic, Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks, Part II; it works out so damn well... The Portal/Kahn's Arena from Mortal Kombat II SNES plays as Goro fights off Kintaro, Fatality from the same game chimes when Goro DOESN'T kill him off! Soft Light from Super Paper Mario, which wasn't an easy track to find, would play several times throughout the story starting when the Edenians make negotiations with Kintaro, Story from Mortal Kombat II would play as Raiden makes plans to enter the Netherrealm, and the Fatality theme from Shaolin Monks jingles as Fujin missed Raiden's summon.

At least we get to see more of Aiko's destroyed future this time around, always moving, always scrounging for resources, and escaping from the terroristic sorcerors and the undead loyalists. Yet still...the sudden cause escaping from her future hasn't been solved...

About the new character I introduced here, his name is Frederick San, a roleplayer and good friend of mine I know on Twitter! He's a scout and explores the multiuniverse for knowledge as well as making friends. He seems to be a swell guy, both as his character and for reals. I hope I'll come up with a better role for him next chapter as the heroes investigate the Netherrealm. And with him helping Kitana was a small idea I had when we were roleplaying.

And the idea of having the Shokans relocating to Australia was inspired by the MK roleplayers I used to meet, while the scenario itself was from Sheeva's ending in MK9 of all things! I actually do want them to have a fresh start and another defender for Earthrealm, and maybe Kintaro can take Sheeva and Goro's places as parts of the Edenian Resistance.

So, another chapter done. Next time shall be the espionage in the Netherrealm.

Con't V: Hell Tour

The blue portal took Raiden's small team konsisting of Aiko, Kung Lao, Hanzo, Nightwolf, and their new associate, Frederick San, into the most horrid, diabolical domain, the Netherrealm. Only this time, instead of being in an opaque plane or immersed in a demon city, they materialized on a rocky bank overlooking a body of a red as if it belonged to water. And with the distant hanging chains, they figured they were in a pier.

After he conjured the rip, Raiden's voice became hoarse. "I have always dreaded this. The Bloody Sea, the conduit of Outworld and the Netherrealm, where no one survives while the sea is littered with endless blood and legions of undead dwellers! It's also bottomless, as victims tend to fall forever..."

Everyone spoke in strange tongues... Full of dread and anxiety.

"The vessel itself and its captain, Kharon, escorts the damned into their eternal prisons. They'll be bound by Shinnok for eternity. Even if we should consume anything habitable to this realm. We must never be tempted, and we must always stand guard."

"The damned must be restless... No wonder it feels like intense gravity here," Frederick stated.

"Yes," Nightwolf added. "Kharon must be the ferryman, like Charon or that beggar in the Bardo. Do we need to pay him?"

"We aren't part of them, as we're still alive." Hanzo chimed in. "So, we will be like intruders to them and should pay him as we're foreigners."

"Quite right, Hanzo. I will negotiate." The semi-God stepped forward and discussed matters with the boatman, who looked quite scary with his frizzled white thick beard, balding head, and garb that blended in the endless entrails...

Kung Lao just gazed out over the choppy sea rigged with those sharp rocks...

"Just like our voyage in Outworld..."

His mind flashed back several years ago, when he and Liu followed Kuai Liang to the nearby wrecked vessel which he repaired with his cryokinetic slabs keeping it afloat. They soon disembarked and the warrior warned of any stragglers invading them. Sure enough, several swarms of drowning denizens leapt onto the main deck while the Shaolin Monks assisted their new ally as they fought them off, with Lao mostly performing his signature throw!

"That was when you'd been chasing after me, Kung Lao." Hanzo's voice interrupted his reverie.

He hesitated and sulked, "Yes... That was when my brother and I pursued you as Kuai failed to catch up with Noob Saibot."

"And this led us to fighting each other... I wasn't in human form yet. And it was before I found the truth..." He laid a hand on his shoulder. "My sincerest apologies, Kung Lao."

"You've come a long way since your damnation. I trust you will never betray me..."

"Kharon has accepted the offer. I forewarned him of Armageddon, and we needed answers from the fallen Elder God." Raiden addressed. "We are now ready to depart."

Everyone nodded in affirmation.

"Kung Lao, look after Aiko. She was born anemic and wasn't diagnosed before she travelled thru time. Do you still have your iron supplements?"

She nodded as she shown him the beet container which was half full.

"You'll need them to help you withstand the queasiness. The Sea of Blood could make anyone's stomach churn, not just from movement. Prepare yourselves."

Everyone replied with a bow before they headed a few feet away from the que of sinful passengers.

Each one of the shades were escorted and shackled into the overpacked cabins, albeit some were feisty and simply were clamored into them, while the Kombatants remained on the outer areas of the main deck. Metallic, rusty bells began to chime as Kharon detached his vessel and soon turned it eastward to their destination.

Raiden mentioned it shall be one knot, one mile away, and they must keep a sharp lookout for any sudden stowaways or jerks on the ship as the damned would try anything...

"Much like those demons in the River Styx." Frederick mentioned.

"Precisely, novice."

"How long has it been since you've eaten, Aiko?" Hanzo queried.

"Since...before Kung Lao and I were summoned to the Grotto, so...I guess about thirty minutes."

Hanzo tcked, "That's not good... It might not be enough time..."

"Incoming!" Nightwolf's warning pierced thru the quietude like a spear and a few stragglers with loose, hanging flesh and blood hung from them like fronds! Everyone stood guard, some even en guarded, before they charged into the fray, and they mostly relied on their close-range tactics unless they must throw the demons off!

Hanzo hardly used his deadly spear and pyrokinesis, as he mostly relied on hand-to-hand kombat. Raiden bashed thru them with his staff, grateful he didn't want to give it away to Kai before his ascension to former Elder God status. Aiko mimicked her mentor's strategy wielding her Bo staff, while Kung Lao sliced through their splattered guts with his deadly hat! Nightwolf seemed to be the lesser fazed by the disrupted voyage as he plowed thru waves of enemies with his soul-empowered axe and dagger, even his swift and brawny moves. At times the Thunder God conjured his bolts, but due to his limited power in another realm, they usually came out as sheer shocks rather than complete electrocution, leaving him vulnerable. He was once caught in a hold by a couple demons, till there was a volley of lightning! He was indeed flabbergasted that the new Kombatant, Frederick, was able to wield his own prowess, even when immobilizing them before a few swipes with his canary katana.

Overtime, there were larger klusters of the desperately damned, to the point where each of the heroes had no choice but to toss them overboard! Especially Hanzo who stuck out his signature lethal spear into a queue and throw them asunder before retracting it. Or Kung Lao who was doing some of the crowd control as he diced and performed his Shaolin Throw. The inconsistent current kaused his stomach to lurch and even throb; he held it as he felt some sharp pangs and he muttered he needed to be wary of his maneuvers.

The konstant movement kontrary to the kurrent even made Aiko squirm, as if her head was about to fall off with her eyes so glazy. Suddenly she felt vile building. "Unh... I think I'm going to be sick...!" She slightly hunched over, and Kung Lao was the first to notice. He went by her side, even fending off a ganging bony zombie or two, yet still her abdomen and esophagus were acting up.

She eventually held her neck and mouth, nearly hurling as her throat constricted. Open for an assault, she began to wander as far away from the melee as possible. Unbeknownst to her, since she seemed the most susceptible to the impurities the sea was emanating, the sudden rapids and the the bulging throat caused Aiko to falter. Kung Lao noticed the warning signs, "AIKO!"

She hardly had time to react as her body tumbled over the edge by another quake and dropped straight into the current below!

...

That was until she was unexpectedly saved by a red dragon who swooped her away and above the endless bloody sea! She wound up riding the serpent's back who flew higher away from the stomach-turning chemicals! She shot open her eyes and noticed she was on a blunt surface rapidly moving away from the vessel! She observed the serpentine neck and the flat snout! He let out a wry grin as he faced his new, ecstatic passenger!

"I don't believe it! I'm riding a real dragon!" she exclaimed as she adjusted herself! The beast nodded in affirmation before it made a sharp U-turn facing the infested vessel! He saw the undead springing up from the sea and he let loose a volley of flames incinerating them instantly!

The distracted passengers shielded their faces from the sudden fiery streak from above, and the dragon let loose again aiming for the side and cabins scorching the dead! The tepid assault was so intense, that the lower deck began to collapse! The ship lurched forward as it kontinued its voyage forward while Nightwolf observed they were sinking into the bottomless blood!

Aiko screeched her friends were still on deck!

"We're klose to Shinnok's Spire, but we're still too far away!" Raiden shouted over the khaos from the panicked damned souls! Hanzo attempted to aim his spear onto one of the spiked pillars around the fifty-foot tower, but he was out of range! Raiden stated his powers were useless on carrying them with at least an air tackle. Kung Lao offered to make a Teleport toward the disjointed isle, although Frederick beat them to the punch! "Gather around, stay close to me! I can blip us out of there!"

Never having any other choice, the team obliged and with a snap, everyone dissipated in a millisecond into thin air! A few moments later, they emerged onto more firmer ground amongst the thorny coast beside them!

Aiko cried they made it off alive, before they all beheld Kharon and his unfortunate souls beginning to sink deeper into the undertow till the topmost pole was out of sight. The group readjusted themselves, while Kung Lao inspected his heart gem still lively. "Aiko...!"

As if on cue, the fluttering shadow greeted them as the red dragon landed softly beside them. Aiko turned her body sideways and Lao caught her in the nick of time as she dismounted from the savior's back! They immediately made a tight embrace almost like an airlock!

Raiden perspired, "I really appreciate you for saving Aiko's life, before she plummeted into the Sea of Blood."

He just nodded and hissed as he stuck out his forked tongue a few times. "Wait! Who are you!?" Nightwolf stated with excitement.

He replied with an otherworldly tone, "I am Caro, Daegon's former dragon guardian, and the former mascot of the Red Dragons, created against my will."

Hanzo's eyes lit up, "So... you were the one who incepted the Red Dragon clan!"

"No, it was my slaver, Daegon, the younger and more warmongering brother of Taven. They are both sons of the late sorcerer, Delia, and the protector God of Edenia, Argus." Caro's wings fluttered at times, as he was hardly used to them being so heavy and wide with the teal innards.

"If you were once a slave to Daegon, then who set you free?"

"When the Red Dragon hideout in Charred Mountain was firebombed, there was an Oriental who seemed to have as much might as a god. He wanted to keep his name a secret, and he restored me back to health at Yin Yang Island."

Caro explained he escaped via fiery portal and his rescuer and a female Edenian nursed him for a day or two. He was soon imbued by the Jinsei and fire healing his wounds and also budding his tiny wings; they were small to disallow his freedom thus never flying and having their growth stagnated after being clipped. But the god restored them to their full size! Caro also told that crossing the Sea of Blood was deja vu for him...

Raiden was in deep thought. "So, he knows about the Jinsei and wields fire... Could it be Liu Kang?"

"He said he didn't want his identity revealed. I can see why. We just don't know yet, or maybe it could just be Blaze." Hanzo spoke.

"...Why would he want to be in the Netherrealm," Raiden whispered.

"May have something to do with this place." The Shirai Ryu pointed yonder.

Kontrary to the rest of the team, the trio weren't fixated onto the monstrous structure as black as every essence roaming the Netherrealm.

"That is Shinnok's Spire. It would require all our strength to breach the upmost floor, Shinnok's throne room." Raiden faced the sick Kombatant. "Aiko, you may need to be on healing duties for the duration of this mission."

She nodded despite feeling clammy with her face so placid.

Raiden led the way, followed by Hanzo, Kung Lao, Nightwolf and Frederick with Aiko and Caro taking the rear. "This won't be an easy journey. I would need all of you to stay and work together. Understood?" Everyone nodded. "If we cohere, we'll survive."

All a sudden Summoner Demons emerged from bursts of flame. Raiden commandeered his troops to rid of them while he would activate the color-coded monoliths and fill the corresponding spheres in the rear wall of another tall structure. Caro and Aiko stood by for reinforcements as both Lao and Nightwolf took them on. It wasn't until he unleashed his fury in a F3 funnel the way was clear! A tower of light emerged from the epicenter and the team proceeded to the next floor.

Everyone thought it was some kind of a gauntlet challenge, yet still the group shifted. There was another Summoner Demon only this time, he dissipated and made duplicates of Imps which looked to be numerous but about a foot in height. Frederick and Hanzo volunteered, and the former wraith took charge whenever the big bad appeared. Frederick's electrokinesis was exceptional especially when thrashing thru hordes of Imps with his blade! It wasn't long before they proceeded.

In the next floor, the group witnessed a wounded Krusader of sorts, wearing the same primordial armor plates and helmet. Although Hanzo and Kung Lao knew better. "Havik!" The pair rushed over to the wounded kleric. "Are you alright?" Kung Lao queried, then motioned Aiko to lend over her heart gem to restore his heart and vitality.

Havik just rose his head in disbelief, before he gradually stood up. "What's the big idea? You taking pity on me!?"

The former Shaolin didn't hesitate as he rushed over and punched him in the face. Havik just took it with a wry grin as he held his chin. "Feel better now?"

He smirked, "That's more like it! Benn too long since I've seen you two!"

"Same to you!" Hanzo replied. "What in the Elder Gods are you up to in the Netherrealm?"

"Ah yes, I had heard murmurs going around of a hell spawn who's about to wreak havoc on all the realms. My kompatriots, Dairou and Darrius, were preparing ourselves for the ultimate battle."

"We're here for espionage on Shinnok, so we'd get some intel of his followers being involved in Armageddon."

"ARMAGEDDON!?" Havik just spread out his arms jovially. "The ways of chaos is smiling upon us! That was until I was defeated by that bastard, Taven! I was left to die by Shinnok, and my klerics turned on me! They should still be at the Chaosrealm, konverting them to the ways of Order serving that Elder God with his wings clipped!"

Hanzo turned to the newbie and knelt, "Frederick, can you blip to other realms?"

"I... would have to know what that other realm is; the Chaosrealm seems new to me." They both sulked.

"Perhaps, I can be of some assistance."

"Caro. You can actually develop portals?"

"Indeed, but it requires most of my stamina to do so," he was somber with regret.

Hanzo lifted Havik's arm over his shoulder and escorted him through the red ball of energy. "Hurry! The betrayer may notice this sudden elope!" Havik warned. The yellow garbed ninja wished to return as soon as possible, despite the group having one less member. They dissipated moments later.

They took the kolossal funnel and emerged smack dab between some spiked walls. They knew more of the demon warmongers would arrive, only this time they went after the poor red dragon! Lao and Nightwolf immediately took action and succeeded, while Aiko restored the dragon's health which resulted hers to shatter and wither away. She warned the humidity was so dense, she could only conjure her strength once, but not enough to make another gem...

It was konvenient enough for the active trio take on several more Demons in the next two floors.

"Up ahead shall be Shinnok's throne room. I may had lost most of my powers here, but it's still enough to sense his accursed essence...!" Raiden growled. The group proceeded, with some nervousness between them, until their mentor spotted a particular traveler, "Taven!"

From that sudden roar behind him, the Edenian demigod turned quickly and met up with the defender of Earthrealm himself! "Agh-Lord Raiden!" He was almost too excited to even bow.

Although Raiden wasn't impressed, "You had finally been awakened, I see. But why are you here within the Netherrealm?"

"I've-been looking for my brother, Daegon. I believe he has wandered here to empower his corruption. That's what Orin and I thought... But, why are you here?"

"To spy on Shinnok. You have been a fool assisting him!"

"He's a fallen Elder God, kasted down by serving mortal affairs."

"I was the one who banished him here! He warred with the Elder Gods and reduced Earthrealm to ruin! He is not who you think, Taven."

Caro spoke to avoid the escalation between them, "Taven...? So, you're finally awake after all!"

"What-? Caro!?"

"Yes, Taven, it has been too long old friend."

"Look, we need to see what Shinnok is up to." Aiko recapped.

"Yes, he's gathering his forces as we speak for Armageddon." Kung Lao added.

"Armageddon...? The extinction of all the realms? By the Elder Gods... I wonder that was what the competition was supposed to be between me and Daegon. Orin said something like this would happen."

Aiko and Kung Lao's mind seemed to have tuned out the bickering, and were fixated on one thing...

"Do you...feel that, Kung Lao?"

"Yes...it must be... Him!" He pointed to a deformed colorless face that had multiple streaks of blood! The rest of his body seemed obscure, blending within the shadows. His arms were outstretched to unseeable chains in the distant walls.

"Shinnok!" Raiden roared and rushed toward his old archnemesis. Only to slap him in the face.

"I should've known you'd be here, Raiden...!" He simply reached in and held his neck like an anaconda squeezing its prey.

"Explain, Shinnok! You must be recruiting our enemies to conspire and destroy us in Armageddon! Blaze won't be our only adversary! You are working for him!"

The prisoner still never backed down. "I...am NOT the same Shinnok as I used to be! You should know, losing your vitality by creating your own doppelganger. The risk worth taking."

He hesitated, "What do you know? You don't have your precious amulet!"

Shinnok snarled as he smiled, "I detected your dark signature. It was you wreaking havoc in Earthrealm after your sacrifice to Onaga. I'd seen it all. And even you and your Champion oppose the Elder Gods."

"How do you know all this!?"

Shinnok's body twitched and out fell an object that made Aiko's blood run cold! She panicked as she noticed a black crystallized heart-shaped gem!

Kung Lao was furious, "You stole her heart!"

"You are a fucking forsaking abomination!" Nightwolf scorned.

Frederick and soon Lao tended to her.

"You created this from Aiko's kardiokinesis, borrowing it when you were disguised as Kai in the Netherrealm War!" The thunder god knew it all.

"It wasn't just from that rare specimen...! After I absorbed the Champion's heart, I was taken aback by the sudden churn of light energy! I was greatly irritated!"

"That would be me!" The shaman koncluded.

"Big surprise..." Shinnok boomed sarcastically. "Indeed, you three made me suffer dearly as I diffused myself apart! I had spontaneously split into another form, as I remained. Weak, helpless, paralyzed by excruciating pain! But at the same time...I remembered.

"I had remembered...being a part of the pantheon, associated with my sister and mother. The Elder Goddess who's the opposing force of life and light, Cetrion. And the dominatrix mother, Kronika! The titaness of time!" Shinnok spat out as if disgusted mentioning them. "I wasn't raised as a... love child. I was raised in the line of her whims, as the polar opposite of my goody sister! Kronika admired her more over me, the younger sister receiving the most attention! I was enslaved and she was given special treatment because of her blind loyalty! I despised them both since I still had assertiveness and my own desires, while she was the momma's girl!

"Oh...and my own mom was willing to stab me in the back! Since then, I resented the Elder Gods as they did NOTHING!"

Everyone was agape, especially Taven and Frederick.

"And... that's why you lost your sanity and waged war in the heavens!" Raiden realized.

"You should know full well how your followers will betray you... Everyone perceived me as a threat! I hadn't seen my treacherous family and then I was casted down and imprisoned here! My hatred still remained, and I'd thrown all my compassion away and I seemed to have become amnesiac. Until now...

"With Armageddon to cease by my own double walker torturing me, he has been in an alliance with all the overlords! To kill Blaze and attain the prize! The forces of darkness will march forward in a fight to the literal death of all reality...!"

Raiden relieved his hold. "What must we do?"

"You know what you must do..." He winked.

The elemental figured exactly, "I won't give you your diabolical amulet!"

"Suit yourself. Just to show my opposition to the petty arch angels who have cared nothing for you even in their ranks! And perhaps...unite with my lost sibling no strings attached. I will entrust you with my pleas Raiden and Aiko, as I had gifted you the visions for you to end them!"

Raiden was just too absorbent to hear a suggestion to get out of here...

It was easy to figure out since Taven was capable on warping out the same as Frederick. Caro offered to create a rip leading back to Earth and the Wu Shi Academy. Needless to say, all the heroes had numerous unanswered questions, as cryptic as a hard reboot. Although, by the time Caro was the last one out, he collapsed again.

A/N: Inspirations include the accursed Taito game, Bonze's Adventure involving the Blood Pond, which could've been the inspiration for the Bloody Sea in Mortal Kombat! Caro's rescue of Aiko was a slight reference in Pokémon 3: The Movie when Ash's Charizard saved him and was able to carry him without issue. The ideas were usually from MK Temple's vid involving the Armageddon battle, as well as AnonymousAffection's walkthru of MKA, but it seemed true when the former mentioned Shinnok made a doppelganger to kickstart Armageddon as mentioned by The4thSnake!

Whew, this took so much time and work, disregarding the konstant tiffs over whether or not MK1's kanon. The Konquest wasn't easy to highlight, as it was komplicated and I hated Taven acting the fool much like Shujinko! He should have known of Shinnok as an Elder God AND his fall from grace! How kan he be so ill informed?

The mini boss theme from Super Metroid would play as the heroes embark on their voyage, Versus from Starfox 64 plays during the bouts onboard, Charizard from Pokémon 3: Spell of the Unown chimes as Caro rescues Aiko, Escaping the Burning House from Dante's Peak would play evacuating from the sinking ship, Presentiment's Edge from Dissidia Final Fantasy plays as the group readjust, Dimensional Doors plays when they traverse up Shinnok's Spire, Wrecked Ship from Super Metroid plays when Shinnok's weaker counterpart explains it all.

So... I'm so damned relieved to have this motherload out of the way. See you next chapter; so much more work to take care of...

Con't VI: Pep Talks

As the team made it back to Earthrealm, the area before the entrance to the Dragon Grotto, Caro collapsed from overexertion. They immediately went to his side, especially Aiko and Taven. Moments later, Raiden broke through, telling everyone to stay back. He simply just laid his hands onto him and concentrated his ki, causing a combo of electricity and also light Jinsei energy into the fatigued serpent, which let out some groans as the pure substance seeped into his wounds, as if adding salt to the injection site. The healing process eventually subsided as did he. Taven still remained by his side and apologized for all the abuse Daegon made... Raiden then offered to have Caro and Aiko to recuperate in the Grotto ahead. Taven and Kung Lao of course decided to keep company.

"That was blindly fast. How you guys emerged from the Netherrealm." Everyone looked back and noticed Kenshi approach; he was the first to notice the team emerge.

Nightwolf queried, "How long have we been gone...?" The group knew that all realms tend to flow in different speeds, even traversing from realm to realm would feel like weeks, and the Netherrealm itself tended to speed up time, as one year can be as close as a decade.

Kenshi stated, "You have only been gone around fifteen minutes." Everyone was dumbfounded as it felt like several hours crossing the Sea of Blood and climbing the excruciating Spire. "I also sense tension."

Everyone spoke about Taven and Caro, before Raiden gifted the red dragon with Jinsei energy.

Caro mentioned, "This...this was given to me sometime before, as I was healing at the distant tropical island..."

"Again, I want to appreciate you for saving Aiko's life. You must have known her."

"Yeah." The cardiokinetic's face dropped almost instantly. "...I don't know you... How could you know me?"

"Actually... I seem to know all of you." Needless to say, they were in stunned silence, excepting Taven who remained unrelented.

Frederick asked, "How'd he know her if she never met him...?"

He replied, "Only the mysterious Oriental does. He wanted to keep his identity a secret; he was the one who spared me and helped me escape from the Red Dragons as soon as he bombarded the base."

Aiko recalled the discussion about the hell spawn, "He... wasn't Blaze, was it? Who destroyed the Red and Black Dragons and saved you."

Caro assured, "He wasn't... I deeply apologize, Taven. On all my past incidences caused by Daegon."

"I wonder if it has anything to do with that competition Orin mentioned. Agh! Orin! I must head back to his cave! He must know the progression of the quest!"

"I will send you there at once, Taven. It's been too long of a millennia since I last saw him. And..." There was a prolonged silence filling the air, and not just Kenshi knew a storm was about to burst. "Taven... This is hard to say, but...your brother has become more evil than you realize. I was the one who awakened him prematurely. Long ago, I lost mental contact with the fire spawn, Blaze. I mistakenly took it as the signal to awaken your brother. But it was too soon... Reviving him early had unforeseen effects.

"Daegon was unbalanced. He was outraged that he had been manipulated by your parents and demanded to know the true purpose of the quest."

"Did they tell him?"

"Perhaps. Whatever he learned must have disturbed him greatly. He killed them both."

"Killed them?! Impossible! Father was a god! Mother was a powerful sorceress!"

"How he did it is of little importance. They are gone, and I am to blame."

"Do not condemn yourself."

"Nevertheless, I wish to atone for my mistake."

"Still... I must see to him." Confirmed and affirmed, Caro offered to conjure a portal to Orin's desolate location, leaving some of the heroes bewildered...

Taven arrived as frantic as ever, calling for the dragon after discovering Shinnok's and Daegon's plots...only to have him gone!

His feet scuffled upon something that almost made him slip, like a flat, light surface never belonging to the basaltic soil. He examined the object which had coats of dirt on it, and the particles dropped as he turned it. A buried sheet of thick parch paper so it seemed. Taven then read the note, with the light from the magma making it seeable enough.

Taven,

I have gone to the distant Yin Yang Island. I was abruptly attacked by a sorcerer named Quan Chi. I believe he'd been sent from the Netherrealm, and that someone assigned him for the assault while you went on your journey. Alone and vulnerable, I was saved by a powerful fighter who fended off Quan Chi! He assured I shall watch over you, as long as I remain safe, and that he shall do the same.

Continue your quest, and may the Elder Gods watch over you as well.

Sincerely,

Orin.

"Taven!"

He perked up at the echoing voice of his mentor. "Orin? Where are you? I can't see you."

"I am speaking to you telepathically, like I always have been. Do not fret, I am safe. Have you not found my letter?"

"Yes, it said you were taken to Yin Yang Island. You were attacked by Quan Chi. Who rescued you?"

"He wants to keep his name a secret. Our enemies may still be after us..."

Taven was surprised, "Secret identity... That must be that same Earthrealmer who helped Caro! Raiden assisted with his healing."

"Indeed, he told me the same, and that Caro is unharmed. Although...there was a sudden scrimmage involving Quan Chi. I was losing to him immensely, until our savior seamlessly defeated him in kombat! He possesses strength beyond any mortal! And he wields both thunder and fire! He soon kicked the demonic sorcerer into the portal I created upon his signal."

"Still... I wonder if that man and Raiden know of the quest. Caro just mentioned of Daegon's enslavement over him... And killing my parents as well..."

Orin paused to what was almost a minute, "Taven...there's more than you know about your parents' quest. If I am korrect...this may all be a setup. Nevertheless, Daegon must be stopped at all costs...!"

For once, he wasn't saddened nor enraged of his brother's murders, but actually intrigued, "What...is it that you and Caro know?"

Meanwhile, Quan Chi fell thru that liquid gold portal as he emerged in Shinnok's Spire. In the middle of his throne room, the overlord was furious as he stood upright! "You imbecile scum! You have failed me, Quan Chi! How is it you can be outmatched by a pathetic elderly dragon!?"

The blanch warlord rose slowly and struggled, "He was not alone, my lord. There was someone who assisted him and nearly finished me...!"

He roared, "Nonsense! I have appointed you to slay the beast to prevent Taven on accomplishing the quest! And you failed miserably... I wouldn't want you to claim the prize nor have you participate in this foreplaning battle! Who by the Elder Gods thwarted you!?"

"He will not state his name, Lord Shinnok. But he did peep he knew me. He might just as well know what we are up to. He wields both fire and lightning, and his strength is incredible!"

Shinnok seemed somewhat intrigued, "Interesting... We better clip this warrior's wings. Daegon!"

The caped crusader marched up to his side. The necromancer demanded Quan Chi to replay the battle involving the stranger he mentioned... A transparent orb was shown as the free-roaming sorcerer lost and was kicked into the yellow portal! He was exactly how Quan described him to be, even knowing who he was.

Shinnok was taken aback by his astonishing kombat. "He is strong. Quite strong! And a skilled warrior!"

"I told you he was a problem."

"And Taven is just as potent as HE is! Perhaps I'd be relying on the wrong brother..."

Overhearing the conversation, Daegon became infuriated. "What? You swore you would help me!"

Shinnok just simply socked him one. "Foolish boy! Your brother has been effectively delayed upon his extensive slumber! His means of teleportation hasn't been eliminated! And with this uncanny warrior meddling..."

"Ergh, forgive me, Lord Shinnok! I didn't realize. It's just that your aid is vital to my success."

"Our success." He korrected. "There is more to this 'quest' than you know. All things have led to this moment! The prize is not merely some 'gift', as your mother and father would have had you believe. It will determine the fate of many mortals; a fact I will use to my advantage."

"I don't understand."

"I have informed other warriors of the prize, to hasten their... participation. They will think, as you did, that godlike power will be bestowed upon the victor. It is a deception. They are marching to their doom. You shall be the victor, and the catalyst to my ascension."

"What must I do, Lord Shinnok?"

Little did he knew that his altered, albeit dazed self, listened to all of the blabber and made the dark heart gem luster.

At the Grotto's sacred fountain, Aiko and Caro were relaxing while their ailments were being healed internally and externally respectively. Kung Lao simply stuck with them.

"Hey, Kung Lao..." He looked up at Aiko's cue. "Do you really think that this Oriental that helped us may be Liu Kang?" He paused, thinking the same.

Caro clarified, "He said he doesn't want his identity shown. His enemies may be after him if he would even if he could."

"Has he told you?" The cowboy lookalike queried.

"No. But I have heard of the martial artist you speak of."

"He was the Champion of Earthrealm. And he and I restored Edenia from Shao Kahn. We just decimated Onaga too recently, and we were deemed as Champions for all the realms."

"Yeah, and since he can wield fire with lightning and saved you, it might be his other counterpart. I mean..." Aiko hesitated as she recollected her thoughts escaping from the Revenants. "I was actually sent back in time, and my past self still exists, in New Jersey. So... perhaps he would be another incarnate from a different time."

"That shall not be. If he was...then who would send HIM back?" Lao hesitated, "Could it be Kronika?"

"Shinnok's mother." Caro added. "We don't know much about the Titaness, us in Edenia, not even the pantheon. As the Keeper of Time and since she's been rumored to have power narrowly equal to the One Being..."

Lao sighed, "I doubt she's really on our side..."

Suddenly, Aiko's breath was cut short, and her head began to ache. She took out her heart gem, remembering the terrifying fact that Shinnok managed to still use her abilities manipulating the heart and thus communicating from another world. The jewel itself looked as if it was slightly expanding like a swelling organ. "Kung Lao, look."

Raiden, Kenshi, and Nightwolf's gems reacted the same way, but only the Thunder God took out his and examined it. All a sudden, his head swam as he found himself atop of a pyramid, gravely wounded while Shao Kahn stood over him! His hammer was risen amongst the hellfire burning beside them. All the elemental did was mutter. "He. Must win..." The hammer went straight down to Raiden's head.

The real Raiden lost the vision and was stunned by the recoil. The group muttered if he was alright.

"Brother!" Fujin ran to the small gathering from the sidelines. "I must apologize for being late for your summons. But luckily, I was able to watch it thanks to the Matokan's gizmo, even from the Special Forces. Are you alright?" The Wind God tilted his head.

"I... think so." Raiden murmured while holding his forehead.

"I... couldn't make it. I was in the Krimson Forest, at the mountainside before the Red Dragons' stronghold. I then noticed Taven and followed him there. I was about to stop him when...I felt I was frozen in time! It wasn't until about a second later, maybe more than that, when I observed the base went ablaze!" He then smirked, "Better than never. Where is Taven anyway?"

"He escaped from the blast, but it's not from Blaze like we thought."

"Who?"

"Caro said that an elemental and talented fighter firebombed the base and the majority of the Red and Black Dragons were slaughtered. He also helped Caro escape, who soon saved Aiko's life as we were traversing thru the Netherrealm."

Fujin sulked, "Brother...we must not let Taven continue on the quest. He doesn't know this can be just a setup."

"He's with Orin now. Caro warned him of Daegon and his corruption. And we were planning an espionage in the Netherrealm. Blaze won't be our only adversary, and Shinnok is conspiring as well."

"Shinnok!? I should've known."

Raiden's mind was still elsewhere, "He... must win."

"Who must win?"

"I am not certain. Shinnok has managed to split himself into two forms; his weaker self was the result of wasting away his vitality. The same way I used to do. His former self is powerless, although he managed to create an ominous duplicate of Aiko's heart. That was how we saw those visions; he's been communicating to us indirectly."

Nightwolf was showing Frederick the rounds and Kenshi walked with them, but he signaled he'd keep a mind out for the Gods' discussion.

"By the Elder Gods... So, he split himself into two, without the use of his amulet."

"I shall not fetch it for him. Hanzo left for the Chaosrealm; I believe Havik may help us like he did with Onaga."

"So... what of Armageddon and Blaze? He must win...?"

"I doubt it is Taven. But..." Raiden memorized Caro's words about his former caretaker. "He knows us, brother. That mysterious fire and thunder wielder. He might as well be a God...! He..." His face lit up, "It's him, HE must win! What if he is Liu Kang!? There may be hope, after all."

"What are you talking about, Brother?"

"Don't you see? Aiko traveled thru time, so it's likely he has as well. If it's true he was the one who destroyed the two criminal clans and saved Caro, maybe that means he's on our side!"

"That mysterious Oriental... It... might be him. But we don't know for sure. Not unless we see him first."

"Where is Liu Kang now?"

"He's in Edenia."

"Then... Perhaps I shall see him when he returns; we have much to discuss."

"So, it's most likely there's a different version of Liu Kang out there. But we don't know, unless if we should meet him personally." Kenshi reiterated.

"It seems possible. Aiko was a different version too, different than her younger kounterpart." Nightwolf added, with Kiba out of him and giving him to stretch out.

"Hey, did I hear you guys talk about my master?" A high tenor greeted them.

"Yeah, we were just talking about him, Kai."

"He had left for Edenia, Kai." Kenshi declared. The rookie just blushed. "The Special Forces and the Lin Kuei shall be joining us soon. They need some time to prepare. Sonya's been preoccupied with the new Tekunin clan and Kano. As are the Lin Kuei with Sektor, and Oniro's possible return."

"She shouldn't worry. I'm sure that stranger took care of them well. Although...it kind of made me curious. Since Shinnok split into two like atoms, perhaps the stronger version can still manipulate dark matter, while maybe the other could create and bend antimatter."

"That is quite a theory, Nightwolf. But...we still can never trust him."

"He's been transmitting signals to us through Aiko's abilities. So perhaps he may have a... change of heart."

"I think Shinnok might be..." Aiko and Lao, soon Caro, gazed upon the jewel.

Her head swam a little as she hallucinated Revenant Liu Kang and his kohorts greet Shinnok after they emerged from a portal. "Praise be, Lord Shinnok."

"Let us be underway."

The vision ended, and Lao wondered if she was alright. "...What is today's date?"

"April 14th, why?"

"...I think this might be the same date I escaped from my dystopian future. But I couldn't tell from it, till I went back to the past. It felt as if I was living the same day over and over with the same routine, like a time loop... Or just living thru Hell, or just the Chinese version, Diyu."

"I doubt it was Kronika, as she seemed very self-centered, only caring for her golden child. That being Cetrion." Caro said.

Both Aiko's and Lao's heads reacted simultaneously as if their brains were swelling slightly. Visions of a missing head from an engraving entered thru them...

"Ergh, I just saw a cave drawing's head gone from its body. It's almost as though it had been erased." Lao being the enduring anchor recovered first.

Caro's eyes just widened, having that epiphany. "Now it all makes sense... Blaze. He isn't just the embodiment of the end. He's the destruction to all realms. There are indeed fates worse than death."

"What do you mean?"

"Blaze, he isn't just the bringer of Armageddon. His flames aren't just meant for disaster and death. A mortal is transported to either Heaven or the Netherrealm. But, what if you cannot. What if your entire being has been erased like that etching. Not just having your body and soul obliterated, but to be...erased from existence..."

Both Lao and Aiko were beyond shell-shocked to move or say anything before Caro offered to open a portal...

A/N: The idea of antimatter could be from Shadow the Hedgehog in Sonic Unleashed warping matter. And it turned out that Shinnok has suffered the same fate as Raiden did, dividing himself into two while costing the majority of his vitality. Of course, time is of the essence like in Back to the Future, being erased from existence. Time ticking down for Armageddon, not staying in the past, and the idea of being erased from existence via flames reminded me of Chandelure in Pokémon, on having a victim's soul be incinerated leaving the body to rot, only Blaze shall incinerate all!

Hermitage from Code Lyoko shall play when Caro collapses and the discussion begins, Haaggkha's Castle from Drakkhen plays as there's mounting gloom in the Netherrealm, even being Daegon's theme. Forever Rachel from Final Fantasy VI but the sschafi1 remaster plays as Raiden and Fujin dread, Hazulkhen's Castle shall be Taven's theme showcasing his quest and endless determination, Quan Chi from Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero would play as he flashed back to the fight with the heroic elemental, and Entrance to King's Chamber from Starfox Adventures would play as Aiko and Lao discuss with Caro, and Picture Fades from Back to the Future chimes in as Caro describes the fate worse than death.

Basically, I just thrown in whatever would fit, and little did I know I'm almost done with the Konquest Mode. I never liked the idea on Orin being vulnerable to Quan Chi's assault and having Taven behold the damage; thus, again, another little job for that mysterious Oriental. You probably know who he is, but I'm not going to reveal it here; it certainly got the characters curious anyway cuz it sure isn't Blaze. Nice for Kai to make a minor appearance. And I made a nod to the opening cinematic of the reboot with those three cryptic words, He must win. And the date, April 14th, was the same date when MKX was made, just a day before MK3 was made in 1995! That's insane!

So, another chapter done. Will the secret be revealed for this mysterious elemental? What would Shinnok be plotting with Daegon? Found out later.

Con't VII: Altruism

Caro, Kung Lao and Aiko had suddenly slumbered, just taking a relaxing nap while simultaneously healing from their hellish endeavors. A hand brushed over and slightly shook the kardiokinetic awake, even when a gleam of light awakened the remainder of the duo. Thru their groggy vision, Caro and Kung Lao noticed. "Unh, Lord Raiden." The latter spoke.

"Come. We must meet up with our distant kompatriots."

"Mm, how long have we been out of it...? I don't remember dosing off." Aiko swiped a thin layer of sand from her eyes.

"Only a few hours. More disturbing visions entered my mind."

Aiko's expression changed, "Raiden, we think that my heart gems can be tapped by Shinnok. We think that...whatever plans we have... The real Shinnok would use his gem, and the double would manipulate our plans."

Raiden nodded, "You may be right, Aiko."

"Then, we should discard them. Leave them at the Academy if we should plan ahead." Kung Lao added. "But we would still need them as a power source."

"Perhaps we should leave them here, and use them when the time is right, for the battle of Armageddon." A tinkling sound emitted from the side pocket. Raiden took out his amulet in which the fractures became deeper across its clear, fragile face. He was a bit surprised if hadn't revealed any shards yet. "Time is running out, Armageddon is drawing nearer."

"Master Raiden..." Caro added. "The fallen Elder God, Shinnok. He is konspiring and plotting with Daegon. He seems to be his right-hand henchman! I despise what he'd done, and he may use him for ascension if he beats Blaze." This put the duo in alarm.

"But he can't crossover, kan he!? Impossible!" Aiko exclaimed.

Raiden signaled the trio to pause as he closed his eyes. His mind then shifted back when he placed the accursed Amulet of Shinnok inside the Temple of Elements just millennia ago after Earth's destruction. "...No. He kannot traverse to another realm as long as his amulet is sealed, it is safe. We...we need to discard Aiko's heart gems; Shinnok kan surveil us. And Nightwolf has bound Onaga there too. However, he had theorized that Shinnok's weaker self can produce antimatter, which in turn kan form portals."

"Alas, aside from me, that is probably how the Red Dragons and Daegon had entered the other realms."

"We must wait on our allies. The Special Forces are transpiring as we speak along with the Lin Kuei making last-minute preparations. Liu Kang and Kitana would rally up the Edenians and Outworlders. I only hope it's not too late if our enemies shall break free and expedite Armageddon."

Meanwhile, inside the Edenian throne room...

"I...I must apologize for never informing you sooner, Mother. And to the rest of you, loyal subjects. I do not wish to have you all alarmed..."

"This...is indeed a travestying moment, daughter." Queen Sindel replied. "However...it hasn't been inevitable."

"What do you mean, Your Majesty?" Liu Kang queried.

"The Pyramid of Argus, Champion. It is a structure created by the protector God of Edenia. Before Shao Kahn usurped the realm, he and Delia led it into prosperity. Delia, however, is but mortal, a sorcerer and even an oracle with talented pyro."

"An oracle...? As in, she can tell the future?"

"Precisely. Their sons, Taven and Daegon, are demigods, each one possessing Delia's elemental prowess. They had always been in competition with each other, to see who the better kin were."

"Like rivaling for the Olympics in Earthrealm." Jade chimed in.

"They were put into sleep, and only their guardian dragons, Orin and Caro, were charged in watching over them until Armageddon should strike."

"The Elder Gods foresaw this catastrophe." King Jerrod added. "And so legend had it that Delia was the only one who kould receive these premonitions. And thus, passed on these daunting visions to Argus. Who in turn put his sons into slumber for millennia."

"So, what of Blaze...?" Liu became desperate. "Raiden and I had nightmares about him. Rising atop the pyramid as if some volcano!"

"With Delia's incredible might, she was able to kreate this fire spawn." The violet empress stated. "By her own two hands! She and Argus tasked him to destroy all warriors involved, even if their sons should klash. It's...the only way to rebalance the universe."

"So, it isn't just the war we need to be koncerned of. But the hell spawn as well." Kitana finally spoke. "He assured me my enemies would be wiped out for good."

"No..." Asgaarth dreadfully sighed, "Blaze is kapable on destroying everyone. And perhaps all of the realms. We must stop him before he would do so and decimate all of existence. Our objective would be to reach the top of the pyramid and take on Blaze, although our enemies would interfere."

"I wonder if we would deal with all of our enemies at one time...!" Liu predicted.

"Which is why you will need reinforcements." A snarly voice greeted the gathering along with sparks and irritating, subsequent screeches. To everyone's shock, in came Baraka from the opaque, arched entryway! "Forgive me, Your Majesties." He humbled as he knelt with his arm blades slanted down. "I'd been hearing the murmurs of Armageddon. Nothing but bloodshed! Us Tarkatans wouldn't cease our insatiable appetite for destruction, and Outworld is your neighboring realm. We cannot risk many victims."

"Baraka. I'm actually honored for once you would join us." Sheeva responded with a curtsy.

"But Master... Raiden said that he didn't want to put the Saurians' lives in danger. I guess it would say the same with you guys." Liu Kang konfirmed.

"Precisely. It is only up to us, the best fighters, to strike down our adversaries."

"Liu Kang, stop!" A serious tenor interrupted the meeting emanating from his heart gem.

"Wait, what? Master?"

"Liu Kang, you must rid of the heart gem you, Sindel and Kitana have. They are all tapped by Shinnok."

Everyone went flabbergasted. "What...are you implying, Raiden?" Kitana asked.

"Shinnok had mimicked Aiko's kardiokinesis, and he is still in the Netherrealm. He has kreated his own dark heart of koncentrated energy, and he would spy on our plans."

"What...? What must we do?" The Champion peeped.

"Get rid of them, keep them away. We would still need them in the foreboding fight."

"Um...Sindel...? Is there any way we kan kompromise them?"

Jerrod just rose a hand and carried the jewels to a distant table. All he did was konjure a lime field around them. "This may prevent their reception."

Liu perspired, "Guess there's no point in hiding them. So, I was thinking maybe... There's always...me."

Kitana spoke, "Liu, what're you saying...?"

"Yes. He is the Champion of his realm." Goro finally joined in. "He has faced and won many of our adversaries. Shang Tsung, Shinnok, the Unholy Alliance, and he assisted against Onaga. And he is still a fire bringer. He may just withstand and perhaps decimate Blaze."

"But that won't be enough, Goro." Sindel responded in bewilderment. "He was created by Delia. A mortal cannot stabilize against him... After all, Argus and Delia were slain, leaving Edenia vulnerable to Kahn's konquest after his ten straight victories, even Onaga kan't stop him." Her voice kracked at the mention of the merciless Emperor. "I...kannot stand being his forced wife again! And...if Shao Kahn should ever return...!" She bit her tongue and her face suddenly fell, wearing a komposure of great sorrow. Jerrod and Jade tended her, sharing her grief. Kitana raced up the stairwell and did the same.

Liu just kouldn't bare to watch the motherly figure break down. She plopped on the throne, and his fist klenched as tight as an airlock, and as hot, ready to kombust. He became more determined. "Sindel, I will defeat Shao Kahn and prevent Edenia to fall again in his dominance. I promise I'll bring an end to Blaze as well. You can kount on it. I'll defeat all our foes, once and for all."

Kitana reached for him, worried for both of their welfares. She then faced Jerrod, "Father...! If I should ever lose you too again..."

"Kenshi kan still reverse the kurse. Unless maybe rely on Nightwolf and use his tools for protection..." Jade was deep in thought. "Besides, if there's anyone I want to mop the tile floor with, it's Tanya!"

"That is an excellent strategy, Jade. We mustn't charge in irrationally and be tactful with the situation." Asgaarth added.

"Indeed. Before we get to Blaze, we should wipe out their numbers one at a time." Sheeva lit up. "Where's Kintaro?"

"He's licking his wounds." In walked Li Mei.

"Li Mei..." Sindel was dumbfounded, "Are you certain you want to partake this task? This isn't like your guard duties. It's a matter of life and death."

She just made a curtsy, "I must, my queen. Bo' Rai Cho had a lot of faith in me. As the lucky survivor of Sun Do. This can prove my chance as a warrior. I... have not much to live for if all the realms should krumble."

"I see..."

"There may just be two factions, perhaps an army of dark and one with light," the female Shokan said.

"Hmm, if it is that arbitrary, then there...may be a power struggle with some of them. Like the Deadly Alliance or with Kahn pinned against Onaga. These two abhor each other!" Liu chimed in. "If we can just cut down their numbers by pitting them against themselves...? Then, maybe there's a chance."

"I... kind of see where you're going with this. You seem to be the level-headed one, Champion." Li Mei kommented.

Little did the group knew there were a couple pairs of neon green eyes piercing through the dark corners of the balcony...

Back in the Lin Kuei temple...

Frost, Kuai and Smoke were preoccupied with Raiden's summons concerning Armageddon. The Lin Kuei received word quickly of the koming kalamity, most of them theorizing that their powerful cryomancy shall quell Blaze's flames, thus preventing him on destroying everyone and everything they cherish.

They hardly noticed a few more of their kohorts who'd just returned after aiding Taven to his mother's lost temple.

Kuai just scuffed at them, his mind still hyper focused on the oncoming threat, "Well that's good to know."

Tomas was sober enough to explain their predicament, "We...have been hyper fixated on the Battle of Armageddon, and the hell spawn, Blaze, as summarized by Lord Raiden. It... seems like a kollateral situation, as our old nemeses would be brought back too."

As their kohorts became irritable on seeing Sektor and Oniro again, Frost tried to numb their anxieties. "We must unite, with all of our allies across all the realms. It's the only way we can win this."

"So, you're all dealing with a fire elemental and the restoration of our enemies. I wouldn't hesitate to kill them all as the Lin Kuei's most trusted assassin."

The trio just froze as if by a severe ice blast from the most skilled wielder, never believing who they saw in front of them...

"B-Brother...!"

"I am myself again. I had been found by these three warriors. After I found Taven who unlocked the secrets of Delia's abandoned temple, I was escorted here. I'm quite impressed you moved to the most frigid parts of the world!" Despite his stoic, he was amazed.

"Yes... Indeed, we have."

"So, you're the Grandmaster's lost brother! And you're no longer your tainted self!" Frost was ecstatic. "Welcome to the new Lin Kuei, Bi-Han!" She made a kurtsy, and the rest of the krew bowed.

"I...I was lost after my eviction from the Netherrealm. I was slain, by a woman possessing light who had a dagger that was said to slay demons."

"Ashrah. She was the one who saved you." Smoke recapped.

"Ashrah...? Why does that name sound familiar...?"

Frost just stepped over and grabbed his hand, "Come. You should see how we had transformed the Lin Kuei! Your brother was a true hero, even overriding the cyber initiative! And even Sareena joined our ranks."

Bi-Han was just awestruck. "Sareena... Where...is she? How can she defect from the Netherrealm?"

"Both of the fair ladies did. Ashrah is now the Goddess of Light of Earthrealm, Raiden anointed her. She's now looking out for her. Something about being bound to Quan Chi." Tomas summarized.

Kuai finally found his words, "Brother, we must depend on you. I will show you the reformations later. But first, we must prepare for Armageddon, and-"

"Blaze. I know."

"With the strength of our ice kombined, we for sure kan take out Blaze and douse his devastating flames!" Frost still couldn't hide her enthusiasm. "You and your brother, working together as one, at long last. Before...if the realms should end."

"If that should happen... Then I will die with honor. It has been too long, younger brother. And...I see you wear the sacred Dragon Medallion...!"

"Uh-yes, I do. And I wear it pridefully, that even our ancestors would."

"That's...not till later. But, we must prepare. All of existence depends on this one battle." Smoke stated. "Master Raiden's orders."

Everyone knew that Bi-Han would be reluctant as they looked at him quizzically. "If it's to save all of existence, instead of a petty bounty-hunting job, then so be it. I just hope Scorpion won't get in my way."

"Then, let's make this official. I'm honored to have you fight by our side." Kuai bowed low and his elder brother followed. Then, they'd done something they never thought they could. Make a tight hand hold as strong as the everlasting snow in all of Arctika.

Back in Orin's cavern...

Taven was sitting in front of the same monolith he awakened from. Taking in his guardian's advice as he talked to him from afar and telepathically. "So, my parents' quest was all a setup. They only wanted us revved up to fight each other, and whoever survived our quarrel would destroy Blaze and attain his flames."

"Yes. His flames can grant the desire of its wielder, but they still remain corruptive. I did not agree with your parents, Taven, but I had no objection. My duty was to only protect you until you were ready for Armageddon."

"Why...why can't we just work together to take down Blaze? ...Unless."

"It was all Yin and Yang, Taven. There was no agreement, and that was why you too always competed, to be the better prodigal son."

"This is madness!" Taven started pacing. "I can't understand why we were destined to fight each other to the death! And all the realms in ashes... No wonder my brother has gone mad."

"...There is still hope. You mustn't let your fate cloud your judgement. My savior stated we have a right to choose our own destiny. We are responsible of our fates instead of being bound to them."

"What...must I do?"

"Continue your quest, become the Champion and decimate Blaze. And perhaps reason this with your brother."

"Where is Daegon now?"

"He is in Outworld. He shall be assembling the forces of darkness and march en route to Edenia, at the Pyramid of your father."

"Very well. Open a portal there."

Orin did just that as he conjured a lime rip. "Go, straight ahead is the enemies' stronghold, Kahn's deserted Fortress. I must warn you, Taven. If you should ever spot any opposing forces of Edenia, do not be tempted to kill them!"

"Why not?" He queried impatiently.

"They must be mortally wounded, krippled in battle. Otherwise, they may be restored kompletely if their souls are taken to the Netherrealm by Shinnok. Divided, they will be konquered and Armageddon may not be as overwhelming."

Taven just realized Orin's epiphany. "...I see. I will head straight to it, Orin."

"Good luck, and may the Elder Gods protect you."

Taven bowed before he headed straight thru the portal and arrived at the foreboding terrain.

Minutes later, Kung Lao, Aiko, and Caro finally followed Raiden out of the Dragon Grotto. It was quite refreshing and rejuvenating to bathe in the Jinsei and be exposed by the calming effects of nature. They all wished they would preserve all of this tranquility if they should survive Armageddon, despite their minds being full of doubt...

Raiden then paused and coaxed the red dragon, "Caro. You seem to know who that Earthrealmer is, the one that saved you. Perhaps...you can inform him on where we stand, and konvince him to help us win over Blaze and our gathering enemies. I know his identity must remain secret, but if he is Liu Kang, there's still hope for us all."

The serpent sighed, "I'll see what I can do. And I hope Orin has warned Taven about the quest that drove Daegon irate."

"Wherever Taven will end up, he must be prepared for what's to come. I hope he and Orin would still watch over him. And may the Elder Gods will too."

Caro bowed as he stuck out his forked tongue like a snake's before he went thru.

After hearing a distant scuffle konsisting of disturbed foliage and thunderous stomps, the Oriental braced himself for the intruder. He took the forefront shielding the Edenian and Orin while he braced for a possible invasion!

Intensely focused, he was barely able to see a long crimson neck, with a pair of giant bat wings, and a flat snout with glazing white eyes, while sticking out its forked tongue. Only Orin identified the newcomer, "...Caro...!" At the sound of his name, the elemental eased up. He and the otherworlder observed the two beasts nuzzle each other as they let out some subtle growls.

"Another family reunited," she claimed, which made the man smile for once.

Eventually they parted, discussing it had been too long of a time since they had been together for over thousands of years! And how their bound destinies always drove them apart and succumbed to long-term abuse. And if it weren't for the human's good deeds-

"Enough, Caro and Orin," he interrupted the tender moment. "We still must ensure Taven's safety. He is now traversing into Outworld, in search of his fallen brother."

"I am certain Daegon must've been lurking there with his organization many times. And... the Elder Gods forbid this if Kahn is there..."

"He...needs help now! Following his corrupt brother into Kahn's abandoned tower. It's suicide!" The female Edenian became frazzled.

"Then let us hope he shall get the assistance he needs." The elemental shared their angsts. "But he must not be tempted to assassinate his pursuers. There should be some stragglers he can recruit. He cannot go thru this alone. I may try and help him indirectly. He will not let all the realms fall."

The quartet's eyes were glued thru the mystical portal of light, praying things won't take a turn for the worst...

A/N: I didn't think of an outro theme for the chapters until now, the Victory theme from Pokémon Stadium 2. During Lao's, Aiko's and Caro's nap would be the Water Area from Drakkhen, one of my all-time favorite themes as I had used it a few times for my other fics. Hazulkhen's Castle will revise as Taven talks with Orin. The Menu theme would chime in from Metroid Prime 2 as Kuai has a pep talk with his older brother, Get Spiritual Stone would jingle as the bros unite their determination for Armageddon. Kitana's Abduction from the '97 MK film would play during the discussion in Edenia. When the dragons unite, the Ending theme from Drakkhen also plays.

It was difficult to come up with more scenarios to prepare the warriors for Armageddon, even when I'd to make the konnections in Edenia, the Lin Kuei, and to reunite the two dragons; something that MKA failed to do as they were both killed! They never explained much on what would be going thru the Kombatants', at least not the heroes', minds if they should gather for Armageddon! And whenever I should delve deeper into Taven's quest, it keeps getting worse like in Shujinko's! So, I just threw in whatever I could to tie two and two together, even though I still want to highlight others like Kabal and Stryker before the shit hits the fan! A lot of scenarios had been altered too, like having the real Amulet sealed in the Temple of Elements, Baraka joins the team, having Bi-Han, Liu Kang, and Hanzo as human, having Raiden as his purer self, etc. And none of this has ever been easy! Sometimes I feel MKA was just a rush job, and a konclusion that never kame to pass due to fan demand and greed! All good things must kome to an end! I hope MK1 better not be a letdown!

So another chapter over and done with! Hopefully I can make some more progress aside from all these fulminations!

Con't VIII: Hauling up the Fortress

It was now dusk in the realms of Outworld and Edenia. A crisp air greeted Taven as he emerged from Orin's portal after warning him of the quest being a setup. He actually beheld an iron twenty-foot statue of Shao Kahn, as if he was piercing thru the air symbolizing his totalitarian. He knew right then where he was.

"Shao Kahn's fortress! I must be in Outworld." He spoke aloud. "I suspect Daegon is already inside. I must find a way to get in."

As soon as he wound up at a fork in the road, he felt something clip his neck. His keen vision made out a dart or two barely missing him. "I must take out Shao Kahn's archers!" Unable to make out the assailants due to the opaqueness of the dusk sky, he could still watch the shadows within the towers. Using the same tactics as he did back in Arctika, he decimated the deadly rotors surrounding Kahn's statue, then hid behind as a shield before he evaded more fallen darts as he unleashed his fiery orbs onto each of them! Due to his agility and the towering wrought titan, he took them out seamlessly.

He headed left, as anxious as ever. Though he immediately hesitated as he heard such a clatter ringing his ears; a series of ginormous boulders came rolling down the stairwell and colliding with the rear wall. Strange thing was the debris never seemed to litter the bottom much... Remembering the traps back in the premise of Delia's temple, Taven studied the pattern rhythmically before proceeding up once the way was clear. He raced up before there were another series of boulders. He scurried left then right out onto a long balcony similar to Argus' turf. He was then ambushed by Kahn's Champions, but he was ready. There was a skinny guardrail, so Taven easily tossed the stunned guardsmen over it where their bodies either splattered upon the unforgiving terrain or sizzling in the lava pits!

Taven soon came across a massive lever which took nearly all his muscle as he brought it down. He barely heard a low squish from the center titanium door ahead, It was easy for him to cruise down the same stairwell avoiding the constant boulders before he repeated the process in the opposing chamber at the left side.

After clearing out the same balcony, Taven muttered to himself observing the thick pikes with Kahn's spiked helmets on them, "Hmm... Shao Kahn is quite the narcissist. Always the Konqurer being so full of himself. I wonder if his zealousness would be his undoing."

He lowered the other lever and noticed the middle door had its spiked pikes raised from the sides, as a sign he unlocked it finally. He slid down the stairwell and rolled away from the oncoming boulders before he dashed to the next section.

Taven followed a couple corridors till he wound up at a massive, circular chamber with a pair of monstrous, bronze gears before he was snuck upon by a gang of Axe Wielders and Swordsmen. Taven was bombarded at times, but his amazing ground pounds and heat blasts tossed them into the grinders and were sliced like cattle!

It wasn't long before he followed a couple more halls before he arrived at...

"This looks like Shao Kahn's dungeon. No sign of Daegon here."

"Daegon hasn't been down here in ages, nor has Kahn." An alto interrupted his reverie as she emerged from the shadows behind him. The light from the lava pits made her skin and hot pink wardrobe glow. She almost looked seductive as she stretched out her arms and undulated her bare chest. "I am Mileena. Mmmm... not bad." She seemed to admire Taven's meaty appearance with all that muscle and armor, before she shifted herself. "Care to dance?!

Taven followed suit before Mileena went thru the ground and hit him with an aerial kick. Luckily, the impact was cushioned by the Edenian armor he found earlier. He was still swept off his feet as Mileena curled and spun like a rolling hedgehog with her legs, and he soon studied her moves and Mian Chuan, realizing her flexible legs were her weakness. Her Sais seemed lesser lethal than her other tactics, and she was little to no match for his pyrokinesis, even when she stumbled to put out some of the flames.

Still, her pride was wounded upon her defeat. And remembering Orin's advice on leaving his enemies krippled, he went underway.

After klobbering thru some colossal, elaborate pairs of doors, Taven picked up a distant low siren. He suspected more of the dungeon dwellers had sounded the alarm, and not only attracted more enemies, but also locked up the exits as two walls of flames began to close in! It wasn't entirely simple, as there were streaks of flame tripping him, but thanks to his brute strength of his fiery ground pound, he whacked the group into the walls where they became stuck like bugs caught in a sticky spiderweb.

Following some more wide corridors, he perked up as he noticed some moans and grunts coming from injured prisoners inside the spacious cells. He then scanned for an escape switch of sorts till he slammed on the dragon engraving similar to his tattoo! The impact in turn rose up the barred walls and every one of the inmates rushed out to the back entrance.

Taven collected whatever scraps were needed till he noticed the prisoners were slaughtered and beheaded by a beastly axe! At first, Taven suspected it was Kahn, but he never spoke. He made him out as the executioner although his wrath made him back away. His peripheral vision made out the same dragon engravings, he hit them which made the tall, muscular Minotaur incinerate his feet from the center furnace, as if designed to roast the inmates! Taven recalled that Kahn'd rather kill his victims and not kapture them for long. After several of the switches were activated while Taven distracted the warden to the designated area, while realizing he had more brawn than brains, he was soon decimated.

Thru the obliterating corpse, Taven's eyes spotted something shiny. His fingers quickly brushed on the object trying to relieve the flames before he grasped a golden key!

"Stranger! The key you found! It will unlock my cell door! Please free me!" A raspy voice spoke from behind.

"How do I know you won't attack me?" Taven was skeptical as he walked toward the enclosed cell, since he had many attackers to deal with since his quest began...

"You have only my word. I am Shujinko. I am not here to do battle with you. My task is to eliminate Shao Kahn."

"Alone? This I must see!" He was aspired by that old geezer. How could someone as frail as him possibly win over the imperialistic Konquerer? Still, he introduced himself. "I am Taven. You plan to defeat Shao Kahn? Whole realms have tried to overthrow him!" He spread out his arms as he emphasized.

"Not only will I defeat him, but a host of his allies. They are in his chamber now, plotting some coming battle. I allowed myself to be captured. From this dungeon, I can enter Shao Kahn's Soul Chamber. Once there, I will be able to destroy Shao Kahn and his allies in one stroke. I suggest to leave quickly, Taven, for I cannot guarantee your safety."

"My safety? I just defeated this entire-"

"Taven, stop!" A tenor ran up to him from the rear.

"Hanzo!"

"Don't listen to him, Taven! He was the bringer of chaos, who helped resurrect Onaga and bring forth destruction to all the realms."

"Please, I didn't mean to destroy the realms! I'd been deceived by my mentor, Damashi! I'd no idea he was the Dragon King in disguise."

"Until you were too late, old man! I had failed to stop him. And the Elder Gods foresaw this event unfold. Luckily that upon my defeat, not all the Kamidogu were united. There was still one piece left. But I and several other Champions, with King Jerrod, were able to annihilate the serpent! As he was possessing Reptile's broken body. He's responsible for the end of all existence, as if Armageddon wasn't bad enough!"

"No...! Please, just give me a chance. I can mimic Kahn and his kohorts and make them fall. Let me redeem myself!"

Taven hesitated with the key still in hand. Hanzo just stormed in front of the cell. "Taven, this is for your own good, and for all the realms. I've HAD IT being deceived by treacherous assholes that're nothing more than about manipulation! Destroy it, now!" He looked at the small object, although it started to melt in his thermal glove on account of the surrounding heat. Seconds later, it was within a combustible burst!

"Nooo...!"

Taven perspired, "I'm sorry. But since you were the culprit on the realms' destruction and aided Onaga, the first Emperor of Outworld, I won't help you." He scuffed away in disgust, "You are on your own..! Bah... Foolish old man."

Hanzo went after him. "That must've taken you a lot of courage, it was awfully intense. I want to thank you upon your decision."

They began walking beside each other, "Hanzo, you'd been following me? Were you not in the Chaosrealm?"

"Indeed, I was, Taven. I assisted another one of our Champions, Havik, knocking sense into his allies, Dairou and Darrius. They were rebels upon the ways of fanatical order; Hotaru must've attacked them and Havik, then he drew them to the Netherrealm."

Taven hesitated as he instantly remembered his konflict with the Krusader. "It was my fault; I was the one who attacked him when Shinnok implored me to do so, when he was in his weaker state."

"Shinnok... He's just as deceitful and as much of a snake as that old bastard back there! I should know since I once was one of his generals, until I got my sanity restored. So what brings you here?"

"I'd been looking for Daegon. Orin said that he and that elemental saw him enter here. I need to talk some sense into him since he killed our parents and we were set up on this false quest."

"...I see. So you're the victim of cunning corruption as well. With you being the puppet of their schemes. Rest assured, Taven, you won't survive here alone. I'm certain you are here for espionage. Our friends should be just up ahead."

He helped Taven find a hidden lift and took it to the higher floor; the contraption was primitive, though surprisingly efficient as the clean chains and gears churned their ascent. Taven and Hanzo wound up in the middle of the same room the former fought off Kahn's kronies with the rear grinders.

"Daegon was not in the dungeon, but something Hanzo said might imply he's in the throne room. Hopefully this lift would take us there."

During the disquietude, Hanzo and Taven were suddenly met by more of Kahn's guards as they dropped onto their transport. They both took them out with ease as the Edenian rocketed them asunder as he pounded the floor, while the former wraith used his spear and his fatal breath stunning them. The ride shook as it parked on the top floor in a matter of minutes.

The roomy area led them to the activation of a monstrous bot shaped like the fallen Emperor. "Really!? A robot!? That's one of Kahn's pathetic toys?"

The duo scrambled as it fired its red plasma beams and Hanzo held the mecha still as he pulled it taut around its feet; however, it wasn't long before he withdrew the weakened weapon. Taven just kept running around the chamber, decoying the bot as he shot the igniting orbs on the upper portions that seemed unreachable. They expanded and sparkled like Tears and Hanzo followed his strategy, before Taven pounded the black platform once all the orbs were lit. They noticed the switch shrunk the orbs, and they took turns distracting the Kahn Koloussus while reigniting the light-blue orbs.

By the time Taven slammed on the large button again, the monstrosity began to break apart limb by limb before it kollapsed! Hanzo and Taven did a high-five for a job well done!

It took them a while to find the main exit, as the room had multiple alcoves, till Hanzo found the airy section. Taven followed him to another balcony, only this one was a lot tinier than the ones he saw previously. They made out a single monster overlooking it. Hanzo halted Taven's progress and advised him to challenge him.

"Enjoying the view?" he smirked.

The beast turned and faced the intruder. He wasn't thrilled as he replied in an intimidating tone, "Who are you? What are you doing here?!"

The newbie rose his hands and responded kasually, "Whoa! At ease, watcher. I am looking for Daegon. Have you seen him?"

"He is with the Emperor. I am Motaro. I have been ordered to let no one pass, under penalty of death," he threatened in a rough voice.

"My death? Or yours?" Taven put up his dukes and the enemy did the same.

"Motaro! That must be the former Centaur who was cursed!" Hanzo described.

It was gruesome and Hanzo warned Taven of Motaro's vicious advances. While he'd been reduced into a simp of two legs instead of four, he maintained his excruciating muscle as his arms lunged and can still use his elongated tail as an appendage, even firing a pink orb from the tip. Hell, Hanzo noticed he could still teleport and take the victim by surprise!

His Gold Dragon and Drakesword maneuvers seemed to slice and dice up the bare chest well! His swiftness gave Taven the advantage aside from Motaro being an easy target. That was once his tail was disabled from moving. Hanzo was thrilled of Taven's skills, and he was also relieved he never had to resort to his pyrokinesis!

Despite Motaro's injuries he still snarled, "You have bested me, son of Argus. But should we meet again on the field of battle, you won't be so lucky!" He then dissolved.

Because of the fractured door upon the previous assault, Hanzo and Taven bashed thru and came across several of Kahn's patrolmen; Taven could've sworn they belonged to the undead because of their bare skulls despite wielding long axes. They found the way out, although they witnessed the paintings missing their heads which made them cringe.

"Well done. Those were elite guards."

The pair were growing irritated as people kept on sneaking from behind. They turned and Hanzo went as if his eyes were flaming!

Taven wasn't too fazed. "Heh, if you say so."

"I assume you are here to kill the Emperor."

"If anyone deserves to die, it's Shao Kahn. But I'm here for someone else: my brother, Daegon."

"Taven! That is General Reiko! He was one of Shinnok's most deadliest generals! It's been an eternity since I last saw you!" Hanzo's outraged voice almost sounded as if there were two.

"Ah, yes... My old flame, Scorpion."

"That's Hanzo!"

"Whatever." He responded kooly as he swatted a fly. He then addressed to Taven, "He is in the next room with the others. As much as I would like to see him die, I have been charged to protect the Emperor's allies. I am Reiko. General to Shao Kahn's army. The Emperor could use warriors such as yourself."

"Give it up, Reiko! We have no interest on joining your twisted allegiance!"

"As a rule, I don't ally myself with egotistical madmen," Taven mocked.

"Then I am afraid I will have to kill you."

"Kill ME first, Shinnok's messenger! I'll take kare of him! You find a way to the throne room." Hanzo kommandered and Taven obliged.

Hanzo was at a slight disadvantage as Reiko was versatile and balanced. His Teleport beneath the floor nearly kaught him unawares, although his Yin Yeung battle style, his rapid-firing ninja stars, his plasma kicks, and his spiked club were lethal! Luckily, the former wraith wised up quickly and kept tripping him with his spear, even stunning him with his breath like molten lava! The more temperament he became the more stings he made on Reiko from the waist down!

Seeing that his partner had the upper hand, Taven rushed to the entry way, hollering that he must not kill Kahn's and Shinnok's promising footsoldier! Unfortunately, his warning kame too late for Hanzo used his Fatality which incinerated Reiko to dust as he screeched! Scorpion's pent-up rage was just too much for Taven to prevent...

They didn't even make out the falsetto voice that cried, "Toasty!"

"Dammit! What have you done!? Orin told me to injure the elitists not kill them! Now he's going to be fully healed in the Netherrealm and fight in Armageddon!"

Hanzo just hunched over in exasperation, "I'm sorry, Taven. I could not kontrol my anger...!"

Taven just helped him up, "Kome. We best not make that mistake again..."

The pair gradually opened the last door leading to their final destination and peeked out from the sides as they eavesdropped on a konversation. To Taven's surprise, though, he couldn't make out his brother in the gathering...

"Where...does this portal lead to?" Hanzo wondered aloud as he and his partner observed the lime rip.

"... and that is why we must put our differences aside and join forces!"

"That's Quan Chi..!" Hanzo whispered. He helped Taven identify their other fellow overlords.

"Why should we believe you, Quan Chi? Why should we trust you?" The snake, Shang Tsung, objected with his usual tone dripping with venom.

"I will not join an alliance of traitors!" The dragon king, Onaga, protested.

Still, the blanch was as kool as a kucumber, "Shang Tsung... Shao Kahn... Onaga... My comrades. We are all treacherous by nature and beatrayal is to be expected. But if we do not stand together, at least initially, it could mean the end of Darkness."

"Good. That's what we want." Taven whispered, the two fighters nodded, with their objective still klear in their minds.

"I stand with no one! I will claim the prize and with it destroy you all!" The massive serpent was about to make his move as he pranced forward.

Shao Kahn just sat kasually on his perch, "Onaga..."

"EMPEROR Onaga!" He klarified as he paused.

"Not anymore. You haven't been listening to what Quan Chi has told us. The forces of Light also seek to acquire this power. You cannot defeat them alone. Only if we join forces does one of us have a chance of winning the prize."

"...They don't know that..." Taven murmured. "Orin warned me about this... And the mysterious elemental that saved him-" Hanzo just laid a firm hand on his shoulder to shut him up.

"But which one of us? If Onaga is the victor, he could use that power to overthrow you." Shang objected.

"I'll take that chance." The Emperor remained komplacent.

"What of the brothers? What can be done about them?" Onaga wondered.

"I was sorely bested in battle as I had failed to kill Taven's dragon! He slipped thru me like an eel. And this...STRANGER bested me in kombat! The other is in Edenia. We must go there now. Our allies are waiting." He then turned to Kahn directly and spat, "Your minions better hold him off long enough; I wouldn't want them to be as weak as you."

"Enough your wretched tongue!" Kahn fired a soul sphere onto him which made him fall on all fours. "You have failed to assassinate the Champion of Earthrealm! I should have you perished! What matters now is to unite and take out the Forces of Light in one fell swoop. My precious wife shall whimper for mercy...! With the prodigal son kompromised with those foolish ants marching into our trap, we KANNOT be stopped!"

"To war!" Onaga bellowed before he was the first to prance into the rip. One by one, the diabolical radicals followed.

"Wait!" Shang became fixated on the double doors. "We are not...alone."

Hanzo's eyes widened, "He must have spotted us; he kan trace souls."

He unleashed a fiery skull and it burst in the distance after the two turned tail and ran! Shang signaled the kluster to keep throwing their projectiles at them, even when Taven hollered to head to the balcony at the side of the room while they zigzagged through!

They barely reached it, with their throats burning and depleting of energy! They made a quick gaze, Hanzo barely stating he couldn't reach the distant landforms! Nevertheless, a volley of mixed energy missed their marks when Taven thought fast and warped them down to his starting point!

"Now, Caro!" The Oriental shouted for the red dragon, as they, Orin and the masked Edenian observed thru the mystical portal of pure energy.

The red rip was conjured behind the weary warriors and desperately escaped where only the Elder Gods knew where!

The guys toppled onto a green patch. Thru Taven's glazy vision, he realized they're still under the same night sky. They took a few moments to katch their breath before they beheld some flickering windows yonder. "That's...the Edenian Palace! We're in Edenia!" The wanderer realized the black, massive structure, even the series of spires.

Hanzo stood up his achy vessel, "Ergh, we should rest there."

Knowing they'd be in lesser vindictive hands, the pair walked with their sore feet to it.

A/N: I kouldn't wait to get that chapter out of the way! Konquest is so tumultuous to make thru and write about, even if I do have 2 more parts to go in that walkthrough that I've been following from AnonymousAffection. I wasn't too thrilled about this chapter either... At least Taven got a helping hand from Hanzo, and unlike the game, there is no Dark Raiden since, in my last epic, he sacrificed most of his essence before his sacrifice against Onaga, thinking he'd perish, then he was greatly weakened inside the Jinsei chamber, next he and Fujin sensed the dark aura reform, and thanks to Nightwolf's ritual and EMP the Thunder God regained strength from the rainstorm and fried his doppelganger making them kombine into one restoring his vitality! So, no worries. Also, I replaced Goro with Motaro in his cursed Minotaur form because of Nightwolf and Sheeva. And yes, Shang does retain his role as Corey; might want to end the series with the best Shang VA; Quan Chi still has his VA from Mythologies though. While Kahn and Onaga have their usual actors.

Where No One Has Gone Before: The Test/Double Warp/Long Way from Home from Star Trek: TNG would play as Taven investigates Kahn's Fortress, at least the side areas along with the running boulders. The Pit III from the SNES version of MK3 would play when he faces off Mileena, Konquest: Shao Kahn's Fortress - Fortress Sanctum Variation in Mortal Kombat Armageddon plays when he investigates the center portion, Menu from Dissidia Final Fantasy sounds as Taven has a chat with Hanzo, The Bridge from the SNES version of MK3 plays as Taven fights off Motaro (a lil nod there), Don't Be Afraid from Final Fantasy VIII (Dissidia rearrangement) plays when Hanzo volunteers to fight Reiko, Title from Drakkhen sounds as the overlords discuss their so-called union in Armageddon, Titania Boss from the og Starfox plays while Hanzo and Taven escape, and Game Over from Drakkhen plays when the take a respite after the portal; it's not a hopeless situation.

Also, I just wanted to show the konsequences as Hanzo let loose his rage and killed an elitist, Reiko, so it looks like we'd be seeing him in Armageddon...

Oomph, I kouldn't wait to get that chapter out of the way... So, he's at the homestretch now.

A/N: The source that the Oriental sensed from Taven was in fact when he found Blaze's essence back in Arctika, hence waking up and watching him after his meditation. And while Gods usually aren't affected by temporal changes, Fujin for once was as the Oriental conjured it onto him before the heat blast onto the Red Dragon base. Forgot to put these things out there earlier...

Con't IX: Armistice

Back on the tropical island, some tension was eased as the quartet witnessed Hanzo and Taven's hasty escape from Kahn's Fortress. Knowing they were safe, silence covered over it like a weighted blanket.

"This...this is all my fault. This never would've taken place..."

Everyone looked at the sorrowful monologue. "What's wrong, Caro?" The female Edenian wondered with koncern. The Oriental and Orin followed her gaze.

"Blaze. I never should've arisen Daegon so soon... I lost the telepathic signal from Blaze and was unable to receive it. In a panic, I assumed it was time for Armageddon, thus his tyranny."

"...I see." Orin added. "I too was unable to sense Blaze, but I never thought it'd be the signal for Armageddon coming to pass..."

The mysterious elemental sulked, trying to process the situation. "I don't understand. Something must've happened to him."

The woman's eyes lit up as she touched his shoulder, "Can you...? Somehow trace Blaze back to see what transpired? While maybe rewind the scenarios leading to when they lost contact?"

He sighed, "I can try... But...it's going to take a konsiderable amount of koncentration to do so. This can be going back several millennia. It may be done."

The trio encouraged him, he closed his eyes as if he was meditating again. Fragments on Kitana talking to Blaze flashed thru his mind, then it was as if time was being rewound like a VHS tape, making the fire spawn tread backwards quickly. Following the bringer of Armageddon, his visions sent him to a subterrane cavern filled with lava, and he was stuck in it! After a few moments, the warrior's eyes shot open with a gasp. "I think I found him." He then konjured another mystical portal over the same projection they were watching from displaying the location.

"That's the Lava Shrine!" The Edenian koncluded. "That was where Onaga was reborn taking the form of Reptile!"

"So, that was that dragon egg." Orin was intrigued.

"I must head there. But unfortunately, it's still in Outworld."

"Try and see if you could find the answers there. It... shouldn't be too hard since you have exceptional pyrokinesis." Caro stated.

He affirmed and went thru the rip. He scanned the tepid place, never being greatly affected by it, not even dehydration or heat stroke. Still, his eyes never picked up any evidence of Blaze. He hesitated and closed his eyes again, refocusing those same illusions. He suddenly heard some incantations emanating from several holy men. The klatter made the khronokinetic hesitate and observe the imprisonment of Blaze being stuck in the distant lava pool! The fanatics were chanting around a large dragon egg, freshly incubated, within the spiky, circular gateway.

"That's Onaga..."

He sped time forward and the vision shown him the same egg hatching, then shoot out a blinding streak of light into a reptilian figure; the volley made it nearly hard to make out the poor, possessed body! It began to churn and transform, enlarging the vessel, sprouting a gigantic wingspan, and made the victim drop his hands before he ascended, had his eyes gleam in flames and let out an ear-piercing roar as if belonging to a Tyrannosaur! The Oriental startled and the Lava Shrine returned to its basic kondition. He immediately konjured a portal back and gave them the lowdown.

"So, Blaze was held against his will. Just as I was..." Caro was surprised of the discovery.

"Yes, Caro. Blaze was held kaptive by Onaga's holy men, bound to his imprisonment within the Lava Shrine. That was until the egg finally hatched and took the form of Reptile."

Caro just hung his head, wishing none of this would've happened kounting Daegon's abuse over him. The Edenian just tended to him, "Do not be troubled. It's all in the past now, but we still must prepare for Armageddon, and watch over Taven. Where has that portal gone to?"

"To Edenia, near...the majestic Palace."

"Good, he should be safe for the moment. And if I'm korrect, our enemies shall march forward to the Pyramid of Argus by dawn. Last-minute preparations must be met." The savior mentioned.

The quartet observed thru the usual portal as they watched over Taven who was wandering with Hanzo.

"Our enemies will be marching into Edenia, and perhaps to the Pyramid of Argus first for the Battle of Armageddon," Taven reiterated.

"You'll be safe within the royal walls. I even remember guiding Kung Lao there, before we found intel involving Onaga."

"...That dragon, he was there, wasn't he?" Hanzo nodded. "Were you able to defeat him?"

"Yes, with the help of four other Champions. I rectified my failure on stopping Shujinko; Liu Kang's spirit led us to victory along with other Kombatants, one for each realm, excepting the Orderrealm of course.

"With his strategy in shattering each of the Kamidogu, we have won." The former wraith's komplexion changed to disbelief. "Still, Nightwolf was able to bound his soul into the Netherrealm. I can't understand how he would've been restored and broke free from his eternal prison. He was trapped by the shaman's tainted spirits. Shinnok was also imprisoned in Hell for eternity as well, when Kuai and I sealed away his amulet.

"I... can actually relate to him for once, on having a family of corruption. Quan Chi was responsible for their deaths, and my clan. It took me long enough to see the truth."

"I see... Shinnok and I are not the only victims of deceit, just as you with the Elder Gods."

"I remember Shinnok's words in the Netherrealm, as I was negotiating with Havik..."

In the Chaosrealm, he defended the kleric as they konfronted his associates, Dairou and Darrius, reconverting them into chaos than order, rather than being brainwashed by Shinnok's double, at least that was what Havik believed.

Hanzo stated they were once warriors of Order, serving Seido and working for Hotaru. Upon the death of his family, Dairou turned rogue and escaped prison, thus being a fugitive of Order and becoming a mercenary. After encountering Havik and Darrius, he declared his perfect moment was that working for khaos. It wasn't long, as Darrius began a riot in Seido, and that Dairou was about to be executed since he once served as a guard there and for his treachery; they'd sided with Havik ever since, and it seemed that he and Hanzo restored their memories on why they konverted in the first place. Armageddon would be the perfect opportunity to show off their rage to law and order. Hanzo described Seido, and Hotaru, as a mix between a Soviet and Jehovah's Witness, in which Taven was klueless...

Hanzo realized that like Shinnok, he knew well on declaring vengeance and consuming his being, and once he was assigned as Champion, the Elder Gods promised to bring back his family... Remembering how petty they were to Raiden and Liu Kang, with Earthrealm in peril on merging with Outworld, he affirmed he shall accept their losses and devote his heart to Takeda as a second son. Hanzo then recalled Shinnok's private chat on losing his own sanity from lorruption and thus, Hanzo decided to keep his promise and attain the amulet against Raiden's warnings, as he knew where to go in the Temple.

"I knew...Shinnok was an Elder God, but I didn't know that he had fallen. Raiden retorted that it wasn't interfering with mortal affairs but causing destruction by his madness."

"Precisely. I must find a portal back to Earth so I can...turn a blind eye upon Raiden's advice, and... spend my last minutes with my reformed family and klan."

Suddenly, the two men overheard an organ play a festive tune in key A emitting from the Palace. Knowing they were a few feet away, they headed straight to it.

Inside the royal eatery, there was an entire banquet! Following the delicious aromas and the source of the inviting tune, Hanzo and Taven observed the exotic displays. One of the Edenian guards with his mouth watering was pleased to see them, "During the night, Baraka was on a hunting spree! This is fabulous!"

He described he roasted a variety of his own specialty meals! Including lizards in thin strips similar to asparagus, the new red dragon species sizzling and leaking grease in slabs, a plethora of bugs as appetizers, gator chops, and stuffed snakes with the venom evaporated! The monarchs included their specialties, including their signature Pie located in the far right!

Hanzo shook off the distractions, "Agh, as much as I'd love to stay, I still need to find someone to konverge a portal," he spoke over the talkative crowds and organ.

He then shoved his way thru some of the crowd as he drastically looked for someone to form a portal back home; he doubted Caro's designated location was a good idea. One of the Knights was surprised to see him again and he suggested for Hanzo to head to the throne room where King Jerrod may be of some assistance.

The ninja stormed up and exasperated for the legion of souls to make a rip, in order to reunite with Kenshi and Takeda at the Japanese headquarters. He did it gladly forming a lime rip. He was almost breathless by the time he emerged from it.

"Hanzo?"

He abruptly turned toward the distinctive voice, "Kenshi...?"

"I spotted that green portal and was on my way to the Shirai Ryu base. Are you alright...?" As the ticking time bomb was trying to catch his breath and his racing heart, the blindman managed to stop and read his racing mind, tuning out any dialogue. "You seem desperate. About Armageddon?"

"I... wanted to meet Takeda one last time."

"As do I. I was on my way here after I sensed Aiko's mind drifting away."

Back at the Academy, she was in a sudden hypnotic trance. As she hesitated and zoned out, he knew this was her weakness, but...someone was transmitting a message thru her, that the warriors must not be deceived of the so-called prize after they would destroy Blaze. That Taven's quest was a setup as was Daegon's, and the only way to prevent Armageddon was the same cryptic words, He must win. Raiden became urgent over these words he heard in his visions.

Aiko murmured, their hearts, one and together. Afterwards, the thrall wore off, and Raiden kept the strategy to himself. Kenshi queried who sent her the transmission, and she described him being so familiar, feeling a certain warmth and his voice was just so soothing... Kenshi knew from the protector that Armageddon was now imminent as he gazed onto the amulet which shown numerous cracks. Kenshi then decided to prepare to alert the Special Forces and soon spend his last minutes with Takeda and Hanzo before they must rendezvous at the Edenian Palace.

"I was just in the middle of a banquet. Baraka had made all sorts of exotic meats-"

Kenshi pushed Hanzo back a foot by a telekinetic push millisecond before a rush of chilling air! All a sudden, a nearby rock became frozen and covered in a blue translucence!

Hanzo forced himself up as he looked at his assailant, "Sub-Zero! Why would you attack me!? I thought we made a pact.-Bi-Han...?"

"So, you remember me, dear friend! Have you also remembered how you killed me? When you unleashed your undead, foul breath onto me in the first tournament!?"

He rose a hand in front, "Yes, I know, and I regret it. I always thought you were responsible for my clan's and family's deaths, but not anymore. Quan Chi deceived me it was you, and I made peace with your brother!"

"Sub-Zero, stop!" Kenshi picked up an arm ceasing the feud.

"Why are you defending this dishonorable murderer!? He slain me and forced me into the Netherrealm!"

"He was a wraith, Bi-Han, just as you were! I guess you managed to make a portal after stealing the Lin Kuei's equipment, when they failed to reason with you."

"You-how dare you!? I know how the advanced technology of the Lin Kuei work!"

"I work for the Special Forces, and I also happen to read minds. Hanzo is innocent! And I can prove it." Nevertheless, his words seemed minute as he avoided a swift charge from him! "I should've known you'd be more cold-hearted than your brother is!"

The emancipated kryokinetic did give Kenshi a brain freeze at times, although his Sento gave him some endurance and dice thru the chunks, even Hanzo from a distance. He mostly relied on his swift kicks and psychokinesis instead of his katana for kombat. Luckily, he held firm on the slippery terrains Bi-Han konjured thanks to his telekinesis. Even the Telekinetic Slam gave him the kritical advantage kounteracting the aggressive warrior with the unthawed heart. He was able to stun him on impact shortly.

"You work with hi-tech, you say? Then you must know of the cyber initiative! Sektor provided Hanzo the data necessary on finding out his true enemy! It is not you, it's Quan Chi; he has deceived you both thus you two killing each other! You both lost your souls to two sorcerers! And we have the answers. Now stay put!"

He koncentrated more as his Sento began to illuminate in a pink hue. "I too was once konsumed by vengeance, until my allies assisted me thru it. Armageddon is drawing near, and we and your brother need your help! Quan Chi is our only enemy, and I have a third eye despite my blindness." Kenshi then projected the blurry recordings that looked as gritty and red as if belonging to the Virtual Boy, with the muffled konversation between him and the former Grandmaster. The Oni dropped a series of bones from a thick sack as payment to him. "Hanzo knows the truth and does not wish to fight you any longer."

His kompatriot's head was imbued in turquoise for a short while as Kenshi carried over his memories onto the uncontrollable elemental. Even figments of Hanzo forgiving Kuai before he relocated entered his mind.

"You must put aside your quarrels, Bi-Han. For the sake of your brother, your clan. Your existence before everything is erased by Blaze." The field dissipated and Bi-Han stood on his feet. Hanzo just walked kloser to the duo never showing any traces of malice nor his kreepy flaming skull. "He doesn't have it anymore. Although he does have a sleeping beast inside, just as you do, Noob Saibot."

"Don't call me that!" He protested.

"Best not to stir the waters under the bridge." His ears perked up as he heard distant cries emitting from the tall spire. "Hanzo and I have some business to attend to, with a baby. You better set things right." After that preachy speech, they simply just walked away and toward Takeda's cries.

Meanwhile in the Edenian banquet...

Taven observed the numerous food choices, especially the exotic meats before he spotted the sole provider who was sharpening his blades.

"Hey-you're...a Tarkatan. Baraka!?"

"Fear not, Taven. I don't wish to harm you. Besides, I'd be too exhausted from all the hunting and the preparations I'd made for this feast following Armageddon. We need all the protein and nutrients we can get."

Taven was perplexed, "So... you actually side with the royal guard?"

"Indeed. I had been an ally to Queen Sindel and King Jerrod, albeit indirectly since my more treacherous kind has been banned from the Edenian border. Much like Aiko, I had traveled thru time by an unknown cause."

"A Tarkatan taking on the good side...?"

He sighed, "Alas, I wish Mileena was part of our ranks."

Before he had a chance to object one of his assailants, the crowd was aghast as a bellow went thru. "Why wasn't I invited to this soiree!"

All the denizens were either speechless or speaking in awed tongues as they beheld a lard in black tread thru them like deer in headlights.

The Edenian faced him and was just as surprised, "Bo' Rai Cho!?"

"Well, hello. It's been ages since I last saw you, Taven!"

They made a tight handshake before Li Mei followed the kommotion, "...Master...!" She responded with a low kurtsy.

"Li Mei!" He held her in an embrace similar to a coiled anaconda.

She explained on the predicament, as a gathering before Armageddon, in which the surrounding Edenians and Outworlders were trying to cope with their nervousness. "I thought you were dead by the Soulnado; Kung Lao told me about our victory over the Deadly Alliance. And we lost Hanzo the same."

"Armageddon you say...? I bet that'll suffice why the Elder Gods brought me back on my feet."

"And I was prophesized to be the preventer of Armageddon. I'll see if I can put an end to my brother, Daegon, and Blaze as well."

Bo gave Taven a quizzical look, "What about Rain..?"

"What about him! That snobby so-called 'prince.'"

Bo laid one of his ungulate hands on his shoulder. "...Kid...! There's so much more about your troubled half-brother of yours. You must've known him."

"Half-brother? That arrogant prig I met in Arctika!? I never even heard of him!" He exasperated.

"Because he was the bastard of your father, Argus."

This made Taven pause for a moment, even Bo' had some grudges with his parent. "...I'm listening." He crossed his arms.

"Rain was destined as the true, noble prince of Edenia. All because he was a demigod, and the oldest heir Argus ever had! However, he abandoned him once he was born, to hide the affair with Arma. Delia was only you and Daegon's mother. But Rain was taken in by kommoners. He eventually turned rogue after finding out the secret and decreed to be disowned by both of his sperm and egg donors."

"By the Gods... Daegon was enraged after learning about the quest, thus killing them! Am I really destined to be as corrupt?! Even Orin warned me there's a setup."

"A very rough upbringing indeed... Rain might have slain his mother too before serving Kahn; he and Daegon always let their ego take the best of them, because of their own heritage..." Bo' sympathized. "It seems you are their golden child."

"Damnation! First Shinnok's family went corrupt, and now mine! ...Good thing I still have Orin and Caro."

"I'm sorry to talk flak of your family, but only the dear dragons and your mother aren't the treacherous ones."

"And, if I'm korrect..." Li Mei chimed in, "You may be the successor as Edenia's protector God!"

"What...? Me?" He pointed at himself in disbelief.

"Yes, Taven." A deep tenor walked to the trio, wearing a rainbow garb. "Which is why we need you to lead our forces to victory. Daegon and Rain would surely oppose us. The army of darkness will attack at daybreak."

"Hmm, I wonder if my most prominent pupils, Liu Kang and Kung Lao, know all this. I bet Master Raiden and Fujin are prepping them. Also, this is not the time for drinking Outworld ale. We must partake kautiously." The others nodded.

"Liu Kang must be spending his last moments with Kitana," Aiko assumed to an anxious thunder god who wanted to prepare his disciples for the worst. The fractures became deep and frequent upon his amulet, symbolizing that Armageddon was imminent.

"He must hurry. We kannot delay the inevitable, as I'd word from Edenia our enemies shall be marching to the Pyramid of Argus by tomorrow's dawn.

"I must prepare each of you for the final battle." He hesitated for a minute before he regathered his thoughts. "Kung Lao. Do you remember your training before the first tournament?"

"Yes, Lord Raiden. Liu Kang and I... We were given a variety of trials to see who would participate, as there must be one representative from each realm."

"Each faction, apparently. You became second to Liu Kang, though he became skeptical. He soon left for America to avoid the responsibility of his destiny. And he lost his brother, Chan, too. You were chosen by default, until he returned and went on the path of vengeance, which was why I sent you directly." He then faced the other Kombatants. "Kai, Aiko, Nightwolf, Frederick. You must all sharpen your skills before the kalamity. Only the top warriors will be chosen. Hone your skills well. Fujin and I will judge you from there."

Everyone obliged. Fujin spoke, "I believe Liu Kang may have some intimate moments with Kitana. He may not be-" Just then, a light blue rip opened, and out walked the Grand Champion! The group couldn't help but cheer! "He is here, brother."

"Excellent. Liu Kang, you must organize our tests for the ultimate battle. Be prepared." He actually grinned at the suggestion.

Raiden and Fujin were the judges for the trials their topmost skilled warriors must pass. Raiden chose Liu Kang to be first since he was the unstoppable Champion and their most seasoned Kombatant. There was Test Your Might with different material, up to five blocks set in front of them. From wood, to stone, steel, ruby and their topmost challenge, diamond! Needless to say, Liu Kang passed all materials, and with each injury, Raiden automatically healed them utilizing his Jinsei extraction. All the neighboring monks cheered for every victory and sighed for every defeat. Second was Kung Lao who surprisingly also passed all the trials, including the most durable Ruby and Diamond! Everyone was just flabbergasted, especially Liu and Aiko! His arm was immobilized after he managed to chop the latter substance, until it was gradually repaired by Raiden's Jinsei energy.

Third was Nightwolf who kommandeered his wolf, Kiba, to merge with him, thus the needed power boost. He easily aced over the wood, stone, and hardly bounced off the steel, though it was the ruby that he was unsuccessful. Fourth was Kai who had the same prowess as the Matokan, and Frederick passed to the Diamond. Lastly was the kardiokinetic who couldn't overcome the steel mass.

In the end, the results were tallied as Fujin announced that Liu and Lao were tied for first, Frederick second place, Nightwolf and Kai for third, and Aiko last. Raiden then moved them to their next trial, the Test of Sight.

A series of cups, one with the sacred dragon logo coin beneath, were laid out on a wooden table. Fujin volunteered to execute the test as he'd scramble the order randomly via his aerokinesis. Their first challenge konsisted of five cups as the Wind God shifted them rapidly, followed by an increase of velocity and cups. The final trial had ten cups with a blindingly fast rotation, and Liu went up to nine, Lao and Kai up to eight, Frederick and Nightwolf up to seven, and Aiko with six due to her nearsightedness and slow vision.

The third trial was Test Your Balance, where a skinny beam, around three feet long was suspended over a depression about five feet above a medium stream. The monks stood by to throw their beans at the participating Kombatants. Liu Kang, Kung Lao, Frederick and Nightwolf managed to cross it as they held their balance, albeit the shaman and scout had the most difficult time krossing it. Kai only made it two-thirds of the way before falling, while Aiko having a poor gait krossed nearly halfway. The soak was humiliating upon their defeats, especially for the only female in the group.

Returning to the square within the White Lotus temple, the final results were tallied from the three tests by the Godly brothers: first place was Liu Kang and Kung Lao, second place was Nightwolf, third was Frederick, fourth was Kai, and last was Aiko. Of course, she hung her head in disappointment and embarrassment, knowing she wasn't passable enough...

Raiden then invited his disciples, "There is kurrently a banquet hosted by the monarchs of Edenia within the palace. I shall make you a portal there. To the victor and vanquished, de spoils!"

One by one, much like marching ants, they entered the rip, but only half of the fighters had chosen to stay. "Um, if I may, Master Raiden...? I... hereby decided to change my mind." Frederick spoke, "I... won't be partaking in the Battle of Armageddon. It's...too overwhelming for me. And I don't want Aiko to be left alone."

"Well then why did you decide to take on the tests?" Lao was just as dumbfounded.

"I just wanted to test myself. See what I can do as a scout. Besides, they were fun."

"Huh? Oh. I see." Raiden was taken aback.

"Mhm."

"I'll stay with Aiko, for now. Besides, Liu and Kitana have some katching up to do. So... we might want to spend our last minutes with them... How...would you announce it to them, Lord Raiden? Fujin?"

"Eh, something will kome up," the Wind God affirmed with a smirk.

The trio promised to return for a final time before embarking on what would soon be the advent of their final destiny...

A/N: Fire Area (Night) would play again, bur slower, at .75 speed as Caro laments over Daegon's treachery since he mistakenly awakened him far too soon, losing Blaze's telepathic signal. The New Era Begins from MK11 would play as the Oriental investigates the captor of Blaze. Lively Inn from Drakkhen plays as Taven enters and partakes in the banquet, Total Logic from the og Star Trek film'd play as Kenshi recalls Aiko's strategy, Ambush & Rescue - Film Mix from Jurassic Park III, ending at 2:43, would sound as Kenshi konfronts Bi-Han before escorting Hanzo home, Argeers from Sleepy Hollow 1999 would play as Taven and Li Mei meet Bo' Rai Cho as he states the korruption, Peaceful from Dissidia 012 Final Fantasy plays afterwards, Battle Plan from Mortal Kombat (SNES) sounds when Raiden describes the trials, Test Your Might plays when the first set of trials start, Might Tested plays if one succeeds, and Might Not Tested would play if they fail. Kontent Stage from Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance plays in the Test Your Sight trials, They're Stealing My Eggs from Starfox Adventures plays in Test Your Balance, and Final Hours from Majora's Mask, then The Rescue Operation in Dante's Peak starting at 4:06 plays when the Kombatants leave to Edenia.

I honestly didn't have a lot of ideas for Rain; I was never impressed with him throughout the series, excepting as being a nod to Boon's favorite musician, Prince, with Purple Rain. So, I kinda figured on Bo' redeeming himself and spilling the beans of his origin; quite interesting. And it seems that Taven's like the golden child as his bros went korrupt due to their status and their parents betraying them. I feel a little bad on Rain being a bastard and abandoned as a boy, even him and Daegon turning rogue. I'm starting not to like Argus much since he cheated on his family! Delia and Taven, aside from the dragons, are the only ones who seem trustworthy, as long as Taven doesn't do anything stupid!

The idea on having Frederick changing his mind on being in the Armageddon fight was based on his idea during one of our roleplays; he also seems like a nice guy wanting to stay with Aiko as she wasn't qualified due to her lack of motor skills and being a glass cannon. At least she ain't a Mary Sue, unlike most OCs. I wasn't too krazy about the minigames, as I kould never figure that og trial out; always failed at it! And the only thing I was able to pull off easily was the spear and Toasty Fatality with Scorpion! I know. Pathetic!

I was hoping to get to the klimax, the Armageddon battle, but there are still more loose ends to tie up beforehand. Very frustrating! So, I guess it'll take another chapter then... At least I wrapped up the feud between Bi-Han and Hanzo involving Kenshi.

Con't X: He Must Win...

Hanzo and Kenshi went to baby Takeda's crib. The wooden bedpost glowed with the dim lighting from the neon orange bulbs in the opaque bedchamber. Kenshi was the first to tend him as he picked him up which soothed the infant's sobs. He also stopped and looked at his face while the Sento began to illuminate, a signal in which he was utilizing his psychokinesis. After a few moments, he turned to his close partner, "He knows of Armageddon...! He must be reading our minds and sensed the tension outside."

The yellow ninja sighed, "Yes... He must have. Someone needs to tend him when Armageddon would arise. I think..."

Kenshi looked back while holding Takeda close. "...You actually want to stay...?"

"It's...all for the best. Takeda can't be left alone. He already knows. And considering how petty the Elder Gods are, how they lied to me about my family... And how overwhelming the war is. Besides, I won't be useful against Blaze."

Kenshi nodded with the epiphany, "I see..."

"And...if anything should happen to you-"

"Which is why I'm entrusting you. I'm grateful you decided to stay and care for him. That's...all I would ask for if the worst should happen."

Hanzo took a few moments to process everything. Then he nodded in affirmation before he laid a hand on his shoulder.

Minutes later, the ninja left, using his outstanding skills in stealth as he was restless and remembered hearing the weakened Shinnok's words.

I must return the amulet to him... Forgive me, Lord Raiden. He declared me as his messenger, to retrieve his amulet once his double should kickstart Armageddon with Shao Kahn. Only longing for his sister, Cetrion, to be restored in conjunction with the dark heart gem encasing their intact memories... He and I have more in common than I know... I will entrust his words.

In the Spire, the shackled umbrakinetic transmitted via the dark crystallized heart straight to Hanzo, as if he was reading his angsts much like Kenshi.

Unfortunately, his essence was consumed by him, thus using his antimatter to form a portal and thus lead the invasion! Shinnok already knew since Hanzo was employed by Quan after his death in the first tournament: he knew of the Elder Gods' deception of their promise to restoring Hanzo's family as their "Champion," he knew his descent into eternal madness, he knew well of Quan's treachery, and he's the only one since he'd been there and slip under Raiden's radar. He hopes he shall restore everyone if Cetrion's revival was possible...

He held a small gizmo in his palm and rose once he was a long distance away from the tall base. "I sure hope this works."

"Well, aren't you the blue, lonely one."

Bi-Han looked up, following the alto voice, and his eyes beheld a familiar foe who descended. "Ashrah! I should've known you'd be here. Since you were the one who poisoned me with your holy light."

She rose a hand and countered, "Ha! I only purified your damned balls so I kould lifted from the accursed Netherrealm, and apparently it got you free from the demonic shackles too. But enough of your sarcasm. All realms are now at stake/"

A slimmer female walked up from beside the Kriss wielder, she was just as immobilized as if frozen by the kryomancer she once knew. "Agh-Bi-Han!?"

"Yeah, so who're you-Sareena...?"

She slowly stepped toward her fallen hero who once saved her from the klutches of Quan Chi and Shinnok. "Sub-Zero...!"

"Ergh, enough of that mushy stuff. I only found him so we can get our arses moving to Edenia. Besides, the rest of your defunct squad is waiting for you there too!" Ashrah spoke as if her mouth was dripping with venom.

Before he had a chance to object, Sareena sort of whimpered. "Quan Chi...! If I see him once we go to the Pyramid of Argus and meet Blaze, I would..."

"No. Impossible, hon. Quan would have no chance thralling you again. We actually have the legendary Cobalt armor ready for you; the Shokan worked hard krafting suits of them since Shinnok's invasion over the kingdom."

The assassin was in disbelief, almost as if it looked like he grimaced. "Cobalt? How kan the Shokan help us? More importantly, how would this typical element reject Quan Chi's magic!?"

"You'll see. It's done wonders; I wish I kould've thought of this myself. A lot of things had changed since your damnation, Subby."

He snarled again, becoming more irritated over Ashrah's saucy mouth!

"Sub-Zero, we're all counting on you. This is your chance to redeem yourself and fight with your brother! I won't miss this moment for all the realms. You two united kould surely help to extinguish and our greatest threats. We're all there."

Mostly fixated on Sareena's kompassion, the cold-hearted assassin kould've sworn his heart was starting to liquefy for once.

Meanwhile, the ashen face murmured what was taking his messenger so long...

"Agh!" He was struck from behind, as he was being electrocuted by Raiden's lightning, while at the same time losing his energy as if being sucked out by a straw!

The double snickered as his hand had a purple essence glowing in his palm. "Thank you. For providing me with the energy I need, for serving me so well! My chance for Armageddon has been brought to the forefront at long last...! All who fall shall serve me in the aftermath. Once Blaze and my subjects shall be wiped out, I will remain unstoppable! Shao Kahn would be my enforcer to eliminate all those fleas. And as soon as I'm finished with you, I may take the amulet for myself! All the realms shall bow down to me and fulfill my every whim! Everything's koming to plan. And I owe it all to you!"

With the fresh cluster of antimatter, Shinnok's more malevolent self was able to form a portal of the same violet energy! He snatched the black heart gem away before he made one last snicker, "Have a nice rest, my pawn!" He then leapt into the rip leading to his final destination!

"Alright, is everything ready and fully functional?" Sonya was preoccupied and tenacious as ever within the new Special Forces base, even though it was still a work in progress from Hsu Hao's invasion a few months ago, the main deck was still operational.

"Everything should be up and running, General Blade." Jax replied.

"Good. Are you sure you want to partake in this, Jax?"

"Of course. Vera understood, and you won't make it far without me." He boasted while clinging his fists together, making his metal arms ring.

"Right, that's for sure. I heard you finished off my murderer back there." Johnny admired. "But I'm surprised YOU'RE taking this well, especially since you are...pregnant."

"I'm only a few months in, Johnny." She klarified. "Hell, I don't know if it IS a girl, or whether or not it's Cassie yet...!" She kouldn't forget Aiko's point of advice making time and preparations for her birth as she existed during her dystopian future.

"If we do survive, there's a good chance for Jacqui." Jax wished for the same. "I'd actually love for someone to take up the slack in the OIA and Special Forces. I'm getting too old for this shit, man..."

"Oh yeah-Aiko! I was about to tell her about that special proposition, that is if we do live thru this. I was planning to tell her of promoting her fanfics into movies, and I'll be the director for all of them while she'd be my konsultant. They would be in all kinds of languages, in American and Chinese! I owe her that much. Especially from all the shit we'd done serving Onaga..." Johnny switched gears. "I wonder how Stryker and Kabal may be involved..."

"I'm not sure how HE would settle down..." Jax spoke, "He's not the type of guy who wants to be dragged into these supernatural shenanigans. You know how reluctant he was in Kahn's invasion."

"I'm sure Kabal would konvince him. Cyrax was more than ready. Aren't you?"

He talked in a monotone, digital voice repeating the same note in each word. "After receiving advanced equipment from the Lin Kuei, kourtesy from Smoke, I should be more than prepared to deal with my enemies. Kounting Oniro, Sektor and the new Tekunin klan."

"Raiden assured we shouldn't worry. I've heard of the sudden firebomb back at the hidden Red Dragon base. The Black Dragons were drawn to it knowing their location. And he said that as long as they're trapped and wounded, they won't be much use in Armageddon." She perspired, "I just hope his words are true. Kenshi's spending his last moments with his son; he and Hanzo need this. And I just received word he's staying behind too."

"Man... Good choice on his part. I hope Kabal would settle these matters for real. And Stryker better not do anything ridiculous." Jax stated his koncerns.

"Don't forget, Outworld and Edenia are ahead of our time. So, we must get moving as soon and as efficiently as possible."

"...There's no going back now." Johnny mentioned as he adjusted his arm blades. "It's time to go all out!"

Stryker and Kabal actually met up with them when they marched in from behind.

"Are we ready?" Sonya queried.

"Not a minute to soon. It's been a long time since I partnered with you."

"Great to see you too, Stryker. Kabal."

"If it weren't for me, he wouldn't have been involved. He already has a girlfriend but as long as our nemeses, the Red and Black Dragons, shouldn't interfere, and if we take on our enemies tactfully, we might still stand. Even if I should go down if Blaze would..." Kabal was lost in thought.

"It's great to have you with us. And if we WOULD perish, we won't go alone." Jax gave the respirating warrior and assured handshake.

"Then...let's saddle up." Stryker took up his pistol from his holster, twirled and cocked it. "Lock and load."

The Oriental and Edenian were intrigued as they explained to Orin and Caro who they were and haven't seen them in eons since Shao Kahn's invasion, and how Kabal deserted Kano, even when the Black Dragons worked for Kahn and were a subsidiary group from the Red Dragons.

"Soo... The Red Dragons had another faction, a bitter rival and a sworn enemy. I'm amazed Daegon never bothered with them." The red serpent expressed his confusion.

"Much as the Shirai Ryu was formed by a rogue member of the Lin Kuei. Unlike them, they're now allies." The elemental explained.

"They're brothers in arms. If only Taven and Daegon weren't always so kompetitive with each other. And their parents, Rain..." Orin sympathized.

"They are trapped in the rubble, buried alive. For now, at least...

"The battle may just be determined by the demigods' fates, if Blaze is somehow connected with each outcome. Whether Taven or Daegon survives would defeat Blaze in Mortal Kombat. The result might not turn in our favor. I had already passed on my words to Aiko. I pray for Master Raiden to decipher this. He must win, and our hearts must be one and together. And with that...we can beat Blaze and thwart Armageddon."

"Kung Jin should be here any moment now. School should be ending." Aiko mentioned to Kung Lao, together they were sitting on their bed within their shared room. She was clutching her own jewel tightly. She wasn't sure how she'd explain to a tween about the end of all realms...

"He'll find out soon enough. Once Lord Raiden would address to everyone..." Lao assured. He paused for a few moments then laid a konsoling hand on hers. "I... want to ask you to do something. But I'm not sure how... I promise you, that if I can, I will." She was still fixated onto her lover. "What if I asked you stay out of this. ...No matter what happens. To stay out of this battle."

Her face fell. "Kung Lao... Why...?"

He eventually laid another hand onto her, providing the kardiokinetic some warmth and komfort one last time. "...Please."

She soon nodded, "Alright." She kouldn't hold back her tears as she leaned into him. "Please, return home soon..." He simply returned the pressure. The jewel that was loose upon her lap began to glow as they kissed and embraced.

It almost felt like hours, but Lao just wrapped his arms around her from behind as he rested his face onto her back, and she turned to kiss him despite her tears; they held onto each other as minutes went by...

"So, if anything, if the worst should happen, the rest of us would follow."

"That is my estimate, Fujin." Raiden said. "And while we belong to the Forces of Light, our best chance is to embrace both sides of our psyche, the light and the darkness together, as one."

"It would surely give us the homefield advantage."

"Liu Kang and Kitana should be at the Dragon Grotto, spending their final moments. Earthrealm may be behind Edenia and Outworld's time, but the best time to act is now."

The god brothers spotted Nightwolf churning his bonfire into green flames, absorbing his ancestors' spirits.

"The Shaolin should gift every one of our allies with Aiko's heart jewels; she should be occupied with Kung Lao. Her experiment was successful, and it was proven to provide the opposite effects from the Gem of Tetsurri." Raiden's mind had figments of the said incident involving the Zaterra's ruler's heart inflicting toxic influences on those affected by it. "We would be given an extra fighting chance, with her stored energy to revive us and give us extra energy. The monks and other outsiders can monitor us as well when we march down the southern crater. Regretfully...they can only be used once."

Remembering the incident involving the Gem of Tetsurri, Aiko reminded Raiden and Nightwolf; the Thunder God hesitated to recollect his thoughts of that myth, then remembering the intense quarrels between the Kombatants. It was theorized Aiko's gem can use the opposite effects, instead its positive energy being absorbed and carried over by the user. Nightwolf magnified the effect as he was the one who made the infected Kombatants "fight the darkness," as they did against Quan Chi.

"Lest we forget the Cobalt armor!" the Wind God emphasized.

"Yes. The Edenian royals are making sure it's in full supply."

"To negate any sorcery, like with Quan Chi."

"Precisely. But...Hanzo, Frederick and Aiko will be staying behind. Even Asgaarth."

"No surprise. And Shinnok...?"

"If Nightwolf is korrect on kreating antimatter, he kould be a very dangerous threat, in konjunction with Shao Kahn, and our adversaries..." He lost his train of thought as he shut his eyes. "I see now... HE must win."

"What is it?"

"He must win." Raiden recalled the visions, trying to kome up with an essential strategy. "Our hearts, one and together. Aiko and her message she was referring to..." His eyes opened, "I believe it may have something to do with joining, merging, of two into one.

"Shinnok! He diffused himself into two. They might kombine themselves. If not...then, what if... If I can fuse myself with my OWN doppelganger, and utilize both forms of myself, then I can accomplish that! He must win..."

"Are you saying..." Fujin tried to konnect the dots. His mind flashed to the moments when Raiden sacrificed most of his vitality as he teleported Lao and Nightwolf away from the blast that failed to kill Onaga. Reforming in Earthrealm as Raiden was on life support in the Jinsei Chamber, and soon giving his malicious half a massive jolt of electricity which resulted on his restoration as he absorbed it!

"You mean you are willing to join yourself with a mortal!? Like you did with your double as Shinnok divided with his!?"

Raiden just nodded.

"Brother... ...Is...is that even possible!? You won't be the same!"

He shook his head, "No. But...I am willing to find out. Our brothers and sisters should be informed of Armageddon thru Aiko's hearts." He hesitated as he sensed something, "...It is time. Our forces are gathering. Fujin, you must prepare them, and lead them to the Edenian Palace. I have last-minute affairs to attend to, at the Dragon Grotto."

"What...? But Liu and Kitana are there." Fujin was flabbergasted on having a party krash.

All he did was smile as he laid a firm hand on his shoulder. "Precisely." His eyes fizzled with lightning before he konjured a portal.

"Liu Kang... Armageddon is upon us. This will determine the fate for all the realms."

"And that shall be. Whoever is able to defeat Blaze, aside from the two klashing brothers, will determine our fate. And if we do perish, we will perish in battle. And all realms will go with us if they shall collapse."

"Raiden... He told you all this."

"I was discussing with his visions, Kitana. And...he kept saying those same three words, He must win... I must win."

"You...?"

"As Grand Champion of Mortal Kombat. I had defeated each of our enemy overlords. Shang Tsung, Shao Kahn, Shinnok, the Deadly Alliance, and assisted against Onaga with my spirit. I must win against Blaze."

"Liu, he was created by Delia, a sorceress and empress of outstanding magic! A mortal kannot possibly withstand its horrific and spiritual incinerating wrath...!" Her voice kracked.

"Which is why you need more than you can possess!" A gruff voice greeted from behind before the Edenian was shocked in bolts of blue electricity!

"Kitana! NO!"

Before Liu Kang got to her, she just kollapsed in his arms as he held her and brought her down to the damp soil!

"Raiden...? What have you DONE?" Liu's fist ignited with his anger quickly rising!

"Liu Kang, stop! I had only put Kitana into a koma. She is still alive."

He reached down and touched her neck; a weak pulse was still beating. Her heart rate had also dropped. Even her own gem suddenly went dark; he picked it up and inspected it. "What...are you planning...? She won't be safe!"

"Yes, she will. Everyone will. Our hearts, Liu Kang, one and together. He must win... "

Liu paused, in doubt and for the first time, a trace of fear. "So... You would stun me...? To keep me safe?" He then saw his mentor's palms light up as bolts licked them as he looked down at Kitana.

"I would rather save you."

The monk was just stupefied, both mentally and physically! What was Raiden attempting to do!? Before he had a chance to object, with his mouth agape, Raiden just laid both of his hands onto him! Both bodies began to light up like a supernova as they remained huddled, even when Liu squealed at times while lightning ripped thru both of their bodies!

Aiko was outside the Academy as tears fell after she witnessed Kung Lao and Fujin leave... Frederick began to tend to her, hugging and rubbing her while she did the same...

All of a sudden, she felt a jolt! She screeched when the electricity hit her and struggled as she rid of her heart gem! It dropped to the tile ground floor and the small item kontinued to have its epicenter brighten while bolts licked it! She was surprised it didn't shatter, and a bit frightened, although some blurry image kaught her eyes. She looked up as she felt something emanating from the Grotto. Something pulled her to it, and there was a blue zip. She hesitantly reached toward it, only letting her fingers delicately touch it, when the rip suddenly expanded to a portal leading to the sacred spring!

"That...that wasn't from me, Aiko." The scout mentioned.

Storing whatever kourage she had left, she ran and jumped into it!

Aiko traced the kardiokinetic signature klutching her own jewel, and eventually followed it to the source, within the atrium itself. Her feet began to vibrate while she witnessed an immense white beam of light which then dissipated. She ran over to the display, recognizing the muscular, larger man standing before her as if it were a Hercules lookalike.

Long locks of grey hair hung at the sides while at the top was a small bun. A red, shiny headband as if made of metal wrapped around his head. His chest expanded, along with his whole body, as if twice the size! Numerous white lines tattooed all over his arms! His usual black pants and shoes also had the same etchings, and his eyes had lit up in a bright white hue as if they belonged to Raiden's! Only, except the figure that stood as mighty and unwavering as a mountain of muscle was...

"Liu Kang!" Aiko ran straight toward him, recognizing his features!

He then took out the same heart gem which actually grew twice in size and lit brighter than before, as if it belonged to a dragon's heart, almost ablaze. He laid it beside Kitana's unconscious body. He then faced Aiko, "Give me your heart gem." His voice changed, as if it had a distinctive accent to it, and it sounded deeper as well.

"You want-of course!" Aiko knew she didn't have the time to object his words. She took hers out, although hers wasn't fused with theirs... Instead, he laid it over Kitana's own and just transferred her energy into Aiko's own. "What are you doing!? This...this is my last one!"

The godlike elemental nodded. "Yes, give this to the red dragon, Caro. He'll know what to do."

She just looked at Kitana's empty vessel. "Liu Kang, what have you done..? With you, with Kitana?"

"Go now, Aiko. Time is of the essence. I must fulfill my destiny as the Chosen One and the protector...for all the realms."

"No, you can't!"

"I will fight Blaze until the end!"

"You...mean you're...!" Aiko took a sharp gasp as she had an epiphany.

"Aiko...this will be...my final kombat." With Aiko still stupefied, Liu just marched to her, and kissed her forehead deeply until he departed. The kardiokinetic was just in mere shock, frozen and sort of delusional as her body began to have her temperature rise gradually, while also igniting the two hearts on hand. All Liu did was give a wry smile before looking up, and then vanished with a large flash of light and clap of thunder.

This startled Aiko for almost a minute, before she processed everything, "Raiden..."

A/N: In Armageddon, the Gem of Tetsurri was actually displayed as an Easter egg within Reptile's Lair, only it's a green crystallized gem and vibrates when a player gets near it. Very fascinating since Aiko's strategy was put to good use here, as well as having that bonus in Armageddon!

Hanzo, along with Asgaarth, Aiko and Frederick are sitting out Armageddon; 4 Kombatants watching and waiting for utter destruction... But would it be an ominous danger if Hanzo should attain the foreboding amulet and offer it to Shinnok? Only time will tell, although his desire to have his sister revived hit a snag as the doppelganger snatched away the black crystal. I had to add the small scene of Ashrah, Sareena and Bi-Han at the last minute; I didn't know how to tie up that loose end until now.

1P Results from Super Smash Bros would play as Hanzo and Kenshi watch over Takeda, Shang Tsung's Island - Battle from Mortal Kombat: Shaolin Monks would sound as Shinnok makes a sneak attack on his weaker self, Mission Complete from Jungle Strike (Genesis version) would play as the Special Forces gear up; hell, I even used that song as their own theme song as well! My Final Race (Unreleased Version) from F-Zero Overdrive plays as Kung Lao tends to Aiko one more time... :'( It's sad they'll be together one more moment before the battle of Armageddon... Final Mission from Metroid Fusion would play as the Oriental discusses with the dragons, Air/Water Night Music - Bitlegs Giant Cat Head Blend Remix from Drakkhen and BurstError plays when the godly brothers make their final adjustments, and My Final Race (short version) would sound as Fire God Liu Kang declares this'll be his Final Kombat...

Needless to say, it was one of the most tumultuous chapters I'd to write! But I'm glad I finally am itching kloser to the klimax! :D There was quite the surprise merger at the end as Raiden and Liu Kang fused into one body! But would it be enough to put an end to Blaze and our greatest adversaries!? Stay tuned, Kombatants!

Con't XI: Klimax

The Kombatants were making their final preps for the Battle of Armageddon at the Edenian Palace throne room, gathering their Cobalt armor, or whatever their most advanced coverings they had in store from the Special Forces. Even all the heroes were sharing each of Aiko's heart gems for an extra ounce of strength or revitalization provided by the Shaolin... Dawn was about to break in an orange sliver, as if from Blaze, within the opaque sky.

"This is it... Fellow warriors." Asgaarth was the first to speak. "Wherever Kitana, Raiden, and Liu would be... They would surely meet with all of you. And if we should ever survive Armageddon, the powers of the Protector God of Edenia shall be passed down to you, Taven." Needless to say, he was speechless. All the hawk noble did was knight him. "Go forth and lead all realms to victory." They bowed to each other.

"What of Liu Kang? And Lord Raiden!?" Lao rang with anxiety and angst.

"Do not fret, Kung Lao." Fujin assured. "They were Champions. I know they would never miss Armageddon for the realms. They and Kitana would show up, in due time."

Goro stepped closer and laid a firm, calloused hand on his shoulder. "Our Champions shall not falter. They will show up and fight alongside us. They cannot possibly back down now. And I am honored to have the chance to fight with you. I'm glad to finally return the favor, and for your ancestor as well."

With that, it was as if a great weight was lifted from his shoulders. Lao bowed low, "Much obliged, Prince Goro..."

General Sonya Blade walked to the group. "We're ready..."

Taven lifted his heavy head. "Let's go. To the Pyramid of Argus!"

"We must make haste if we should march there and make our preemptive strike."

"Who says we need to march there." Baraka and Chameleon shown up from the entryway.

"We will use our own ship instead. Come with us."

The troops went to a distant hidden chamber, and the lock was just beneath the candlestick. The passage was unlocked and thru a couple corridors, they beheld a large airship that had the same features as the Nethership once used by Shang! The curved head was the -, the elongated tail was the -, and a pair of foldable wyvern wings descended to the sides!

"Welcome to the Netherwing!" The Saurian announced.

Everyone was agog! "You must've drawn inspiration from the Dragonfly!" Kenshi exclaimed.

"So, you CAN read minds!"

"Then together... Let us begin." Fujin made the pep talk encouraging everyone to climb onboard.

Asgaarth made one final prayer, "May the Elder Gods protect you all."

Fujin offered to give it a head start as his aerokinesis activated the rotors with Chameleon navigating it. The hatch opened from the side of a tower and soon the advanced airship lifted off!

It almost felt like an hour, but the crew were soaring for about thirty minutes. Jade broke the tense silence over the choppers and the team's murmurs. "We planned on konstructing this after Onaga's been sealed away. We shall approach the crater within a matter of minutes."

"It's about time. Especially when making quite the entrance." It was Khameleon! "Took me long enough to find this fine vessel. And if it weren't for her, I may have perished from our enemies."

A woman with a purple vial and matching attire appeared.

"Mileena!"

"What on God's name is she doing here!?" Jax shouted.

The Saurian rose a hand. "Stay back! It'd be too foolish if she should ever fight us now! As if Kintaro wasn't shocking enough! She's only here to fight for her family."

Sindel and Jerrod were hit with an epiphany. "Daughter..."

She went to her long-lost parents, first to her father who embraced her tightly and then to her mother who did the same and gave her a peck on the face, nearly in tears.

"Kitana may not recall Mileena being her biological sister... Shao Kahn must have erased her memories, just as he did to us." Jerrod stated.

Only Taven, the Chameleons and Baraka believed in Mileena's good intentions unlike the majority of the group. Sheeva assured Kintaro shalln't be a turncoat as she and Goro educated him of Kahn's treachery.

"I wonder where Kitana is in all of this..." Sindel wondered. Jade and Jerrod shared her distress. Even Mileena, for once, was composed with concern.

"She must still have that Tarkatan illness. She just might be one of us." Baraka concluded.

Taven abruptly vanished within a burst of flame! All the Kombatants startled. "Taven. He just dissipated!" Bo' was just as stupefied.

The demigod was suddenly sent to the dragon gateway adjacent to the crater! He recognized this place as deja vu hit him; this was precisely the same area where he and Daegon were involved in a konversation with Argus before they blackened out thousands of years ago. The heads of the two dragons and the archway lit with a light-blue hue.

"Well done, Taven." A sinister low tenor greeted him.

He shifted and met his nemesis at long last. "Daegon!"

"I was hoping my Red Dragons would kill you and spare me the effort, but it looks I will have to finish you myself."

Suddenly, there was a kombustion of fire between inches from them!

"Blaze?! Why did you interfere?" The traitor roared.

"The quest has been corrupted. All did not go exactly as my creator had foreseen it. We are now at the rim of the crater where the final battle will take place. The quest will conclude when one of you defeats me there in kombat. We must make haste! Many warriors are gathering. If I am defeated by one of them, they will steal the prize and the true purpose of the quest will have failed. Armageddon will be upon you all."

Taven objected as he spread an arm, "I want NOTHING to do with this quest! My business is with Daegon." He stated the latter with determination as he pointed to him.

Blaze just extended his limbs creating a brief blockade. "You have no choice! We are all bound to the quest! The fate of the realms will be decided today!"

Daegon spat out as he and Taven circled, "Then let's get this over with! I have waited an eternity for this moment!"

"When this is over, I am going to finish you." Taven charged towards his corrupt brother who smirked as if he was anticipating his assault! He immediately sidestepped, causing the demigod to trip.

Daegon sneered, "You used to be faster than me. Last time we raced through Father's temple I believe you won. Seems like only yesterday..."

"It was yesterday." Taven grunted as he got up from the abrupt injury.

"I suppose it was, for you. But I was awakened prematurely. Over the millennia I've grown much faster, much stronger. This time my victory is assured."

Taven was disgusted. "The only thing that is assured is that you will pay for killing Mother and Father!"

Daegon paused, but he wasn't surprised, "So... you know. Yes, I killed them. I had to! Lord Shinnok warned me that they had decided to assist you!"

"You killed them over the prize?!" Taven's temper was rising rather quickly, like a volcano ready to burst!

"With the very weapons Father gave us to use against Blaze." He took out two longswords which were similarly sculptured like Taven's own Drakesword. "And now I will use them to destroy you. Fight!"

Taven put up his dukes as he drew out his own weapon, the same blade he found in Argus' temple at the start of his journey. Daegon actually struck first as he ran and sicced his swords onto his older brother! Taven just kountered with a fireball hitting dead center! Stunned, he lunged in which Daegon blocked and made a pyro uppercut after he rolled. Taven mimicked his move, but it missed, and Daegon knocked him down.

He flipped onto his feet and Daegon rolled again. Only this time, Taven avoided the onslaught and tripped him as soon as he stood. Daegon stood up quickly and utilized his brawn as he grabbed and tossed Taven aside like a wrestler! This seemed to kause more of an impact as Taven wavered. Still, he unleashed a fireball as Daegon klosed the distance. He then lunged fast which Daegon avoided, but not from another trip! He took out his twin Drakeswords which injured Taven greatly. His maneuvers became more aggressive and swifter and he konnected with him several times before Taven took out his own blade. There were some lethal kombos but it seemed Daegon was merciless, especially when he used his lethal throw once Taven was inches away! Daegon kept on the same strategy until for once... Taven kollapsed.

Just when he was lulled into thinking he won, Daegon witnessed a little bright red light took on the shape of a diamond. It was from that in which its energy seeped into Taven's shell. With the sudden jolt of energy, Taven felt it seep into him and lessen the enormous weight from his wounds and restart his heart and body! He gradually rose and crossed his blade for another round!

Taven threw another fireball in which Daegon avoided with a roll! Before he had the chance to retaliate with a severe thrust, Taven did a brawny charge taking him off his feet! Daegon's swift blades were nearly too much, even though Taven struck with a few kombos in the center. Still, he was no match for Daegon's fatal throw! He needed to think of something quickly before he'd be at his brother's mercy.

Determined to never fall to his arrogant younger sibling. He avoided his charges and kountered with his brute strength! Daegon was desperate as he shot out his twin swords. Taven used his own and they klanged with one another. His kick made Daegon back away and Taven raged like a bull, pummeling him with rapid slices! Daegon's body began to ache, and it gave Taven an opening!

Daegon hunched over for a few moments before he klosed in. Since it was some wobbling, Taven kontinued to punish him with a fiery charge, but he thought better keeping his distance. He diced Daegon with a series of hits, making him relieve his double swords! With more vitality, kourtesy of Aiko's heart gem, Daegon was losing energy and was unable to get pumped up and perform his fatal throw. Remembering the many assaults by the Red Dragon clan, enslaving Caro, and the fact he slain his parents, Taven shown no mercy! He made several more strikes nonstop until Daegon was churned into a bloody fountain! All he did was just stand there, letting his treacherous brother succumb to his wounds before he kollapsed in a heap.

Processing Daegon's death, Taven just sulked.

"Unfortunate." The hero faced the altered tone behind him. "It was not intended that the brothers kombat each other. Daegon has fallen. Now you must fulfill your obligation."

"Obligation?!" Taven exasperated in irritation and disgust, like a mix between water and oil. "The quest destroyed my family! Explain to me why I should care!" He made himself a little distance walking away from the chaotic neutral.

Unfazed and with dissonance, Blaze went on. "Your mother, my creator, foresaw the coming of Armageddon; that through Mortal Kombat, warriors would unknowingly tap into the very forces that make reality possible. Those warriors are in the crater below, engaged in Mortal Kombat." He waved a hand to the ground floor. Series of shouts and booms were heard from below. Inaudible but definitely noticeable.

"All of them!? But with that many fighting in one place..." Taven lost his train of thought, dreadful for all the innocents.

"This crater will be the origin of the Apocalypse unless something is done to prevent it. The Elder Gods had ordered your father to orchestrate a solution. He decided to kill them all when the time came. But your mother argued merely to strip the kombatants of their special abilities; for some were heroes, underserving of death. In the end, they konceived of a kontest between you and your brother. The victor would unleash one of two solutions. Like a coin toss, one side would disarm the warriors, the other would destroy them all."

Taven hesitated, trying to make sense of everything. It was definitely one setup after another. "...Which side of the coin am I..?"

"It is unknown, even to me. Your armor is the catalyst." Taven looked at himself, wondering what the equipment he found in Arctika's secret passage was used for... "The fate of the kombatants will be revealed when our battle is done."

He looked up, "So by defeating you, I could be killing them all." He responded with a heavy heart.

Blaze was still as uncompassionate as ever, truly being as heartless as a machination! "They are unimportant. Whichever outcome, you will be saving the realms. But you must not let anyone else kombat me."

Taven suddenly became desperate, his body tense, his voice cracked. "Then allow me to win and we'll put an end to this!"

"No, Taven. I must act accordingly to my creator's design. Take your sword, walk through the archway, and finish the quest. Now... face me... in Mortal Kombat!"

A narrow wall of fire burst before Blaze dissipated. All Taven did was wonder. "...Now what do I do...?" He whispered, remembering Orin's words on how the quest was indeed a setup all along, and that he and his brother were only puppets for that symphony of destruction. Images of his new allies flashed before him, even the fact when Caro was saved. Hearing the distant cries distracted his thoughts and he looked down at Daegon's fallen body. Never wanting to lose anyone else, Taven took a deep breath before he walked over to his korpse and took out the longer sword he failed to notice during the quarrel. The tip actually imbued with a holy light as if blessed by the Elder Gods and with it in his possession, Taven slowly trodden thru the portal and even looked over to the dragon heads remembering Orin and Caro, the only family he has left... to where it only took him to the other side. He gazed over the balcony, only observing the konflict...

At the Yin Yang Island, Caro hung his head upon Daegon's demise. "Daegon had this koming... He was too arrogant for his own good. Like letting a wild beast never be tamed and just be empowered by bloodlust."

"Everyone must choose their own destiny, Caro. And Daegon chose this path. Just before I lost my brother." The Oriental stated.

"It's now only up to Taven." Orin spoke telepathically like Caro.

The Edenian just hung her head in dread, until an orange glow was seen in her peripheral vision. "Good heavens...!"

The quartet of spectators were then glued to the portal!

The warriors landed the Netherwing and noticed their enemies descend as they treaded down the steep slope. Everyone easily made out all the assailants, including some who're supposed to be obliterated back in the Red Dragon kaverns.

"So, this is it..." Mileena for once was showing dire as her eyes glazed and wrinkles appeared despite the vial.

"There's no turning back now." Fujin added.

"Only the Elder Gods should decide our fate." Jerrod spoke as he adjusted his red and black attire symbolizing himself as Ermac instead of his true identity.

"Shao Kahn and the others are down there. But we're ready for them." Sindel responded with determination overshadowing his worries.

"Please be with us, Kitana." Jade prayed.

Lao perspired, "Please hurry Master Raiden... We need you too, Brother..."

Slowly but surely, the heroes disembarked and slowly slid down the slopes.

Deep within a massive crater, as if formed by a devastating meteor, a lone vulture was pricking meat off a corpse and leaving its bones clean. The predator felt tremors marching towards it and the scavenger soon flew away into the thick, opaque clouds filled with dust with its grey and dark brown hues. The creature avoided the sights of a massive warrior wearing spiked shoulder plates, a cape and horned helmet. It was Shao Kahn, the revived Konqurer, as he roared and rose his arms, leading his tremendous faction into battle!

On the other side, another faction gathered as Kung Lao and Fujin led the charge toward them!

Both walls of krusaders rushed into the crater, as if blindly, never noticing the fiery funnel in the sky! Thunder began to crackle as the scorching display glowed like the sun! It soon ignited and some of the spectators on the right side gazed up, to see a series of bolts descend onto a god with his white eyes illuminating! He gradually lowered his arms, wearing a determined and serious complexion, before he descended rapidly onto the crater!

The impact was so sudden, as if it belonged to a missile! The right wings unshielded their eyes as they beheld a series of embers, and the thick cloud of debris soon cleared, revealing the God of Fire and Thunder! The warriors cheered, some with raised fists, and continued to race toward the startled and vulnerable left wingers!

The Fire God never wavered as he marched toward the assailants. He then unleashed all his electrokinesis and the kollateral shock licked thru some of the hapless infantry. His allies ran up to him and all he did was commandeer them, "Stand back!"

He wound up like a pitcher before he let out his devastating streak of flame onto other waves of enemies, blasting them, and the wounded, asunder!

All the brawlers stormed and were klashing in the melee!

Oniro was first seen as he fought off Kuai, remembering his treachery and escape from the cyberized klan he kreated! The noble brother kouldn't wait to smite him as soon as he saw him, justifying his henchmen's worry. "So, you have the Dragon Medallion," he hissed. "Then allow me to take it from you and I'd be the rightful Grandmaster again...!"

"Never!" They exchanged some blows and Kuai unleashed a blizzard in which Oniro's arms easily broke off the ice particles and kontinued to bash him without relent. Even without the sacred artifact, his might was still too much like how it was several years ago at the Appalachian Mountains! After sitting up from an injury, Kuai desperately fired another ice streak, only this time Oniro was surrounded! Frost and Bi-Han emerged, and the latter punched some of the shit out of him till he was dazed and konfused.

"If anyone should lead the Lin Kuei, it's my brother!" The elder growled before they went to their next opponent.

Sektor overmatched Cyrax and broke small portions of his armor. His brutal strength and endurance made some of Mustard's armor chip and he mocked he shouldn't have quit on being an assassin. Broken in body and spirit, Cyrax was soon incapacitated; not even the green net was able to keep Sektor back nor his bombs not as fatal as his missiles! Blue oil leaked out of Cyrax as a thin streak of smoke escaped, stunned and vulnerable.

Sektor was about to unleash another fatal rocket, till he was hit by one from the side! Smoke intervened with an uppercut from beneath the ground in which Ketchup mimicked. Smoke recovered and used his rocket jets beneath his feet to change trajectory and charged toward the blood-red assassin.

Hsu Hao blasted his artificial heart's laser, nearly melting the skin off the Special Forces. Intimidated, Kabal took on the lead with his super speed, making the traitor dizzy before socking him with his elongated hook swords provided by Hsu's former associate, Mavado! It was thanks to them that the former Black Dragon against the Red Dragon agent that he had the upper hand both literally and metaphorically!

Lao took on the vicious Baraka mono y mono, until the latter spread out his lethal arm blades! Lao retaliated with his hat tricks and possessed it both as a sword and shield, unless if he were to rely on his Tornado and Whirlwind Kicks or Shaolin Drop. Baraka kountered as he diced one of Lao's legs, making the former monk vulnerable. He was about to make him mincemeat till he was impaled in the back from above! By a tremendous leap, two extended blades yanked out belonging to the time displaced Tarkatan!

Only to have him be nearly blinded by an acid spray on his face! The impact made him roll back and the dirt staunched the sting, when he made out his former ally... "Reptile...!"

Recuperating a little from Aiko's gem, Kung Lao was reenergized and found another nearby enemy. Sareena met up with Quan who was merciless on the so-called traitor; despite wearing the Lin Kuei and Cobalt armor, she was still weakened. Quan rose a few undead assailants and Jax rushed in and bashed thru! He charged, but missed as Quan teleported before he was sacked from behind. Stryker tased him but was taken down seamlessly. The Oni was engulfed by a blinding ray of light from aloft set by Ashrah, that was until she was impacted by a female vampire!

"Usurper! You're the one who created genocide to my klan! That accursed dagger made you insane!"

"I used it to slay demons!"

"That accursed Datusha must be surrendered! You never work for a greater good! You mean to destroy us all!" With her rage and her mouth dripping with venom, Nitara attacked the Goddess!

Jax was meanwhile busy with a familiar Oni, Moloch, attempting to disable his ball and chain, while Johnny assisted against Drahmin. Sonya was hit by Jarek numerous times before being konfronted by Kai!

Havik was also dealing with his kounterpart, Hotaru, like how khaos versus order should be! Dairou and Darrius were actually hesitant, as if they had some out of body experiences and seemed to at times hit each other in a dazed stupor. While Rain was at a disadvantage by Frost.

Shao Kahn was using his war hammer plowing thru any Kombatant who'd dare to be in his way, ally or otherwise, even Mileena! He then kornered both Sindel and Ermac, while Jade kept Tanya at bay! Onaga was simply circling the battlefield while Shang had his hands full against Fujin till Liu kicked him away. Kenshi was evenly matched with Reiko as was Nightwolf with Quan like how the shaman was against him back at Shang's Palace.

Liu helped the Wind God up. And the elementals were ambushed by Shinnok from the air!

"Ergh, Shinnok has escaped. He must've used the antimatter."

"I do not see the amulet. Go help Kung Lao, I will deal with him, brother." Fujin obliged with a wide grin.

"Liu Kang... The Champion of Mortal Kombat. You seem to be more powerful than we last met."

"You seem to be powerless without your amulet!"

"Once Armageddon follows thru, I won't need it!"

He klosed in with a Bicycle Kick in which Shinnok blocked but was stunned on impact. He then used his staff as a shield, although Liu's moves left decent marks. Their projectiles bounced each other off, until he surprised him with lightning!

"You...you're kombined with Raiden!"

Liu performed an aerial tackle and shocked the umbrakinetic! Shinnok was brutal but thanks to the merged God of Fire and Thunder, Shinnok was just taken down before Taven made a sneaky smack onto him!

He, Fujin and Lao noticed their partner who changed drastically. "Liu Kang..." His brother was at a loss for words.

"I am. And I am not."

"What happened to him...?" Fujin was still flabbergasted.

"He is a part of me, bound to my soul. He...made me a God, for now, at least."

"A god...? Is that possible?" Taven was taken aback. "A god merging with a mortal... Now I'm out of your league."

"You kan still be assistance to us, Taven. But it is not possible for a mortal to defeat the fire spawn. As a newly God and pyrokinetic, I kan endure his fatal flames. I kan outmatch him as I had with my former enemies. We must stop Armageddon."

Suddenly, the four men felt violent tremors as the earth shook! Keeping their balance, they beheld the Pyramid finally breaching the surface little by little!

"It is here...! The Pyramid of Argus...!"

Everyone beheld the sudden emergence from beneath the death earth, and soon the tip began to burst into flames, as if a volcano had erupted! Stryker made the sucker punch onto Rain and the Kombatants rushed up, much to Liu's dismay!

"NO!"

It was a brawl fest to see who could reach the pyromaniac! Liu Kang, Fujin, Taven and Kung Lao remained still. The godly hybrid knew all too well who it belonged to as the monstrosity roared, his being scorching in a blinding light!

"He is here...!" Taven's voice was caught in his throat. Liu urged his allies to stay back as they watched Bo' Rai Cho, Komodai and others take a fight to the death! As much as Lao, Taven and Fujin were kompelled to help their komrades, Liu urged them to stay put.

"My...destiny is to slay him! He'll doom us all!"

"That may be. But...you must remember what Orin said. Caro told me he instructed it's all a deathtrap. We mustn't be tied to the hands of fate. Every man is responsible for their own destiny. My brother knew that."

"A mortal may not be possible to decimate the fire spawn..." The Wind God took in Liu and Raiden's advice.

Taven hesitated but he took in Liu's strategy. "Taven, Kung Lao, Fujin. We must protect the pyramid from our adversaries. I shall deal with Blaze." The trio nodded in affirmation.

A/N: The idea with the Netherwing was an idea I found on Twitter by some fan, forgot who it was. But it's about time the Nethership had an upgrade. Also, I wanted to give the revelation of Mileena before the story ends; she had to do something with Khameleon. I know that Taven was supposed to beat Blaze but after the reboot kame out...I didn't see the point, especially on how Armageddon ended... And it was just sheer hell putting everything together!

Within the Giant from Final Fantasy IV plays as the Kombatants board and start the Netherwing and approach their final destination, epic stuff! Harry's in Trouble was a rare track from Dante's Peak as the movie never played it, which'd be the konfrontation of Taven and Daegon. Symphony of Destruction by Megadeth was just irresistible, appropriate and a killer guitar riff and even the lyrics were meaningful for their epic battle! Techno Syndrome from The Immortals is legendary, so I kouldn't resist! Especially since I watched that vid several times when FGLK made his stand in the Netherrealm with the theme playing! :D I guess the intro would play again from MKA in both the ambush and during the battles.

Also, since I was never a fan, Kano and Mavado shall be kut since they weren't mentioned in Armageddon; so they might as well be buried within the red Dragon kaverns.

Sorry I had to kut this short, guys; there's a lot going on and I didn't want it to drag on for too long... So, Part 2 shall be up shortly for the TRUE SERIES FINALE!

Con't XII: Armageddon

As much as he tried, the elemental powerhouse known as Fire God Liu Kang couldn't stop his allies from rushing up to the summit of the Pyramid of Argus, while their enemies remained close on their tails! Whether it'd be ally or foe, everyone has either been dead or severely wounded while ascending to reach Blaze! He, Kung Lao, Taven and Fujin were helpless over the melee, and seemed so petrified that all they could do was watch... Even Nightwolf was keeping his distance in the shadows as he kept on firing his green soul-encased arrows at his own adversaries.

"It's no use! We'll never survive if we try to reach Blaze, even with Aiko's heart gems, they can only do so much." Fujin expressed fear for once.

"We can't just stand here and wait for all our enemies to fall! And if we let any one of them kill Blaze first..." Kung Lao was tongue-tied over the results from the mounting despair.

Taven should know from his own experience. "Orin and Caro were right; the quest was indeed corrupted. It WAS all a setup!" The demigod was outraged on all the pain and khaos it wrought to the table, aside from annihilating his family over am elemental monstrosity and claiming its flames for a false and suicidal gain!

"Unless if we should climb it indirectly... There's just no way." The former monk replied with hopelessness.

Only the merged god was hunting for a solution without kausing any kasualties... Two red statuettes kaught his eyes and he hesitated in deep thought. "Yes, there is...!" The trio just looked at him as if he sprouted another head.

"What...do you mean?"

The green arrows kontinued to zip thru the dry air and Liu kalled out. "Nightwolf!" The shaman looked up. "Tell everyone via telepathy to stand down! Tell Kenshi to do the same!"

"I kannot! Kenshi has been badly hurt by Quan Chi! If he ever gets revived, he will still perish!"

"Then, it's all onto you, brother! Remember your technique when you broke the Tetsurri spell. I'll climb up the Pyramid!"

Reluctant, he nodded, and he stretched out a hand to his fellow warriors. His voice echoed into their minds, even those who were fatally injured. They saw the krowd thin out little by little. He also mentioned the prize was nothing more than a death sentence.

"Our forces had responded, Liu Kang. They're standing by." Fujin observed.

Not everyone kared as Hsu Hao hit Stryker with another lethal laser from behind. Bo' Rai Cho unleashed a volley of green vomit onto the approaching krowds, then soon mangled by Motaro. Cyrax was tossed off by Motaro after attempting to strangle the Minotaur, Ermac was pushed asunder while Kenshi stabbed the beast with his Sento. Quan Chi impaled Kenshi, Shang Tsung lifted and thrown Kenshi off with his soulkinesis, and he was about to slam and shatter the blindman's ribcage until he was blasted away by Liu's lightning! Shao Kahn advanced until he was ambushed by Onaga who was trying to lift him away, but the Fire God knew better, electrocuting them both from above!

More and more waves of enemies were advancing post-haste, that was...

Spotting the pair of structures located at the corners of the first layer, Liu urged, "Chameleons! Take me up! I'll assign Taven, Kung Lao, and Fujin for assistance!"

By the time he noticed the melee was klearing up, Liu signaled the men to run up to the sly couple and they did just that warping them up with two poofs of smoke. The group arrived two stories below the fire spawn!

"Good, head back!"

Never wanting to be roasted nor slaughtered, they returned to their posts the same way.

"I will deal with Blaze. You three must defend the Pyramid from all enemies-Shao Kahn!"

The evil Emperor broke free from Onaga's talons as he wrecked thru the trio with his lethal Hammer! Kung Lao and Taven lost trying and only Fujin was left, until Liu Kang fired away with his pent-up pyrokinesis! Taven was pulled up by Kung Lao's hand, "We...can only be of some assistance now."

Kahn just charged up and challenged the Champion, "Liu Kang! Long time no see!"

"Yes, Kahn. It has been eons since I'd last defeated you."

"I sense you have grown even MORE potent when last we met! You and Raiden had merged into one! Impressive. But I shall see to it I separate you as I can split souls, once I am finished with you!"

"I won't let you take the prize and corrupt all the realms, Konqurer!"

Liu performed a series of strong kicks which knocked Kahn down. He blocked Liu's Flying Kick with his hammer and countered with it till he was down. He jumped with his Hammer raised and Liu avoided in the nick of time, then retaliated with a direct kick and downward thrust! Liu jumped over Kahn's charge and evaded his Hammer slam, but the Konquerer was agile and managed to make his mark several times. Liu wasn't done as he retaliated with a flurry of kicks until Kahn had a konsiderable distance, he then made a few fireballs and lightning bolts which made Kahn falter on kontact. He klosed the gap with a Bicycle Kick only to be vulnerable to Kahn's Hammer!

Kung Lao took the front as he made a Teleport then performed slices with his razor-rimmed hat followed by a Shaolin Throw! Liu took over with a lightning burst then klobbered him with more direct kicks! Vulnerable, Kahn was pummeled by a Bicycle Kick, Liu wound up and hit Kahn directly in the chest with another Flying Kick. Finally, he spotted Onaga and forced him down with a lightning stomp onto the Emperor!

From the shadows, Nightwolf lent out his heart gem which revitalized Liu Kang's strength. He wished he would've used his ancestors' healing ritual, if only it was more discreet...

Lao and Taven foreseen Quan Chi running toward them and together, they made an aerial kick forcing him down onto Shang! Motaro marched up and Lao threw his hat while Taven fired onto the rim, kausing it to avoid the enemy and slit him with a kombusted flame as it returned! "I learnt this the hard way! He kan deflect projectiles!" Taven nodded.

Fire God Liu Kang was stung from behind by two acid spits! Until Fujin caught two Saurians in a funnel; the winds unveiled their kamouflage by Reptile and Komodai! "You two set a bad example helping to repopulate the Saurian species! For shame." He tossed them asunder, and the Chameleons held them down.

Liu actually limped toward Blaze, finally succumbing to his many injuries. Even Blaze's stagnant heat was beginning to take its toll on him despite his weakened state. Lao, Taven and Fujin trailed behind him. "Liu Kang..." Lao murmured grave worry for his long-time partner.

"I... must talk to Blaze. I must end this...!" He actually hunched over after a few steps and paused.

"Earthrealm's Jinsei flows freely within you. Let it fuel your fire." Raiden for once actually spoke in his mind like his very own konscience!

Liu's eyes flared with white lightning as his body spread out while he screeched! Both fire and the electricity erupted all over, with the Jinsei restoring him! The display died down and Liu spread out an open palm ready for battle once more!

Meanwhile, Hanzo managed to teleport from beneath the floor within an array of hellfire recalling his wraith technique! He made it back to Shinnok's Spire and noticed time was of the essence as he saw the placid Shinnok slope over while his hands remained shackled. He handed the amulet to the dying Elder God within his fish grip palm. "Ergh... My double absorbed most of my essence leaving me to rot, but thanks to your quickness..."

He klutched the amulet as tightly as he could while he felt energy seep thru him! The beast snarled as the dark energy was absorbed, and he soon broke away from his shackles, yet still he hunched over. Hanzo wished Shinnok would possess the black heart gem, if only his sneaky, treacherous double didn't snatch it... As soon as thoughts krossed his mind involving the double walker stealing the artifact filled with malice, Shinnok's essence felt as if it was being konflicted! He held his head in irritation before his eyes shot up as if to the heavens! "CETRION!"

As if by a sentient reaction, the black heart gem attached to the clone's more unclean self, it sparkled like a diamond in an opaque void! Before it shattered and the mist evaporated in its place. The double was outraged he lost his own power source. Realizing his original gaining strength, he screamed, "Miserable wretch! Insignificant speck of feculent scum! How DARE you!"

Lao, Taven, and Fujin stayed behind Liu Kang as he headed toward the summit; they kouldn't help but gaze onto the fallen warriors, even the ones making a lost kause...

The sudden display when Liu was firing streaks to Blaze got their attention. Although the flames seemed thin, then grow in mass, but the entity was just taking them in like an impenetrable tank! He only roared back as Liu kept increasing his shots!

"Agh. Blaze isn't feeling ANY of Liu Kang's attacks!" Lao affirmed.

"I don't think those're attacks. I believe Liu Kang is trying to talk to Blaze!" Fujin stated.

"What...is he saying" Taven wondered.

The monstrosity bellowed again, firing a streak into Liu which made him slip a few steps before he noticed he was only being kovered. He just klosed his eyes as he absorbed them. After a few moments, he opened and spoke, "I know how you must feel, Blaze. It doesn't have to be this way! As Delia's kreation, you are a tool of insatiable destruction. Perhaps I kan help you. We kould only eliminate our enemies and spare our friends."

As Delia's own creation, I must bring a stop to Armageddon. But all living beings shall fear me, as I possess pyro far more powerful than even Delia, or even the Sun, or the endless core of the Netherrealm! I shall erase all life as they're responsible for triggering this kalamity, me, finally being awakened. Free from the shackles of Onaga and his demonic fanatics and here to roam and bring total destruction to all the imbalances that had disturbed me for far too long! I will no longer be bound as I shall bring about the end, and if I must die with them, so be it!

With Liu's flames as an act of communication, like radio waves. Why are you doing this, why do you want to bring about the destruction of all realms? Why were you created by Delia, the Empress of Flame? Are you a pawn of the Elder Gods, Delia and Argus? Are you a slave bound by your creators?

Blaze increased his thermal energy onto the humble monk! He blocked the onslaught and shouted over the anger, "Blaze! Please listen to me! You do not have to destroy everyone and everything we hold dear. Let me help you erase our assailants; we can both make peace with the realms! You are bound to your creator. But you must know that everyone has will and govern their own destiny!"

"Liu Kang!" Taven spoke up, "Blaze only decides the fate of the warriors. My parents were in a feud to choose their final destiny; either have them all destroyed or strip them of their powers. As twisted as my family is... You kan't konvince him."

Blaze just elongated a tight fist and hit Liu dead center, making him tumble to the second most layer. The trio faltered but the Fire God was just getting warmed up. Thru gritted teeth, he ran and leapt onto the topmost floor!

"Catch, Liu Kang!" Taven threw up the magnificent sword in which Liu kaught. He twirled it several times before he faced his most incredible adversary, fighting fire with fire!

Being he wasn't going thru to him, "By the Elder Gods, I will NOT let your prophecy kome to pass! If you must die, so be it!"

Blaze rose his arms, ready to rumble! Liu Kang just kame at him full force with his Bicycle Kick; he figured with the elemental so humongous, he kould be an easy target! He actually strategized to limit his pyrokinesis as it'd be neutralized on the beast of hefty destruction. At first, he felt intimidated being Blaze kould manipulate lava and all types of fire! Even his brute strength was krippling as Liu was taken down by his molten fists from above. Liu performed a direct Flying Kick in which Blaze blocked only for the Shaolin to kounter with an potent uppercut to the lower torso. Although with the mystical sword in hand and his Jun Fan style, Liu almost felt like a fairy tale knight dicing an abominable monster! His determination got the best of him as Blaze grabbed and tossed him aside like a tempered child with an unwanted toy! Liu snarled and charged, churning his lightning inside him, hoping to stun and paralyze the enemy! The bolts only licked him for a second before he resumed his wrath. He blocked Liu's advances before warping behind thru a lava pool and sacked him! The intense heat and the magma oozing into Liu was starting to make him weaker. But thanks to Raiden's dual essence, he kept Liu moving forward! He dove into Blaze's gut with an aerial tackle, avoided the elemental's charges then countered with a few swift swipes before he leapt away. His body began to sting for a while until Liu was ready. He cut from above, below, and hopped away from another assault, then he rinsed and repeated, even hopping over Blaze's flumes! Liu performed a jump kick with both feet kausing the tower to krumble gradually! The embers began to weaken, Blaze moaned in pain, and his body was darkening as Liu was nearly out of breath...

For once, he declared in the most menacing tone, "If I go down, I'm Taking You with Me!"

"NOOOO!"

Kung Lao, Taven and Fujin ran up as fast as their feet kan karry them! Every Kombatant heard Blaze's horrifying words! Liu became fixated onto the monstrosity's expansion and ignition, and he did the same! Two volleys of flames pushed against each other, with Liu's streak being pushed back! "I. Must win...!" With Raiden's harsh whisper, it was as if he took over Liu's vessel performing a powerful air tackle breaking the streak and held Blaze's stomach! With his other hand, he slowly resisted the intense gravity and shot skyward!

Fujin hollered, "Brother! What're you-?"

Lao ran forward, "Liu Kang! Master! No!"

"I had already died once, and I'm taking it back with me. Now get out of there! Do I make myself klear...! Champion of Mortal Kombat!?"

Lao just stood as still as the pyramid, his eyes wide, his mouth agape as if reaching the roof!

"No, Brother!" Fujin spoke, "You kan't... You'll die! W-why are you doing this? Why...?"

As if Raiden's komplexion shown thru all he did was turn his head and smiled. "I... must win."

All a sudden, neither Kombatant never expected to be pushed back at such a length by the merged warrior's flame burst! It swelled and enveloped the entire one side of the hellish structure! It was as if moths were caught in the flames as the firestorm began to rain down on the unsuspecting victims!

Shinnok became overwhelmed as he hollered and unleashed his energy from both the amulet and the dark heart sensing this was the end...

Back at the Grotto, Aiko felt her heart gem ignite in a neon red, while the Elder God amulet was beginning to destroy itself both in Liu Kang's side and the Oriental's! The latter noticed the kommotion and heard the Edenian kollapse!

"Agh-Kitana!" He tended her, while Orin went kloser to the portal, "Taven!"

Caro was away as he kaught the same igniting gem in his maw via a red rip he konjured. He hurriedly karried it to the same spot where the komatose mistress laid.

Meanwhile, Aiko just sat beside the spot the dragon's aperture was as her mind finally put the pieces together like a puzzle; no one noticed Kitana's lifeless body dissolve...

"Liu Kang, Raiden... I know now who kreated all the time lapses. I know now who sent me and Baraka back in time. It wasn't neither Raiden nor Kronika who kaused all those temporalities. It was you who encouraged Kung Lao to keep living and watch over us..."

She broke down as rivers of tears flowed from her eyes and her voice kracked.

"It was you...! Please don't go... I... love you..."

The Oriental heard glass shatter and he followed to the leftover debris from the Elder Gods' amulet... Knowing he failed, he screamed, "Nooooo!" Caro and Orin were stunned as they observed him sink to all fours as he buried his head and sobbed.

The firestorm raged from the Pyramid making everyone lose consciousness from the volatile impact! Liu and Raiden managed to utter their last words as they gazed into the heavens, "I, must win..." Before they just faded within the towering inferno...

All a sudden, as if by a super volcano, debris rained all over the pyramid while the heavenward display of thick smoke and ash extended beyond the stratosphere! Even komets at times were hitting the surrounding area...

Asgaarth and the Resistance kouldn't help but stare at the devastated Pyramid in the distance...

The monks remained as deathly silent as Frederick, Hanzo, even Shinnok... Over the quiet, peaceful settlement known as the Temple of Light, the spectators saw a solar flare emitting above...

Aiko's mind was kracking as she had terrifying hallucinations of the world ending: from an enormous liner being lifted at the side and be decimated by a tsunami, to the same floods destroying everything in their path, to the entire realm being torn asunder! Thinking the disasters would kome right for her, she only had her eyes shut tightly as if blocking all light.

Until her mind kalmed as she heard distant crashes of waves...

Then a kool breeze hit her skin...

Near the portal the dragons sulked over, the distant woman in cerulean finally opening her eyes. Slowly, she breathed and moaned a few times while they kleared. She slowly turned her body till she was on her hands and knees. Recovering from her dizziness, she spotted the dark crimson gem beside her. She picked it up and a realization kame to her, "Aiko..."

She suddenly heard hard breaths from a few feet away and followed the chokes and sobs to her beloved. Kitana rose a hand and slowly took off his hood before resting it on his quivering shoulder.

The gray-haired Oriental turned and was almost at a loss for words. "You...you're alive...?"

"Yes, Liu Kang. We all are." She even unwrapped her hand showing a little opal.

He couldn't help but smile thru his tears, and he suddenly embraced her tightly.

"Then...perhaps Taven and the others are alive as well." Orin hypothesized.

"So, the realms didn't kome to an end." Caro added.

The man noticed a speck in the portal thru his peripheral vision. "Someone is here... Aiko!"

Her eyes slowly opened, and she was seeing stars. Her vision eased up and the first thing she saw were thick, tropical bushes and palm trees. The sand also greeted beneath her eyes, even some of the rocky cliffs in the background. Aiko's mind wandered, "W... w-what, what is this!? Where am I?" Desperate, she faced all corners sharply, until her ears perked up ruffling leaves from a nearby bush. A red snouted face popped out. "Caro!"

He immediately dove back in, and Aiko chased after him, anxiously asking where he was going. She tore thru the underbrush and kept heading straight, plowing thru any branches, vines, or detritus in her way. After a couple feet, Aiko brushed herself off before she beheld a more spacious area. An enormous Hourglass overlooked her. She was in komplete awe, her heart nearly stopping as she looked over the fine design she never saw before...

She then saw Caro slither around it, and smack dab in the front was...

"Oh-oh! Kitana!"

She looked over, for once never showing her vial, and she kouldn't help but smile as Aiko stormed over to her! She was full of glee the Edenian never died! Aiko felt the warm, soothing comfort, toggling her mind and her doubts everyone was dead...

"Oh, I'm so happy to see you... Are...are we dead...?" She gradually broke off. "Oh, you look ghostly..." Taking in her pale komplexion from her koma earlier.

Kitana's face brightened. "Aiko... So, you were the one who preserved my memories. Caro gave Liu Kang your remaining heart gem after I was electrocuted. I thought I was dead when my heart stopped, but you were the one who brought me back.

"Do not fret. Only the Orderrealm and the Chaosrealm were destroyed... While the others remained intact." She then held the konfused kardiokinetic's shoulders as she gazed into her foggy eyes. "I really want to thank you for everything. Liu Kang was the one who sent you back, and for a very good reason... Your deeds will live on in the memories of the kosmos. Peace has returned once more. May the Elder Gods forever shine down upon you."

Kitana then lightly pecked Aiko on the cheek, although the latter backed away, startled by the gesture. "Whoa-whoa-whoa!" She paused as she observed herself, "Wait... I'm not changing. Yes, I heard about your kiss of death!"

Meanwhile, the Oriental gazed into the portal and noticed the sky was being blanketed by light brown klouds as a downpour occurred, which doused Blaze's devastating flames.

Thunder boomed and lightning flashed as every Kombatant was being drenched by the Elder Gods' tears, as if they for once shown emotion and were krying by Raiden and Liu's heroic sacrifice... Only this time...it looked as if the battlefield was being littered by lesser bodies, where only the majority of the heroes remained.

Li Mei was impaled on Hotaru's lethal pole weapon which suddenly tilted and fell to the ground, Stryker was lasered in the chest by Hsu Hao leaving a large abrasion in which began to klose up. Sheeva and Goro got their limbs disjointed and broken by the Minotaur Motaro and Kahn's wrathful Hammer while Kintaro had similar wounds.

Kenshi with the usual red hand band shielding his eyes was run through by Quan Chi's sword, Johnny Cage's arms got mangled by Drahmin's steel club. Jax's chest kollapsed due to Moloch's ball and chain while the weapon detonated some of the agent's explosives forcing them back onto sharp rocks. Sonya Blade's pregnant belly had multiple lacerations. Bi-Han, Kuai Liang and Frost were severely dehydrated due to Blaze's and Liu's firestorm. Ashrah was still unconscious without her Kriss blade. Ermac and Sindel were both impaled with swords. Mileena had some of her Tarkatan fangs missing although new ones began to grow in while her face healed after being krushed by Kahn's Hammer. Jade just lied there still komatose.

Baraka had his left arm loosely dangling. Kung Lao and Taven laid at the bottom steps of the Pyramid, with the former on his stomach, the latter on his back. Fujin laid on his side with his arm outstretched on the second story. The Chameleons, Bo', and Nightwolf remained at the sides of the decimated Pyramid in nearly the same fashion.

Cyrax and Smoke had their armor kracked and broken off in a few places, with the grey bot's body having less of an impact. Sareena had her chest impaled thru believing to be from Shinnok's staff. And Kabal was left not breathing with his dropped hook swords, while Kai's body was twisted in multiple angles like a pretzel.

"What is this place...?" Aiko queried after she recovered from her stim of excitement on preserving Kitana's life and memories.

"This was supposed to be Shang's Island, when in fact it's konsidered as just the Yin Yang Island. As half of the island extends to Earthrealm, while the other half has a portal leading to Outworld."

"Wow... So... we are alive...?"

"Indeed, we are, Aiko." She was ecstatic to meet up with Caro as she hugged around the dragon's neck. His snout karessed her. "Liu Kang and Raiden had saved all life, excepting those in the aforementioned realms. It's likely they destroyed themselves, like the Yin and Yang and no balance between them..."

"And... Kung Lao...?" Aiko broke off looking up at Caro.

"I believe...he may still be alive."

"I pray to the Elder Gods he will..."

Kitana brushed her back. "Do not be troubled, Aiko. The tears of Cetrion would have our komrades recuperated. If it weren't for Hanzo giving the amulet to the weakened Shinnok, he probably never would've lived. Nor would Shinnok had activated his amulet in konjunction with your darkened heart gem."

The kardiokinetic was dumbfounded. "What...? I thought it was forbidden to give the amulet to him."

"The real Elder God diffused himself. The positive energy he absorbed from Liu Kang and Nightwolf restored lost memories of Cetrion, and with the two relics, with your black gem dissipated from his double, his memories restored the Elder Goddess of Life and Light. She...mourned for all the sacrifices and merciless destruction during Armageddon."

"I... guess. But...Raiden and Liu Kang are..." She kouldn't finish her sentence as she was so disheartened. Kitana hugged her for komfort...

Caro hissed, "That Hourglass once belonged to Kronika as the Keeper of Time. Though it was located in the Netherrealm. Until my savior relocated it here. He...defeated her and Cetrion and took her mantle."

"So...it was him all along. I... saw him when my mind was just...in a komplete fog, so many horrible things were happening, and I knew it was him who sent me and Baraka back. Raiden said there was more than one..." She sulked, and a kouple fresh tears fell upon the Fire God's sacrifice.

"Taven. It's Taven, he's alive too!" Orin kame to the sorrowful group.

Meanwhile...

The rainstorm remained konstant over the devastated Pyramid, looking as though it only had a quarter of floors kracked. The topmost layer was just a pile of disarrayed rubble with Blaze's flames still being seized within a thick smokestack.

Less lightning and thunder cracked the sky while more of the Elder Gods' tears fell in torrents. So much so, that several Kombatants began to stir. One or two upchucked as water entered their lungs, while others twitched their fingers and turned over. They each felt as if they'd been greatly kooled off from a heatwave, even being rehydrated.

The cybers had the rudest awakening as they hurriedly removed their armor while the rain entered their circuits. Some were even so out of it that their allies needed to wake them up. Unfortunately, the fighters were so soaked that their electronic gizmos became worthless.

Little by little, the Forces of Light recovered, some more than others, even with their deep flesh wounds. And the last one was actually Kung Lao...

Having felt he slept for many hours; his muscles ached as he moved his head which was lying to the side. Konfirming whether or not he was alive, he took in a deep, refreshing breath. He slowly sat up with a few groans from weakness until his head was klear enough. His mind recollected what just transpired before he was-

"Agh-Liu Kang...! Raiden!" His chest was sore as he heaved and ran up the Pyramid! He didn't kare if he'd slip and fall on the ragged, slippery steps, nor how much lower the structure was after Blaze's impact. His lungs almost felt like they were about to burst as he finally klimbed to the top and breathed heavily. He eventually rose and Blaze and the Fire God were nowhere in sight...

Lao just hollered as he raised his hands to his mouth, "Liu Kang! ...Raiden!" He wandered aimlessly over the topmost floor, even overlooking the sides and the rear. Still no such luck. Not even when he Teleported off the Pyramid and looked thru the shady spaces... He kept on kalling until his throat went koarse and his feet nearly gave way. At the exact epicenter of the disturbed soil, Lao went down and brushed it away revealing the single object that almost made him slip.

The shiny, metallic, krimson headband...!

Recognizing the small attachment, Kung Lao held it loosely in his shaky hands. Not from the cold, but rather...from sudden grief! His entire body began to quake, and his head became heavy. His legs buckled and fell to the ground klutching the headband klose...

All he did was let out his tears just as fast as the rain itself. Lao whimpered as his throat became klosed. He soon klenched as he looked up to the sorrowful sky as he screamed hard! "Uhgh... Gaaaaaah!"

He was so bent in sadness he didn't even notice his allies racing up and each calling his name, glad to see him alive and well. Especially Goro, Sonya, Stryker, Kai, Taven and Fujin. "Kung Lao!" All he did was sob before he rose his head.

"But-where's Liu Kang? Raiden?" Sonya exclaimed.

Kung Lao responded with a head as heavy as an anvil. "They went after Blaze alone. They challenged in Mortal Kombat at the roof of the Pyramid. And I... I-I kouldn't-! -Oh Gods, why-?" He kontinued to sob, his arms shaking. Everyone just bowed their heads in disbelief.

Their mentors, Liu Kang and Raiden actually perished and erased from time...

With weighted hearts, the Kombatants soon boarded the Netherwing, surprisingly still in operational kondition...

Aiko reiterated to the Shaolin Monks and Frederick of Kung Lao's, Fujin's, Kai's, and Nightwolf's possibilities on returning home, while they also deeply mourned for Raiden and Liu Kang... And about a day later, she was soon at the fields near the Temple of Light and the Yellow River amongst the denizens, always being their assistant on fishing; she most certainly loved seafood and ever since she found out several years ago Liu Kang's hobby was fishing, aside from shadow puppets. Only the accepting monks volunteered, and she offered to weaken the preys' hearts to allow the Shaolin to reel them in without much effort. They just caught and dragged in one of the massive tuna the Yellow River was known to inhabit, until their eyes struggled to make out a silhouette thru the glaring sunlight. All they saw was a large rimmed hat atop a skinny figure who seemed to make a scraggly walk.

The Shaolin stared at the presumed dead man walking in which they thought was Kung Lao, even Aiko who was startled! Her right arm struck out toward that undead figure; how could he have survived Armageddon rather quickly!? Her limb was quaking, as was the shade, clutching his upper chest. Then, something illuminated in bright crimson from his right pocket. Recognizing the object, the cardiokinetic reluctantly lowered herself as she became fixated...

She straightened, and her feet rapidly carried her closer to the shadow! He rose his head as he gave off a thin grin while his eyes sparkled as he remained steady barely lifting his arms when she raced to him!

"Agh-Kung Lao!?" Aiko just kried, as did he.

"...I'm sorry. I've worried you longer than enough. Didn't I?"

She just shook her head. Lao hesitated for a few moments before he slowly ascended his arms again as if they weighed like the accursed Houan chains. The odd Kombatant out suddenly dove into Lao's tight embrace! "Oh, Kung Lao...!" Tears began to run as she rested her chin on his firm shoulders. "I never thought...I could...hold you again."

Lao just wrapped her tighter, "Me too...!" He caressed her back before he broke away. "I have...held onto your heart. ...And..." His face fell. "Onto...this." He took out the burnt headband which dangled.

Aiko felt just as disheartened as him; she hardly met her lover's botched eyes as she held his neck and whispered, "I'm so sorry..." Remembering the merger of their Shaolin brother, and their mentor, all they did was shed their tears as they embraced while the monks still remained inert, and the waves continued crashing onto the distant coast.

Later that day, Kung Lao walked to what used to be Liu Kang's Tomb. Aiko was beside him, and the resting place looked as strong as ever, even with the five medals hanging over the hearth with a flame which seemed to be burning eternally... As it was originally when the monks erected the place after the hero first perished by the Deadly Alliance...

It was overcast, and neither person cared of the slight breeze. All Kung Lao wanted was to pay his respects to the two fallen members of his family he lost, as he offered Aiko to hand over each of his offerings. First was the dragon armored vest, Lao put the suit over the statue of Earthrealm's late Champion. Next were the pair of spiked gauntlets as he inserted them around the arms. Lastly was the red burnt headband, although Lao hesitated as he gazed onto the placid structure. His mind began to relive these incidences back atop the Pyramid, where he flashed back as the two warriors were engulfed in flames upon Raiden's and Liu's sacrifices...

Lao's hands began to tremble, with the hairband still in hand. He felt his temperature drop and his body became numb. Aiko grew worried of her lover's hesitation and the quaking in his hands as he never peeled off his eyes from that statue of his brother, as well as his father, erased from existence...

Lao slowly attached the hairpiece around its head and secured it behind as he made a fish grip, though it remained taut. He slowly backed away as he just became limp, his eyes watering... He moped as he gritted his teeth tightly like a vise, much as his right fist. He abruptly rose and dropped himself onto the tile, while his clutched hand hit hard. Lao rose his head briefly before he adjusted his arms, and sobbed hard...

All Aiko did was watch her mate grieve. She slowly sat beside him as she tended him. Struck with fear and sorrow, she only whimpered his name, "Kung Lao..."

A few minutes ticked by, and the stricken kouple heard a faint voice whisper the griever's name... Neither one looked up thinking it was Fujin, not even when a slight breeze picked up nor when the eternal flame flickered and churned into blue...

A man with grey hair tied back with some side locks hung, a wide bare chest with white tattooed arms and a dark outfit gradually descended. "Kung Lao."

Aiko was the first while she rose her head and gasped in total astonishment. Lao followed and he was just as stupefied. "...Liu Kang...?" All the time-displaced male did was nod with a smile.

"You...you're alive...? But how? Unless...you were the one who sent me back...?"

"Indeed, Aiko. My existence has not been altered as I had kome from another time. I have been watching over you and Earthrealm for so long."

Lao's throat began to loosen little by little, "Where is Raiden?"

"I have...kombined with his soul. Together, we had beaten Kronika, and went back in time. Raiden, as a mortal, wished me well in the next timeline as I had found and betrothed with Kitana. I had retrieved her krown after I'd beaten Shang Tsung and created my New Era."

Aiko realized she was the Edenian she saw at the island... "How is Caro and Orin?"

"I had already explained to Fujin, he is indeed thrilled and knows he is not alone. Taven will keep Orin by his side, once he becomes the new Protector God of Edenia. Caro has decided to stay with us for a while."

"So... You're Liu Kang and Raiden...?" It wasn't easy for Lao's mind to wrap around.

"Yes. Champion. I am also the new Keeper of Time. With Armageddon now konclusive, I am free to roam to any time. Kitana and Caro shall join me."

"Will we...ever see you again?" Aiko's throat tightened.

"Yes, you will. With society saved, and with the Chaos and Orderrealm's destruction, there will be no shackles in order nor chaos. And time has been altered for the better. You have now secured our past and the future. Well done, Champion of Mortal Kombat."

The Fire God bowed, and Lao followed while Aiko kurtsied.

"You and Fujin are now worthy to take mine and Raiden's place as protectors of Earthrealm. You are the Chosen One, and your ancestor's legacy has kome full circle, at last. Look after the Shaolin and train them well. And give him a prosperous life as Kitana did me, Aiko." All she did was bow low and bashfully. "Remember this. That the universe does not hear what you are saying. It feels the vibration you are offering. I shall now depart, but I will be honored to see you again." Liu Kang ascended into the heavens as he gradually dissipated. "Goodbye, brother..."

They both watched him leave Earth behind. Lao made a kowtow as he did. Aiko just sulked as she kried. "Goodbye... ...Liu Kang!" She became fixated onto the high noon, wondering if the one they love, will someday return.

A/N: That universal quote I put in? I found it on Twitter once and the source said it was from Abraham Hicks; I don't know who he is, but it was just so invigorating.

It was such a tragic loss as I brainstormed the idea on having Liu and Raiden sacrifice themselves to change Blaze's eruption to save all of existence... But when I noticed that Liu's ending was kanon in 11/Aftermath, and followed into MK1, I just had to write him in! It was indeed the time-displaced Liu Kang and Kitana that brought Aiko and Baraka back into the past and watched over his fellow warriors, even encouraged them to keep living until Armageddon! He was the ultimate chessmaster, and I LOVE HIM AND KITANA FOR IT!

Seriously, the perfect ending from MK11 with them watching over time and Earthrealm together should've been the definitive story arc for the next game! I hope MK1 would somehow restore their memories of them and have them live together while protecting their respective realms, with Yin Yang Island as their base of operations, smack dab between them with the Hourglass!

The hallucinations Aiko had been based on those scary sequences in 2012... Always hated it. And the idea of Liu communicating with Blaze via streaks of fire was inspired by Pikachu talking to Zapdos in Pokémon the Movie 2000. And the sacrifices from Raiden and Liu Kang reminded me of Groot in the og Guardians of the Galaxy, while the explosion was similar to Dante's Peak's destruction!

Oh, and I want to give a shoutout to The4thsnake on describing each of the Kombatants' deaths displayed at the start of the MK reboot, which was set soon after Armageddon, even though...I sorely hated the ideas on having Shao Kahn win over everyone, and to have Taven with a third outcome in which nothing happened! Thanks, developers!

Also, I didn't have the heart to kill off some of the heroes like say Bi-Han or Stryker... Some might say it could be biased but some of the Kombatants still get a decent ending after you komplete Armageddon's klassic tower. Not EVERYONE has to die like during the intro of the lousy reboot!

And just a reminder, I am not an expert in the games or the lore or all the Kombatants. So, if all along you think I suck in my projects in general like in my fanfiction or kountdowns, well then trolls, SUCK ON THIS SHIT!

Techno Syndrome by Paul Unfaces plays as Liu faces off his enemies to reach Blaze, Pyramid of Argus in Mortal Kombat Armageddon plays as Liu confronts him, Final Battle sounds as he fights Blaze, The Revealed Truth from Final Fantasy X plays as Aiko konnects the dots, So Long, Harry in Dante's Peak plays in the eruption, Nexus/A Christmas Hug in Star Trek Generations plays when Aiko explores the Yin Yang Island, The Falcon Soars in F-Zero Overdrive chimes as everyone mourns for Liu and Raiden, Fi's Theme Reimagined by Ian Aisling and MajorLink chimes when Liu greets Kung Lao, and N's Farewell from Pokémon: Symphonic Evolutions plays when he explains it all and wishes his new legacy good luck...

The epilogue, as usual, shall wrap the series up shortly. See you then.

Epilogue

Soon after Armageddon was seized, the Netherwing first dropped off Taven, leaving him to sulk and reflect at the Edenian Ruins, the same location where he blackened out and where his parents were discussing their preparations for the inevitable event...

My world had been ripped into pieces... I awoke in a foreign realm, forced to complete a quest set forth by my parents, Delia and Argus. This quest, though intended to save the realms, has destroyed my family. My brother, Daegon, had become obsessed with winning the ultimate prize of full godhood and murdered our parents! And in his madness, he sought to destroy me as well. Orin and Caro, loyal to our family for ages, were not spared from the curse of this quest has wrought. Daegon enslaved Caro to serve his own ends; the sorcerer, Quan Chi, nearly killed Orin, who was my guardian. If it weren't for the heroic actions of the Fire God, Liu Kang, then they would've met the same bloody fate as my elders...

Though I almost had nothing left, I was determined to complete the quest, despite the dragons' warnings of the quest's twisted setup. I faced many Kombatants, fighting my way to the top of the pyramid until at last, I assisted Liu Kang with my sword and he defeated Blaze in Mortal Kombat, but at a terrible kost...

His and Raiden's souls were bound to one another, merged into a powerful deity with power and might beyond my imagination... Though in so doing, my allies and I were the only ones who survived the ordeal while the two warriors made their heroic sacrifice... He cocooned us with all his strength and changed the trajectory of Blaze's assault to spare us all...

I will never forget the chaos of this quest, and for all our valiant deeds it did not foretell...

"You seem to be in a pensive mood, Taven."

He immediately turned behind, "Orin!"

"Still pining over the deaths of Daegon, Argus and Delia? And for the fallen Gods? You must miss them all so dearly..."

Taven hung his head, "Yes, Orin... I will always miss them all. And this devastated Pyramid shall be the reminder of those grave tragedies... This was never meant to take place."

"You must not trouble yourself, Taven. While we have suffered great loss, it wasn't all for nothing."

He perspired, "At least...I still have you and Caro. Liu Kang and Raiden shall not be in vain. If it weren't for their brave endeavors..."

"You wouldn't have attained full godhood!"

Taven's eyes shot up in utter shock. "What...?"

"Yes, Taven. Despite the firestorm, Blaze's flames still passed thru you and your armor! Your sword was the catalyst and assisted the Fire God. You still earned the prize indirectly. And... we never would've wanted it any other way. Well done, Protector God of Edenia."

Taven was just speechless as Orin bowed low.

"It is true, Taven." Jade, Sindel, Asgaarth and Jerrod marched to them.

"Jade...?"

"Caro told us that Kitana still lives with Liu Kang, albeit other incarnates who still houses our daughter's memories." Sindel koncluded.

"Indeed, Sir Taven. You shall be the new Protector God of our realm." Asgaarth added. "And Sir Orin will still be your guardian."

"I did NOT ask for this...! It was thrust upon me." Taven began to pace away, to the spot where Daegon's bleeding body once laid.

"So are the hands of fate." Jerrod spoke. "You were the one helped slay Blaze and turn the tides of Armageddon. We are proud for what you did..." He laid a hand on his shoulder.

"Although...you still have millenniums of katchup learning to do," Jade added. "I will be more than happy to oblige. And who knows, you may be its next promising king." Her reassurance almost made Taven smile slightly...

"If Kitana wishes, she can still be its prosperous princess, though Mileena took a higher calling organizing Outworld with Baraka. And they're more than welcome to visit." Sindel gave him the lowdown.

"...So much has changed before my reawakening." Taven sighed.

"Indeed. You and Orin shall give Edenia a brighter future. Protect it, with all your hearts! We will be here for you whenever the need arises." Jerrod stated.

The graduated God grinned a tad more as he nodded, then declared and saluted, "Edenia is an idyllic paradise, where we are free from tyranny," Everyone muttered their astonishment, knowing that Taven was certainly the right man for the job! Jade just couldn't help but peck him on the cheek.

The majestic Queen simply looked up into the heavens, "May the Elder Gods guide you, Taven. And to Liu Kang and Kitana as well..."

The group followed her gaze praying for the same...

Back at the reformed Special Forces base, Smoke and Cyrax were undergoing repairs. Sonya just gazed at her growing belly and touched it delicately.

"Still worried for our baby, Sonya?" Johnny walked up to her.

"Yeah... The Special Forces are gonna have a field day if I should take medical leave. The aftermath from Armageddon would not be easy to adjust..."

"Same deal with Vera." Jax arrived.

"Jax! Your arms had been fixed already!"

"Well... I feel we should just settle in for a while. It's been quite a rough day for real."

"Yeah, how is Vera fairing anyway?" Cage queried.

"Good. She's expecting to have Jacqui within the next trimester."

"Casie may not be so far behind. Heh, Aiko was right. We should prepare ourselves for the worst." The general dreaded.

"I can't believe Liu Kang and Kitana had different incarnates, and they never told us!" The shady celebrity's voice rose with a little disgust.

"They have their own agendas, Johnny. I hope we will see them again, someday. It won't be the same without Raiden either..."

"Time is never easy to manage." Jax muttered.

"I hope the Shaolin are taking it well..." Sonya and her kohorts kouldn't help but wonder of what the krazy future would hold...

Outside the Shirai Ryu base...

The sun shone as clear as a God's eye. And Takeda for once was a joyful little boy, laughing and playing with his telekinesis as he bobbed in his stroller. Hanzo was walking beside Kenshi who was moving it with his mind.

"He is a fine boy indeed," the former wraith murmured.

"Yes. He may be a part of the next generation of Kombatants someday." The blindman added. "Cassie, Jacquie and even Kung Jin shall be joining the ranks as well.

"And, it turns out although Mileena would join Baraka in Outworld, it will still need to be watched over. With that Tarkatan disease, she can still be a threat."

"Perhaps...you and the Outworlder Investigation Agency may be able to find a cure. It is quite a severe mutation."

"That'll be our next objective. First thing on the agenda, although we might as well take some leeway from the aftermaths of Armageddon. Jax will also be busy with his family too."

Hanzo held his chin in thought, "Hmm... And what of Nitara and the vampires?"

"With Kriss incinerated, there's nothing for them to fear. Although Ashrah may have to stay out of Outworld for a century or two... By the way, what of Shinnok?"

"He has found a new job, a new realm to govern, Purgatory."

Kenshi was stunned, "Purgatory...? The realm between life and death. And he was the Elder God of death..."

"He will give it stricter authority this time around. The second best kompared to the Netherrealm."

"And...does he still wish to have his vengeance on the Elder Gods?"

"Not really... Just like me, as long as he has family for leverage, the trigger would be tamed. When he noticed he had his sister back, she emancipated him there. And with the energy from Liu's heart in konjunction with Nightwolf's and his black heart gem, they were quite the katalysts."

Kenshi paused, "I kan't believe Liu Kang and Kitana knew of Shinnok's korrupt family... They have a lot of explaining to do!"

"Perhaps a story for another time, if they wish to visit us again..."

Kenshi looked up at the cerulean, peaceful sky, "But until then... We have this little guy to prepare for the unforeseen future." He made the boy tickle and giggle in his seat.

Inside the Sky Temple, there was a gentle rain although there were still periods of thunder and lightning, reminding Fujin of his lost brother...

He sighed next to Ashrah. "...Earthrealm will never be the same without brother..."

"Of course. We will be there to take his place as the realm's protectors. But he is still alive. Just...not the same."

"I know Liu Kang would serve well, even with Kitana and Caro. But they would be too busy traveling thru time. A realm that kannot be foreseen..."

"With them as the new architects of history... It'll always be a mystery. At least we no longer have the korrupt Titaness, Kronika, to govern it. And Cetrion is one of the Elder Gods again, bringing peace to the pantheon."

Fujin rose his head slowly, for once staying hopeful, "Perhaps, maybe, someday... We will be together again. If Liu Kang is willing to reform him."

"He was a promising mentor, and a dear brother to us. He was the one who motivated me to leave the Netherrealm, as did Shinnok. But until we will see him again, you still have Kung Lao."

Fujin actually smiled, "The last descendant's destiny has kome full circle. He will lead the Shaolin and take Liu's place as the Chosen One. I always knew there was some potential in him; he has finally surpassed his ancestor like I knew he would." He stood up and made a fighting pose. "After all, he still has a long way if he should dare to surpass me!"

Back in the Lin Kuei base...

The klan was still a bit cold toward Bi-Han's treachery, although he did make an offering, to hone his skills and discipline himself at Delia's temple with Sareena.

"The Lin Kuei has changed greatly with you as the Grandmaster. I am sure that only you have what it takes to lead them. That being said...you're a still too soft."

Kuai just let out an irritated sigh.

"But maybe...someday. If the light should smile upon me. It will become stronger with the two of us at its thawing helm. I, however, have much to atone too, and to put aside my coldhearted ways."

"Hey, if humans and machines can coexist and be an unstoppable force combined, then so can you two!" Tomas was more optimistic.

"As long as he's not bitter towards Hanzo anymore. Or us with the Shirai Ryu." Frost added.

"He has put aside his discrepancies, Frost." Sareena assured. "I'm sure you would make a moral supporter to Kuai, just as I would be with Bi-Han. Due to his sensitivities from the Netherrealm, he needs to cool his heels."

"You know I will." She responded in konjunction with Sareena's kurtsy.

"Hey, if Kuai needs a strong backbone, I'm here." Tomas declared.

"We will be honored if you two shall return." The Grandmaster stated to the kursed kouple.

"Thank you, brother. Perhaps...having to be in between won't be much of a hassle after all." Bi-Han for once komplimented, as aspired by Kuai, Smoke and even Shinnok governing Purgatory with his heart unextreme. They bowed to each other before the pair left with their heads held high.

The Shokan were gathering before the Prime Minister of Australia; he welcomed them as his own after the four-armed beasts offered to rid of all the stragglers from the Black Dragons, those who weren't sent to the Red Dragon kaverns...

Led by Sheeva and Goro, they mingled with the Aussies little by little, and if they offered to move into the kontinent, as long as there was no kongestion, they each thinned out from Edenia. The monarchs stepped down as being bodyguards of Edenia, but they'd be more than willing to help if the need should arise. Until then, they passed the torch to their tyro, Kintaro.

"Shao Kahn never shed any pity nor respect to you nor our kind. And began to favor the Centaurs kindling our hatred between us. Until Kitana turned things around in both of our favors. So do not kompromise our truce." Sheeva warned him.

"I see now why you decided to leave. Outworld has always been in turmoil and endless wars for thousands of eons. Bloodshed, suffering and death littered our neighboring realms. I shall only serve Edenia and the Shokan. Do not become too friendly."

"You have our word, Kintaro, as long as you keep your end of the bargain." Goro added.

With Sheeva and Goro exalted as the new protectors of Earthrealm by the support of other world leaders and the kind Aussies accepting them, they and their people thought that anything was now possible...

Things have been quiet since Armageddon's riots died down, and Stryker and Kabal sometimes grew uneasy. Since then, crimes had been decreasing rapidly throughout New York's khaotic streets.

Their klosest allies, the Special Forces, were looking forward to lending a hand. And Stryker even wondered if Aiko's prediction of a certain terrorist attack would kome into fruition... Just like a dark beacon, Kabal stood idly by every night, watching and waiting to put a stop to any large or small break in the law like a wary owl.

With the sharp decrease in kalamity, Stryker settled down more with his new girlfriend, even describing his last unfortunate experience several years ago. If there should be another unsettling, meddling tournament or invasion, he hoped he and his legacy shall be ready and not be kaught off guard like he was...

For once, Kiba actually found a female wolf, who seemed to have reduced his biological urges. It was actually thanks to Fujin who assisted him and Nightwolf to find a mate when they found himself in heat a lot... Ever since after Armageddon, there were some repercussions, especially on account on his age. The shaman was looking forward if Kiba should breed a fresh litter so that the Matokan kan karry on his unfathomable kompanionship and talents for another generation!

Kontinue here

Hell, Fujin wasn't even afraid to embrace his sexuality as a gay god for once! He was shy amongst the pantheon, and he seemed subtle with Raiden. But with Shinnok's new management over Purgatory and Cetrion's revival, he felt there were no shackles holding him back, even if he should perhaps mingle with a gay mortal...

Nightwolf never really became interested on finding a mate; he was still kontempt being the tech wiz and the topnotch shaman that he was. He was the most optimistic that the elderly incarnates of Liu Kang and Kitana would visit, as he would know from his spiritual konnections.

Even a special eyas and bear kub gave him some welcoming kompany...

At the center of the we tei on the Wu Shi Arena, Kung Lao was meditating, and also pining to see the elderly Liu Kang once more... There was still a gap in his heart, similar to Aiko and Fujin's, that had yet to heal. He then perked up as he sensed someone sneaking up behind him...

The intruder ran up, but the new protector was ready as he grabbed his leg and tossed him over! The krimson klad warrior rolled and Lao stood at attention, eventually noticing Kai. Lao offered a hand, and the prodigy took it.

"Nice move, Master."

"I sensed your chi, just as I was meditating. I knew you were there. It's about time I was able to master Liu Kang's technique. You must hone his skills."

"I have been training with the White Lotus," he assured. "Always have. Although I heard from Aiko that I must stand out and not be a karbon kopy."

"Indeed. You should give your enemies something they would not anticipate. Your explosive prowess would offer you the upper ante."

He looked at his hands, "Heh, yeah, I guess my flares would roast their naive asses!" His expression dropped, "I only wish Liu Kang and Raiden were here..."

Lao sulked, "Yes... It would not be the same without them... Their...sacrifices still scar me. And being the Chosen One has only kovered the wounds. I was able to see my elderly brother a few times, in my mind's eye like Kenshi would say... And I began to take in some komfort. He said only time kan heal... And I must stay strong, for the Shaolin, for Aiko, for Jin..."

It gave some of the warriors some separation anxiety especially since they knew Frederick San was a vagabond and traveler across the realms... They wished to see him return and would welcome him with open arms, even though he never wanted to have a permanent, secure place... Not even a personal chamber if there should be a library konsidering he was quite the bookworm. Still though, he held onto one of Aiko's heart gems as a beacon for his haven and he offered an olive branch in return, never forgetting their befriending.

"Uncle!" Lo and behold, Jin and Aiko went to the two men. The former kouldn't be more happier to see Lao alive and well. Despite his kracked voice, he was still chirpier, and much like Fujin and Tomas, he kame out of the kloset and all the monks accepted, especially since 98% were male anyway, it was no surprise.

"Have you heard the news?" Aiko exasperated. "Johnny says he's willing to adapt my fanfiction series into films! But...with the baby koming, the least he kould do is have a publisher write them instead, even in various languages."

"Um...fantastic." Lao was dumbfounded. "I... never expected them to katch wind so soon..."

"I wasn't suspecting it either, nor did I know how Johnny figured I was a writer. I guess the Shaolin must've passed it on."

"I kan't wait to see Uncle Lao's adventures once they kome out!" Jin spoke enthusiastically.

He was still indifferent, "First the movie and now this... I hope to the Elder Gods we won't get swamped into celebrity. I am... still pondering for Liu Kang and Raiden..." He hung his head.

Aiko went over and embraced him. "I hope we will see them again someday... Fujin said they will. And I am going to miss Caro too..." She recalled her last moments with the red dragon as she, Taven and Orin said farewell back on the Yin Yang Island. He nuzzled them all and he even offered to give the kardiokinetic one more aerial ride around until he'd get exhausted. The elder Liu Kang affirmed her to take kare of Kung Lao, and perhaps betroth to him too.

"I hope she'll be my aunt!" Jin chimed in.

"She will, I'll see to that. As soon as you are 18, we will adopt you, and we will train you in the ways of the Shaolin." Lao promised. As proof, Aiko shown her shining diamond ring as a token of their status as fiancés! She faced her lover, they both smiled before they made a long, passionate kiss. Kai and Jin kouldn't help but snicker.

Even Liu's grandfather was relieved he still has kin to keep him from being lonely and worthless; he proclaimed Kung Lao along with Aiko, Jin, and his mom as the only family he has left. He was konfident Lao would be a strong, devoted leader the way Liu Kang was, even embracing his destiny as the Chosen One and Earth's protector.

He, Kitana and Caro periodically still gaze into the mystic portal emanating from the Hourglass, and no matter what epoch they wound up in, it still remained as majestic as ever as the isle itself...

Several years later...

A Black Hawk pierced thru the glaring sky! The Special Forces were all onboard the chopper heading to enemy territory. A fierce tournament was hosted as the tyrannical leader, Kotal, was taking no prisoners.

Johnny, Sonya, Kenshi, Jax, Cyrax, Hanzo, Kuai, Frost, Tomas, Hornbuckle, Kai, Kung Lao, Aiko, Nightwolf and their new faces konsisting of Cassie, Jacqui, Kung Jin, Takeda, and a slim female kryokinetic were on hot pursuit. They were certain the Edenian Resistance would assist in their salvage mission.

The air vehicle landed several feet away from an ominous tower and Taven, Orin, Jade, Fujin, Ashrah, Li Mei, a young Outworld-Earthrealm hybrid, Sareena, Bi-Han, Mileena, Baraka, Kintaro, the Khameleons, and a fresh Edenian with a yellow-green garb met up with them. There was even a young apprentice with a red ki and a pointed straw hat who emerged from the crowd!

"Alright, team. Are we ready for war?" The general declared; everyone nodded their affirmation before they marched into Kotal's arena. Krowds of spectators were cheering for Kotal and his upcoming foot soldiers. Several vicious beasts emerged from the shadows in a single wave konsisting of Ferra/Tor, D'Vorah, Jataka, a new Saurian in silvery-green, a Minotaur, Erron Black, Triborg, a masked serial killer wearing a gas mask and wielding a chainsaw, a Sauron mutant, a delusional clown with heavy makeup, an extraterrestrial that looked more deadlier than Kabal, a psychotic wielding finger knives, and a Xenomorph. The solar manipulator stood from his perch and led the charge!

Kung Lao and Sonya kommandeered their own troops as the two factions began to kollide with one another!

Just another day setting the stage for the next...Mortal Kombat!

A/N: I added random Kombatants to Kotal's side just for lulz. It was only a post-epilogue scene, yet still...this is indeed the end of my Mortal Kombat fanfiction Khronology. I hope you all had enjoyed all these misadventures as much as I did write them! Unless if there should be a oneshot in the future, this should wrap things up.

Songs include Epilogue Part 1 from Metroid Fusion, Yuna's Decision from Final Fantasy X, all 3 parts of Endings from a Drakkhen Remix done by VGMRMissCoriel, Doc Returns from Back to the Future Part III (end at 1:58), Chop Suey from System of a Down much like the gritty trailer in MKX as the new Kombatants draw into battle, and to klose things off, Fix You by Coldplay sounds in.

Honestly, I was very disappointed and miffed of the results from MK Armageddon in which Taven won over Blaze and attained godhood but in the end, the third outcome was all for nothing... And we all know the deplorable results from the reboot are!

A lot of the ideas were just thrown in, even those involving Frederick, Taven, Caro, Kung Lao and Aiko being engaged, etc. Even the fresh new faces who seemed to be the offspring of TavenxJade, KuaixFrost, Li Mei's own child, etc. Even when I added in Lao tossing Kai asunder based on Liu doing the same to Kitana's; as the new Chosen One, Lao should be kapable of sensing chi too! And I kind of do see Taven and Jade as a kouple, much as Kuai and Frost or Sareena and Bi-Han.

It's been so difficult to say farewell to the Mortal Kombat series. But that doesn't mean I'm going to leave it kompletely, unless if the kommunity should give me a very hard time and/or I should encounter fallouts, and I hope MK1 would pick up the slack my few dropouts had left.

I might do a oneshot or two in the future, as I still have some ideas that didn't quite fit with the epics; just wanted to get all of them outta the way, as as my mind was...

I am so glad the MK fanfic series is finished! Now I just gotta start on the podfic for Final Kombat. And I wanted to wrap as many things up as I could, especially before MK1 should kome out this September; I too wanted the "timelines" to merge into one as well...

So, I'm the Ikran Rider, signing out. And saying so long, until if there's a oneshot, to Mortal Kombat. I bid to you all sayanora and huānsòng...