Chapter Sixteen: Best Medicine
``What am I going to do with you?'' Althea heard in a half-awake state caused by the sudden surge of emotion she felt coming from the thunder god. Slightly confused and mentally foggy, Althea wasn't sure if what she heard and/or felt was true once she became fully awake.
Rayden was across the room when she first opened her eyes. ``Where am I?'' she asked and attempted to sit up. Noticing just in time to catch the linen of exactly how little she was wearing. ``Where the hell are my clothes!'' she demanded as she glared at her host.
He gave his trademark half-smile and said, ``My place. It seems that someone thought you would be better off here. As for your clothes, don't have a clue. How you are is how I found you.''
Althea gave a frustrated sigh and then said, ``Oookay, in that case could you please get me something to wear.''
Rayden shrugged and vanished in a flash. Not wasting a second, Althea got up and better wrapped herself in the linen. It was then, she notice the tattoo on her shoulder as she made sure everything was covered by using an ornamental mirror. ``What the...'' she said under her breath. She had an idea what it was and knew that Rayden had one similar since she saw it that time when they....Althea shook her head to clear the memory from her thoughts. Where Rayden's was in the shape of a dark gray and green dragon, hers was silver in color and was of a stylized bird enflamed and encircled by a snake biting its own tail. One thought came to her mind...Someone had branded her! How DARE they!
Just then Rayden appeared holding a small bundle of clothes. ``What the crap is this?'' demanded Althea pointing to the mark in question.
Rayden's eyes rolled up for a moment as he handed her the bundle. He then said, ``Basically, it's just a mark proving you are of a unique and high ranking bloodline.'' Althea just glared and said, ``And what exactly does that mean?''
``It means that one of your ....ancestors had decided it was time for you to be officially recognized as part of the family and a descendant of gods, ``said Rayden with a shrug, ``It also means you now have the rights, privileges and responsibilities that comes with being born of that bloodline.'' Rayden raised his hand to cut off Althea's complaint, ``It also means that Kuravan and any other god can not attempt to harm you now, otherwise he will have to face the one who marked you.''
Althea snorted, ``What's the catch?''
Rayden ran his hand through his gray hair and said, ``There is the responsibility part, which in my opinion you should have little of since you are still a mortal not a god. Basically you should help ensure that the rules are kept in place and to protect certain sacred sites. Which in a sense you have already been doing, however there is a chance you might be called upon to do more. The one who mark you is the head of your family line, Kronos the Elder God of Time. Fortunately, he is known to pretty much leave his family alone so long as they behave themselves. There is a good chance he did this just to remind Kuravan of his place.'' Just then Rayden remembered Kronos' interest in Althea, his offer to her and what he requested of Rayden.
Althea sense the sudden change in mood, ``What else?''
Rayden sighed and said, ``The same Elder God has given me a message to give to you. An offer to be exact, he said that if you choose you are free to declare Earthrealm your home ....and if the responsibility of you bloodline should ever include becoming a goddess then it would be an office on Earthrealm and not Calorna if you choose to accept this offer. I may add, this would be most unlikely to happen since there is no signs of any of Earth's gods choosing to retire or being offer promotion any time soon.''
``And...''Althea prompted.
``And what?'' asked Rayden, then it dawned on him. His brains were definitely not working fully today. ``Ah yeah, with the mark comes agelessness.''
Althea cussed slightly under her breath and said ,``So basically I'm in the same shoes as Kung Lao.''
``Is that so bad?'' asked Rayden in a low voice.
``Let's see...I will now see most of my friends grow old and die...the odds of me ever having a normal life is now zilch....'' Althea started.
``You will now have lifetimes to continue your studies, ``Rayden countered, ``You will not suffer the enfeeblement of advanced old age but still be able to acquire the wisdom. As for a `normal' life, when have you ever been interested in `normal?' You have always sought adventure and/or knowledge hardly normal things for someone of your race and gender!'' Althea just looked at him for a few seconds; barely blinking...then broke down in laughter.
****
A hooded figure walked through the crowded streets of Zu Zhin until it stopped across from the familiar trading post. Eyes flashed red under the hood as Taja talked to a prospective customer. Another hooded figured approached, stared at the first and then grabbed its arm. Then lead the way down the street, almost dragging the first. Unseen, Fujin sat on top of the building behind where the pair had stood. He frownded and then vanished in a small dustdevil.
A few minutes later, the pair left the city gates and headed down the road. Once out of site of the gates, one of the figures dragged the other to the side of the road and hissed, ``Are you crazy! You are already in enough trouble with Quan Chi.''

Eyes flashed again as the other pulled back her hood and pulled her arm from the others grasp. Arianna replied, ``They killed Ragen! That woman especially will pay for that outrage!'' The wind picked up causing the leaves of the tree behind them to rustle.
Lupena pushed back her own hood and growled, ``Not unless Quan Chi orders it. Remember, he made you so he can destroy you.'' Arianna snorted and headed back to the road. Quan Chi may have created her, but she was no longer the weak thing that first awoke in his filthy lair. Kuravan made sure of that! A cruel smile appeared on Arianna's face, which Lupena did not see. The wind died down as the pair continued down the road.
Behind the tree, Fujin watched as they walked off. Tapping his fingers on the side of the tree he mumbled, ``What are they up to?''
****
Siro kept looking over his shoulder as he worked on the door hinges. ``Will you stop that!'' exclaimed Taja, holding the door in place, ``It's starting to get on my nerves.''
``Sorry, ``he said, ``It's just that I have the strangest feeling we're being watched.''
Taja rolled her eyes and replied, ``We are we not being watched. Red Dragon, Shang Tsung, Vorpax, Quan Chi....Oh yeah, don't forget the buttinsky brothers Rayden and Fujin.''
Siro looked up, ``I thought you liked Fujin? Besides they only mean to do what's best.'' Taja snorted, ``What's best for who or what? We were told Althea has been found, and we haven't even seen her yet.''
Siro finished with the hinge and tested the door by swinging it back and forth. With a grin he said, ``She is supposedly at Rayden's place ... recovering, but I have a sneaky idea that there is more going on than that between them and they may be a while.''
``Kept your dirty ideas to yourself, hmmmm,'' Fujin said from right behind them, making them both jump in surprise.
``Damn it, Fujin! What happened to the warning breeze you usually give?'' said Taja.
Fujin gave a familiar half-smile, ``That was before I was one of the `buttinsky brothers'.''
Taja grinned uncomfortably and scratched the outer edge of her ear, ``Sorry about that.''
``Maybe if you didn't listen in on private conversations...,''Siro began.
``Then I wouldn't have found out that Arianna is back, ``said Fujin raising his eyebrows, ``And she seems somewhat stronger than before.''
``Any idea what she's up to?'' Siro asked. Fujin shook his head and said, ``Only that she's back with Quan Chi, but doesn't seem too happy about it. I'll try to keep an eye on her, but watch out.''
``Don't we always!'' yelled Taja as Fujin vanished. ``Crap,'' she said, ``What about Kung Lao, does he know?''
``He should be on the road back right now, ``said Siro as he grabbed a water caste and headed for the door, ``You lock up and keep an eye on things here. I try to meet up with him and give him the warning.

****

Althea continued laughing and couldn't seem to stop. Dropping the bundle of clothes, she nearly fell over but was caught by a somewhat confused Rayden. Just when it seemed she had control over herself again, she looked up and seeing Rayden's face broke out in laughter again. He helped her back to the couch as Althea wiped away tears of laughter from her eyes. She took the risk of looking at Rayden again when she started to regain control again.
Althea then said with a raised eyebrow, ``You know, you might just be right. Just look where I am now.'' She leaned against the now stunned deity. ``Literally in the arms of the first male that has shown a passing interest in me for sometime and I in him, and he turns out to be a thunder god and sworn protector of a realm that a year ago I didn't even know of.''
Rayden wrapped his arms around her and placed his chin on her head. He then asked, ``Are you so sure it's just a passing interest?''
****
``Damn!'' exclaimed Fujin as he saw the hooded pair go through a portal. For a few seconds he chewed his lower lip thinking. He should report this to Rayden but didn't want to disturb his brother while Althea was with him. Fujin sighed and thought, `It's not like I really have much to report and none of it can't wait until Althea fully recovers. I'll just keep an eye out for them in case they are up to anything.'
****

Drevane frowned and said, ``Are you certain it was the duplicate?''
His follower bowed and replied, ``Yes, Lord Drevane. She had black hair instead of blonde, and her eyes flashed red rather than light blue. She also looked.....angrier than the original.''
Drevane leaned back into his chair. He did not like unknowns and Arianna's return was a definite unknown. Why would Kuravan pay so much to get her only to return her to Quan Chi. Something was going to happen...something that made his dragon spirit chuckle cruelly. ``Have some of our best people keep an eye on the trading post and pass on the word that everyone is to report if they see Arianna anywhere. In both cases they are only to watch and report, nothing else,'' he ordered and then signaled his dismissal. The follower bowed and left the room.
The leader of the Red Dragon then returned to his bookkeeping, but the silent glee of his dragon prevented him from concentrating on his work.
The End

Next Time on Mortal Kombat: Conquest.....

Althea went through the more complex staff motions under Kung Lao's watchful eye.
Arrianna then began to practice some of the moves that Lilith showed her. A pair of dark and deadly blurs attacked an imaginary opponent from multiple directions.
Chapter Seventeen: Practicing Moves
Althea just sat staring into space as Taja and Siro bickered over the possibility of another trip. Kung Lao glanced occasionally to each of his friends in turn. When he looked at Taja and Siro a look of amusement came over his face. Even though they have seemed to have admitted their feelings to each other, they still argued a good bit. It seemed as if they actually enjoyed the fights. When Kung Lao looked at Althea, he frowned with concern. Ever since her return she seemed quiet, distracted. It was showing up not only at mealtime but in training as well. That was a real concern, such distraction could be dangerous.

Suddenly, Althea stood up and left the room. Taja and Siro didn't even notice and just continued arguing. Kung Lao got up to follow. He found her pacing in the courtyard and mumbling to herself.
``Is there anything you would like to talk about?'' asked Kung Lao. Althea sighed and then replied, ``Yes and no....You know how I am prevented from doing some things due to coming from another realm right?''
Kung Lao nodded since he was aware that some of the rules of Mortal Kombat might prevent her from aiding them in certain circumstances, fortunately such occurrences have not happened since she arrived. Any attack on them included her, so basically she was defending herself or the attacks targeted at them were made by someone else from another realm.
``While I was recovering, Rayden informed me that I was offered the option to declare Earthrealm as my home, ``Althea said looking away from her teacher. Kung Lao frowned and asked, ``Okay and the problem is?''
``I'm Calornian. True there's not much back there for me and I am much happier here....but I bled for my realm. Lost friends and those I considered family for it. I nearly lost my soul defending it. Leaving it for a while is one thing, but to completely cut myself off from it....''
``Would you be cutting yourself from it?'' asked Kung Lao, ``What would prevent you from visiting it on occasion or stay there for a while, like you are doing here?''
``And if Calorna is ever endangered again and I'm unable to help due to my new citizenship?'' Althea replied.
``Then don't take the offer,'' said Kung Lao.
''Then if any of you guys get in a dangerous situation in which I am prevented from helping....,''Althea started.
``Are you listening to yourself?'' said Kung Lao with a strange feeling of da233;ja224; vu as he remember a similar conversation he had with Rayden in regards to his status as Mortal Kombat Champion and its responsibilities, ``Do you think you are Calorna's only defense? I hope that it has new defenders by now who can take up the fight in case of an attack that might never happen. I know if anything should happen to me, that Taja and Siro will take up the fight and see that, since they will be too old for the next tournament, someone will be trained and ready to fight for Earth. I know for certain that Rayden see to it that another is chosen. The real question is what do you want?''
Althea looked at Kung Lao for a moment considering his words. She then said, ``I think I need more time to think about it, but ....I will not let is consume my thoughts as much. Thanks for reminding me that I'm not the only line of defense for my world. Hmph! Thinking about it now, I'm not even the most powerful since if there is another attack I doubt it would be another immortal. Not even Kuravan is crazy enough to destroy his own realm.''
******

Arianna, slowly picked up the kamas given to her by Kuravan as if it was a pleasure to be stretched out. They were solid black and glossy, she had no idea what they were made of but they were light and virtually indestructible.
Arianna then began to practice some of the moves that Lilith showed her. A pair of dark and deadly blurs attacked an imaginary opponent from multiple directions. Lupena entered the room to see Arianna shadow fighting with some very dangerous looking weapons and Arianna's surprising expertise with them. The sight made Lupena feel uneasy and slightly fearful. Lupena turned to leave and it was then that Arianna spoke in a cruel voice, ``Not the same puppet you remember, hey Lupena.''
******

The next morning, Althea went through the more complex staff motions under Kung Lao's watchful eye. He was pleased to see that most of Althea's distraction was gone and with how far she has gotten with her training, in spite of all the interruptions. As Kung Lao watched Althea's nearly flawless display, he considered if it was time to step up her training a bit. More advanced hand to hand and perhaps a secondary weapon. There was also throwing weapons and perhaps with another option, she wouldn't need to use that costly chi blast so often for distant attacks.
``She's not half bad, ``said Rayden. Kung Lao didn't even blink at the thunder god's sudden appearance next to him. He was also pleased that Althea didn't miss a motion, but acknowledged Rayden's arrival with nothing more than a smile and blink. Definitely need to step up her training. ``She is doing just fine, Rayden. Is there something you need to tell me?'' said Kung Lao.
Rayden raised an eyebrow at Kung Lao's cold tone of voice, but didn't comment on it. ``It seems that someone is stirring up Shao Kahn's and Vorpax's interest. Who or what I'm not sure, but you might want to be careful, ``he replied.
Kung Lao nodded and mumbled, ``Thanks.''
This time Rayden didn't ignore Kung Lao's coldness and asked, ``Is there something you would like to tell me?''
Kung Lao glanced at Rayden for a moment and returned his attention to his student. The exercise ended and he said, ``Good one! Why don't you go take a break while I talk to Rayden....alone.''
``Ooookay, ''said Althea as she leaned the staff against a wall and went inside.
As soon as she was out of sight, Kung Lao began, ``What is going on between you and my student? Ever since she returned she's been in a bit of a daze which has affected her training. She's mentioned the offer about making Earthrealm her home, but that's not all that bothering her.''
Rayden just blinked, but inside he winched. He was about to deny anything was between him and Althea, but then changed his mind. Sighing, he sat down on a barrel and said, ``To be honest, I'm not really sure myself. You would think that being able to sense what each other feeling would make it easier to understand each other, but all it does is cloud the issue even more.'' Rayden looked in the direction that Althea took to leave and continued, ``Both of us have an....attraction for each other, but I'm unsure about it and it seems she is trying to fight it.''
Kung Lao crossed his arms and asked a simple question, ``Why?''
Rayden replied, ``Me; most likely in spite of my centuries of life have never had a serious relationship. Being immortal and spending most of my time with mortals will kinda do that.'' He took a deep breath and continued, ``As for Althea, I think it has something to do with her past. Unlike her past studies and fighting history, I....haven't dug too much into her personal history, to find out more since it has little to do with the defense of Earthrealm and she might consider it private information which she might not want me to know.''
Kung Lao snorted lightly and said, ``Rayden ``Buttinsky'' God of Thunder, minding his own business? Hell must be freezing over.''
Rayden just glared at the now laughing monk. Kung Lao continued, ``Sorry, Rayden, but you are the last person I would expect to have this kind of problem. Well...good luck.''
Kung Lao turned to leave and Rayden gave his familiar half-smile as he said, ``At least you're not like Fujin and .... others, playing matchmaker.''
Kung Lao shrugged and said, ``You minded your own business...sorta, when me and Gen first started seeing each other. Just returning the favor.''
*******
Althea sensed Rayden's discomfort as she got a drink. She had an idea what Kung Lao and the thunder god were talking about and wasn't sure as to be angry, amused, embarrassed or flattered.
Suddenly something was wrong. What or where she didn't know, but something was definitively not right. She ran outside to the courtyard, ignoring Kung Lao and Rayden, closed and locked the gate. ``What's wrong?'' asked Kung Lao as Rayden suddenly vanished with a concerned look on his face.
Althea shrugged and answered, ``Don't know, I just suddenly go this sinking feeling.''
*******

Drevane wasn't doing well. The spirit of red dragon within him sudden grew more active, more demanding. He could feel it attempting to eat his mind, heart and soul. What was causing it, he had no idea but he fought to control the monster. Drevane was the master, not the dragon!
The leader of the Red Dragon fell to his knees when the pain struck. The red haze surrounded him again, but this time the shape of the dragon was more complete, more solid. ``NO!'' yelled Drevane as the hissing voice in his head spoke, ``Ssssoon I will be the masssster and you my sssslave.'' The man internally fought the power he once thought was his own.
*******

Kuravan looked up from the book he was reading. So far his newest plan seemed to be working, but where was this feeling of dread coming from. He closed his book and yelled, ``Lilith!''
A scarred but fully healed Lilith entered the room, traces of her feeding being carefully removed by her hand. ``Yes, my Lord,'' she said as she kneeled.
``As soon as possible, I want you to go to Earthrealm and take a look around. Just look and do not let yourself be seen.''
Lilith recognized the tone in Kuravan's voice even though she had never heard it in his voice before, the sound of fear and concern.
The End

Next time on Mortal Kombat: Conquest....
Light-blue flame encompassed Althea's fist as she glared at Arianna. ``Do you really want to take the chance? ``said Arianna with a evil grin, ``If you try to hit me, I'll hit her first.'' Aranna's hand lit up in blood-red fire and pointed to the unconscious Taja at Arianna's feet.
Chapter Eighteen: Double Jeopardy
``Tell me again, why I happen to be on this trip and not Siro?'' asked Althea, sitting on the wagon bench as it rocked slowly down the uneven road, ``I thought it was his job to join you on these caravan runs.''

Taja growled slight as she held the reins. ``Because I asked you to and your not as big an idiot as HE is,'' Taja replied.
Althea raised an eyebrow and said, ``Okay....What did he do this time?'' The former thief turned merchant/warrior just stared ahead and redness came to her face that had nothing to do with the setting sun. Althea's other eyebrow joined its partner as she said, ``Was it just a shining example of stupidity found in all males or was it a Siro Special?'' Taja continued to ignore the blonde's barbs but her blush deepened. Althea, taking a perverse enjoyment in Taja's discomfort, continued to muse aloud, ``It wasn't assuming you would clean up after him all because you're a woman, he learned that lesson already. Hmmmm....He never forgets to meet you or anyone when and where he says he will, so that can't be it.'' Althea tapped her finger on the wooden bench and continued, ``Did he give too much attention to a woman customer? No, that wouldn't bother you this much. Wait! Perhaps it is not male stupidity at all, but just his bad luck at catching you with female stupidity?''
``Shut up,''said Taja through clenched teeth and she continued to look down the road.
********

Kung Lao pulled a pot of water off the stove for tea as Siro repaired one of his shirts. The monk poured the water over the tea leaves and Siro sighed, ``Why do I feel like it was a mistake letting those two go alone?'' Kung Lao shrugged, but when his face was turned so that Siro couldn't see his smiled and tried his best not to laugh.

*******

Arianna followed the slow moving wagon from a distance. Occasionally she could hear Althea's laughter when the wind moved in the right direction. As darkness fell, Arianna picked up her pace knowing that the darkness would help prevent discovery by the unwary pair. So obsessed with her prey, she failed to noticed that she too was being followed. A dark colored wolf loped parallel to her in the wooded areas next to the road. The wind picked up, causing leaves to rustle loudly and the dust from the dry road to spiral slightly as night came.
The she-wolf picked up its head and sniffed, as if sensing something was different about this breeze. With a growl, the wolf changed, growing larger and shifting into a more bipedal form. Slowing turning around, it sniffed again and looked around trying to find the source of its unease.
``My, you're a big one aren't you,''said Fujin leaning against a tree. The creature pounced but Fujin vanished in a puff of air. The monster roared in frustration, no longer caring if Arianna heard. ``What language! Do you really hate humans that much?'' said Fujin from behind the creature. It turned slowly and growled, showing finger-length canines. ``This isn't going well, ``said Fujin as the creature attacked again. Just before the massive clawed hands ripped through the Wind God, the monster found itself being picked up and held up by what seemed to be a small tornado. Fujin eyed the creature and said, ``Now are you going to behave yourself and listen to what I have to say or would you rather go for a spin?'' The werewolf whimpered.

*******

Later that night, Althea slept peacefully as Taja fed the fire and kept watch. Taja thought of Althea's comments about her and Siro. Looking back, even Taja had to laugh and finally began to understand what Althea tried to do. Althea making a guessing game of why Taja was angry with Siro made Taja herself wonder. `Why was I so angry with him?' thought Taja as she stood up to stretch. Taja's thoughts were rudely interrupted by a hit to the back of head. She fell with a loud thud.
Her war years' habits still ruling her actions, Althea woke up at the sound of thud and jumped to her feet, ready to fight. She looked around and saw Arianna standing next to the fire. Light blue flame encompassed Althea's fists as she glared at her `twin.' ``Do you really want to take the chance?'' Arianna said with a grin, ``If try to hit me, I'll hit her first.'' Arianna's own hand lit up in with blood red flame and pointed to the unconscious Taja at her feet.
``What do you want?'' Althea demanded still ready to attack at the first sign of an opening.
Arianna cruel smile widened and she replied, ``Not much, only your acceptance of my challenge.''
``What?!'' exclaimed Althea as her light blue flames died down a little.
``I want....no need to prove that I am the stronger, that I am no mere copy. I challenger YOU to a one on one fight, until one of us dies.''
Althea's eyebrow rose and she asked, ``You're challenging me to Mortal Kombat? Why didn't you just kill me while I slept?''
``That would have proved NOTHING! Killing you in combat, with both of us at full strength and alert will prove I AM your better, ``Arianna ranted, ``So accept my challenge or your friend dies.''
``I accept your challenge and my terms are one weapon of the fighter's choice and no armor,'' Althea said, ``Now tell me where to meet and let Taja go.''
``I thought you would see it my way, ``Arianna replied,'' Meet me in three days, noon, at the old ruins east of Zu Zhin. Don't be late or your boyfriend will become the prey of THIS godslayer.''
Althea's eyes flared as Arianna backed off and disappeared in the shadows.
*******
The rest of the trip went uneventful and silent. Taja still fumed at being caught off guard and was in no mood for light hearted teasing. Althea wasn't either has she contemplated on what to do. She hadn't told Taja what had had gone on between herself and Arianna the night before or even that it was Arianna that knocked Taja out. Althea just let Taja assume that an unknown attacker ran off once seeing Althea fully awake, fists glowing and ready to fight. After all, Althea's flaming eyes and fists would scare off a common highwayman. She didn't like keeping the truth from her red-headed friend, but she already knew what Taja would say and do in regards to the challenge. Althea sighed and leaned back on the bench. She would need to keep the others from finding out as well, especially Rayden, they would just try to stop her from meeting Arianna's challenge. This was the best chance of getting rid of her `shadow.'
Rayden....why did Arianna's threat to make Rayden a target, make her so angry and fearful at the same time? `Boyfriend?' Althea thought with a snort, ignoring Taja's inquiring glance. `Since when did Rayden fall into the boyfriend category? Sheesh! That sounds like I'm still a student at the Academy with a crush on someone.'
However, Althea had to admit to herself that Rayden was the closest thing to a `boyfriend' she had ever had. In school, she was too busy and during the war there wasn't room or time for anything but a fling or two. To be honest, there wasn't any guy she was interested in enough to consider working at a long-term relationship with. But Rayden? Althea sighed and asked, ``How's the head?''
Taja grimaced, ``Hurts, but better than it was earlier. It's my pride that's hurting the most. Can't believe I let that creep sneak up on ME.''
``Well at least no one got seriously hurt, nothing was stolen and we will be home in a few hours, ``Althea said with a half-smile, ``Do you want think we need to tell the guys?''
``No, ``was Taja's answer and Althea was secretly relieved, ``Nothing to tell them really. Some thief tried to rob us a failed. I can imagine what irony that Siro will see in that.''
*******
Before dawn of the third day, Althea prepared to meet Arianna. She left a note on the kitchen table explaining she would be gone for the day for personal reasons and was now in the armory getting her battle staff. Her mental shields were up so Rayden wouldn't feel her nervousness. Unfortunately, there was other she overlooked. ``You're not seriously considering fighting her?'' asked Fujin when he appeared the armory doorway, effectively blocking Althea's way out.
``Yes, I am, ``she said, ``She challenged me and this is my best chance of getting rid of her. She is just too dangerous and insane to leave running around.''
``To whom? You, Kung Lao....Rayden,'' said Fujin with a grin. Althea turned, her back to the deity, her eyes flashed. Fujin did not see it or the faint glow around her hands that she held in front of her. ``She dangerous to everyone, ``Althea said, ``I'm sorry, Fujin.''
``For what?'' asked Fujin. Althea quickly turned and blasted him with her godslayer chi. Fujin just stared for a moment as his powers left him.
``For that, ``said Althea, with a sad but determined look on her face. ``And for this.'' She then knocked him out with a sharp blow of her staff on the side of his head.
After untying the unconscious Fujin, Althea grabbed her fallen staff and left. Her only hope was that the others would not find him too soon.

******

Althea reached the ruins about mid-morning. Once there she explored the area with the upcoming battle in mind. Loose rocks, rubble, and overgrown weeds were going to be a problem, but there was one area that was completely flat and surrounded by broken down stands. An old arena, perhaps?
Once she finished looking around, she began her warm up exercises. Althea mused that there was one good thing about that damn mark on her shoulder. Since she got it, it seemed that she had more chi energy and was able to recover more quickly from using it. She just hoped that her use of her ability on Fujin did not weaken her enough to affect the fight.
*******

``Has Althea returned yet?'' asked Kung Lao in an irritated voice.
``Nope, ``Siro answered as he grabbed an apple for his lunch. ``Didn't the note say she might be gone all day?''
Kung Lao sighed and said, ``Yes, but that doesn't stop me from worrying. The last time Althea took off she ended up being kidnapped. We still don't know who did it or why. Besides this isn't like her.''
``What isn't like who?'' asked Rayden now sitting sitting at the table with Siro's apple in his hand.
``Althea left early this morning without any warning, ``answered Kung Lao, ``She left a note but it didn't say much only that she would be gone for most of the day. Normally, she would tell us where she would be and what she would be doing.''
``Hmmmm, ``Rayden frowned, ``And Fujin seems to be missing as well.'' Just then a crashing sound was heard coming from the armory. Kung Lao and Siro ran to investigate. There they found a bound and gagged Fujin lying on the ground. The crash was the sound of one of the scrap metal barrels being kicked over. Rayden appeared and removed the gag from Fujin's mouth. The wind god began to cuss loudly in a dead language and all that Rayden was able to get out of him was that Althea blasted him and was going to get herself killed. That was enough, Rayden attempted to find Althea through their shared link. Then he also said a few choice words in the same dead language and vanished.
*******

Althea stood up as she heard Arianna's approach. The dark haired woman smiled cruelly and said, ``My aren't we in a hurry to die.''

Althea shrugged and went into a defensive position as she responded, ``Not really, just wanting to get a nasty job done and over with as soon as possible.'' Arianna growled as she pulled out her kamas from their holders. She then twirled and swung them expertly for a few seconds. Althea studied the weapons as they moved. She had seen Lilith carry and use such weapons during the God War on Calorna. Arianna's weapons had speed, dual attacks and cutting edges in their favor; where as Althea had reach, defense and hopefully more practice in regards to her chosen weapon, the staff.
It was Arianna who attacked first. Eyes flaring read, she swung her weapons at Althea's head. Rather than blocking with her staff, Althea dodged and then countered with a low swing of her own. Arianna flipped backwards, avoiding the fast moving staff but was hit hard on the shoulder when Althea followed through, not stopping the spin of her fist attack. Arianna hit the ground and dropped one of the kamas. She aimed her now empty hand and a blast of blood red lame was thrown towards Althea's chest. Althea tried to dodge, but the flames followed her through the air and hit her hard on the back. `Crap!' though Althea, `She's learned how to control those flames.'
Arianna jumped up from the ground as Althea was attempting to dodge the first flare and sent another, larger one blast. Althea didn't even bother to dodge or use her staff; she just stood there as the second blast seemed to hit an invisible wall just inches from her face.
``That's it, ``said Althea angrily, ``My turn.'' Althea then held her staff in one hand and with the other sent two of her own blasts of light blue flames towards her opponent. Instead of going straight, the flames curved in opposite directions for a two prong attack in which Arianna was unable to dodge or block. `Damn!' Gotta keep these blasts to a minimum,'thought Althea as she ran to attack again with her staff. Arianna reeled from the dual hits, but recovered in time to roll out of Althea's physical attack and jump back up to a fighting stance, grabbing her fallen weapon. Althea was barely able block the storming attacking Arianna rained on her with her kamas. Then Arrianna's weapons turned from black to a glowing blood red and with a incredibly strong and focus hit with both kamas, she sheared through Altheas staff. As the pieces of hard wood slipped from Althea's hand, Arianna swung again this time to Althea's heart. The swing was deflected by Althea's barrier. ``SHIT!'' Arianna screamed as the force of the deflection caused her to fall back some and dropped one of her weapons again. Althea dropped the barrier and with a fist engulfed bright blue flame landed a strong uppercut. Arianna flew backwards from the hit and landed hard on the ground.
Althea shook her head as she approached the fallen Arianna carefully, picking up the dropped kama on her way. The use of chi for both attack and defense was starting to seriously drain her reserves. That last attack nearly caused her to black out. Where was Arianna getting her strength from?
Arianna groggily stood up as Althea approached. Suddenly Rayden appeared not far from the dark haired woman. Arianna changed tactics and a large red blast hit Rayden full on. ``Rayden!'' Althea yelled as the thunder god fell to his knees. Arianna pulled his head back with his hair and held her remaining kama's blade at this throat. ``Stay right there, ``Arianna said spitting blood from her damaged face.
Althea stopped where she was and responded, ``Is this how you want to beat me? What will this prove.''
``I DID!'' screamed Arianna insanely. Rayden took a chance while she was distracted and knocked Arianna's weapon away from his throat. He nearly succeeded in rolling away from her grasp, but she kicked him in the gut forcing the wind out of him and causing him to collapse to the ground. With their shields now wide open, Althea also felt the kick and fell to her knees. Arianna snorted when she saw Althea on her knees and said, ``So Kuravan was right about that soulbond between you two. Let's see what happens when half of a soulbond dies!'' Arianna lifted her kama high above Rayden's unprotected back.
It was as if time slowed down. Althea saw the blade slowly making its way to the fallen deity. Hopelessness and rage mixed with desperation within her soul. A soul that roared, ``NO!''
Althea threw out both her hands, her hair turned snow white and her eyes crystal blue. Then large wave of light blue flame raced out from her and engulfed Arianna. Arianna was knocked away from Rayden and burst into flame, dead and ash before she even hit the ground. Her now darkened remains scattered upon impact when it fell.
As Althea stood up, her injuries healed and she ran to Rayden's side. ``What just happened?'' he asked looking up into Althea's face. Relief filled her and she fell down next to Rayden, unconscious.

******
``Thanks for letting me stay here, ``said Fujin as he nervously sipped some fruit juice. ``No problem, ``Said Kung Lao, ``We'll just put you in the room that Rayden used the last time.''
``Maybe we should start charging rent, ``joked Siro. Kung Lao glared at his friend. Taja sat down and said, ``I hope Rayden....'' Silence filled the room.
Rayden, what's?'' asked Fujin as he turned to look at the now completely still Taja. ``Does she do that often? Ummm, guys?'' Fujin noticed that Siro and Kung Lao was also frozen in place.
A frustrated sounding voice said, ``I don't believe this, two of you and you are both rendered mortal within hours of each other. I'm surprised Earthrealm is still around.'' The mysterious white haired woman entered the room, wearing clothes similar to Fujin's, only in shades of black and gray. She glared at Fujin and said, ``Does immortality make you stupid or something?''
``Hey! Don't blame me. It was...'' the her words hit home, ``Rayden too! What happened?'' He stood up so quickly, his chair fell down behind him.
``Oh calm down. He's okay, for now. However he could use some help getting himself and Althea home. Hmmmm....,''the woman said as she studied Fujin for a few seconds. She sighed and continued, ``How would you like to be aged by one day and thus regaining your powers now?''
``You can do that?'' Fujin asked with both surprise and hope in his voice.
The woman rolled her eyes but only said, ``Yes. I don't like doing it but since you are normally immortal there shouldn't be any long term effects.'' She raised her hand to cut off Fujn's question, ``Find a real time god and ask him for an explanation, please.''
Fujin nodded and said, ``Okay....Let's do it. To be honest I have had enough of mortal life.'' She shrugged and raised both her hands. The room filled with a bright blue light.
*******

A little later, the wind picked up at the ruins. Fujin appeared in the middle of the `arena'. He found the battle's survivors. Althea was out cold and Rayden sleeping next to her with his arms around her. Fujin quietly snorted at the sight and then noticed Althea's new coloring. With a raised eyebrow he looked around a little more. He found the weapons and Arianna's remains. He whistled to himself and said, ``Someone was seriously pissed.''
Rayden woke at the sound of his brother's voice. ``Fujin? How?'' he asked as he tried to sit up. Fujin shook his head and said, ``Let's just say an old friend of yours decided to show up. Let's just get you two home.'' The god of wind then stood next to the pair and a whirlwind surrounded them briefly. When it cleared, they were gone.
The End
Next time on Mortal Kombat: Conquest.....
The emperor took a good long look at the leader of the Red Dragon. After a few minutes of absolute silence, Shao Kahn's evil laughter roared through the halls of his palace.

Author : Preferred Customer

Creation date: 2005-9-4-15-3

Modification date: 2005-9-4-15-3