Chapter Twelve: Where There is Smoke....
Sub-Zero sat on his bike as he sipped his milkshake and thought. It has been days since he left the ranch house, needing some serious time alone after being fooled by that Arianna woman. The Lin Kuei warrior was still mentally kicking himself over how he acted like a lovesick teenager.

The traffic whizzed by as he considered his options; he could stay at the ranch house and teach or continue wondering alone. The school would be a secure place to sleep knowing there were others around and did have comforts that the road just didn't have, but the danger of being in one place too long and there was the freedom of the open road which he had acquired a taste for. Sub-Zero frowned as he tossed his empty glass into a parking lot trash bin as he had to admit that so far the only dangers he has experienced recently have been from Althea's and Rayden's past, not his and they were relatively easy to fight off. As for the freedom of the road...there was nothing to prevent him from experiencing when he wanted or needed it if he stayed at the school.
Sub-Zero started his bike and put on his helmet. With a few revs of the motor as he waited for an open space in the traffic and he then was off down the darkening highway. As he drove off, from behind the fast food restaurant a red and black sports bike pulled out whose rider seemed to be wearing specially designed red riding armor and helmet. The rider drove through the parking lot and down the highway to follow Sub-Zero.
(Ranch House)
As he drove up the driveway, Sub-Zero noticed that the ranch house was completely dark and both cars were gone. As he parked his bike, he finally saw a light from around the house. He walked around the building to see Althea sitting at the picnic table, wiping excess oil from one of her swords. Its mate was on the table already gleaming brightly with a slight sheen of fresh oil.
''Hey, Sub-Zero, ``Althea said without even looking away from her work, ``In case you're wondering Sonya got called to what she called DC and the guys went to town pick up a few things.''
Sub-Zero nodded as he sat down at the table across from her to watch her tend to her gear in silence. After a few minutes, she placed the sword and rag on the table. Opening a jar of lanolin, picked up her leather harness and dipped a fresh rag into the jar. As she rubbed in the lanolin into the leather, she said, ``You know how uncomfortable it is to be stared at while working?''
A sense of da233;ja224; vu came over Sub-Zero and a brief thought of how similar the white haired woman was to Althea crossed his mind. A sudden fog clouded that thought to the point that he no longer even knew what he was thinking about. Sub-Zero shook his head slightly in an attempt to clear his mind.
As the Lin Kuei tried to clear his thoughts, Althea suddenly turned to look into the direction of the wooded area. She then put down the harness and rag to pick up both her swords with a serious look on her face.
Seeing this, Sub-Zero asked, ``Something wrong?''
Althea nodded, ``Someone is watching us from those trees. Someone who is not suppose to be here.''
Not bothering to ask how she knew this, Sub-Zero followed her lead as she headed towards the trees in a defensive manner. A slight layer a frost built up on his lower arms and hands as he prepared for combat. When they got about halfway to the trees a light flashed from among them and then a high pitch rumbling sound grew as two small missiles raced out from behind the trees. Sub-zero and Althea ran in opposite directions to avoid being hit but the both missiles followed Althea as she ran.
Recognizing what they were, Sub-Zero yelled, ``They're heatseekers!''
Althea, getting the idea, threw her swords into the ground blade first so that they stood up. She then sent a concentrated blast of light-blue flame straight to where the missiles originally came from. Both missiles followed the chi blast into the trees and detonated. The explosion shook the ground, as Sub-Zero fought to stay standing. Out of the flames, the red cyber walked unscathed.
''Sektor, ``Sub-Zero hissed as Althea reclaimed her swords from the ground.
''Friend of yours?'' asked Althea.
''No.''
A robotic voice spoke clearly over the roar of the flames, ``Resistance is futile. You will be annihilated.''
''Stay out of this, ``Sub-Zero said to Althea, ``This is my fight.''
Althea frowned and was about to say something along the lines of how crazy that sounded, but one look at Sub-Zero's face made her change her mind. She of all people knew that sometimes one must fight their enemy alone. The battlemage stepped back, respecting the fact that this time it was Sub-Zero that needed to fight.
As soon as she was far enough away, Sub-Zero sent a blast of ice to the red cyber, freezing it in its tracks. Not wasting any time, Sub-Zero then ran to the frozen cyborg and summoned his kori blade. He lifted his icy broadsword to slice through his frozen foe, but before the blow landed the cyber broke free of the ice with the sound of shattering glass. A red energy blade flew up to deflect the ice sword and a red, armored hand grabbed Sub-Zero by the throat and lifted him off the ground. The Lin Kuei reached up with his free hand and froze Sektor's hand. He then placed his feet on the cyber's chest and kicked off, sliding out of the grasp and knocking the cyber over.
As Althea watched the fight, she sensed another disturbance in the light shield she placed around the property. She turned in the direction of the disturbance, just in time to see a flickering net flying straight towards her. Althea quickly brought up one of her swords straight up in front of her. The net was sliced into two pieces, each flew pass her harmlessly. A dark gray cyber stood in the smoke of the still burning trees. In a deeper robotic voice it said, ``Godslayer Althea, you will come with us or die.''
''Like hell I am, ``she said and sent a blast of chi through her sword straight at the new enemy. He just stood there as the light blue flames hit him, without leaving a mark. Smoke then returned fire with an energized net. Apparently, not expecting her chi blast to fail, Althea was unable to escape the net a second time. She fell to the ground with a small sound of pain escaping her throat. Smoke walked over to his captured prey only to be met with a good two feet of steel cutting into his chest. Althea looked up from her `prison' of electrified netting holding the sword as she twisted it in the metal of his chest. Oil started spurting as the cyber began to stumble slightly backwards more in confusion than pain, Althea's sword sliding out as he did so.
Althea pulled off the net and said, ``You really don't know much about me, do you?''
She twirled both her swords once and then went on the attack. Smoke, even with his cybernetic speed, was hard press to dodge the twin, chi enhanced blades' blurred attacks. A slice appeared on his right upper arm and then another on his left thigh. He knew if given a chance, those strange blades could literally slice him into pieces. A split second opening appeared in Althea's ongoing attack, the one in which he was patiently waiting for. He lifted his arm and from his wrist, sent a blast a black smoke directly into the woman's face. Althea dropped both her swords and with one hand to her throat fell to knees with her other hand holding herself up as she struggled to breath. Smoke aimed his arm at her again, preparing to send another blast of the smoke when something struck him from behind, going completely through him and hooked him in front at the hole in his chest. With a loud, ``Get over here!'' he was pulled backwards away from Althea.
'Damn!' Sub-Zero thought when he saw Althea fighting the other cyber, but had his own hands full with Sektor. After seeing how Althea was nearly slicing Smoke piece by piece, he figured she could handle the gray cyber on her own. It wasn't until he heard the ``Get over here!'' did he turn to see Althea struggling to breath. That one second of distraction nearly enabled Sektor to slice off Sub-Zero's head with his red energy blade. Fortunately, Sub-Zero heard the sizzle-hiss of the blade as he sliced through the air and ducked in time. He then counter with his own blade straight into Sektor's midriff and before the cyber could even move, Sub-zero drove his sword sideways out of the cyborg's body leaving behind a gaping hole. Sektor then started to stumble as Sub-zero in one fluid motion spinned and sliced into the other side of Sektor's midriff completing cutting the cyborg in two. The two pieces fell to the ground and squirted oil as Sub-Zero ran to Althea's aid.
The battlemage was just starting to recover from smoke when she felt Sub-Zero gently holding her arm asking her if she could stand. Still feeling week, she clumsily stood up, leaving her swords on the ground. The sound of metal cutting through metal rung through the air as both Sub-zero and Althea turned to see Smoke fall to the ground revealing the yellow clad specter holding a sword parallel to the ground. ``You both need more practice, ``was all that Scorpion said as he then vanished in a puff of smoke filled fire.
(Outworld )
Kahn's fist hit the wall leaving a cracked crater. The Lin Kuei Master bowed in respect to the Emperor's anger. ``There is no forgiveness in the failure of the warriors we sent after the traitor and godslayer, ``the Master said, ``They will be severely disciplined.''
Shao Kahn turned and growled, ``I suggest you leave.'' Once again the Master bowed and quickly left the room. Reiko stepped forward and asked, ``Master, why did you hire the Lin Kuei?''
Kahn's mood suddenly changed from rage to that of great satisfaction, ``They were a mere test. I had to see if the so-called `godslayer' was as good as the reports stated. There is no point in stealing a weak weapon.''
Quan Chi's voice entered the Emperor's private chambers, ``Perhaps I can be of some assistance.''
Both Kahn and Reiko turned to see Quan Chi confidently walk into the room. ``For a price, I am able to tell you ALL you need to know about that particular weapon.''
(Throneroom )
Shinnok laughed slightly over, in his opinion, humorous report of the attack. Seems that his youngest son had his own plans in regards to Earthrealm's warriors, it would do his heart proud...if he had one. The humor left the fallen Elder God's face as he finished reading the report. It wasn't what was in the report that made him lose his humor, but what was missing. Where was Rayden when his soulmate was attacked and in obvious distress? Past reports of his over protectiveness of the woman, dictated that the thundergod should have appeared at the first hint of danger to his beloved.
''Noob!'' Shinnok yelled and his highest ranked shadow warrior appeared before him. The shadowy specter kneeled before his master with gray eyes that glowed with more cold intellect than others of his kind. ``Find out where Rayden is and follow him, ``ordered Shinnok, ``Do not attack, only observe for now.''
As Shinnok gave his orders, what appeared to be a Shadow Priest walked past the wide doors of the throne room. The priest floated down the hallway in a fast but unhurried pace, with the hood of its robe preventing anyone from seeing who he was. As he turned the corner a sudden flare up of one of the touches caused by a bit of contamination in the oil revealed Rayden's worried lined face.
The End....
Next Time on MK: Echoes of the Past...
With a dragon's roar, the red medallion shattered...

---------------------------------

Chapter Thirteen: ...There is Fire
Mavado read over what the professor discovered about the medallion. Aside from a translation of the engraved script and confirmation that it was in fact the long lost heirloom, there wasn't much. The script itself was only a warning against awakening the power of the red dragon. There was nothing on how to use this so called power. The crime lord closed the folder angrily and pushed it away. He then pulled open on of the desks drawers to pull out the current source of his frustration. Holding the medallion of the Red Dragon in his hands, he considered letting the old man access to his family's historical archives as he admired the medallion's almost blood red sheen. Mavado almost smiled when he once again felt the slight tingle wherever the artifact touched his skin, proof that there was power.
A slight knock interrupted his thoughts. ``Enter, ``he ordered as he placed the artifact on the desk.
The door opens to reveal one of his long time subordinates. ``Sir, ``he said, ``We found Kabal. He is presently hiding in the warehouse district.''
''Excellent, ``Mavado smiled cruelly, ``Prepare my car. I'm going to take care of this little problem...personally.''
''Yes Sir! ``the man said and held the door open for his employer.
Once the door closed silently behind them, the medallion glowed slightly with a faint growl. A few minutes later, the door opened again and the same subordinate entered the room. As the door closed, his features began to melt and in seconds it was Shang Tsung that stood in the crime lord's office. Almost affectionately, he stroked the medallion as he said, ``Soon you will have the revenge you so desire.''
(Somewhere over the US)
A private jet flew through the night sky from Los Angeles to New York. One of the passengers held on with white knuckles as she watched the clouds pass beneath them. Johnny couldn't help but grin at the sight. The woman, who faced down angry gods and cybernetic assassins without flinching, was afraid of flying. Surprisingly, it was Sub-Zero who said, ``Nothing is going to happen, so calm down.''
At that moment the jet started to buck around widely as turbulence struck. When it stopped both Johnny and Sub-Zero were as pale as Althea was.
''You should see the look on your faces, ``said Fujin appearing across from Althea. The woman glared at the wind god with eyes flashing light-blue flame.
''Sorry, ``said Fujin with a half shrug. ``Anyways, what happened at the ranch house? Your backyard looks like a war zone.''
Johnny sighed and said, ``The same thing that always happens, only with a few more fireworks this time.''
''Sektor and Smoke, ``answered Sub-Zero, ``They attacked the other night so we fought back.''
''I figured it was a good idea to get Althea and Sub-Zero out of there before the local cops started asking questions, ``Johnny continued, ``So we're heading to New York to film some on location scenes for the movie with Sub-Zero being Althea's `bodyguard.'''
Both Sub-Zero and Althea gave Johnny an ugly look at that last comment which the actor ignored as he continued, ``By the way, where were you and Rayden when all of this was happening?''
(Quan Chi's Domain)
Quan Chi was in his lair, working on a new potion when he heard, ``Why do I allow your continued existence sorcerer?''
He calmly placed the bottle he was holding on the work table and then turned to face Shinnok. The sorcerer bowed deeply and replied, ``Is there something troubling...''
Quan Chi's reply was cut off by Shinnok's grip around his throat. With a growl filled voice, Shinnok said, ``DO NOT TOY WITH ME! I know you have met with Kahn in regards to the godslayer.''
''My Lord, ``Quan Chi was able to gasp past the iron grip of the fallen Elder God, ``Is he not your trusted and loyal son?''
Shinnok threw the sorcerer across the room with a roar. Quan Chi crashed into some shelves filled with bottles of potions and poisons. As he hit the ground the shattered containers released their foul brews. They dripped on to the sorcerer as he struggled to get up. The fallen Elder God slowly make his way to Quan Chi, his eyes growing more and more enraged by the second.
''Master, ``came a whispering voice as one of Shinnoks shadow warriors melted into place, kneeling before his lord, ``Rayden has been seen in Outworld, heading to one of the portals.''
''What?!'' said Shinnok, changing his focus from Quan Chi to the kneeling warrior, ``Find him! This time don't hesitate to kill the traitor.''
What Shinnok did not see, was Quan Chi's smirk of satisfaction. `Everything was going as planned, 'he thought.
(New York)
''Stop fidgeting, ``said Johnny sitting on the hotel room's couch, trying to watch TV, ``It's starting to drive me crazy.''
''Something doesn't feel right, ``said Althea as she paced in the dining area.
The moment they had landed early that morning, Sub-Zero said something about a personal matter and then vanished into a cab. Johnny and Althea were now waiting for a call from the studio, telling them when to show up for the filming. When the phone finally did ring, Althea jumped. Johnny picked up the phone and gave the woman a strange look.
As he spoke on the phone a brief news report about a museum break in and the still missing artifact appeared on the TV. When the image of the medallion appeared on the screen, Althea said, ''No freaking way.''
She grabbed the remote and slid into the couch, flipping through channels in the hopes of finding another report of the incident. Unfortunately, it seemed that a museum robbery was not considered news worthy enough.
(Red Dragon Hideout)
A bloody, tired and pleased Mavado sat down behind his desk and he tossed a pair of hook swords on it. Soon the Black Dragon will be nothing more than a fading memory. Almost unheard, a growl seemed to fill the room. The crime lord frowned as he looked around the room looking for the source of the sound. He stood and picked up the swords in case of an attack. The medallion started to shake and the growling grew louder.
( Hotel Room )
''What are you doing?'' asked Johnny as he hung up the phone.
''Trying to find some more info on that museum break in, ``said Althea as she flipped through a stack of newspapers, ``At least get a good, up close picture of the stolen artifact.''
''What are you talking about?''
(Hideout)
Cracks started to appear on the medallion as it shook, and red light started to break through the cracks. Mavado, seeing this quickly and calmly left the room his trench coat flying slightly behind him. With a dragon's roar, the medallion shattered and chaos took control of the office.
The crime lord barely made it outside and was thrown by the blast as the building exploded. He turned as he got up to see a pair of dark red, bat-like wings appear from the flames and rubble. The wind shifted, causing the flames and smoke to move to the side, revealing an almost T-Rex like head with horns and bright yellow eyes that held a reflection of Mavado surrounded by flames.
(Hotel Room)
Fujin suddenly appeared in the hotel room without his usual warning breeze. ``We have got to get you two out of here now!'' he said in an uncharacteristically serious voice.
''What?'' said Johnny with a frustrated look, ``First Althea's acting all weird and now you?''
Althea didn't say a word as she walked to the balcony windows as if drawn to them. In the distance she could see a tower of smoke rising and the something flew out of that smoke. Her eyes widen briefly and she ran into her room. Fujin noticed her actions and yelled in her direction, ``Don't even think of fighting that thing!''
Althea just ignored him as she returned carrying a long narrow case and placing it on the coffee table.
''That better not be what I think it is, ``said Johnny. When Althea opened the case, revealing her swords and harness, he sighed, ``How the hell did you get those past airport security?''
''What security?''she said off handedly and the pulled on the harness, verifying that the swords slid easily form their sheaths.
''You are not...''started Fujin but stopped when Althea summoned a ball of light-blue flame in her upturned, open palm and gave the wind god a cold, hard look.
(Street)
Kurtis Stryker couldn't believe what was happening. A dragon was flying through Times Square and in between skyscrapers as if it was looking for something. He and the other riot cops had their hands full trying to get the panicked mob to safety. The monster then flew right over their heads, forcing most of the crowd to fall to the ground.
Suddenly flew straight up and turned to hover, looking over the cowering crowd. ``A chosen, ``it growled loudly just before it dived directly to Stryker. The officer brought up his riot shield just as the creature's claws struck, knocking him hard to the ground. One of the claws pierced the shield and as the dragon flew off, it threatened to drag Stryker along with him until he was able to release his arm from it. The dragon flew up for another pass, tossing the shield aside.
''I'll try to lead it away!'' Stryker yelled, hoping that at least one of his fellow officers would hear him and then started running; tossing what heavy riot gear he could as he went. The dragon took the bait and followed with flames starting to flicker around its mouth as it readied to blast the one with the familiar stench of a certain thundergod about his soul.
Stryker zig-zagged through parked cars as the ground shook and the cars around him started to explode after being hit by balls of dragonfire. Then a car closer than the rest exploded, Stryker was knocked down. `This is it, `he thought as he turned to see a fireball coming in right at him.
The dragon roared in rage when the fireball was deflected as if hitting an invisible wall. Sensing danger, it dove to the side avoid a large blast of light-blue flame. The monster saw another chosen, helping his prey stand and a little ways from them was...HER! ``GODSLAYER!'' the red dragon roared shattering glass in nearby buildings, vehicles and neon signs.
Althea drew her swords as the dragon went into another dive. Eyes flashing, she readied herself for the attack. The dragon opened its mouth as it approached and Althea raised her shields expecting another blast of fire. She held her swords parallel to each other and the ground ready to strike as soon as the beast got close enough. Instead of flame, the dragon sent a blast a dark, choking smoke blinding everyone. When the smoke cleared, the dragon was no where in sight.
From an alley way, Mavado watched with interest as the woman sheathed her swords. Whoever she was, she would bear watching.
''Now, ``said Stryker, ``I have an idea who he is, but who the hell are you and you better have a permit for those things.''
''You must be Kurtis Stryker, ``said Johnny trying to calm things down, ``Sonya mentioned...''
A crash of thunder and in a blinding flash of light, an extremely angry Rayden appeared. The way the thunder god was glaring at Althea made Johnny say to Stryker as he backed away, ``You might want to step back some...this could get ugly.''
''WHAT THE HELL WERE YOU THINKING?!'' demanded the God of Thunder.
The End...
Next time on MK: Echoes of the Past....
''I hate you, ``said Stryker looking directly at Sonya.

---------------------------------------

Chapter Fourteen: Attack of the Brotherhood
``What do you mean by what was I thinking?!'' Althea yelled back, ``I was saving one of your chosen. Where the hell were you? And don't you dare give me any `mortal matter' crap. That dragon isn't exactly mortal!''
''Guys, ``Johnny said trying to interrupt, ``I don't think that this is a good place or time for this.''
''You promised you wouldn't take any more unnecessary risks, ``said Rayden ignoring the actor.
''That thing was about to toast...''
A shrill whistle broke through the argument. Everyone looked at the source, Kurtis Stryker. ``Look, I'm grateful you saved my butt, Miss, ``the officer said, ``But unless you want to end up on the evening news, I suggest leaving.''
''Oooh, crap, ``groaned Johnny seeing the first of the news vans weaving through the wrecked and smothering cars, ``Here they come and sounds like they brought a copter too.''
At that moment, a black unmarked helicopter dropped down right in front of them, blocking their view of the van. A side door slid open and there stood Sonya Blade in full military fatigues. She yelled, ``Get on! All of you!''
''Yes, ma'am!''said Johnny with a grin as he ran hunched over to the helicopter. Stryker followed but Althea just stood there glaring at the machine.
''Oh no!, ``she exclaimed, ``There is no way you are getting me on that thing. Hey! Put me down!''
The thundergod had picked Althea up and calmly carried the struggling woman to the helicopter. He tossed her in and said, ``I'll catch up later.'' With a flash of light he was gone. Sonya slammed the door closed before Althea had a chance to jump out and yelled to the pilot, ``Take us up!''
(Outworld)
''You let him escape!'' roared Shinnok and then forced himself to calm down to think. No doubt, like the good little godling he is Rayden will report what he knows to the Elder Gods. Shinnok glared back down at the two kneeling warriors and ordered, ``Notify your brethren to prepare. We strike within the hour. Also inform our spies that the chosen are all to be slain, especially the champion Liu Kang.''
(Neatherrealm)
Scorpion watched from the shadows as the woman slew on of the lesser oni with a gleaming kriss. Once the huntress tried to kill him, thinking he was no more than another denizen of this gods-forsaken place. He showed her the error in her assumption and they now shared a mutual respect between predators.
''What do you want, Scorpion?'' the woman spoke with a Victorian accent. She turned to look directly where he was standing, her all white and gold outfit glaring in the reddish dark light of the Neatherrealm. The specter stepped out into the open and said, ``What is Shinnok planning?''
''Have you forgotten? I am no longer in his service or informed of his schemes, ``she responded.
''Don't give me that, Ashra, ``Scorpion hissed, ``There must be more than just revenge for Shinnok to risk so much.''
A small half smile appeared on Ashra's face as she said, ``It is not Shinnok's plans you should be concerned about.''
(Helicopter)
''So the dragon just flew off?'' asked Sonya after hearing the story from Stryker and Johnny, ``Was it scared off by Althea?''
''I don't think so, ``said the riot cop, ``Don't ask me how or why, but to me it seemed like it was getting orders from someone. Just before it sent that smoke, it looked like as if something suddenly yelled in its ear or something.''
''How could you tell?'' asked Johnny sarcastically, ``It's a dragon.''
Sonya smiled but it quickly vanished as if was never there. ``We'll call Stryker's superiors and give them some story about national security, ``said the woman.
''I don't like it, ``said Kurtis Stryker, ``Lying...''
''We're not lying. That thing and anyone who can control it is a threat, ``interrupted Sonya, ``Also, since you're already familiar with the situation we're going to ask that you are assigned to work with us as long as the dragon is in the New York area.''
''I hate you, ``said Stryker looking directly at Sonya.
Althea ignored the discussion, concentrating on keeping in check her fear and anger. `Damn you, Rayden, `she thought as she gripped the seat even tighter, `You are so going to pay for this.' A sudden flash a pain across her back broke through her thoughts and caused her to cry out.

None of the other's noticed due to helicopter's noise and concentrating on hearing each other speak. Just as the pain started to fade it was replaced by another on her upper arm. This time, her quickly gripping that arm with her hand brought her dilemma to the other's attention.
''You alright?'' asked Johnny.
(Temple of the Elder Gods)
The Sworn Protector of Earthrealm arrived at the temple ruins and quietly walked in. Althea's fear of flying and her anger towards him was leaking through their shields, as if their bond was getting stronger for some reason. Rayden filed it away for later; he had more immediate things to deal with. Shinnok's return has been confirmed and the Red Dragon of Flame was freed with its true form. This had to be reported and then acted upon.
The thundergod knelt down within the temple ruins, preparing to request an audience. The sound of a sword cutting through air in the otherwise completely silent room was his only warning. He tried to roll out to the way; the sword was able to cut painfully across his back. Rayden rolled into a stance, facing his attacker. He could feel his back already healing as he was forced to dodge another swipe of a katana being held by a black clad warrior with glowing gray eyes.

Rayden was about to send a bolt a lighting at the intruder, when another sword came out of nowhere and would have taken his arm if was just a little slower. Instead it was only able to slice across his upper arm. The thundergod have had enough. Since they weren't fighting fair, neither would he. Rayden vanished and reappeared, with his hammer, behind the second attacker. He swung the hammer, knocking the warrior across the room and crashing into a wall to vanish in a puff of dark sand.
Rayden didn't bother to watch this as he faced the first of his attackers. However instead of continuing the fight, this warrior bowed deeply and walked away as Shinnok's voice echoed, ``I see you haven't lost your touch, son.''
Rayden turned to find the fallen Elder God, standing in front of the ruined alter that was once his. Electric sparks started running up and down Rayden's form as his eyes went completely white with his power. ``I am not your son, ``Rayden said in a calm voice.
(Helicopter)
Sonya and Johnny sat on either side of Althea and watched her with concern. The battlemage was now shaking almost violently, her eyes closed tightly. At first, they assumed it was her apparent fear of flying that was causing this reaction, but when sparks of light-blue flame began to flicker around her, they backed away.
''It's Rayden, isn't it?'' asked Johnny remembering the first night he met the woman.
Althea opened her flame filled eyes and looked directly at the actor. ``He is seriously pissed, ``she said in an angry voice.
The light-blue flamelets around Althea started to increase in size and number. ``Get me on the ground, ``she hissed, ``I need to put up a stronger shield but I can't do that while we're moving.''
''You heard her, ``yelled Sonya to the pilot. The pilot looked back briefly and then vanished in a puff of black sand. Sonya quickly unlocked her safety harness and then hurried to the controls, sliding into the pilot's seat. She tried to take control of the copter but the controls were not responding. The helicopter started going down. ``Shit! ``hissed Sonya.
(New York)
At that time, Sub-Zero made his way through Chinatown, looking for something he knew wouldn't be there. The Lin Kuei once had a post around here but it was abandoned a year ago for a new one in upper Manhattan. But it was the one that he brother had most often stayed at since with his American looks and perfect English, he was perfect for almost any job in the U.S. Sub-Zero walked up to the old closed up storefront that hid the Lin Kuei from public eye since the early part of the century. The Lin Kuei emblem could still be seen burned into the decorations of the sign. Sub-Zero frowned seeing that the boards that once crossed the doorway were no longer there. Carefully he walked over and tried the door, which opened easily with a slight creak.
Sub-Zero walked into the building, the front room was filled with dust but otherwise empty. He made his way to the back wall and pressed one of the painted over bricks, in which the Lin Kuei symbol could be barely seen in the paint swirls. With a light click, cracks appeared in the wall. Sub-Zero pushed the wall and it opened to reveal stairs going down. The frown on his face deepened when he saw the stairwell lights were on. With frost starting to build up on his hands and lower arms, he went down the stairs.

In a large room that appeared to be a cross between a large meeting hall and an arena, Sub-Zero found a lone black-clad man, kneeling before an old Lin Kuei altar as if in respect. ``Who are you and what are you doing here?'' Sub-Zero demanded.
The stranger bowed before the altar in respect, stood and turned to look directly at Sub-Zero with his glowing gray eyes. The shadow warrior then bowed to Sub-Zero and then went into a familiar Lin Kuei fighting stance.
(Pentagon)
Jax tried not to sigh as the desk jockey looked over the papers he gave him one more time and then said he would have to call his superiors. He couldn't believe how much trouble it was just to get a damn office. True the office was at the Pentagon, but still all the paperwork was in order and all they had to do was give him the damn key and badge. Jax looked around as he waited, noting the four MP's; one next to the desk and one for each of the three doors leading in/out of the room. Jax snorted, wondering if they had MP's guarding the Men's room.
''My apologies, Sgt. Briggs, ``the desk jockey said as he hung up the phone and started going through his desk, ``Unfortunately, we were not told ahead of time but...''
Jax was not listening to the man as the MPs' eyes all started to glow gray and their uniforms started to melt in to something darker. He was definitely starting to get that sinking feeling at the pit of his stomach.
(China)
At the Temple of Light, most of the monks were sleeping peacefully. All but one, this lone monk after spending what seemed to him hours of tossing and turning decided to give up and head to courtyard to meditate in the cool night air in the hopes it would relax him enough to sleep. Taking deep breaths, he mediated in the darkness with the stars and moon being the only sources of light. For a moment his plan seemed to be working but then sensing something he quickly jumped up to find himself surrounded by three black-clad men with glowing gray eyes.
''Kung Lao!'' yelled one of the temple guards seeing the trouble from his post.
(Arizona)
''Sure thing, Professor, ``said one of students as he ran out the door.
The professor of history laughed at the rush the student was in. Was he ever in that much of a hurry when he was their age? Closing up his briefcase, and making sure his long black hair was neatly tied back he got up to leave the classroom. He then stopped walking and looked as if he heard something. He laid his briefcase back down on the desk and then a green glowing tomahawk like shape appeared in his hand. The history professor quickly turned and threw the tomahawk striking the black clad warrior as he appeared. The black sand didn't even settle when two more of the warriors appeared.
(Ranch House)
Liu sighed as he looked over the damage. Burnt trees, craters and even bits of metal were scattered around. The monk sighed again, considering the job that was ahead of him. He turned to head for the tool shed when he saw something flying right at him. Liu Kang dived to the ground, barely avoiding it. He stood up as he watched it turn and head back from where it came.
''What are you doing?'' ask Liu.
Tanya smiled as she caught boomerang as said, ``What does it look like...I'm here to kill you.'' Three shadow warriors melted into existence, surrounding Liu Kang.
The End....
Next Time on MK: Echoes of the Past:
The fallen Elder God smirked and said, ``You'll always be Raijin to your dear old dad.''

-------------------------

Chapter Fifteen: Death of a God
''Nothing personal, ``said Tanya as the warrior to Liu's left struck first with a punch. The monk blocked the punch and countered with a punch of his own. The warrior to his right sent a high kick to Liu's head. Liu Kang dodged by ducking and sending a sweep kick to knock the warriors over. The third warrior behind him moved to attack but Liu using the momentum of his sweeping kick rolled on the ground and swung his leg up high catching the shadow warrior in the chest. Liu finished the move by rolling into a fighting stance. As Liu and the shadow warriors fought, Tanya stepped back and looked around as if expecting something or someone.
(Temple of the Elder Gods)
Rayden faced the former Elder God, prepared for almost anything; anything but the sudden surge of panic that came through his soulbond link.
''Step aside, Thundergod, ``ordered Shinnok, ``Or better yet leave. You may still have a chance to save that mortal slut of yours.''
Rayden gripped his hammer tightly, fighting the deep urge to leave the temple to Shinnok's mercy and save Althea. He knew where his duty laid, but his love... Then the panic stopped to be replaced by surprise, mild shock and...humor? Whatever happened, it felt like she was no longer in danger.
''I will not step aside, ``said Rayden with a cold smile, ``As for Althea, she is more than able to defend herself. Hell, she could kick your sorry butt easily but I want to save that little bit of fun for myself.''
''Really, Raijin, ``said Shinnok as he summoned his polearm, ``Do you really want to fight with me when your oh so powerful Elder Gods fear to do so themselves.''
Rayden smirked and replied, ``They're not afraid, they just have more important things to deal with than you. By the way... my name is RAYDEN!'' With that the God of Thunder sent a large bolt of lighting directly at Shinnok. Shinnok didn't even bother to dodge it and just blocked it by swirling his polearm in front of him.
The fallen Elder God smirked and said, ``You'll always be Raijin to your dear old dad.'' Shinnok then summoned what looked to be a pool of darkness at Rayden's feet. The darkness melted upward to entrap the thundergod, he teleported just before it closed around him and appeared behind Shinnok with his hammer already in full swing. Expecting this, Shinnok turned, blocked the hammer with his polearm and then countered, the polearm's blade slicing deep into Rayden's side. Rayden nearly dropped his hammer as one of his hands went to the injury, blood flowed freely with no signs of stopping.
''Oh didn't you know?'' said Shinnok with false concern, ``My weapon is the real thing not a water down alloy that my warriors are now forced to wield.''
(Helicopter)
Sonya tried everything she thought she knew about helicopters but nothing seemed to work. ``Goddamnit!'' she exclaimed as she slammed her fist onto the control panel.
Johnny quietly slid into the co-pilot's seat next to her and started flicking a few switches and then reached over to switch flight control from the pilot's to co-pilot's station. He pulled back on the yoke and the helicopter leveled off. Everyone just stared at Johnny for a few seconds. ``Hey, ``he said with a shrug, ``It happened in one of my movies. The bad guys sabotaged the pilot's controls but overlook the co-pilot's. Figure it was worth a shot.''
Sonya then reached over, grabbed both sides of Johnny's face and gave him a hard, fast kiss on the lips. ``Whoa, ``said Johnny as the helicopter flew sideways for a few seconds.
Althea gasped in pain as she grabbed her side bringing everyone's attention back to her problem.
(Hidden Room)
Sub-Zero sent a blast of cold to his opponent who easily dodged and sent his own blast of darkness to the Lin Kuei warrior. Sub-Zero ducked, rolled and jumped with a spinning high kick aimed right at the shadow warrior's head. The warrior blocked it with one arm and punched Sub-Zero in the chest with the palm of his other hand. Sub-Zero fell back, hit the ground but rolled back up into a fighting stance in time to catch the shadow warrior's low kick. The leg froze over and Sub-Zero slammed into it with his elbow shattering it. The shadow warrior went down grasping what remained of the leg, but in seconds a new leg melted into place and the warrior jumped back up.
Sub-Zero watched this with a frown and sent a larger blast of cold at the warrior hoping to freeze him entirely. The shadow warrior vanished and then appeared behind Sub-Zero. The warrior then knocked Sub-Zero over with a low sweeping kick. Before the Lin Kuei had a chance to refocus his kori the warrior stomped down hard into Sub-Zero's midsection knocking the wind from him.
The shadow warrior walked back to the altar to pick up a sword that was lying there as Sub-Zero fought to breath. The warrior unsheathed the sword, tossing the sheath to the side as he walked back to the prone Sub-Zero. Standing above the fallen Lin Kuei the warrior drew back its sword and prepared to plunge it into Sub-Zero's chest but hesitated. The shadow warrior shook his head, pulled back even farther and drove the sword forward until it stopped less than fingertip away from Sub-Zero. The warrior started shaking his head as if mentally fighting something and stepped back, dropping the sword with a clank. Recovering, Sub-Zero sat up and looked at the shadow warrior with a confused look. The dark-clad warrior looked at Sub-Zero for a second, blinked its glowing gray eyes and then vanished in a puff of dark sand.
(Temple of Light)
Kung Lao ducked as a leg swept over him and blocked the lower kick with crossed arms. Then a sharp kick to the kidney area knocked him down, but he rolled with it back into a stance just in time to block another kick. One of his three attackers was about to send a blast of darkness but was tackled by one of the monks who were now racing out of the temple. The shadow warriors then all vanished in a puff of black sand.
In Chinese, one of the monks asked, ``What were those things?''
Kung Lao answered, ``I don't know but I have a good idea who might.''
(Arizona)
'I'm getting too old for this,` thought Nightwolf as he sent a mystic arrow into one of the shadow warriors who vanished in a puff of black sand. Nightwolf was then knocked forward and onto the floor when the other shadow warrior jumped kicked him from behind. The historian rolled out of the way to avoid being stomped on. Nightwolf stood up to face the warrior who had drawn a long bowie like knife. The shaman once again summoned his mystic tomahawk to block the knife and then counter with a punch to the shadow warrior's face. The shadow warrior caught Nightwolf's fist before it landed, at the same time he lifted his knife and then drove it in and out of the shaman's arm. The tomahawk vanished as Nightwolf drew back to clutch his injury. The shadow warrior followed to swipe and slash at Nightwolf who could only dodge the attacks. As he was backing away, Nightwolf tripped over his chair behind the desk and fell backwards.
A sudden crash and the sound of falling glass filled the room. A dark gray blur flew over Nightwolf and onto the shadow warrior with a growl. The shadow warrior fell back with the full weight and fury of the grey wolf on him trying for his throat. When he hit the ground, the shadow warrior vanished. The wolf stood up growling with its hackles ups and looked around. Nightwolf got up and walked towards the wolf, kneeling down beside it he said, ``Thanks Kiva.''
Kiva calmed down to sniff Nighwolf's injured arm and then whimpered in sympathy.
(Elsewhere)

In a parking lot of an abandon factory stood the black unmarked helicopter. Althea sat on the ground, concentrating on getting her mental shields up tighter. Sonya was in the helicopter talking on the radio with Jax.
''You should have seen it girl, ``said a slightly garbled Jax, ``The second those shadow guys showed their true colors a squad showed up and...''
''I get the picture, Jax, ``said Sonya tiredly, ``Just try to contact Liu and see about getting someone here to pick up this thing.''
Sitting in the open doorframe of the copter, sat Johnny and Kurtis discussing what recently happened. ``So you learned how to fly for that movie, ``said Kurtis, ``Ok I get that easy enough, but ...''
Althea suddenly stood and said, ``We got company.''
A purple and yellow portal then opened and a woman with long curly red hair stepped out. She wore a wide strip of leather as a top, tied together with what look like curved claws and a short leather skirt. There was something about her that just made Althea sick at the stomach, not her looks but something the battlemage could sense. Sonya jumped out of the copter and pulled out her gun as the guys got ready for a fight as well.
''Don't bother, ``said the woman, ``Much as I hate to admit it I'm not here to kill you, just to pass on a message.''
''Get to the point, ``said Sonya.
The woman smirked and said, ``It seems that someone is attacking the Temple of the Elder Gods and your precious Lord Rayden is right in his path.''
Althea's heart hit the ground as she heard these words. She knew that Rayden was in a fight of some sort; she could still faintly feel pain in her side where he was hit.
The woman turned back to the portal when Stryker asked, ``Why are you telling us this?''
''It's not my idea, ``growled the woman, ``If it was up to me I say let the thundergod suffer a painful death, of course I would love to give the same to all of you.'' The woman then stepped into the portal which closed behind her with a hiss-pop sound.
''You're not considering going, ``came Sub-Zero's voice.
Everyone turned to see a slightly limping Sub-Zero walking towards them from the other side of the helicopter. ``Let me guess, ``said Johnny, ''You met some dudes in black ninja wanna-be outfits who just insisted on kicking your butt.''
Sub-Zero remained silent and sat in the open door frame. He then said, ``If you do go it's most likely a trap.''
''Hello, ``said Sonya, ``If anything is tough enough to consider going up against the Elder Gods is there, I don't think they need a trap.''
''Besides, ``added Stryker, ``It's not like any of us even knows how to get there.''
Althea had turned away as Sub-Zero sat down when she saw a flash in the corner of eye. There near a broken wire gate stood a masked warrior in black and yellow. She frowned and remembered back when someone dressed similarly, once tried to kill her. Hearing Stryker's comment about getting to the temple, Althea thought, `Damn it! Where was that bastard windgod when you needed him.'
Althea thought for a second, considering her options as she crossed her arms. Nodding slightly to herself, she headed towards the strange warrior.
(Ranch House)
The last of the three shadow warriors fell and vanished in a puff of sand. Liu Kang then faced Tanya one more time, breathing slightly. ``Why Tanya?'' Liu asked, ``We trusted you. Opened our home to you.''
''Get a clue, Liu Kang, ``Tanya said as she then sent a high kick to Liu's face which Liu easily grabbed and then threw her to the ground. ``Seems you still have some fight in you, ``she said, ``We'll just have to do something about that.'' With that three more shadow warriors appeared blocking Liu's view of the woman. As they walked his way, this time each drawing a short sword, Liu backed up and went on the defensive.
''That's not very fair, ``came Fujin's voice just before three small tornadoes appeared picking up the three warriors and tossing them into the burnt trees. Each of them vanished upon impact. Fujin then appeared next to Liu Kang with arms crossed and said, ``Give it up Tanya, you can't win.''
Tanya shrugged carelessly and then grinned, ``We've been expecting you Lord Fujin.''
Sensing it as it flew directly towards them; Liu reached out and caught the crossbow bolt before it hit Fujin in the heart. Fujin frowned and suddenly a wall of tornado force winds surrounded them and sheared, tossed, or smashed everything in its reach but left Tanya, Liu and Fujin untouched. In seconds the wind died down and silence ruled. Tanya fumed and then tossed something to the ground that flashed brightly blinding Liu and Fujin. When their eyes cleared, Tanya was gone.
Fujin breathed out angrily and then suddenly had a worried look on his face. ``We got to go,`` he said as he grabbed onto Liu's shoulder and they both disappeared.
(Temple of the Elder Gods)
Rayden barely stood holding himself up with his hammer as he gripped his bleeding side. ``Any last words...son,'' growled Shinnok as he raised his polearm. A roar shook the ruined temple, nearly knocking the weakened Rayden to the ground. Shinnok turned and looked up to see a blast of dragonfire heading directly at him. The former Elder God dived out of the way but Rayden was unable to do the same. Liu Kang came out of nowhere and tackled Rayden, pushing him out of the way of the fireball.
The Red Dragon of Flame flew in through the open ceiling and landed with a thump, glaring with its yellow eyes at its former master.
''You dare attack ME!'' said Shinnok with outrage.
''You betrayed me!'' hissed the dragon, ``I served you faithfully, slew all that you asked even my own creator and you left me to rot in my prison.''
''Unless you forgotten, I freed you once from that prison but you failed me shortly afterwards...I DO NOT TOLERATE FAILURE!'' roared Shinnok as he sent his polearm flying into the dragon's throat. The dragon tried to roar but only blood and silence came out of its mouth as it thrashed in pain.
While this was going on, Liu helped Rayden to his knees and asked, ``You okay?''
''Will be, ``said Rayden with a hiss of pain, ``How...''
A tornado suddenly appeared lifting and tossing Shinnok into a crumbling wall. Shinnok picked himself up from the rubble and then casually dusted himself off as he said, ``I see that Enlil's brat has decided to join us.''
Fujin appeared and said, ``I suggest you leave Shinnok. You can not take on the Elder Gods.''
''Oh, ``said Shinnok raising his arm. The polearm that was on the ground next to the red dragon medallion flew into Shinnok's waiting hand. With a small twirl, Shinnok went into an aggressive stance, ``Who is going to stop me.''
Fujin sent blades of wind at the fallen Elder God who summoned a wall of darkness to block them. As they struck his shield, Shinnok vanished and then appeared behind Fujin striking with his weapon. Fujin as if expecting this dodged.
As Shinnok and Fujin fought Liu pulled the crossbow bolt he had caught earlier out from his belt. Rayden saw this and raised an eyebrow. He could only hope that was what he thought it was. Liu studied the bolt for a second and tossed it slightly in his hand as if weighting it. The monk then stood up, took aim and threw it with all his strength at Shinnok. Shinnok turned and blocked the bolt with the blade of his polearm. The clank echoed. Fujin tried to punch Shinnok while he was distracted, but Shinnok caught Fujin's fist and then twisted the windgod's arm. Shinnok then tossed up and caught his polearm in a way that he could stab the god of wind. ``No!'' yelled Liu as he ran grabbing Shinnok's arm. The monk's actions loosened Shinnok's hold on Fujin just enough for the windgod to break free in time to avoid a fatal injury but the polearm did shallowly slice open his chest from the heart area to the shoulder.
''Vermin, ``hissed Shinnok as he threw Liu towards Rayden, ``Always getting into things they shouldn't.'' He then kicked the now bleeding Fujin towards the others. ``Enough of this, ``said Shinnok as a pool of darkness appeared under the two injured gods and Liu Kang. The pool started to melt upwards enclosing the trio in a black orb. Shinnok held his polearm with one hand and its butt planted firmly on the ground. His other hand, he held out palm upwards and started to close it slowly. As he did, the orb started to shrink as if to crush his prisoners. Then the shrinking stopped. Shinnok growled and clenched his fist again but to no avail. The slight hiss of fire filled the silent room warning the dark deity, he turned and summoned a wall of darkness but the light blue flames flew right through it as if it wasn't even there. He blocked it just in time with his weapon to avoid getting hit. As his concentration shifted to this new attack, the orb melted away revealing a barely visible hexagonal sphere around the still breathing Liu, Fujin, and Rayden.
''More vermin,`` mumbled Shinnok.
''Vermin? Maybe, ``said Althea, ``But I'm the deadly kind.'' She sent two smaller balls of light-blue flame, one from each hand, at Shinnok. Shinnok prepared to block them but the chi flames went into two separate curving directions and then headed towards him in a pincer move. He dived out of the way but then the fireballs followed him and nearly landed home if he had not rolled out of the way. Instead they smashed harmlessly into the ground. From the ground Shinnok sent a blast of darkness at the godslayer and then rolled into a stance grabbing his fallen polearm as he did.
As the godslayer and fallen Elder God fought, Fujin noticed that Althea didn't have her swords with her. He knew she left the apartment with them earlier, where were they now?
''Stupid bitch!'' roared Shinnok as he sent another, larger blast of darkness at Althea and then vanished. She dodged the blast and prepared for Shinnok to reappear attacking, but was tripped by Shinnok sweeping the ground with his polearm as he appeared. He then raised his weapon and prepared to run her through.
Then a sword blade appeared from Shinnok's midsection. The blade twisted and then retreated. Shinnok dropped his weapon as turned in shock to see Scorpion holding a bloody sword in his hands and a second sword strapped to his back. ``Who?'' Shinnok gasped before falling to the ground.
''Someone hired to kill you, ``said Scorpion who then bowed slightly to Althea before vanishing in a ball of fire.
Althea rushed to her friends and raised a force shield up around the group preparing for what she know was about the happen. As Shinnok breathed his last breath all the energy and power that was his was released in explosion of dark energy that razed what was left of the temple ruins to the ground in first wave of destruction. Althea's shield barely held but then a second and a third wave hit. Each one stronger than the last and each weaken her shields. Althea went to her knees from the strain.
Rayden and the other's watched her fight for their lives against what could only be the essence of an Elder God. Before their eyes, her hair turned white as she channeled more and more energy into her shields. Finally after what seemed an eternity the final wave passed over and then there was calm outside of slightly shimmering hexagonal dome. Althea released her shields with a sigh and then fell to the ground unconscious.
The End...
Next Time on MK: Echoes of the Past:
Shang Tsung said ``Are you certain we can use...''
''Of course, ``said Quan Chi, ``But it will take time to access its power.''

Author : Preferred Customer

Creation date: 2007-4-23-12

Modification date: 2007-4-23-55