Chapter 20: Frosty Meetings
Kung Lao looked around his room one last time to ensure that he wasn't going to forget anything. The odds of him returning to the temple anytime soon were not good thanks to the Chinese government. Sighing he closed the last bag and wondered how life in the United States would be like. From what Liu described it was both exciting and strange...almost like visiting another world. Last time he traveled to another world or realm he nearly got himself killed.

Kung Lao looked out the window to see himself walking up to Liu Kang. ``NO!'' Kung Lao yelled as he watched the figure morph into Shang Tsung. Lao ran out the door to help his cousin, but arrived only to watch the sorcerer snap the monk's neck.

``LIU!'' the younger monk screamed and then bolted up from bed in a sweat. In the darkness of the room, Lao got out of bed and headed towards a small bowl of water on a small table. Washing away the cold sweat, he waited for the pounding of his heart to subside. ``Please...please let it be only bad dream, ``Kung Lao silently prayed.
( Ranch House )
''Thank God, ``mumbled Sonya as she reached the gates to the ranch house. The trip to and from the airport was hell on Earth thanks to that damn LA traffic. She wasn't sure if she was happy with how Liu insisted she leave her gun behind, but if she did have it with her there would have been a few less idiots on the road.
She slammed on the brakes of her hummer when she saw her parents suburban parked next to Johnny's SUV. For a few seconds, Sonya considered going back out. She rather deal the traffic than her parents any day of the week. `Coward, `she thought to herself as she parked the hummer and got out.

Sonya opened the door to be greeted by a heavenly aroma coming from the kitchen. Investigating it, she found Althea checking something in the oven as pots on every burner steamed and boiled. Closing the oven, Althea turned and said with humorous smile, ``There you are. You better go rescue Johnny before you father decides to pull out the torture devices.''
Sonya asked tiredly, ``Where are they and why are they here?''
Althea checked each of the pots as she answered, ``Johnny was giving your parents the tour, my guess they should be in the gym by now. As for why they are here, I believe they said something about needing to see you about some tabloid pictures...whatever a tabloid is.''
(Scene Change )

``And this is the gym where most of us train and spar, ``said Johnny walking through the gym, ``As you can see it's still a work in progress since much of the new equipment has yet to arrive and the floor needs to be redone.''
''By us, ``said Sonya's father, ``does that include you?''
''Actually, since I was so busy with filming I didn't get a chance to use it as much as I should, ``answered Johnny honestly, ``However, since filming is done I hope to start using it on a regular basis.''
''Surely, it would be easier for you to use a gym closer to your home, ``said the older man, ``That is unless you happen to live here as well...''
''Herman!'' whispered Erica.
''Dad...Mom!'' Sonya voice rang out from the doorway.
Erica ran over to hug her daughter as Major Herman Blade turned with a glare at Johnny and asked, ``Just where do you live?''
Johnny nervously gulped as the Major waited for an answer.
''Well, ``said Johnny, ``I do have an apartment in town, but I also have a room here as well.''
Herman Blade's eyes narrowed as he growled, ``Just what is your relationship in regards to my daughter?''
Johnny opened his mouth to answer but Sonya beat him to it, ``Dad leave him alone. If you want that question answered you can ask me.''
Major Blade turned to see his own daughter glaring at him with her arms crossed. ``Sonya, please,'' Herman Blade started to say.
''Don't start Dad, ``said Sonya, ``You do this every time you think some guy is interested in me. I'm a big girl and can take care of myself.''
Johnny Cage was definitely starting to get uncomfortable as the two Blades glared at each other, neither willing to back down. Well, at least he knew where Sonya got her temper from.
(Scene Change)
Back in the kitchen, Althea picked up a stack of plates she was going to place on the dining room table when a strong breeze filled the room. Next thing she knew, Fujin was picking up one of the lids and saying, ``Something smells good.''
''If you want you can join us for dinner, ``said Althea as she headed to the door, ``I have a feeling it's going to be interesting.''
Fujin took it upon himself and grabbed the pile of silverware as he followed her out to the dining room. ``Ah yes, ``said Fujin with a smile, ``I heard that Sonya's parents are visiting. Let me guess they don't approve of Johnny.''
Althea shrugged as she started to set up the table, ``Not sure, but then again I'm the last person to understand how `normal' families work or act.''
Fujin sat down as Althea took the silverware and started placing them next to the plates. ``I'm not sure if you can call Sonya's family normal, ``mused the windgod, ``Unless I'm mistaken, her father is professional military as was her brother.''
''Brother?'' asked Althea fully understanding what the past tense in regards to Sonya's brother meant.

``We'll leave that to Sonya to explain if she wants, ``replied Fujin and he then changed the subject, ``Anyways, I'm not here to discuss the lovely lieutenant...''
''Colonel now, ``interrupted Althea with a smile, ``With the new command came a big promotion.''
''Anyways, ``Fujin continued, ``I'm not here to talk about Sonya but you.''
''What did I do this time, ``moaned Althea, ``If its about the swords tell Kronos I'm working on it, but it will take time since I can't create my own portals yet.''
Fujin's eyes flashed briefly as he asked, ``Did the Elder God of Time give you a mission?''
''So it's not about the swords...''said Althea with a nervous smile realizing her mistake.
''Let me guess you haven't told Rayden either, ``said Fujin figuring out what she was talking about. Seeing the look on her face he continued, ``You have to tell him. If he finds out...''
''How the hell am I suppose to tell him that I've been ordered by the same Elder God that nearly got me killed but instead pushed five hundred years into the future, that I have to go to the Neatherrealm to get back a pair of swords I traded so I could help save his life...''said Althea.
''Just tell him, ``said Fujin calmly, ``Maybe he'll help...no scratch that. And what was that about not being able to create portals...yet?''
''Why are you here?'' said Althea.
''There seems to be a problem with you being declared one of Earth's chosen, ``answered Fujin knowing she was changing the subject, ``Apparently your status on Calorna hasn't been...''
The door swung open and Erica Blade walked in asking, ``Is there anything I can do to help with...oh my.'' Seeing the wind god talking with Althea, Erica knew she was interrupting something but wasn't sure what. Not to mention the strangely dressed man looked familiar but that was impossible, it's been close to forty years...

With a shocked look of recognition when he saw Erica Blade, Fujin said to Althea, ``We'll discuss this tomorrow and be sure to tell Rayden.'' The wind god walked out of the room and quietly closed the kitchen door behind him.
''Who was that?'' ask Erica.
''The brother of someone I'm seeing, ``said Althea trying to be honest without revealing too much, not sure how much Sonya had told her parents.
(Northern China )
Sub-Zero wiped the sweat from his forehead as he rested leaned onto the shovel. The burial of his former clan in the rock hard frozen soil of the mountain was finally finished and now questions began to plague his mind. Where to go now and what to do? As he buried the remains he noticed that Sektor was not among the slain. Did Sektor betray the clan as Smoke did or was he just away on assignment when it happened? Smoke seemed to have a new master, one that apparently had no desire to see Sub-Zero harmed but why? What of the Lin Kuei itself? After centuries it was literally no more and no one but the killers and Sub-Zero knew this but for how long?
A sound of crunching ice and snow broke Sub-Zero of his thoughts. He quietly put down the shovel and looked around. Another footstep in the icy snow and then a small avalanche rolled down a small hill followed by someone wearing a Lin Kuei student uniform falling head over heals. The student landed face down in the snow right at Sub-Zero's feet. The stranger's mask remained in the snow as he...no she looked up to reveal a very oriental face but with ice blue fear-filled eyes.
Sub-Zero didn't know if he was more surprised by the young woman's arrival or the fact that there was a female in the Lin Kuei uniform. The woman crawled backwards away from Sub-Zero hastily and stood in a flight or flight stance.
''Who are you?'' asked Sub-Zero in Chinese assuming that this was her native language.

``None of you business, ``the woman nervously replied in English just before sending a flow of ice through the ground to Sub-Zero. The older warrior easily dodged the amateur attack and grabbed the woman's arm, twisting it around her back.
''Look, ``he hissed in English into her ear, ``I won't hurt you, I just want to know who you are and if there are other survivors.''
The woman or more aptly the girl struggled for a few minutes before giving in to the obvious that she was no match for the veteran fighter. ``The name given to me by the Headmaster is Frost, ``she finally answered as she dropped her head in defeat.
(Shang's Manor )
Shang picked up one of the swords with an emotionless look on his face. ``Yes, ``he said, ``These will do nicely.''
A bandaged Quan Chi sitting at the other end of the table took a sip of from a goblet and said, ``And there is two of them, most convenient.''
''Have you figured out the medallion?'' asked Shang as he re-sheathed the sword.
''I've figured out enough to be most useful, ``said Quan Chi, ``There is more there, I know but it will have to wait. A recent discovery I made on my way here makes it possible to make our move now with little risk.''
''What discovery?'' growled Shang
''Tell me, have you ever heard of the Dragon King,'' answered Quan Chi with a evil smile.
''Only that he ruled Outworld before Shao Kahn took it from him, ``answered Shang.
''Took it by stealth, ``added Quan Chi, ``The Dragon King or his army has never been truly defeated in combat. I found his army and with this...'' Quan Chi held up Shinnok's medallion with an evil smirk, ``the Dragon King's army will be ours to command.''
The End...

Next Time on MK: Echoes of the Past....
''What is going on?'' demanded Herman Blade as he followed his daughter. Sonya didn't respond until they reached the gym and then she said as she slid a martial arts poster to the side to reveal a digital pad, ``Let's just say there is more to this place than a martial arts school.''

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

Chapter 21: Red Menace
Althea dragged out an old chest from her closet and opened it while trying not to sneeze. Not long ago, the Temple of Light sent her old things that they for some reason kept for over five hundred years. Opening it revealed her old leather armor from her days as a Calornian battlemage.
When Johnny told her that there was to be a promotional demonstration for both the movie and school tomorrow, she nearly decked him. If it wasn't for the fact that she would have been expected to be in the spotlight alone if he didn't show up, she would have. The old leather armor was the only thing she could really fight in that with some polish looked good enough for such an event. Then again, with the advent of Sonya's parents showing up it most likely slipped his mind. Althea smiled as she thought how Sonya's father Ret. Major Herman Blade was still keeping his eye on the actor's actions in regards to his daughter and that same daughter about ready to toss her own father out the door because of it. Dinner last night was more fun than watching old Taja and Siro go at it. Althea's smile faded remembering she would never see her friends ever again.
Just as she got all of her armor unpacked there was a brief flash of light and then sitting at her small desk, Rayden said, ``You okay?''
Althea turned and sat on the edge of the bed with a sad smile as she answered, ``Just remembering. Where have you been?''
Rayden got up and walked over to sit next to her. Pulling her so she could lean onto him he said, ``Around.''
Althea looked up at him and said, ``Around where?''
Instead of answering, Rayden gave the woman in his arm a light kiss on the head and said, ``I assume you're no longer upset about Kuravan coming to Earthrealm.''
''No, I'm still upset but not with you, ``she answered honestly, ``It's not like you're the one who invited him.''
With his free hand, Rayden tilted her head upwards with a finger under her chin and then reached down to kiss her fully on the lips. Althea responded warmly but groaned in disappointment when she heard the knock at her door.
Rayden nearly growled as he backed away and said, ``That's it...''
Althea pulled away before he had a chance to teleport them both out and said, ``No you don't. As much as I hate to, I have that demonstration to prepare for but afterwards...'' She kissed him lightly on the lips as she stood up and headed towards the door.
''I'll keep that in mind, ``said Rayden with a half-smile, ``but I've noticed you haven't gotten a bigger bed yet.''
Althea opened the door to see an obviously upset, Erica Blade. Red teary eyes and stress filled face, gave a story of a woman who was nearing her wits end.
''Mrs. Blade what's wrong?'' asked Althea with concern as she led the woman towards the desk's chair.
''I'm almost ready to kill both Sonya and Herman, ``said the woman angrily but then tears started to fall as she wailed, ``They are such idiots!''
Althea turned to Rayden only to see that he was already gone.
(Downstairs )
''What I do with my life is no longer a concern of yours!'' yelled Sonya right into her father's face.

``If you want to completely ruin you military career then continue what you are doing...''
''Will you both SHUT-UP!'' yelled Johnny Cage from upstairs. Standing behind him was a fuming Althea trying her best to calm a still upset Erica. The actor continued angrily as he walked down the stairs, ``Don't you see what you are doing is nothing but hurting the one woman who loves you both?''
Both Father and Daughter turned to yelled, ``Stay out...''
''No I will not stay out of this, ``said Johnny angrily as he walked down the stairs, ``Trying not to sound conceded as I use to be, but from what I heard most of the fighting seems to be in regards to what is going on between me and Sonya.''

The actor then glared at Herman Blade and said firmly, ``Look Major, I know I may not seem to be the best guy for your girl but the choice is up to her not you. If you don't like it, stick it.'' Johnny then turned his attention away from the fuming Major to concentrate on Sonya, ``And you...If you don't mind I can fight my own battles. If you father has issues with me, let him take them up with me.'' Now glaring at both of them he continued, ``Now I know there has to be other issues between the two of you that don't involve me. Now since this place is still under my name, I asked that both you either resolve your problems with each other or keep quiet about it or leave.''
During Johnny's speech, Althea raised her head as if she sensed something. ``Crap, ``she said under her breath and then looked around to consider what to do. ``Mrs. Blade I need you to do something for me, ``Althea said calmly but firmly, ``I need you and your husband to follow Sonya to the safe room.''
''What?'' Erica said.

``Just go to Sonya, ``answered Althea who then yelled, ``We got company!''
Everyone looked at Althea, Herman and Erica some what concerned with her sanity but Sonya and Johnny had a more serious look. ``Take care of your parents, ``said Johnny the discussion forgotten for the moment. Sonya was about to argue but then nodded. They were her family after all. ``Mom, Dad follow me, ``she said as she led her parents out of the room.
''What is going on?'' demanded Herman Blade as he followed his daughter. Sonya didn't respond until they reached the gym and then she said as she slid one martial arts posters to the side to reveal a digital keypad, ``Let's just say there is more to this place than a martial arts school.'' She entered a few numbers and a previously hidden trap door slid open not far from them and a set of stair leading downward could be seen.
The door closed behind them as they entered a small underground room. Monitors turned on automatically as Sonya sat down at the console. Images of different areas of the property were shown in each and as Sonya was about ready to start clicking on the keyboard the alarms went off. Sonya fumed and slammed the off button for the alarms as she muttered, ``Now you go off.''
''What the hell are those things, ``asked Herman as the first of the red colored cyborgs appeared on the monitors.
( Living Room )
After pulling a small earpiece from his pocket, Johnny looped it around and into his ear. The windows all over the building slammed shut with armor shields falling into place. ``Damn it's more of those cyborgs, ``said Johnny after listening to Sonya's report.
Althea said a single word in Calornian and then in English said, ``Just great...my chi attacks are useless against those things and without my swords...''
''Perhaps this will help, ``came Rayden's voice as he appeared holding a staff out to her.
Althea took the staff and smiled at the thundergod as she said, ``How sweet...you remembered.''
''Huh...no offense, but what good is a piece of wood going to do against those guys? ``asked Johnny cracking his now glowing green knuckles.
Althea just smiled evilly and said, ``You'll see.''
Rayden just sighed, knowing that there was no way he was going to be able to prevent her from fighting, aside from kidnapping her, and there wasn't much else he could do to help...technically. Lighting flickered in his eyes as he watched Althea test the balance on the staff he gave her and saw when she noticed that there was something special about it. She gave Rayden a questioning look and he nodded slightly to answer her unspoken question.
''You didn't by any chance...''started Johnny.
Rayden gave Johnny an ugly look before vanishing.
''When are the weapons you ordered suppose to arrive?'' said Althea.
''Oh shut up, ``said Johnny, ``Who needs...''
!THUMP! !CRASH!

The steel covered door blew in as the one of the cyborgs walked in.
A green ball of energy knocked the intruder back out the door as Johnny said, ``Let's take this outside!''
(Control Room )
Sonya's fingers flew over the keyboard as she pulled up the ranch house's defenses. Once again she mentally cursed the others from keeping her from adding auto-rifles to the system but then everything went blank. ``What the...''said Sonya as she tried to get the system back online. The centermost monitor flickered to reveal a sleek looking red cyborg's face and Sektor's voice came through the speakers, ``Resistance if futile. Surrender and your conversion will be painless.''
''Conversion?'' said Erica.
Sonya picked up her own earpiece and microphone, to warn the other fighters, ``Guys, Sektor has hacked the system!''
( Outside )
Althea raised her shields just before a laser blast landed and then swung her staff close to the ground to knock over the cybers closest to her. ``What does she mean by hacked the system?'' yelled Althea.
''It means...``said Johnny as he did a round house kick, sending one of the cyborgs flying, ``...it's a good thing we didn't...``a green chi blast sent towards another cyborg knocking it away, ``....let her put in those guns. This is getting us nowhere, we knock them down they just get back up. They blast us and your shield blocks it.''
''True, ``answered Althea holding a domed shield in place to give both her and Johnny some breathing space, ``but I'll get tired eventually. Where do these guys get their energy?''
''Some sort of battery or something that gives them electricity, I guess, ``answered Johnny.
''Electricity?'' asked Althea flinching when another blast hit her shield.
Johnny tried to answer, ``You know the stuff that powers the lights, TV...domesticated lighting.''
A strange smile crossed Althea's face when she heard this.
(Control Room )
Feverishly, Sonya worked on the system before Sektor found the few hidden surprises she had put in when the others weren't looking. The monitors flickered as Sonya finally got control of the system. ``Now to make sure he doesn't get anything he shouldn't, ``she muttered as she continued clicking on the keyboard, not bothering to watch what was now appearing on the security cameras her full attention on the computer monitor right in front of her.
However, when she heard her mother's surprised gasp and her father cussed slightly in confusion under her breath, she looked up to see Johnny and Althea going full out against five red clad cyborgs. Sonya didn't know what cause her parents reactions until she saw Althea's barely visible shield go up around the pair. ``How are they...''Herman started to ask but then stopped realizing that now was not the time for questions.
On the monitor they saw Althea stick her staff into the ground firmly as Johnny got as close to the house as her shield would allow. A nod of her head, the shield went down and Johnny dove for the doorway just before a bright flash of light with the sound of thunder stuck. The sound shook the house and was heard even in the underground room. The light bulbs exploded, the monitors imploded as Sonya jumped out of the chair to knock her parents to the ground and cover them. In seconds, there was nothing but darkness in the room with the occasional spark.
(Later in the gym )
''I didn't mean for you to use all of it at once, ``said Rayden tiredly as he watched Althea and Johnny try to force the trap door open.
Fujin was leaning against a wall trying not to laugh. Althea stood up to glare at the wind god, ``Don't laugh. How was I supposed to know it would melt all the wiring in the house? Besides aren't you the one who is supposed to be helping us out now?''
Fujin smirked and replied, ``Have you told Rayden about ...''
''Don't say a word, ``hissed Althea with flashing eyes.
Johnny sighed, ``Look either help get Sonya and her family out of there or leave so we can work.''
Rayden frowned wondering what Althea hadn't told him, but agreed with Johnny; they had to get the Blades out of there. He turned to remind Fujin that as Sworn Protector it was up to him to help the chosen only to find his brother had already vanished. Sensing that Fujin was no longer even in the building Rayden sighed and then vanished to appear in the dark room right next to Sonya.
Lifting his hand, he summoned a small orb of lighting to illuminate the small room. ``Need a lift?'' he said with a smile.
The End....
Next Time on MK: Echoes of the Past...
Jax sat at his desk reading over some paperwork and looked up when he heard a knock at his office door. With a sigh he closed the folder and said, ``Enter.''

The door opened and in walked a yellow cyborg who said, ``You wished to see me Major Briggs?''

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

Chapter Twenty-Two: Cameo
( Northern China )
The small fire shivered as if itself was suffering from the cold that it's audience barely felt. The fire created more for light on that dark night rather than heat lit up the bare stone floors and walls, revealing a now older looking Sub-Zero and the teen-age Frost. Outside the shelter of stone, the wind howled in as the unseasonable strong ice-storm that forced even beings of ice to seek cover as it raged.
Fortunately, Frost knew where the food and other supplies were kept for those deemed either not ready or too important for the....upgrade to cyborg. During their two days together, Sub-Zero found out a great deal about Frost. Apparently, she witnessed the fight between the Headmaster and himself thus treated him as if Sub-Zero was the new leader of the Lin Kuei. After all that was how the grandmasters where chosen...only the strongest and/or the most cunning led and to prove oneself as such you had to kill a current grandmaster. The fact that he had not only killed the Headmaster, but took his medallion before killing him proved to Frost that Sub-Zero was more than worthy to lead the clan.
The girl was a product a centuries long Lin Kuei breeding program to ensure that certain abilities would breed true. Warriors with certain abilities were expected to...ensure that their skills or gifts were passed on to future generations of Lin Kuei. Frost was the daughter of one such family line that was fully under the control of the clan. Her mother married a warrior of the clan as did her mother before her. Any and all male children were to be snapped up by the clan for training at age seven, all female children were raised to understand that they were to be broodmares...warrior broodmares but broodmares all the same.
Not remembering much of his own childhood before the Lin Kuei, Sub-Zero wondered for a moment whether he and Frost might be related but his own almost pure western appearance and her oriental one hinted that if they were related it wasn't as full-siblings. Doing some mental math, he also figured that it would be almost impossible for his brother to be her father since he would have been still a student at the time and would have had no time for women and their father was already dead by the time it would have been required for Frost to be his half-sister from that end. His mother was not of Lin Kuei stock and was killed when she refused to meekly allow the Lin Kuei to take her sons. Sub-Zero bowed his head silently not wanting to show the anger and sorrow the memory of his mother's death brought to him. It was that memory, which kept him fighting to remember who he was...even though he lost that fight he still was never truly the Lin Kuei's either. His brother was already taken away and did not see how the Lin Kuei `recruiters' cut down their mother but the younger brother did. That was the only memory that stuck through all of the Lin Kuei's attempts to wipe his mind of all memory of his mother and the life he had with her. Shaking his head slightly to get his mind on track, shadows of his past were not needed now and would only get in the way.
Frost...the Lin Kuei must have been desperate to even consider bringing in a female as one of the warriors or perhaps, as with the ideas of changing their warriors into cyborgs, the `modern' thinking towards women fighters has developed to the point that they thought to test the possibility of a female Sub-Zero. From what Frost told him, it was shortly after his own defection she was taken away from her mother and aunts for training. The Lin Kuei already knew of her abilities but left them untapped until that time. If it was his style, Sub-Zero would have smirked. Perhaps it was after having their `undefeatable' cyborgs beaten by Sonya during the Outworld invasion might have also changed their outlook towards women. Frost being the only female with the natural ability, courage and already partially brainwashed by `family tradition' was no doubt selected as the perfect test subject.
Frost frowned and looked as if she wanted to say something so Sub-Zero prompted, ``Is there something you wish to say?''
''When the storm blows over...''she started to say and then looked away.
''When the storm blows over I plan to head back to the United States, ``answered Sub-Zero and he then frowned, ``If you wish, I will see about taking you with me. There you can continue your training if you choose, but as a warrior not as an assassin.''
Pride flared up in the ice blue eyes of the woman and she said, ``Why not an assassin?''
Sub-Zero chuckled coldly and answered, ``Have you not seen the results of being trained killer? It takes away your humanity and your only fate will be that a bigger killer will show up to eventually end your life. That is what happened to the Lin Kuei, they literally created their own executioner. Besides, the people I would take you to frown on needless killing and destruction.''
Frost looked confused for a few seconds and was about to reply but Sub-Zero stopped her by saying, ``Why don't you rest on it. The storm will no doubt blow itself out by tomorrow and you'll need all your energy to travel. Whether you plan to go to the States with me or not, you can't stay here.''
Frost bowed and mumbled, ``Yes, Sifu.'' She then reached over and unrolled her bedroll.
As she did this, Sub-Zero frowned. Where the hell did that little speech come from? It was as if he was years older than he truly was...Sub-Zero pulled out the silver medallion and examined it again. Hopefully the school's resident `expert' on magic would be able to shed some light on it. Looking down at the now sleeping Frost he quietly said, ``Sifu?''
( Los Angeles )
In the darkened room, the only light shown on to two fighters...one a tall woman, with long blonde tied back hair wearing a dark gray leather outfit with dark-blue over shirt, her green-blue eyes fully focused on her opponent. Her opponent, a muscular man with wavy dark blonde hair, his crossed over white shirt bearing a stylized gold and black cobra over his left chest. His loose fitting black slacks shimmered in the light. From out of the darkness a familiar voice yells out, ``FIGHT!''
The man struck out first, fast and hard with a punch to the woman's face. The woman dodges and counters with a quick punch to the man's mid-section. Acting as if he never felt the hit, he followed through with a kick which she blocked. Using his own strength and momentum, she nearly sent him flying into the ground, but he figured out what she was doing and turned in mid air to land on his feet.

A half-smile uncannily similar to the one Rayden sometimes wore appeared on the woman's face when she saw this and it remained in place as she easily dodged the sudden furry of punches and kicks that was sent her way.
Not far from the lighted ring and in the shadows stood Johnny and Sonya watching the fight with the rest of the surprisingly silent audience. Johnny sighed and pinched the top of his nose that was between his eyes, then said, ``Wish she didn't insist on `playing' with them.''
Sonya smiled and took a sip from her glass, taking care not to smudge her lipstick. Unlike Johnny and Althea, she was not part of the demonstration but still as a representative of the school so she had to look nice. So once again she was wearing the good old stand by green dress. Which Johnny couldn't seem to stop...she pulled his other hand away from her behind one more time, this time giving his hand a painful twist as she responded, ``You rather have her start blasting from the start? I know if any of the new students shows any...talent, she will be in charge of training it but I don't think we want the world to know its part of the curriculum.''
Rubbing his wrist he replied, ``I know...last thing we need is for people to think we're playing X-Men or something, but she doesn't have to...''
The room filled with a sympathetic `ooooooh' when the male fighter in the ring landed face down in the mat and feet in the air. Once his legs landed heavily it was obvious that he was not going to get back up for a while without help.
''At least this time she didn't throw him at anyone, ``mumbled Johnny as he headed to the ring.
The lights in the room lit up to reveal a full crowd of the most unusual mix of people. Known actors and producers mixed in with obviously pure martial artists and the occasional person in formal military uniform parted to allow Johnny by, as some were clapping, some discussing the unusual techniques that the woman used on the well know martial artist, and a few others were silent with thoughtful looks on their faces.
Althea knelt down by her opponent to make sure that he was ok. He was good for someone who was not one of the chosen. She sighed, ``Such a waste...if he only learned to control that temper.'' She stepped back as the medics came up and checked him over themselves. After a few seconds, one of them looked over to Althea and nodded, ``Only knocked out. He'll have a stiff neck and one hell of a headache when he wakes, but he'll be ok.''
Althea stood up as she heard the announcer say that Ken `Kobra' Masters would be fine and that the next demonstration bout will take place after a few minutes. She turned to see Johnny waving her over and headed over to him. The actor helped Althea out of the ring and said, ``Nice show, but did you have to be so...rough?''
Althea shrugged and replied, ``He got upset and decided to take the fight out of just an easy spar to the real thing...I complied.''
''I was afraid of that, ``said Johnny as he led her over to the juice table, ``His former instructor mentioned that Ken was looking for a challenge but had a bit of a temper when actually getting one.''
''Shame really, ``said Althea as she took a sip of the lemon flavored water, ``He has real talent and the signs of becoming a decent fighter...if he learns control.''
''I know I'm going to regret this, but since you just said that one of the best US martial artists as only having potential, ``Johnny said, ``Just what do you think about...''
''Johnny darrrrrrling, ``an effeminate man's voice rang out.
''Oh crap, ``whispered Johnny as he ran off into the crowds. A tall black `woman' wearing a red dress and a blonde wig walked up to Althea looking agitated. ``Be a friend, ``the `woman' said, ``Can you tell me where my dear Johnny boy ran off to?''
Althea coughed on her drink and then pointed in the general direction that Johnny ran off to. The `woman' tapped Althea's wrist with `her' long red nails and said, ``Thank you...oh Johnny!''
''That wasn't very nice, ``said a rough sounding man's voice. Althea got her coughing under control and turned to see an older man with long light colored haired tied back into a small pony tail.
''Neither was him not telling me about this demonstration until yesterday, ``she replied.
''Well Johnny was never one to give much warning, ``the man said as he held his hands behind himself and laughed slightly, ``See you a little later, just saw someone I need to talk to.''
''Sure thing, Mr...''
''Lambert, ``the man responded with a strange smile and as he turned to walk away he winked, ``Just call me Chris. Why don't you walk with me and meet my friends. I know at least a few of them are interested in meeting a mysterious and beautiful woman who just happens to be one of if not the best martial artist I have seen in a long time.''
In the distance, Sonya nearly choked when she saw who was talking to Althea and to what group the woman was being led to. Her eyes then automatically roamed the room, an old habit to look out for trouble in strange surroundings. Sonya eventually saw her parents talking with some of the military personnel, obviously old friends of her father's. She only hoped that her parents wouldn't mention some of the more unusual occurrences they recently saw and experienced.
Sonya then froze when she saw the general that once questioned her and Jax approach her parents with a strange man in a black suit that seemed to ooze power. She walked over to the group and was able to her the general introduce the man as Mr. Anubis to the others. Just as when she was going to speak, Fujin wearing a white silk shirt and dark slacks suddenly appeared at Sonya's armed and gently pulled her away. ``Trust me, ``the wind god said, ``You don't want to go there at the moment.''
Sonya pulled her arm out of Fujin grasp and hissed, ``Why shouldn't I go talk with my parents.''
''Let's just say, ``said Fujin, ``That you are not the only one in your family keeping secrets.''
(Temple of Light , China )
Liu Kang yawned as the small boat pull up to the riverbank. Liu stepped off the boat and took his backpack from the old man who was kind enough to bring him to the temple. The trip from Los Angeles was anything but boring, but at least it was normal. No shadow warriors, no cyborgs...just stupid bureaucracy. Now all he had to do was figure out how he was going to get back to the States. Maybe he should have found a way to get in touch with Sub-Zero. He never seemed to experience problems like this.
The youngest of the temple students saw Liu and ran for the Temple to inform the masters that the prodigy son has returned. Gods, he hated this place. ``The temple isn't that bad, ``said Fujin now standing next to Liu Kang.
Liu's head fell forward as he sighed, ``I know you're the new Sworn Protector, but do you really have to do that. Rayden was bad enough...''
''I'll keep that in mind, ``answered Fujin who then frowned, ``just be careful something in the wind isn't right.''
''What the hell is that...''said Liu as he looked at where Fujin stood less than a second ago only to see that the wind god was already gone. Liu muttered, ``Just like Rayden.''
''Liu!'' came Kung Lao's voice in the distance and Liu then saw his cousin waving.
The younger cousin ran up and took Liu's baggage saying, ``About time you got back. Stuck here with a bunch of old men and kids is just about to drive me insane.''
Liu smiled but noticed the tired look in Lao's eyes. ``Are you getting enough sleep?''
Kung Lao's smile vanished and he started to walk towards the temple as he mumbled, ``Yeah.''
Liu frowned but didn't push. He knew of Kung Lao's gift of seeing could be sometimes more of a curse than the gift it was. It was one of the reasons why he wanted Kung Lao to return to the States with him. The techniques taught by the temple monks to control such gifts were just not working. Perhaps Althea or even Nightwolf might be able to help him, but only if Lao goes with him back to the US.
(OIA Headquarters, Washington D.C.)
Jax sat at his desk reading over some paperwork and looked up when he heard a knock at his office door. With a sigh he closed the folder and said, ``Enter.''

The door opened and in walked a yellow cyborg who said, ``You wished to see me Major Briggs?''
Jax leaned back into his chair and said, ``I understand you wish to pay us back for `helping' you...why?''
In his mechanical voice, Cyrax answered, ``Lin Kuei Masters promised that power to those who are completely loyal and only the most loyal volunteered to become cyborgs. I was one of those, but instead of power...my mind was enslaved and forced to only watch as my new form followed commands blindly.''
''No offense, ``interrupted Jax, ``but didn't you follow orders blindly before...I thought that was in the Lin Kuei contract or something.''
Cyrax nodded and continued, ``True, we are raised from childhood that the Lin Kuei is family and family obeys the Masters...but the Masters betrayed us, stripping us of our humanity. As a cyborg I no longer had the choice to continue to obey the Lin Kuei or as Sub-Zero to leave...something I never even considered until it was too late. Your scientists have given me a second chance, I wish to take it.''
Jax nodded in understanding and then pulled out some photos of other cyborgs...red ones attacking the ranch house. ``You can start repaying us by helping us with some of your former friends. If we can we'll free them as well...''
Cyrax picked up one of the photos as said, ``These are different...they don't seem to be like the ones created by the Lin Kuei, similar but different.''
''Yeah, we noticed, ``answered Jax, ``We think they might be some sort of upgraded version. They seem to be interested in the martial arts school which will be opening soon or perhaps the instructors. I want you go there and help with security. That school is going to be this organization's main recruitment location since all of the instructors are familiar with...the weird stuff. You'll stay at the ranch house and we're preparing to send one or two of our techies to assist you.''
Cyrax nodded and said, ``I will be ready.''
''Good, ``said Jax and then under his breath, ``Now if only Sonya would take it so well...''

The End....
Next time on MK: Echoes of the Past.....
''No buts, ``she [Erica Blade] hissed as she stood up, ``Because of your delusions my father died at some stupid tournament and now I find out that my daughter nearly did the same! Why don't you fight you own f....''

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

Chapter Twenty-Three: Some Truths
(Rented hall in Los Angeles)
``So I heard you're in Cage's latest movie, ``said one of the actors that Lambert led Althea to, ``Have you received any new offers?''
Althea smiled and answered, ``The only reason why I'm in that movie was as a favor for Johnny...I have absolutely no plans or desires to be in another one.''
''Ahhhh, so you plan to teach at the school full-time, ``said another actor who then smiled as he added, ``That demonstration bout you had almost seemed real.''
Althea's smile became slightly colder as she said, ``If it was, he wouldn't be breathing.''
The group suddenly went silent sensing by the look of her face and the tone of her voice that Althea was stating a simple fact. Out of the corner of her eye she saw Fujin talking to Sonya and then said, ``Please excuse, I see someone I need to talk to.''
As she walked towards Sonya and Fujin, a hand landed on her shoulder as a cold voice said, ``So we finally get to meet.''
Althea turned to see a dark haired man she didn't recognize but there was something familiar about him as well. ``Do I know you?'' she asked. Just then one of the military guests walked up and said, ``Mr. Anubis, the general...''
''The general can wait, ``Mr. Anubis said with a cold glare and a little something else which both the soldier and Althea sensed in their own way, ``Can't you see I'm talking with the...lovely lady.''
The soldier backed away slightly not really knowing why. Althea frowned recognizing fully what she sensed from this `Anubis'. She said in a serious voice, ``We can always talk later...when Rayden is around.''
Anubis's eyes darkened over for a second as if in anger but he then smiled coolly, ``Yes...that would be most wise. After all, I can see that neither the brothers nor Kronos has bothered to teach you to show respect...''
''Forgive me...Lord Shadow, ``she said quietly so only Anubis could hear, ``but I assumed you didn't want anyone here to know who or should I say what you really are.''
Fujin sighed in relief when Sonya headed off to help Johnny get ready for his demonstration match, but the relief turned into near panic when he saw who Althea was glaring at. He walked over in time to hear Althea say, ``Now if you will excuse me.''
Althea turned and nearly walked right in to Fujin. ``You alright?'' asked the wind god who then looked to see that the Elder God of Shadows was now gone.
The woman nodded and said, ``Yes, but I need to talk to both you and Rayden later...by the way where is Rayden? He was supposed to meet me here.''
''Oh he'll be here, ``said Fujin with a secretive smile, ``he just needed...'' A familiar form walked out from one of the decorative screens.
(Los Angeles, Johnny's Condo later that night)
Erica hummed an old tune as she washed dishes enjoying the sound of the heated football debate going on between her husband and her daughter's boyfriend. It seems that when Johnny finally told off Herman and Sonya, he acquired Major Herman Blade's respect...grudgingly.
Sonya's voice broke through the relative peace,''God damned son of a...''
''Sonya!'' her mother admonished her daughter who was setting at the small table with a cell phone in her hand.
Ignoring her mother, Sonya continued to yell into the phone, ``There is no way I'm gonna let that mother f...''
Erica reached over and took Sonya's phone, then calmly told who ever was on the other end, ``Sonya will get back to you once she learns some self-control.'' The older woman then hung up the phone and turned to her now extremely pissed off daughter.
''Don't glare at me, ``said Erica pointing at Sonya with the phone, ``I know such language is sometimes the only way to get your point across but I do not want to hear such language as if it's a habit!''
Sonya huffed as she glared at the poor wall and then looked back at her mother in shock when Erica added, ``You'll thank me someday, especially once you and Johnny have kids...''
''MOM!'' exclaimed Sonya.
From the living room both Johnny and Herman turned towards the kitchen when they heard the loud `MOM!' coming from there.
''I guess that's my cue, ``said Herman as he got up out of the chair.
''You really don't have to go, I have a spare room...''said Johnny.
''Then where is Sonya going to sleep?'' the old soldier asked and a strange smile appeared on his face when he saw Johnny's almost dismayed look. Yes to him, Johnny Cage was only a boy but then Sonya was only a girl and will remain so in his eyes until they either have gray hairs or have children...preferably after they were married...of their own.
Sonya hurried out of the kitchen into the living room interrupted any more conversation between the two men. ``Sonya what's wrong?'' asked Johnny as she walked pasted them. She turned to look at Johnny and it looked like she didn't know whether to be embarrassed or angry. ``I don't want...''she started to say.
''Why don't we go out and talk elsewhere, ``he said in a calm voice and then turned to ask, ``You don't mind if...''
''No trouble, ``answered Herman's unasked question, ``We'll lock up as we leave.''
Back in the kitchen, Erica sighed as she sat down at the table. As much as she hated to do it, she knew Sonya needed that little push.
''You know you're starting to act like your mother, ``said Fujin leaning next to the sink after he appeared out of nowhere.
''So it is you, ``said Erica in a monotone voice, ``How could you...''
''I'm not the one who got her into this,'' interrupted Fujin, ``She got herself in by showing up on that boat.''
Erica closed her eyes and took a calming breath, ``Just who...what are you? It's been over forty years and you don't look a day older.''
Fujin chuckled at Erica's old habit of jumping from one subject to another. ``Don't you mean fifty years?'' he said but then the smile went away, ``Look I know you can't forgive me for what happened but...''
''No buts, ``she hissed as she stood up, ``Because of your delusions my father died at some stupid tournament and now I find out that my daughter nearly did the same! Why don't you fight you own f...''
''Huh hu, ``interrupted Fujin wagging his finger negatively ``Remember what you told Sonya...''the wind god sighed, ``Look I was trying to do someone else's job at the time and believe me if I could have fought I would have but your father was one of the best fighters at the time...not to mention fighting at the tournament is a tradition in your family...not as much as in Liu's...''
''So for some stupid tradition you would let a man die living his widow to raise their children alone with no support...''Erica started to say but stopped when her husband entered the kitchen.
Herman Blade placed his hand on his wife's shoulder but told Fujin, ``I suggest you leave or explain everything.''
Fujin walked over and sat down at the table with a sigh. He then said, ``It's a long story...''
Herman pulled up another chair and said, ``Start from the beginning.''
''That may not be such a good idea; we would be here for the next week. How about I start where Erica's family get involved? Long ago there was a monk named Kung Lao who needed to find allies to help start a new school and defend Earthrealm...like what Liu and the others are doing now. He found two close friends and allies in Taja a reformed thief and Siro a former bodyguard,'' said Fujin who then looked at Erica, ``After a while and many adventures, those two eventually married and had a child. Their eldest grandchild fought along side Kung Lao at the next tournament. Both died.''
''What does this have to do with me and my family?'' asked Erica.
''Taja's and Siro's line did not die out at the tournament. They had another grandchild too young to fight at the tournament at the time, a grand-daughter. She in turn eventually married and had children. Every fifty years since, a member of this family has fought in the tournament. Your family,'' answered Fujin who then sadly added, ``Earth did not win another tournament until the last one, which Liu Kang won with the help of Johnny Cage and your daughter, Sonya Blade. As for your father, I do sympathize but I did not convince him to partake in the previous tournament...he volunteered. He knew of the stakes and all I did was showed him the way. I wish I could have helped him more but since it wasn't really my job...''
''Whose job was it? ``ask Herman.
''My brother Rayden's, he was the Sworn Protector of Earthrealm at the time and should have given advice and some protection to chosen warriors at the tournaments, ``answered Fujin hesitately, ``Unfortunately, he was grieving over the believed death of someone close to him and was unable to fulfill his duties.''
''This is not making any sense, ``said Erica irritably, ``Just what is so important about this damn tournament to risk losing so many lives over and exactly who are you and this Rayden person?''
Surprising both Erica and Fujin, it was Herman that answered, ``If Earth lost ten tournaments in a row, all would have been lost. ``
(Rayden's home, The Heavens)

Althea fell back into the living room wall where Rayden then held her in place with an open mouth kiss and the weight of his own body. After a few minutes he broke off the kiss and as she gasped for air whispered in her ear, ``Just what is this job that Kronos asked me about your progress on?''
With her mind still hazy from the kiss it took a few seconds for Rayden's question to sink in but when it did it was like ice water. Damn...what a time for that link to fade out. As she regained her bearings Rayden stepped back, turned around and walked off stopping next to the leather couch. Althea sighed as she walked up to hug him from behind. ``The Elder Gods are not happy that I gave Scorpion those swords, ``she said, ``Kronos `requested' that I get them back. If it's any consolation I haven't made a bit of progress.''

Rayden placed his hand over one of hers as he said, ``I thought I would be the one keeping secrets.''

Althea laughed lightly into his back and then said, ``Hey, it's your job. I was just afraid on how you would have acted when I told you. Lately, you haven't exactly been the fun loving and understanding deity I fell in love with.''
At that moment, their link flared up opening up their emotions to each other in such a way that they could almost read each other's mind. Rayden's concern and slight anger mixed with Althea's worry and fear. Rayden said a single word in a long forgotten language when he felt that fear. He pulled himself out of her arms to turn around and pulled her into his arms. That was one thing he never wanted to feel from her, especially in regards to him...fear. He nuzzled her hair and took a deep breath. He had to admit his actions as of late haven't been the most endearing, but that was why they needed to spend some time together. The thundergod pulled back a little, placed a finger under Althea's chin to make her look up at him. ``Let's change the subject, ``he said less than an inch from her lips, ``To more...interesting matters.''

As he closed in, the feelings shared between the two changed to a more powerful one but then the one that Althea felt suddenly became mixed with something just as heated. She pushed him off with flashing eyes. ``Just what do you think you're doing, ``she breathed heavily both in anger and desire, ``I can't believe that you think that after asking...you can't just...'' With a huff, she turned unable to continue and the felling of humor she was now receiving from Rayden only made her angrier. She didn't even bother to try to suppress the faint blue flames that started to appear around her form.

Rayden stepped back but couldn't keep the grin from appearing on his face. Althea gave a whole new meaning to the term `playing with fire' and he did not feel like becoming mortal at the moment. Althea turned back around to glare at him and growled, ``Just what are you laughing at?''

``Unless I'm mistaken, ``Rayden answered with laughter in his voice, ``It's usually me that's been getting angry lately.''

``Tah! ``Althea said as she dropped her head and her flames disappeared. The anger was still there but more of a frustration then an all out rage.

``It seems that whenever there is a sudden fluctuation in our bond, ``Rayden mused as he sat down on the couch, ``One of us gets...emotional.''

Althea joined him on the couch and said, ``What was it that Johnny said in that one argument with Sonya...something about constant PMS?''

Rayden's smile vanished as he glared lightly at the woman. At the same time a smile appeared on Althea's face. ``Don't look at me, that is a strictly Earth woman problem, ``said Althea, ``Earth may be my realm now but I'm still Calornian by birth.''

The End....

The white haired woman added, ``A little something else that may interest your mistress--the prison to your homerealm and a possible key to its release.''

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

Chapter Twenty-four: Time and Shadow
(Ashra's domain, The Neatherrealm)
The sound of soft footstep invaded the silence of the cavern, causing Scorpion's eyes to narrow as he turned to see the white clad woman known as Ashra walked towards him. Ever since his capture, Scorpion trained and trained hard in the region of the Netherealm that Ashra claimed as her own. He was disgusted with how easily he was captured by Quan Chi's followers. Although he would never show it in words the specter was grateful for Ashra's assistance both in rescuing him and allowing him a place to train in secret.
''One of Earthrealm's gods has contacted me inquiring about you and the swords, ``said Ashra without bothering with a greeting.
Scorpion had a good idea as to which god it was and asked, ``Did you tell him?''
''I told him an edited version of what happened, ``said Ashra calmly but the feel of humor was there in her Victorian voice, ``He didn't seem too happy about the news. The rumors are the Elder Gods are not too happy with godslayer since she gave you the swords.''

Scorpion closed his eyes briefly to consider Ashra's words. He had little care as to what the Elder Gods wanted, however both the godslayer and the last true Lin Kuei would. Both suffered at one point or another because of him both he now owed a debt. The younger Sub-Zero for showing him even if unknowing the truth of his constant hunt for revenge upon the Sub-Zero line, the godslayer for the trust she gave him but he failed to uphold. If it was in his nature, Scorpion would have snorted in derision over his feelings. During most of his unnatural existence, the specter wouldn't have concerned himself with either. True he would have stopped hunting the Sub-Zero line, but idea of actually helping Sub-Zero or anyone would have never crossed his mind.
''If you speak with the thundergod again, inform him I will be returning the swords to the godslayer one way or another, ``Scorpion said. As the specter turned to walk away Ashra's kriss briefly glowed--unnoticed by both the specter and the huntress.
(The Forbidden Forest, Outworld)
Lillith growled to herself, for days she had watched Shao Kahn and all he did was sit on his damned throne thinking. Not a word was spoken by the Emperor during this time. She swiped angrily at a branch as she flew over the trees; both Kuravan and Nitara were upset by the lack of information. Tonight she was nearly discovered by Kahn's guards and was forced to leave until things calmed down at the palace. Just when that human, Kano, was to show up to report about the war with the Edenians.
The vampire swooped down and landed lightly on a tree branch. Without warning the wind died down to nothing and the inhuman sounds of the forest went silent. A woman's voice rang in the silence, ``Perhaps you should consider a career change.''
Lillith sent her claws automatically in the direction of the voice, but found herself frozen in place looking at a strange white hair woman sitting on the large branch the vampire had landed on. The woman wearing the same type armor as the vampire except in black and instead of kamas she carried a pair of swords on her back. ``Is that anyway to treat someone whose here to save your hide, ``said the woman from behind her scarf.
Lillith would have growled but found herself unable even to do that. The strange woman jumped from the branch and landed gracefully on the ground below. She looked up and with a wave of her hand; the vampire was able to move once again. Carefully Lillith glided down to stand not far away from the woman. ``What do you mean? ``hissed the vampire.
A white eyebrow rose but the woman said, ``I'm going to tell you what exactly is going to happen at the palace and you're going to tell both your employers. You might want to tell your master first, he's most likely not to kill you when you tell him where you got the info from.''
The vampire growled with eyes glowing red and prepared to launch herself in attack when the woman drew a circle of light-blue flame in the air with her finger. In the circle an image of a silver orb floating in magma appeared. The white haired woman added, ``A little something else that may interest your mistress--the prison to your homerealm and a possible key to its release.''
All anger left the vampire's face as she instantly recognized orb from mental images given to all Vampires in their race's search for it. ``Where...''she said then changed her mind to ask, ``What do you want in return?''
''Nothing much, ``answered the woman as the flames and the image they held faded, ``Just tell Nitara that once she has freed your realm, I recommend to seriously consider aiding Rayden's little group. Even you must have noticed he's much more trustworthy than Kahn, Onaga or even Kuravan.''
''Who's Onaga?'' asked Lillith.
''Trust me you don't want to know, ``answered the woman as her eyes flared briefly.
(Previously abandoned palace filled with a mummified army, location unknown)

``So it is agreed?'' asked Quan Chi.

``Yes, ``answered Shang Tsung as the pair walked past the kneeling corpses, ``I will help provide the souls for these empty husks and in return you will see that they remain loyal to both of us. Soon, we will have what so many have sought for eons...power over all the realms.''

Quan Chi growled slightly and then said, ``We must take care; if anyone even gets a hint of our actions too soon all will be lost. Even the Elder Gods may interfere if they knew that...''

``They won't know if it remains unsaid, ``hissed Shang Tsung and then his hand fell on the hilt of the sword at his hip, ``and once they do find out it will be too late. It's the Emperor I worry about; he doesn't need an excuse to interfere only a foul mood and even with these swords he will be difficult to take down.''

``So some additional power is needed, ``mused Quan Chi as he looked at the newly forming soul-nado and tapping on the medallion tied to his belt, ``Perhaps it's not the quantity of the souls you are using but the quality.''

(Temple of the Elder Gods, inner chambers)

Kronos frowned as he walked down the endless hallway. Fujin's report of the Elder God of Shadow's presence at the demonstration and his conversation with Althea concerned him. So far the council was still in favor of a hands-off approach in regards to the godslayer as in all things. Kronos being related to her gave him more leeway in regards to his interactions with the mortal but Anubis should have had absolutely no reason to speak with the woman. It was one thing to continue the balance of the realms by aiding Earthrealm's chosen with a little push here or there, but what Anubis had done was against all what the council stood for: a neutral standing to ensure that a balance is kept. Neither good nor evil should ever out weight the other and no single realm should truly be stronger than the others. The Elder God of Time frowned even deeper, ever since Shinnok's betrayal all those centuries ago it seems that this has been forgotten by the council as a whole.

The Elder God of Time stopped at one of the millions of unmarked doors that lined the endless hallway. The door opened without being touched and Kronos entered the room. The room itself was in an ancient Egyptian motif favored by pharaohs and other nobles of that era for their tombs. Images of Ra, Set, Osiris and Isis lined the walls; gods that no longer existed and only their images remained.
''What brings you to My private chambers Brother Time?'' came a growl from a shadowed door.

Kronos turned to the doorway and answered, ``I wish to know why Brother Shadow sought out My great-granddaughter.''

A jackal headed figure stepped out into the light and with a bark, ``So you consider her Your great-granddaughter...how many grandchildren do You have ten, a hundred, thousands...what makes her so special aside from being a godslayer?''

Kronos wondered with concern why Anubis was wearing his form from the days before he became an Elder God, but decided not to mention it. Instead he replied, ``Contrary to popular belief, I do have a sense of family. I hold each of My children dear, even if they prove less than what I hoped. I try my best to keep track of all My descendents and Althea is one that is proving herself even greater that what I or anyone could have expected.''

Anubis chuckled coldly and then said, ``Even after she gave her immortal killing swords to a creature that exists only to kill you can say that you still favor her?''

``You Yourself was once a creature of death and yet You have earned your place among the Elder Gods, ``countered Kronos.
''I led the souls of mortals to their proper places after they died...I did NOT kill them, ``growled Anubis, ``And that is beside the point, she should have never even survived her encounter with...''
''Enough!'' Kronos exclaimed for the first time with anger, ``That has already been decided upon by the council over five centuries ago. Althea has proven that she has no intention of being a threat and has in fact been instrumental in stopping one who has seen to the destruction of dozens of gods that We know of.'' Then more calmly Kronos continued, ``I will admit that she is far from perfect, but I know not a single mortal or immortal who can claim that distinction.''
Anubis growled and attempted to move away in contempt only to find himself frozen in place. ``You forget Brother Shadow, I am one of the original Elder Gods and have had a great deal more time to learn a few...tricks, `` Kronos said coldly, ``It is rare that I find a use for these...tricks, and believe me you do not want to be on the receiving end of the more brutal ones. Leave Althea alone...and don't you dare to even think of taking your revenge upon Rayden or anyone that Althea holds dear. If you feel they have done something that demands the attention of the Elder Gods bring it before Sister Water and she will determine what is to be done.''
Kronos then turned and left the room. As the untouched door slamming behind the Elder God of Time, Anubis shook free of whatever was holding him with a snarl. He turned to slam his fists onto his desk causing it to shatter under the force of his anger.

``I sensed your anger my friend, ``came a warm and calm man's voice as the room brightened, ``Do you wish to tell me what happened...''

( Lost Temple, somewhere in the jungles of Earth)
Kuravan looked up at the ancient pyramid without emotion considering the possibilities of this becoming his new base of operations on Earth. The crunching sound of footsteps on old gravel interrupted his thoughts and he turned to see both Arianna and his new follower, Kabal, walking up to him. It was Kabal who brought this place to Kuravan's attention and it seemed to hold the most promise. So far Kabal has proven himself a useful guide in places normally not seen by the majority of the native population of this realm.
''This will do nicely, ``Kuravan said and Kabal nodded in acknowledgement. The deity continued, ``I sense you have a desire for revenge...so in returned for your continued service I will do what I can to assist you in your endeavor. Just be aware I must not appear to be aiding you directly due to rules I must abide for the present. However, I can advise you...''Kuravan stopped for a second as if a thought came to him and he then turned his attention to the woman, ``Arianna, please find me Lilith she is late with her report and while there pay the Emperor a visit...a friendly one.''
Arianna bowed and walked off. Once she was out of sight, Kuravan said to Kabal, ``I feel it is time you learn a part of your true heritage and the truth behind the Black Dragon.'' Kuravan then held out his hand and a smoke filled flame filled his palm only to disappear as the Black Dragon medallion appeared in its place, ``You see the `clan' Kano created in rebellion against the Red Dragon is nothing compared to the true Clan of the Black Dragon.''
Unseen in the jungle, Arianna watched and listened as Kuravan described the `honor and leadership' of Jola and how Kabal was a descendent of Jola's older brother who died, killed by the treachery of the Red Dragon, before being able to see his son. Arianna snorted, knowing Kuravan was being creative with history...again...to ensure a loyal follower. She then turned to continue her appointed tasks and to run an errand of her own on the way. As much as she disliked the idiots she was going to see, what she was going to gain in the end was more than worth the headache.
(Johnny's condo, Los Angeles)
The front door swung open into the living room with a hurried Johnny walking in. He headed to the coffee table to pick up the wallet that he had forgotten earlier. Sonya leaned against the open doorway with a slightly amused look on her face. As Johnny picked up his wallet he could barely hear the voices from the kitchen...all three of them. `What in the world could Fujin be talking with them about?'' thought Johnny as he headed to the kitchen door. He opened it in just in time to hear Sonya's father say, ``If Earth lost ten tournaments in a row, all would have been lost. ``
''He...they knew, ``whispered Sonya standing right behind Johnny nearly causing him to jump in surprise. Johnny looked over his shoulder and held a finger over his lips to indicate she should remain quiet.
(The Kitchen)
''That's correct, ``said Fujin recovering quickly from the surprise.
''You have got to be kidding, ``mutter Erica in disbelief but Herman's serious look made her think twice then she asked, ``Who told you this?''
Herman Blade looked away and said, ``I...shouldn't even had said that...its classified..''
The kitchen door swung open and an angry Sonya barged it as Johnny recovered from being forcibly knocked aside. ``Don't give us that cop out, ``Sonya said, ``Classified my...I was there...Me and Johnny most likely know more about the tournament than anyone with the exception of Liu, Rayden and Fujin. This includes you do so spill it Dad.''
Fujin coughed into his hand trying not to laugh and acting as if he knew that the pair was listening in. The cough earned him the deadly glare of the Blade family which made him think, `Ooookay, think I'll go now.' The god of wind then vanished in a puff of air.
''Wish I could do that sometimes, ``mutter Johnny thus earning him his own set of glares. ``Hey don't look at me...he's the one with the secret to share, ``said Johnny pointing to Herman Blade.
Ret. Major Herman Blade then stood up with full dignity and said, ``I have already said too much. You might know more about Mortal Kombat but I'm still not at liberty to discuss it. Col. Sonya Blade, you of all people should understand this.'' Sonya's anger deflated and she nodded once, but then said, ``You forget, Major, I rank you and have full clearance. One thing you might not even know is that anyone who is on the school's staff has also been given clearance in all things involving the OIA...including and especially Mortal Kombat.'' Sonya then turned to her mother and continued, ``Mom, I hate to ask this but could you please leave the room...you're the only one here that can't hear this from Dad.''
Johnny rubbed the right side of his forehead, wondering what he was getting into dating Sonya. He then sighed and said, ``Why not just let her stay, she's going to find out later anyways.'' Erica gave Johnny a thankful look just before giving her husband and daughter each a glare.
''I'll have to get permission...''protested Herman but stopped when Sonya picked up the cell phone from the table and handed it to him saying, ``Call whoever you need to and get the ok. If they try to refuse hand the phone over to me.''
The End....

Next Time on MK: Echoes of the Past....

``So it is agreed, ``said Arianna as she took the small vial from Quan Chi.
It was Shang Tsung who answered, ``Agreed...you keep the gods of Earthrealm distracted while we deal with the...''

Author : Preferred Customer

Creation date: 2007-4-26-19

Modification date: 2007-4-26-55