With the impression of the Principal (in MK4), I reminisce of seeing a juvenile Kahn side in Reiko with his conduct, dark or not. Only difference being him having his way of modest pitying compared to the Emperor, but remaining ruthless in Netherrealm and Outworld (cancellations aside). Travelling through time gateways with the late conqueror versus the modern conqueror (think a Terminator 2 scenario) would've been cool, if they were the same being (or like 2 warriors in 1 body, at a point). He could make use of the Keeper of Time, but I'd see him failing in his goal to become a ruler (he's not quite at that level).

To sum the last post up, what I'm trying to say is maybe at some point Reiko had an out of body experience with Shao Kahn upon his discovery of the General, like how Onaga chose Reptile as his vessel. I'm glad it was unveiled they're there own characters though and it's not proved this happened.

I never have seen Reiko more powerful than Johnny Cage, I mean he's ambitious, but he's the kind of character that would fall before so much power. He was killed by Havik after being betrayed by the Blood Magic, so I don't think he's smart or strong enough to be a Boss or sub Boss.