#d'vorah x reader

[inactivewattpadauthor]

D'Vorah x Reader: Pets

This one goes out to my baby girl who passed late 2022.

Mama loves you, Sheaky🥺 I miss you every damn day.

She was such a guinea poggers.

Also, this can be considered a sequel for the roommates one shot I did a while ago. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Carefully scrubbing the used knife clean and setting it in the drawer, you looked back at the apple slices you cut with care. Picking up the plate that they neatly rest on, you carried it off to a closed door.

Opening the door, the darkness blinded you only until you switched the light switch upward. Along with the yellow cozy light that brightened the room, you were greeted with almost immediate high-pitched squeaks.

A greeting that always made you smile widely and eager to gift whatever fruit or vegetable you brought with you whenever you entered this specific room.

"Is my little one excited to see me?" You cooed, seeing the excited furball of a potato place her front paws on the door of the barred cage. Clear excitement of you and mostly the food she's expecting.

"Aww, you must be hungry." You fake a sad tone despite you feeding her a celery stick ten minutes prior. As well as filling her food bowl up with pellets nine times a day.

Sitting on the floor, setting the apple slices aside, you opened the door of the cage and gently picked her up and set her on your lap. You grabbed an apple slice and bit half of it for yourself before putting it in her face for her to just snatch it up.

You enjoyed sharing a healthy snack with your guinea pig. It was a nice way to bond.

While she chewed fast on the fruit, she still squeaks with joy, making you feel cheerful as well.

With unnoticed scurrying, your roommate stopped at the open doorway, crawling on all fours like she usually does. "What is that noise?" She says as if she's annoyed with it.

Turning around to face her, she then sees what's in your lap. An idea and assumption springs into the humanoid insect's mind.

"Oh, Y/n, you did not tell this one that you had vermin. A solution this one can give with satisfaction." You see the smug look on her face as she crept towards you, bugged eyes glued on the domesticated rodent.

"D'Vorah, no!" You hugged your guinea pig tight to your being, protectively. You gave her a hostile look, which confuses her.

"Why are you protecting a rat?" She tilts her head out of ignorance.

"She is not a rat. She is a guinea pig. And MY child." You pat the rodent's back softly and coo out the last part.

This makes D'Vorah more confused. "This one believes the term is 'pet'(🤓👆). Since when can humans birth vermin?"

Rolling your e/c orbs, you explained to her. "Yes, she is a pet. I just love her so much I consider her my fur baby."

A bizarre idea came to your mind, but you weren't sure if you should do it. "I can let you hold her for a bit, but I don't want you to hurt her." You say in a genuine tone, still petting the guinea pig.

Bringing up the idea seems to make the infamous creature curious. She sits next to you, the same posture as you, and still looks at the guinea pig. "This one will try. Without releasing posion or else."

You felt you can trust her enough, but before handing your pet to her you briefly stopped.

"She's the only thing I have. Promise?"

"What is this one to you then?!" Offense covered the large critter's face.

"Okay, you're cool too, but- but at least I get to tell her my life problems without being judged!" You make a valid argument point.

"Well, this one is certain if the rodent has the ability to understand your problems, it would judge you as well."

"Okay- you know what? Do you or do you not promise to hurt her?" Your eye twitched.

"This one promises." She holds her shelled hands out to hold the furry potato. You carefully set her down on D'Vorah's hands and watch.

D'Vorah was actually cautious. Holding the animal close to her being and even petting it like you do. It made you a bit giddy.

"This one sees why you emotionally rely on this vermin." D'Vorah comments, handing her back to you.

You set her on the floor so she can exercise a bit. She snatches an apple slice off the plate that sits there and runs off to maybe under the dresser.

"Wanna see this one's pet, or more so, child?" D'vorah asks with hinted enthusiasm.

Before you could even politely reject, you see her stomach open up, something that always made you shiver. She pulls out a giant maggot, covered in slime, to present to you.

"This one adores it, and decides not to eat it. Would you like to hold it?"

"Um, no thanks, I think I'm good-"

She sets it in your arms. You froze up in disgust, not able to move. You felt the cold slimy creature squirm in your arms, and maybe if you were more relaxed, you could compare it to it cuddling in your care.

"It likes you." The mother of this retched thing smiles.

"Getitoff." You wheezed out in a way you don't sound normal at all. Your face shriveled in horror.

Both you and I are pretty sure this is how phobias start.

"But-"

"Get. It. Off."

D'Vorah sees the complete discontent on your face and does as you says, putting her child back into her nest of a stomach.

You stood up oddly, hating the feeling of the slime soaking your clothes and touching your skin. "I'm gonna go shower now." You awkwardly walk out the room, your roommate rolling her eyes at your "overreaction."

The guinea pig waddles back out and over to D'Vorah and sniffs her out of curiosity.

"This one does not envy your relationship with Y/n." Bug lady speaks, softly poking your beloved potato's nose. ~~~~~~~~~~~~

2 posts in one day bc I feel hyped

[odditycircus-2002]

Medusa!Reader Intro Banter

In my last post, you may have expected to have read some intro dialogue for the banter. Initially, I was gonna put a few characters for the intro, but then as I was thinking of the dialogue in my head, it expanded to more than just a few characters. And why deny me of that sort of fun? That's why the intro dialogue gets its own post! So for context, the reader is a Medusa-like creature, able to turn other beings into stone, and is married to Shang Tsung. If you'd like to read more about them for context, you can go ahead and check out these head cannons below.

TW: Suggestive and mentions of death and gore. If you're a fan of MK, you know what you're getting into.

First

Second

Third

Bonus

Yourself (Mirror Match)

Y/N 1: Am I correct to presume that Shang Tsung made you?

Y/N 2: How do I know that YOU'RE not the construct?

Y/N 1: We and Shang Tsung are going to need talk after this.

/

Y/N 1: Are you of my past or future?

Y/N 2: I've come to warn you to take out both Quan Chi and Shao Khan.

Y/N 1: Say no more.

/

Y/N 1: I was unaware you're still alive after all these years, sister.

Y/N 2: From what I've heard, you were the one behind my "illness".

Y/N 1: It was nothing against you. I had to test whether my medicine worked on humans somehow.

/

Shang Tsung (Your Hubby💕)

Shang: This takes me back...

Y/N teasingly: Why so sentimental?

Shang: We had a similar confrontation before making love under the moonlight.

/

Shang: Did you mourn for me, my sweet?

Y/N seriously: It took every ounce of my will not to completely spiral into madness when Shao Khan took you away from me.

Shang taken aback: I am... so sorry to have caused such pain.

/

Shang: Are you so surprised, princess?

Kitana: I find it impossible to believe you found someone like Y/N rather than clone her.

Shang: There's no use in replicating anyone like my wife.

/

Sonya: Is your wife aware of how much you've been chasing my damn tail?

Shang: She knows I'm having fun before I collect you for her garden.

Sonya: No way in fucking hell, Shang Tsung!

/

Y/N: I'm not usually the vengeful type of woman, as I find such reasons to be not worthy of my time.

Shao Khan: Is there a point to your insistent prattling, wench?

Y/N angered with all her snakes hissing: You are the exception and more than worthy of my fury.

Mileena

Mileena: You helped Shang Tsung create me?

Y/N fondly: I remember the day you opened your beautiful eyes.

Mileena trepidatious: Do you think the same with the rest of me?

/

Y/N: We shared the same pain of grief.

Mileena: yet YOUR lover came back, MINE didn't!

Y/N: I could help remedy that... for a price.

/

Mileena: Do you really believe I'm a fine Khanum?

Y/N: Better than your father, although you could do with a healthy amount of grace during your rule.

Mileena: *gives a growl in irritation* Like my sister?

Sindel

Sindel angrily: Never again will I be your or anyone's puppet.

Y/N: Aw, such a shame; you were and are my favorite puppet.

Sindel: You will be executed for the good of all the realms.

/

Sindel: Once upon a time, I thought that, like me, you were forced into a marriage by a cruel man.

Y/N: And now, your Highness?

Sindel: Now I know you and Shang Tsung are equals in evil.

/

Sindel with her voice trembling in rage: You killed Sheeva!

Y/N with a tranquil grin: Technically, you did so with your hands, not me.

Sindel: I will repent for her by wiping that smug grin off you before you can even blink!

Baraka

Y/N: So beautiful and fascinating...

Baraka squints his eyes in suspicion: What is your trick this time, Snake?

Y/N: No trick, just admiring a fine specimen.

/

Baraka: If you are so "fond" of Mileena and Tarkatans, where were you when Kotal wiped us out?

Y/N: In hiding lest I had the same fate fall upon me.

Baraka: Spineless coward!

/

Y/N: I would like to observe some of your rituals for research purposes.

Baraka: Only if you can beat me mercilessly in Kombat!

Y/N with a wide grin: It should be no trouble at all, then.

D'Vorah

Y/N: Such a fascinatingly resilient species.

D'Vorah: Appreciating how This One's the epitome of the ultimate species?

Y/N: Indeed. The perfect test subjects for my experiments.

/

D'Vorah: This One must ask if your snakes are all part of you?

Y/N: My "hair" and I all share one mind if you're dying to know.

D'Vorah: Even so, the Hive outnumbers you by many.

/

D'Vorah: You say This One reminds you fondly of your youth?

Y/N: I remember coming across insects resembling you while watching them feast upon the deceased fauna, as a little girl.

D'Vorah: Then may it comfort you in your last moments while This One uses you to feed The Hive.

Kollector

Y/N: You have the most beautiful eyes.

Kollector: Flattery or not, these eyes will never be for sale.

Y/N with a wicked grin: I never intended to buy, Kollector.

/

Kollector: Shao Khan demands your head.

Y/N: I will not give that brainless brute even a single scale from it.

Kollector: The choice is not for you to make, milady.

/

Y/N: I will not give Shao Khan, not even a single root from my cabinet.

Kollector: I must collect ALL that the Empire requires.

Y/N: Then I'll take four of your arms as compensation.

Kano

Kano: Well, color me gobsmacked, and I thought I had some out there tastes.

Y/N: Shang has far more manners and dignity than you ever will; you waste of air!

Kano: It doesn't make him less of a freak for marrying a literal snake lady.

/

Y/N: I require your services.

Kano: I don't DO that sort of thing, well, unless I've had enough grog.

Y/N irritated: I meant for you to steal from the Khan's gardens for its rare herbs.

/

Kano: Oi! I thought you were supposed to take care of your hubby's island.

Y/N: It was too empty for my liking after my love's passing and his followers requested the most potent poisons I had in storage.

Kano: Eh. Thanks to you, its treasures were free for the taking.

/

Scorpion (Hanzo Hasashi)

Y/N: Once, I was desired and sought after by all the men in my village and beyond for my beauty.

Hanzo: It is only fitting then that your outward appearance reflects your wretchedness.

Y/N: You can thank the Elder Gods for that.

/

Hanzo: I should have never come to you for your help.

Y/N: We both wanted Quan Chi's head, no matter the price.

Hanzo: The consequences afterward were far worse than I could have ever imagined.

/

Y/N: You cannot achieve your goal by yourself, and where did that bring you? Right back to me.

Hanzo, desperate: Please, Y/N, my clan has fallen ill with a long-extinct illness that only you can cure.

Y/N: I am sure you already know what sort of boon I will ask of you?

A/N: Don't forget to like this post, share, and repost! 😁😁😁😁😁Stay Weird, my fellow humans.

Playlist while Writing this:

"The Scorpion and the Frog" featuring Marc Senter,Jessica Lowndes, and Terrance Zdunich

"Prick! Goes the Scorpion's Tail" featuring Emilie Autumn

"Babooshka" by Kate Bush

"Zydrate Anatomy" by Terrance Zdunich

"I Can't Decide" by the Scissor Sisters

"Such Horrible Things" by Creature Feature

"Bad Blood" by Creature Feature

"Here There be Witches" by Creature Feature

"Mad Hatter" by Melanie Martinez

"Tag You're It" by Melanie Martinez

"Milk and Cookies" by Melanie Martinez

(for more like this)

Part II

[judgementdaysunshine]

No one else is here

Pairing: Takeda Takahashi x Fem reader

Description: Takeda finds you wounded after an encounter with Ermac during a mission

Terrified screams were the only thing heard in the woods as Ermac held you in the air feeling the air in your body restrict tighter and tighter before being thrown through a tree and hitting another which sent pain head to toe. You tried to get up despite the unbearable pain but you couldn't as a voice yelled out your name which seemed to be getting farther and farther away as your vision grew dimmer and darker but right before everything went to black a voice suddenly brought you back and alert making adrenaline run through you, "It's me, look at me" you could almost laugh in joy seeing Takeda in front of you while slowly lifting you over his shoulders apologizing when he heard your breathless winces and pained groans which made him feel guilty for not running back when he saw you knocking down D'vorah before dealing with ermac thinking that you'd be okay which didn't turn out to be at all. The four were debriefed on the mission outcome with Sonya while you are stitched up by a military medic on the SF base not knowing that the general and teammates could see the guilt ridden expression in his eyes and could feel the fear and anxiety flooding him as he walked down the hall where he finds you shuffling out of the room exhausted and drowsy due to the small amount of pain meds when you were getting stitched and had a bandage put under your eye, he helped you back to your room leading two of you eating in between conversation until you noticed blood soaking through the bandage wrapped around your waist which takeda reached to take off making you jump accidentally and pain hit you while he lightly grabbed you when you started leaning back because of the wave of pure agony that washed over you. "It's just me, there's no one here but us you're safe" you take a deep breath before slowly nodding sitting on your desk chair while he cut the bandage off making you heat flood your face with your arms against the back of the chair covering your upper body as he carefully cleaned your stitches unable to control the goosebumps that formed over your body at the gentle touches of his hands which he noticed but didn't say anything until he lightly pressed his lips to your shoulder after wrapping a new bandage on your waist, you turned your head as he grew closer to you until your lips were softly molded to his with your hands tangled in his hair while his hands ran along your body until one was holding the side of your face and the other running along your back in a calming way as you held each other in a tender embrace followed by another warm kiss before you were in bed tucked in his arms with your heartbeats forming one and skin molded together in a moment of comforting silence and emotional intimacy.

[atlasofthestaars]

What are your rules for requesting MK fanfic scenarios/head cannons?

Hello hello! For rules themselves, I don't really have any except for one, but I do have a few guidelines I'd wish for others to follow when requesting to make it easier for me! Also some disclaimers below!

My one personal rule is that I will not write for d'vorah. Sorry! I just am not a fan and writing for her will not be fun for either of us. That's pretty much it.

OBVIOUSLY, I won't be writing rape, incest, etc. Anything that is taboo I'll not accept, and I'll be expecting that you guys already know those won't fly.

- Please state the character, which iteration (Mk9? MkX? 11? 1?), the prompt, s/o or crush? And gender if wanted!

Note: if you do not state the iteration, I'll most likely go with the iteration I am most comfortable writing with. If not specified crush vs s/o, I will assume it is a crush. And for gender if not specified I will go gender neutral.

I'll be writing requests probably in between chapters of New Era, so they might take a while to fufill! Sorry!

Disclaimers: I am a woman who is into men! So I *can* write x reader for women but I will most likely write it in the same manner as I usually do, so if it feels off thats why. I can also attempt to write male readers if wanted, but that is something I do not have previous experience in.

I only really know Mk9-Mk1! I do have base knowledge of the games before and have watched the movies, but games are the ones I know best :) The order I know best is:

Mk1 -> Mk9 -> Mk11 -> MkX

And yes, I can write nsfw as well LMAO

Feel free to ask any other questions!

[red-red-redness]

❝Red's blog introduction❞ ✧ ೃ༄

Welcome to my lesbian Wonderland where I write whatever tf I want! here are some rules to what I will and won't write <3

POST IS SUBJECT TO CHANGING

WILL WRITE:

dark fics

Yanderes cause you deserve the attention of everyone sweetie

smut

lesbian fics (I'm a lesbian)

lesbian smut

straight fics

straight smut

headkanons/NSFW headkanons!

platonic fics :)

WON'T WRITE:

incest fics

NSFW of underage characters

stuff with abliesm/homophobia/transphobia

MLM fics (I'm a lesbian so that's a big no-no for me to right)

anime/cartoon references (unless given an explanation like a specific power and how it's used! a race and what it does, etc)

D'Vorah (I'm allergic to bug spary and fear bugs)

Kung Jin X Fem!Reader (again, I'm a lesbian and that feels disrespectful, sorry)

MIGHT WRITE:

as a lesbian I can write male!Reader X FEM!characters

Shang Tsung X Reader even tho I don't share my man... I mean, he is gorgeous and all, but he's also mine!

TAGS AND THEIR MEANING:

#Redness yapper : just talking!

#Redness writes : none nsfw fics :)

#Reddened.blusher : smut fics

#Redness reblogs : reblogging stuff

banners, divider, etc. are all made by @cafekitsune check her out with credit!

[angel-of-the-moons]

First off I'm really happy to see someone's still writing for MK11. It feels like everyone's dropped the game for the new one. So thank you. Second I would like to request MK11 Hanzo x fem reader fluff where reader found out she was pregnant and is really worried about telling Hanzo.

MK 11 is near and dear to me because it's what got me back into the franchise back when it first came out. At first I loved D'Vorah but then I got attached to Hanzo and Kuai's dynamics and then when Mileena came back? Ugh! Love!

Blossom

Hanzo x Fem!Reader

TW/CW: A little angst, fluff, pregnancy stuff! (Maybe an implied age gap between Reader and Hanzo but nothing specific, though Reader is definitely over 20)

Divider by @/saradika-graphics

Your nerves were eating themselves alive, feeling frayed at the edges as you plucked the edges of your sleeves in your anxiety.

How were you going to tell him? Ugh!

You could have sworn it was a safe day for you, when you were with him last... week? A few weeks ago? By the Elder Gods, how far were you along? The flimsy pieces of plastic you got at the store when you ventured into town on a "girl's trip" with Sonya couldn't predict that...

Sonya patted your back, the older woman smiling in sympathy, "Hey, I know how you feel. Cassie wasn't planned at all. Trust me, kid."

"I... It's just..." Your voice trembled almost as much as your hands holding the pregnancy test did. "What if he... what if he doesn't want it? After losing his wife and son, I... what if he doesn't want this--want us anymore--because he's afraid?"

"You sound like you already made up your mind about keeping the baby..." Sonya murmured softly.

You nodded, lifting your gaze to meet hers. You were sitting in the bathroom in she and Johnny's hotel suite--they were in Japan for some film shoot--your voices echoed softly off the tile walls and floor.

"I did. Is it... bad that I want this?" You asked her, chewing your bottom lip.

"No, no. no. Listen--" Sonya took the test from your hand carefully and laid it on the counter, before taking your hands in hers. "You're perfectly capable of making a decision like this. And... On the off-chance that Hanzo doesn't want this... Johnny and I will help you out. You deserve that."

"R-Really?" You asked her as your voice began to quiver. "You... You'd do that?"

"Hell yeah I would. You're one of the best operatives we have. A good fighter, great defender of Earthrealm. And... you're going to be a great mom. I'd be a major bitch if I just kicked you out after doing this with you without helping in some way."

"Think you mean General." You sniffled, smiling at her; your eyes misty with emotion. You never expected in your military career that the Sonya Blade would be one of your biggest supporters in this kind of event in your life. But... here you were.

Sonya grinned. "Damn straight. Now... if you need to, think about it before you spring it on him. Rehearse what you have to say before telling him if you gotta, okay?"

"How did... you tell Johnny about..."

"Oh, I threw the pregnancy tests at his big fat head and said "Congrats, you knocked me up, jackass"." She chuckled nostalgically.

"You did?" You gasped.

Sonya turned to you with a grin. "Yep. Shithead started crying right on the spot."

She cuffed you on the shoulder whilst you shared a laugh.

"Go and get a good night's rest, honey. You're gonna need it."

It had been nearly two days since your talk with Sonya. You had rehearsed in your head every night since over and over and over until the wee hours of the morning what Hanzo might say, and what you in turn would say to him.

But imagining the scenarios was enitrely different than putting them into action yourself...

You and Hanzo had been walking through the Fire Gardens, watching the Sakura blossoms shake and fall loose around you in a mix of velvety pink and white. It was beautiful, and a scene you normally would find very relaxing--if it weren't for the heavy iron blanket hanging in the air--the tension was so thick you weren't surprised Hanzo picked up on it.

"Something is bothering you." He said softly, his warm palm squeezing yours as you walked.

"...yeah." You answered truthfully, squeezing back.

Hanzo tugged your hand up to his chest, bringing your slow, leisurely walk to a halt. His deep, thoughtful eyes affixed their gaze to yours, imploring you. "Speak to me, my love. Please."

You felt your heart patter in your ribcage anxiously as his request hung in the air. Long, agonizing minutes stretched on for what felt like hours.

"Hanzo..." You managed to get out, despite your tongue feeling like sandpaper.

"I'm pregnant."

And with those two simple words... it was like the universe around you came to a floundering halt.

"...What?" He whispered, dropping your hand and taking a step back.

The absence of his touch filled you with fear, made you grow cold. Were your fears right? Did Hanzo not want this? You? The baby?

"You're... pregnant?" He whispered, his voice so soft you could just barely hear it over the branches in the trees creaking in the early summer breeze.

You nod, swallowing at the stone lodged in your throat, "Yeah..."

Once more the agonizing silence swallowed you both, the yawning chasm of anxiety etching itself deeper inside of you with every second that ticked by.

As you opened your mouth to speak, Hanzo closed the gap between you, crushing your body against his in a fierce, caging hug. His arms felt like the steel jaws of a bear trap as he held you, nearly squeezing the air from your lungs as he buried his face in your hair.

The silence still stretched on, however this time, you realized, it was not because Hanzo was upset or angry--but because he was crying.

His body trembled only slightly, his muscles straining to hold you without crushing you any more than he already was.

"Hanzo?" You whispered, your hope soaring even just a tiny bit.

"I love you." He croaked, his voice so rough it made you want to cry, "I love you more than life. I lost everything I loved... Quan-Chi turned me into a soulless, undead slave... I never thought I would be so happy again, as long as I lived. And... And then I found you."

He pulled back, one of his hands cupping your cheek; his thumb sweeping away one of the fat tears that tumbled down your cheek. His eyes were glassy and full of his own tears, but he had the warmest smile you'd ever seen on anyone.

"I love you so much, my fire lily. My heart." He rasped, his lips quivering even the slightest bit.

"Have you... decided what you want to--"

"I want to keep the baby, Hanzo." You blurted, your heart pounding and your blood rushing in your ears.

He sighed, his eyes soft and loving as he looked at you. "I... I am not surprised you have already made up your mind. You have always been so sure and confident. It is one of the many reasons why I adore you."

You smiled back, "I... I want this, Hanzo. I want our baby. I want... I want you with us, too." You licked your bottom lip.

"If you want us."

Hanzo responded to you by pulling you close and kissing you until your breath left your body; his tongue twisting and dancing with yours before brushing your lips as he pulled away, leaving you almost dazed and light-headed.

"I would let Kuai Liang freeze me to a block of ice and leave me on a desolate mountain to be eaten by wild animals before I let anything tear the two of you away from me." He said resolutely, his eyes steely and adamant.

Your body sagged with relief--literally--and you found yourself supported by Hanzo's strong embrace, your legs feeling like jelly and nearly giving out beneath you. Hanzo chuckled fondly as he rubbed your back to help soothe you.

Your name left his lips like a reverent prayer--and you lifted your head to look at him, tears now freely falling down your face as you smiled gleefully, "I--I was so scared.... Af-after what happened to you before, I... I was scared..."

"That out of fear for losing the two of you, I would run? Send you away for your safety?" He chuckled, as if the very notion was ridiculously insane.

"Never. It would take armageddon for something as cowardly as that. And maybe not even then."

You sniffed and hiccup, your mind a whirl of emotions as you began to break down once again, letting Hanzo hold you as he soothed you, spoke to you, and said the most romantic things you'd only read about in books.

He was happy. He wanted you and the baby. He was excited about having a family once again.

Hanzo Hasashi would once again get to feel the joy of seeing his child enter the world, getting to hold them; hearing their sweet cries as air filled their lungs.

He would get to be a father--and hopefully husband--once again.

[kusagrasskusa]

Heyyy could i get some d'vorah x female reader hcs??? I love bug wife sm but theres no fanfiction abt her

Ahhh my gosh yes!!!! If I’m gonna be honest D’Vorah is my least favorite character of all Mortal Kombat characters, but that doesn’t mean I dislike her. Actually she’s pretty fucking epic and a cool character to write about. Tbh I’m really REALLY happy with this request since I’m also the type who simps over characters who aren’t popular enough to get a lot of fanfics about them if any XD

So thank you so very much!!!!! I hope this is to your liking! I kinda suck at hc since I alway add story so if I don’t do enough of hcs, lemme know so I can make a part two!!

And also, I’m gonna be posting a really sad request later today… I had to step back from that because it broke my heart 😭 So if ya’ll like Raiden.. stay tuned ;)

This was made by Fezat1 on Deviantart :)

D’Vorah (bug wife) X Female! Reader - Headcannons

So let’s say lovely, beautiful Y/N is um A fugitive

But on her way to escaping her prison, she got hungry and ate some berries out of desperation. Of course she wasn’t as desperate as she was whenever she was trying to escape from a giant fucking web in the middle of Outworld.

But whenever the Queen D’Vorah discovered the girl, my my.. She was so cute! Pulling on the web, crying, begging for dear life 🥰🥰❤️ Why, it made the queen almost not wanna kill her! But instead to savor each drop of blood she tastes because it’s not very often you see someone as cute as this one

Oh but in the end… She couldn’t even do that. Something compelled her to free you, but in return.. You must “stay” for a “little bit” which this sexy bug mama deserved, right?

I feel like D’Vorah wouldn’t be very good at showing expression. Bugs don’t mate for life save for cockroaches and termites, and so her need to stay with you feels more like a need the way food is a need, rather than as love. But of course that’s just the way her bug mind interprets it because whenever a bug bite you and you had a bad reaction, her way expression love was by killing it

I think it’s safe to say you’d never had lice or ticks or anything again. Weird

A lot of people around the world don’t eat bugs or scorpions or anything (me neither cause f that) but you gotta get used to it sometimes. Maybe even road kill or something like that. Idk but whenever you were so disgusted you figured you’d put your culinary skills to the test… Bug wife decided you’re gonna have your own role in the colony. To cook.

D’Vorah would 1000%% use her back things for cuddles. Imagine you guys argue and are avoiding each other, but during bed time, she just like… Slips one of those things around you. Don’t say shit or else she’s taking it away and sleeping with the larva instead.

Tbh, without making this NSFW, I feel like D’Vorah would be SO PROUD to show off her body. She already does all the way anyways and don’t expect her to cover up. Girl knows she got them curves and muscles to show

She would love to play with your curves too! Like trace them with her finger, even if not in a NSFW way, just because she appreciates a feminine body. She’d look at your eyelashes, curves, chest, legs and everything that makes you a woman with so much appreciation.

If your not a curvey or thicc queen, guess what? Your a sticc queen in her eyes, love. Too bad so sad! She’d still be as touchy regardless because you know what? Those features are what makes her yours, and you hers ❤️

She’d be very protective over you…….. unless

If she finds out you’re hanging upside down, slowly being swallowed up by a giant unearthly worm, imagine her being like, “Aww, hehe, this one is not food even if she looks so delicious”

Let Erron Black eye you for literally 2 seconds. You might not even notice but your warrior wife is gonna be by your side, glaring at the gunslinger. Let that self-serving leech talk to you, and I promise it’ll be his last conversation ever (aside from a “I’m sorry”)

She would be so touchy. I mean, the bugs all crawl on each other and stuff so if you don’t like touchy, you’ll have to deal with him.

You use her back things as a carrier sometimes

Kisses with her are Cute.

Imagine you one day just lean down and are like “Mwa!” She just looks up at you with an unchanged face in absolute confusion

And so you’ll tease her with it pretty often. Like just random, jump scare kisses to the cheek or forehead or lips

D’Vorah tries to jump scare kiss you back but her lips don’t know what the fuck they are ding the first like 3839749837 times

or not until you grab her wrist and counter attack kiss her back before her mind can even register what happens

She loves her kisses 🥰

Sleepy time, imagine both her arms around you, one leg on top of you, her head on you, and her other leg on your side. She is the embodiment of a ‘cuddle bug’

“Babe, I’m gonna teach you to say ‘I love you’” “This one does not feel love. But this one feels like it would be too evil to feast upon your flesh and blood” “…you’re getting better at it!!!!!”

I love you is the toughest thing to her. Like her body will physically not form the words. Her brain will not form the words. But guess what? Whenever you say it without getting a response back, she feels so happy you have no idea

Being new to the whole mating for life thing (though she would just call it “long term attraction”) means it’ll be hard for her to understand some relationship normalities. Whenever she threatens to consume you or spit acid at you, you just grab her hand softly and watch as her face changed. How it calms down instantly and her body untended. How her face looks so innocent like a lost puppy.

“Now you shut up,” you say, smiling stupidly knowing you just made her thunderstorm of anger turn into a hurricane

She is cold blooded so lemme tell you.. You being hot under the Outworld sun is PERFECT. Your body is just 100 degrees but imagine that being like how clothes feel after they get out of the dryer to her. She LOVES IT

If you wear soft or puffy clothes, maybe yarn, you become so so soft to her! She might nibble on the wool sometimes but she knows you love how cute she can look

She’ll play with your hair pretty often for a past time

She’ll let you ride on her sometimes- just don’t move too much

[undertale-anomaly20]

Mortal Kombat 10 x reader: Chapter 5

(fan art from a few years ago. still my favorite and this was made by the amazing myharliquinnworld. I'd really like to see more)

3rd P.O.V

The scene cuts to the refugee camp. Quan Chi is now in handcuffs and chains, being escorted by Kenshi and Johnny Cage. They drag him into an open shipping container. "Sit" Kenshi says as Quan Chi is forced down on a chair. Two soldiers cuff his legs together in chains as well "I'm guessing it's not your first time in cuffs. What's your safeword?" he says smirking while Quan Chi gives Johnny a death glare in response and kenshi shakes his head in amusement. Smiling to himself, Johnny exits the container, followed by Kenshi and the soldiers. The doors are slammed shut. The moment they are, a slight smirk comes to his face.　

Over this scene, we hear Sonya speaking "Advise Secretary Blake that Quan Chi is in custody. We'll be moving him to the super-max facility at Fort Charles within the hour" The scene cuts to Johnny and Kenshi walking up to Sonya, who is relaying the orders to one of her soldiers "Yes ma'am" the soldior says as they approach, Sonya turns to face them "You two stand guard. Prisoner transfer will be here in twenty" she says to the both of them "Oh, NOW she trusts me to babysit" joohnny says jokingly Outside of narrowing her eyes at Johnny, Sonya doesn't respond to the bait. She instead puts her communicator to her ear "Cage, report" she says into the communication device" Cassie's voice is heard on the other line "We haven't caught up to D'Vorah. We had her tracked to the Makeba Cliffs, but then her trail went cold" Cassie responded "Damn" sonya replied thinking she was back to square one again before her thoughts were intteruppted by cassie speaking "mom there's something eles you have to know" confused sonya asks her "what is it?" "mileena is alive and with us right now" worried for her daughters saftey she asks "what do you mean she's with you?! why did you save her" "I didn't mom" "if you didn't then who did? "the next words that come from cassie stopped her heart.

"(name) did, mom. She's alive"

The scene switches to behinde some shipping containers. Unseen to the soldiers or refugees, several ninjas creep in and hide behind some crates Sonya is still trying to wrap her head around the fact that a girl who is close to her daughters age, a girl who she saw with her own eyes die in front of her, was alive and still fighting "C-Cassie well talk about this later. is there anything else" Sonya asked "Jacqui thinks D'Vorah's unique physiology may allow us to pinpoint her location. She's retooling her smart-comm to track D'Vorah's pheromones" Cassie replies. The lead ninja holds one hand in the air as he crouches down. His subordinates stop and take cover by him "How long?" Sonya asked "On my command only. Wound. Do not kill" Scorpion told his subordinates "She has to write the code. We're looking at... two hours?" Cassie explained "Sergeant, your team doesn't have two hours. We need her found immediately!" Sonya says frustrated "Sonya!" Johnny jumped in. Sonya turns to look at him. He tilts his head and nods angrily. Sonya sighs and takes a moment to calm down before she resumes talking "Cassie, I appreciate what you're trying to do, but there isn't time. Bring your team back here, we need to re-group and re-deploy" "Yes ma'am" Cassie replies.Sonya hangs up soon followed b a look of confusion and relief "

They're doing their best" Johnny said trying to ease her mind "I know but that's not what I'm concerned about" she said making Johnny raise an eyebrow　

Kenshi looks into the middle distance and - despite his blindness - notices someone approaching "General. We have a visitor" he says making Sonya and Johnny turn to see Hanzo Hasashi approaching them in full ninja garb. she turns to kenshi "You two are friends, right? He tell you he was coming?" she asked "Nothing" he replies Sonya walks up to Hanzo, who bows before her "General" he greets "Master Hasashi. I hadn't received word you were coming" Sonya said warily behind her, several of her soldiers walk closer to the two of them, guns idle in their hands "I will have Quan Chi" Hanzo states "We have things under control. You can--" "He must die" Hanzo inturrupts Sonya "Raiden needs him. Without Quan Chi we can't restore Liu Kand and the other revenants. You'd leave them trapped? Like you were?" Sonya questions him to try and make him see reason "Only Quan Chi concerns me"he replys as he motions to walk past her. Sonya puts a hand on his shoulder. Kenshi pulls out Sento from it's sheath and Johnny walks forward, ready to fight several soldiers surround Hasashi and point their weapons directly at him "Don't do this, Hanzo. I'll put you down" she warns him sternly "Then we are at an impasse" He says then holds up two fingers and calls out a command to attack in Japanese. The Shirai Ryu ninjas charge out from behind cover and engage the soldiers Hanzo bats away Sonya's hand and punches her in the face. He blocks her attacks, but takes a roundhouse kick to the face. He retalitates with a right cross that strikes her across the cheek.

"Quan Chi is mine" They fight. Despite no longer being a wraith, Hanzo is still capable of tapping into his hellish powers, and he brings these to full bear against the General of the Special Forces. Combined with his own fighting skill and prowess, it isn't long before Sonya is overwhelmed and knocked unconscious "I wish you no harm, General Blade" Hanzo says sincerly befr walking off.Two of the Shirai Ryu drag Sonya away. Hanzo walks over to the shipping container holding Quan Chi. His ninjas have successfully restrained the guards on post there. However, Kenshi sneaks up behind Scorpion and unleashes a telekenetic shockwave from Sento, slamming Hasashi into the container doors. Kenshi then levitates him into the air "Call off your men, Hanzo!" Kenshi demands but Hanzo remains calm in spite of his incapacitation "If you value our friendship, you will give me Quan Chi" In response, Kenshi throws Scorpion across the campsite. He smashes hard into the side of a humvee. He looks up to see Kenshi charging at him and throws his chained kunai, which Kenshi slides to evade. As Kenshi rises, Hanzo tackles him, knocking the sword from his grasp. Kenshi pushes him off and they both roll to their feet. "Withdraw. Without Sento you are vulnerable" Hanzo says to his long time friend Johnny Cage takes this moment to tackle the ninja from the side.　

Hanzo pushes Johnny away from him, but the movie star comes back with a backhand. Hanzo evades it, blocks several more blows from Johnny and catches him on the chin with a palm strike. Johnny comes in again with a right hook. Hanzo once again blocks the blow and several more that follow, landing a jump kick that catches Cage in the chest and staggers him backwards. Johnny takes a moment to get back into a fighting stance, and Hanzo follows suit. Johnny tries landing a strike to the kidney this time, but Hanzo intercepts it. Again, Hasashi fends off multiple punches from Cage before grabbing his leg off a failed kick, sweeping the other out from under him. Johnny pounds the ground with a fist in frustration and stands up once more.　

"Just like old times!" Johnny smirks. They fight. Johnny Cage has lost none of his fighting skill over the years, but the youthful agility he possessed in his earlier bout against the ninja has not fared so well. The fight is intense and close, but in the end it is Hanzo Hasashi who proves the victor this time around "Only Quan Chi's death will abate my anger" With Cage down, Scorpion turns back to the shipping container. Kenshi is still down on one knee, but he tries to reason with him saying "Hanzo, no! You've earned great trust for the Shirai Ryu. Do not squander it by murdering a withered sorcerer!" "That withered sorcerer is the architect of my suffering" Hanzo resplied. A ninja grabs Kenshi and restrains him as Hanzo continues toward the container.

(we know what happened and ive already written how hanzo found out about quan-chi so lets skip that scene)　

Quan Chi has been dragged out of the container by two Shirai-Ryu. They throw him to the ground before Hanzo Hasashi. Johnny, Sonya and Kenshi watch all of this from on their knees, restrained by the ninjas who have successfully defeated their forces "Unbind him" Hanzo coommands. One of them undoes the chains on Quan Chi. The sorcerer remains on his knees "Scorpion, we can--" Quan Chi tries to beg but is inturrupted when Hanzo backfists him in the face, knocking him to the ground. "MY NAME IS HANZO HASASHI!!" he yells. He grabs Quan Chi by the scruff of his neck "You killed my wife! My son! And then you burrowed your way into my head! Misdirected my VENGEANCE! COST ME MY ONE CHANCE TO HAVE THEM RESTORED!" he bellowed "Your family... I--" Quan Chi pleads but Scorpion hauls him to his feet, roaring in rage "Quiet, sorcerer! Nothing can help you now!"They fight. At his weakest and without any help forthcoming, Quan Chi suffers the beating of his life. Nothing he can do subsides the rage of Hanzo Hasashi, who relentlessly pounds him again and again and again. The one sided battle ends with Quan Chi facedown in the dirt "At last, you feel my pain" As Quan Chi struggles to rise, Hanzo kicks him in the face, knocking him on his back Hanzo slams Quan Chi's head into the ground and then punches him some more "Scorpion, stop!" Sonya yells to him. A portal opens before them. Hanzo looks up and spots D'Vorah approaching "Quan Chi!" she calls out Hanzo rushes her with his sword at the ready. D'Vorah parries his blows with her stingers. He manages to cut off one of them with his sword, but as he tries an overhead chop, she stabs him in the chest with the other stinger, bringing him down to one knee. D'Vorah rushes to Quan Chi's side "Amulet..." he whispers D'Vorah pulls it out, but a chained kunai impales Quan Chi through the chest before he can take it "GET OVER HERE!" Hanzo says in his signiturar voice.

The sorcerer is dragged back to Hanzo's side "No!" D'vorah calls out Hanzo yanks Quan Chi by the chain imbedded in him to a seated position. He's still barely alive though, and holds his hands towards the amulet, chanting a dark spell in a Netherrealm tongue. In slow motion, D'Vorah throws the amulet to his outstretched arms, while Hanzo brings his ninjato down towards his neck just before the blade cuts into him, Quan Chi finishes the chant and grabs the amulet. An instant later, his head is sliced clean off his shoulders "Blood for blood. Your debt is paid" he says then he throws down the headless corpse. Shinnok's Amulet rolls to a stop on the ground... and erupts with dark purple energy and hellish fire. Shinnok's form is faintly visible within the energies "Oh shit" Johnny says reliazing how screwed they are Sonya turns to the ninjas "Free us! Now!" They realise the situation has gone to hell and comply. The amulet finally stops dispelling energy, and it's owner picks it off the ground in triumph "Shinnok" D'vorah greets her master.Behind Shinnok, Scorpion roars in anger and swings his ninjato at him. The fallen Elder God turns around and blasts him with the amulet's magic, knocking him unconscious. Johnny, Sonya, Kenshi and the Shirai-Ryu ninjas charge at him next, and all receive the same treatment "How small they are" he says with no emotion D'Vorah walks up to him and bows "This One greets Lord Shinnok" she says "Quan Chi chose his servants well. He was wise to restore me in Earthrealm, behind their defences "Shinnok compliments "Quan Chi deceived them. Allowed himself to be captured. He knew they would bring him here" D'vorah said as they look toward the sorcerer's dead body "A pity he did not live to see his work completed" Shinnok says nonchalantly Johnny starts to wake up, groaning as he does so Shinnok turns to him "There will be no surprises from you, Mister Cage" he says then turns to D'Vorah "Bring him" Another portal opens, bringing forth the revenants Liu Kang, Kung Lao, Kitana, Sindel and Smoke they stop before Shinnok and bow to him "Praise be to Lord Shinnok" said Lui Kang "Let us be on our way" "There is an Earthrealm force in Netherrealm" Lui Kang stated "I am aware. They will be neutralised" Shinnok said as he and his followers leave through a portal.

Once it closes, Sonya begins to awaken (name) arrives through her fire portal and watches as Sonya tries too get up on her own "Sonya!" she exclaims as she rushes to her sideTeam S-F arrive through a portal of their own "Oh, shit!" Cassie say as she rushes over to Sonya, while Kung Jin rushes to Scorpion and Takeda and Jacqui run to Kenshi. Sonya can't even process what's going on as her mind zones in and out "Mom!" Cassie cries out as she takes Sonya by the shoulders "Where's Dad?" "Shinnok..." Sonya whispered "Sonya where'd they go?" (name) asked worried for her friends saftey Sonya passes out again "Mom/SONYA?!" Cassie and (name) call out together. It is Hanzo Hasashi who answers them looking ashamed at his "Your father... Shinnok's prisoner... at the Sky Temple"

[gloomiebearwritings]

Hey!

Could I get some D'vorah x female reader HCs? (Also sorry for bothering you)

I.. don't have the energy to fully explain anymore. Please be careful and read the pinned post I have- and I corrected an oversight on the mini view header to match the pinned post, stating that MK is currently on hold.

[geminiimagines]

Outworld krew + with an S/O in college

Kotal Kahn 

Kotal was educated by his mother and father. He doesn't really get the concept of college or, a parent sending their child away for an education. Nevertheless, he’s very supportive during your time in school. If Kotal sees your stressing he makes you take a break and run you a bath for you. If you’re struggling in a subject he’ll try his best to help. Just don’t ask him for math help, he’s actually quite terrible at math. 

Mileena 

She doesn't see why college is so important. You are living with one with the most powerful women in Outworld. The only education she received was from her ‘’father’’. She’s not a big help, and will often distract you from your school work. Once you explain to her how important it is to you Mileena stops trying to distract you. The moment she sees you stressing over an assignment, she’ll convince you to spar with her just to get your mind off it for a little while. Mileena will also have a nice chat with your teachers  and may nor not threaten them if they don’t lay off all the work they give you 

Reptile (Syzoth) 

Has no notion of school. School, in general, was never thing back in Zaterra. You explain that school is required for children back in Earthrealm he’s horrified. You have to send your child away to a building where they are forced to sit down for eight hours a day for seven days a week, and you have two days off?? And then after that you have to go to a bigger school that cost money? You have to reassure him that it wasn’t that bad. Reptile doesn't really understand the college thing, but he tries. He suggests you take your school work outside. It’s no fun to stay inside on such a pretty day! With all his age and wisdom he’ll try to help with any questions you have, but don’t expect a lot from him. Reptile is supportive and will gladly be a listening ear if just need to complain about school. 

Ermac 

With so many souls,  he has several academics tucked away somewhere. Ermac is like your own personally encyclopedia. He won’t hesitate to help if you need it. Just don’t expect him to give you the answer, you have to figure it out for yourself. If you’re struggling with your school work he’ll take you away from it. He’ll make tea for you and read from one of your favorites books, or just talk about something dumb. Ermac will encourage you to do your best in school. 

Erron Black 

He had some basic schooling back in Texas. He never thought about college, Erron never thought it to be important. He can read, write, and is pretty good with math. Once he learns you’re in college working on your degree he’s supportive of you. If he’s still in the Black Dragon Erron will pay for everything, books, supplies, even a bit of your tuition. Only the best for his baby girl/boy. If he’s not in the Black Dragon, he’ll stay for a bit of. If you’re stressing about work he’ll take you away from and take you on a walk for a ride on one his horses (of course he has horses you really think a cowboy like him is not going to have horses). 

D’Vorah 

Like the others, she doesn't really understand the concept of college. But she is extremely intelligent. She knows that school is important to you, and wants you to do well. D’Vorah will praise your intelligence and makes sure you’re doing well school. If you’re getting stressed she pampers you making sure all your stress will melt away. Unforently since she is the first minister she’s busy most of the time, so if you’re having trouble with a subject she’ll have the best tutors on call to help you. 

Skarlet 

Like Mileena, she doesn't really understand why you work so hard. The only education she’s had was from her father. After explaining why need to go college she kind of understands but doesn't like it. Skarlet thinks it’s unfair that you have to pay for pretty much everything. She offers to pay for most of it. Skarlet is knowledge in a lot of subjects, don’t hesitate to ask her for help. If you’re getting frustrated she’ll come over and start massaging you making your troubles melt away. 

Jade 

Jade is very supportive of you during your college years. She’s your own personal cheerleader. As Kitana’s best friend she knows the value of a good education and frequently encourages you to do your best. When she has time she’ll you study. If you get stressed Jade suggested that you walk away for a bit and do something else. She’ll make you tea and sit with you for a while 

Kitana 

As princess, she received lost os education and knows it can be stressful. If she’s not busy Kitana will help you study, even if not familiar with the subject. She loves it when you share obscure facts about Earthrealm. The more she learns about Earthrealm the more she gets to know you. Kitana will become your tutor if need be, but if not she will hire the best ones around to help in whatever subject you need help. If she sees you struggling you and her will take brakes and go walking in the gardens for a while and talk about something that isn’t related to school. 

[inactivewattpadauthor]

D'vorah x Reader: Roomates

"Shit." You tiredly mumbled as you dropped your keys, trying to unlock your front door. Finally, free from your long, draining shift, you enter your small house. Being greeted by the cozy scent and the carpet underneath your feet, you took a deep breath, finally eager to relax.

However, you must do something important: go eat. You're hungry.

Flicking on the switch to the dim light of the dining room connected to the small kitchen, you walked to the refrigerator to choose out your dinner.

Not having the energy to even use the microwave, you hummed in satisfaction as your eyes laid eyes on a simple paper bowl covered in foil at the top.

Grabbing the bowl, as well as a fork, you sat down at the dining table, slowly taking the foil off. Nothing as nice as a fresh sala-

"WHAT IN THE CONSULTATION OF THE ELDER GODS?!"

You immediately flipped your bowl of salad over as you saw something vile on it.... large maggots. Staring at them for a moment, trying to gather all your senses back, you yelled out:

"D'VORAHH!"

You heard a door open and the sound of scurrying that drifted close to your location. Standing there, angry and disgusted, hands on your hips, you waited for the culprit to show itself.

And there she was.

"Yes, Y/n?" The humanoid insect spoke to you with a noticeable annoyed tone due to your yelling.

Your eye twitched at the audacity for her to have that type of tone towards you, especially with what you just called her for.

"D'Vorah, tell me why your.... kids, or whatever the hell- What are they doing in MY food?! I told you to keep them outside."

D'Vorah blinked at you, seemingly not caring too much about your issue. "Did you consider your food has maybe spoiled?"

Giving yourself a face palm, you responded. "That was leftovers from just two days ago. Salad doesn't go bad that fast in a refrigerator!"

"This one doesn't know what to tell you then." She says and stands cross armed, not saying anything else.

"That one should've been left in that trap I found her in." You bickered to her.

"This one is not affected by your words."  D'vorah scoffed.

"Whatever- Just keep your critters outside, or that's where you'll be staying." You threatened.

"This one's natural habitat is outdoors. Your threat is nothing."

"Oh, then why don't you leave then if you're going to be perfectly fine out there. Especially if there's a lottt of people from different realms that want you dead for whatever reason."

(Insert scenes where D'Vorah killed Mileena/Scorpion/Baraka)

D'Vorah hisses at you in response before getting on all fours and scurry back to the room you gave her.

"That's what I thought."

Don't be bewildered, D'Vorah could absolutely floor you and use your body as a nest for her kind, but she couldn't kill a decent being that rescued her before she got caught (this is probably inaccurate).

And it's not like you're any sort of threat to her, as long as you don't have the Raid spray in your hand.

You allowed her to live under your roof, and it definitely hasn't been 100% pleasant to have a literal bug lady as a roommate.

For example, you tried teaching her chores. You know how flies will spit on their hands to clean them? Never let D'Vorah do the dishes... but hey, she can fly and dust the places you can't reach.

Also, there was once a time, when you weren't home, someone broke in and tried stealing your TV or something. D'Vorah chased them right out.

She definitely is some quirky roommate anyone could end up with, but you're safe... as long as she doesn't leave poison somewhere.

[odditycircus-2002]

MK12 young Scorpion x young Quan Chi’s daughter S/O SFW/NSFW! Young Scorpion might try to kill young S/O after learning the truth about Quan Chi, forcing Older Him to stop him every time. Younger S/O, who was so scared, feels guilt-ridden after learning, offers her life as penance, which makes older versions of Hanzo and S/O intervene more and drag them away. Both young versions awkwardly spend time, though S/O still is kind, sweet, and helps young Scorpion in battle.

A/N: Now, this is neat! However, given what I have written, I won't strictly follow those events and the timeline. Also, I won't do the life in penance for the Past version of Y/N given what I have written, but I hope what I have written is just as good.

Old vs New

(I do not own the last gif)

It was already greatly unprecedented, to say the least, when Time itself was disrupted resulting in the revival of the Cyber Lin Kuei. Yet, that didn't mean you expected to find your past self wandering around the Fire Gardens!

She was, understandably, frightened when she was suddenly surrounded by Shirai Ryu ninjas, demanding she's impersonating their Grandmaster's wife. Fortunately, you arrived to defuse the situation before it could escalate, which only further bewildered your younger self. So, after assuring your clan that you will handle this, and tasking them with informing Hanzo when he returns, you escorted her back to your home

First, she expressed her excitement to see the Fire Gardens, remarking on the vibrant leaves that don't burn upon touch, very much unlike the Netherrealm's flora, which had only barren trees with tormented faces on them. Then, after getting her back on track, she explained to you that she just watched Kung Lao defeating her father and Shang Tsung. You reluctantly inquire if Quan-chi also accompanied her when she was transported to the Fire Gardens. It did not relieve you to hear that she didn't know.

Your younger self then inquires about where she is and if she heard the other ninjas right, that you're married to the Grandmaster. You reply that it's a long story and go to prepare some tea for both of you as you gesture for your other self to take a seat. You recall how Scorpion, or Hanzo, was set free of Quan-chi's magic and brought back to life thanks to Raiden; how you would often make trips to check up on him afterward; how you began to fall for Earthrealm and Hanzo; how much you've come to love your new home.

Your past self was taken aback by all the new information but also filled with a yearning for something she had no words for. She then asked the question you dreaded coming from her lips.

"Where is father in your future?"

Fortunately, before you could stutter out an answer, that's when Hanzo slid open the doors. Your husband is momentarily frozen in place at the sight of the two of you but quickly recovers when you throw your arms around him. Your past self watches you fretting over Hanzo's injuries and how lovingly your husband acts with you. The new yearning in her heart that you planted grew with each second she watched you interact until it started to twist and strangle her heart. You were just so... happy.

Yet, that happiness ends when addressing the elephant in the room, Quan-chi. You were the one to break it to your past self that Quan-chi is dead. Your past self is, understandably, saddened at the news. Yet, Hanzo tries to redirect her sorrow by telling her that Quan-chi tried to have you murdered and that you renounced him. Before revealing that he's the one that killed her father. You reprimanded Hanzo for his bluntness, but he justified that Quan-chi, a monster that practically took everything from him, including you, didn’t deserve anyone’s pity.

You stopped your husband from speaking since what you just told your past self was already enough to flip her worldview upside down. It was visibly obvious that your past self was reeling from the news of her father's betrayal and death. She was already trying to process how she didn't feel that disheartened at the news of her master's death and then feeling bad for that. But then to know her own father thought of her as disposable, despite her being faithful for so many years.

Your past self is then thrown in greater emotional disarray when later learning from Scorpion himself that Quan-chi is the reason for his clan and family's deaths. Now, the wraith she has begun to think of as a friend wants her and her future self dead. Scorpion is also disgusted with his future self for replacing their clan with pretenders and their wife with her killer's spawn.

Before either you or Scorpion could intervene, your past self steps forward from behind you to make her apology. Your past self knows that Scorpion has the right to be furious after everything he's been through since he told her about his clan and family in the first place. She sincerely apologizes for not knowing what miseries Quan-chi has caused him and acknowledges that her father is a monster.

Yet, caught up in his rage, Scorpion heeded none of her words, with the last straw being your past self bringing up the new Shirai Ryu flourishing like the Fire Gardens. Scorpion proclaimed You and your younger self to be deceitful demons, then lashes out at her. Hanzo is the first to react, using his respective kunai and chains to grapple your past self out of the way.

But she didn't dodge it unscathed as Scorpion's kunai left a deep cut in her bicep, which then instantly manifested on the same spot, accompanied by a burst of pain. However, the new scar on you appeared to have long since healed.

Your husband's expression became panicked at the implications of your new scar. You assured Hanzo that a cut wouldn't kill you and that you had bigger problems at hand. You fight Scorpion, tasking Hanzo with keeping your past self alive. As Hanzo goes to provide first aid to your past counterpart, you approach Scorpion.

"You have always struggled to let go of your rage, but it can be done." With one hand holding his iconic kunai, the wraith before you move into a fighting stance, muscles tense and ready to spring at a moment's notice. On the contrary, you stood poised but no less ready, with practiced fingers flexed above your shamisen's strings. "Enough of your lies, Devilspawn! I know you used your sorcery to corrupt me in the future!" "So what, you rather believe a Titan that doesn't have your best interest in mind?" You retorted. Rather than reply, Scorpion then springs into action.

Despite having previously been spared with your past self, Scorpion wasn't prepared for how formidable a fighter you truly become. You had gotten stronger over the years, but even then, you held back your full strength to not kill the Wraith. You succeeded, leaving Scorpion on the ground, beaten and bruised but still alive.

You stood over the Spectre, not to finish him, but to offer a hand up. Scorpion is initially understandably skeptical, questioning why a demon would offer him mercy. You replied because this demon loves him, past and present. Scorpion hesitates to take your hand, but seeing your kind expression makes him finally take the offered hand.

Yet that kind expression is soon replaced with one Scorpion assumes he must’ve worn when learning of Harumi’s murder. Devastated wouldn’t begin to describe the emotional maelstrom raging within you after D’Vorah impaled your husband with her poisonous pincers. You ripped Hanzo out of D'Vorah's hold before sending her careening into a cliffside with a burst of energy from you. With the immediate threat out of the way, you attempt to use your magic to extract the poison from Hanzo's body, dismayed to find that his body has already absorbed too much of the Kytinn's potent poison.

Yet, as you held your dying husband in your arms, assuring him that you could save him, D'vorah took the opportunity to try and strike you again behind your back. Only for Scorpion to use his katana to slice off all of D'vorah's pincers. In retaliation, D'vorah tries to send a swarm of her children to devour Scorpion, who then burns them all with hellfire. D'vorah then tries to make her escape, only for your younger self to use her shamisen to bind the Kytinn with chains made of bone before opening a portal under her. D'Vorah could only hiss and scream as shadowy tendrils engulfed her before dragging her to the lower parts of the Netherrealm to be torn to shreds by monsters that make her a mere insect by comparison.

With the treacherous Kytinn taken care of, your younger self and Scorpion sit beside you, as Hanzo struggles to speak with his last few breaths. In your centuries of life, you never had anything to look forward to besides inevitable death so, You begged Hanzo to not leave, as he's the one who finally helped you live. The Shirai Ryu's Grandmaster to continue living then, for the sake of your new home. Hanzo then addresses Scorpion, affirming that the new Shirai Ryu are worthy before dying in your arms.

You let out a choked sob as tears freely stream down your face. You then shrieked into the Netherrealm's red skies loud enough to leave Kharon, whose a few dozen meters away in his hut, to pass out instantly. Scorpion would've gone deaf if it weren't for your younger self temporarily taking hers and his hearing away. The wraith didn't question it when she led him a few meters away from you when you transformed into your demonic form while still shrieking into the sky. As if you were a dragon, you breathed a torrent of fire into the shore before you, burning debris into ashes, turning the black sand into glass, and boiling the blood that lapped at the beach. All the while, you cry tears of lava from all four of your eyes.

After a few minutes of unleashing your grief, you finally calmed down enough to transform into your humanoid form. Your eyes were bloodshot, and your throat hoarse, but a determined fire still burned within your soul to carry out Hanzo's will and stop Kronika. You put on a strong face as you rallied the Shirai Ryu to fight beside Raiden's forces to protect Earthrealm and make it so Grandmaster Hasashi did not die in vain.

Later on, after setting sail to Kronika's keep on the Sea of Blood, your younger self would take Scorpion aside to speak to him. She begins to apologize again for everything, but the Wraith cuts her off. He acknowledges that he knows she is remorseful, as your raw grief showed him how much their future self meant to each other. Your younger self brings up what Scorpion claims is valid since You and Hanzo were so happy with each other just hours earlier, and no sorcery could truly replicate what those two had.

Scorpion lets out a heavy sigh as he admits to your younger self that she's nothing like Quan-chi. He states that she wasn't born guilty of Quan-chi's crimes, but it will take a long time for him to completely dissociate her from Quan-chi. She gives a look of understanding before reminding him that he'll always have a friend in her, perhaps more. She then stumbles over her words as she rushes to correct herself, saying she doesn't expect Scorpion to marry her soon. Which gets a light huff of amusement from Scorpion, which is barely audible.

During the battle for Kronika's Keep, her armies would have to contend with two rampaging demons, with Scorpion riding one of them into battle. During this, Scorpion goes out of his way to protect you and your past self, not wanting to see any of you seriously harmed. You made his life less of a living hell in his present and future, and he will NOT let Kronika, the Netherrealm, or ANYONE retake either of those again.

Playlist While Writing This:

"The Path to Isolation" feat Casey Lee Williams by Jeff Williams

"Waiting For Love" By Avicii

"My Immortal" By Evanescence

"Wake Me up" By Avicii

"Bloody Mary" By Lady Gaga

[fandomwrightingontheside]

Quan Chi x Reader x Shinnok

Minors DNI- NSFW In this!

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Current list of fics in the work for those who are interested!

D'Vorah, Havik, Kollecter, Jealous Shinnok+ Quan Chi (Request), & Lovesick Quan Chi (Request)

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You are sneaking into Raiden's sky temple, down into the Jensei chamber. You're just trying to get him or what's left of him. For a god that you know deep down doesn't feel love or anything close to affection. Yet you made your choice when his head was dropped in the Netherrealm. You unbind him, his cold body limp against you, and carry it over your shoulder. You're shocked Raiden hasn't come for you for sneaking into his temple. You make it through the temple without issues and can reach the Netherrealm. You sigh as you feel the warmth of the Netherrealm hit your skin. Your eyes land on Liu Kang and Kitana, the 'new' rulers of the Netherrealm. You know that they worship Shinnok's head in their bone temple. But you hope you can convince them to let you have his head. You want to reattach it to his body. As you approach, Liu Kang watches how you hold Shinnok's headless body in your arms.

Kitana glances at Shinnok's head on their alter before she reflects at you. "If I can reattach his head, your god can keep fighting Raiden," you explain to them. Liu Kang furrows his brows at that and shakes his head. "The God of Thunder will slaughter you without mercy!" Liu Kang spats. Kitana walks past him and grabs the head, inspecting the stump before looking back at you. "He will continue fighting as long as Raiden breathes," Kitana said as she walked closer to you. She holds the head out, and you gently put his body to the ground. You take the head and his body, finding a space for the fallen god to rest after what is going to happen.

You can feel Shinnok's eyes watching you as you move swiftly. You've done this before. You've resurrected Quan Chi, so just reattaching the head of a god to his rightful body should be easy. You keep telling yourself as you find an old medical room Quan Chi would use to do experiments with Shang Tsung. You delicately place his head down on the table as you get his body onto the bed. You glance at the god again as you look through the equipment and find all you need. The way his cold eyes bore into your being makes you uneasy as you look around and see that he had a vat for bodies and one full of blood. You get everything set up and roll your sleeves up. You give the god the best reassuring look you can as you gently pick his head up once more and bring it to his body as you begin the slow and tedious work of reattaching his head. The amount of small slices and nicks you have to take to make sure he'll have proper blood flow is upsetting, along with the looks he gives you even when you give him warnings. He seems annoyed that you speak to him occasionally as you work. You can't deal with the silence. Usually, you'd have Quan Chi to talk to as you work on things, but he's off doing god knows what.

It's exhausting work, but once it's all reattached, you sew his skin together, seeing how angry the flesh is as you do so. Are you surprised he hasn't attacked or killed you yet? Yes, very much so. You examine your handy work, seeing how this will scar nicely. You give him space as you wash his blood off of your hands. When you hear nothing from him, you see him sitting up fully as he stretches his fingers and legs; he is stiff. After you've dried off your hands, you move to bring his something to drink. His throat must be dry and scratchy after everything. When you present the glass of water to him, he takes it without a thank you or a single word. You watch his stitches, ready to jump to action if they burst open. When he finishes the glass of water, and you go for more, he turns his head away from you, refusing to drink anything else. "Why are you helping me?" He demands softly. You try not to gulp as you lean on your heels and think of how to answer him. It takes a moment for the words to come. "If I'm being honest," You start, "I always had an appreciation for what you are capable of and figured you'd rather not be a trophy for the 'new Netherralm king and queen,'" you say using finger quotes when referring to the king and queen. "Besides, I resurrected Quan Chi, so I figured that reattaching a head to a body couldn't be too difficult," you add as you grin at him like some fucked up ray of sunshine. It seems to have the effect you wanted because the corners of the god's lips twitched up for a split moment.

"Are you some fool that believes if you help me, you'd survive if I returned?" Shinnok finally asked. The question didn't seem malicious, but the god might be lying to you.

"Oh no, I thought I'd be dead already instead of having this conversation, Lord Shinnok," You tell him truthfully. That does get his lips to lift slightly, showing the god's pearly whites. He seems pleased you used the proper terminology when addressing him. His body twists to look at you better, eyes trailing up your frame. How and why do you smile so sweetly at him when he could quickly kill you with little effort? This question is turning his gears. "Then how will you deal with me now?" He says lowly. He wants you to slip up. He's curious about how you'd act and if you can go against him without fear.

"I didn't think I'd survive this long, my lord. Raiden didn't even find me when I stole your body from the Jensei," you shrug lightly as you move to clean the area up. Shinnok looks around the room slowly. His hand hovers over his stitched-up skin where the deep laceration was before you brought him here. He takes in his surroundings, and his mind races as he realizes you went to great lengths to help him. Then it hits him. You knew this could be the last day or week of your life. You were a willing participant in giving your life for him? Shinnok sits, unmoving, as his mind works in circles as you clean up. He needs more information. "May I clean your stitches? Dried blood will stick and pull on them painfully," you ask softly. It's so timid. Shinnok waves his hand for you to come and do as you must.

You move in closer and move his chin softly as you place a warm rag against his stitches to loosen dried blood. Your eyes watch his throat as you delicately clean your handy work. The warmth of your hands on his face and jaw is surprisingly pleasant to the god, and his eyes close as your thumb moves under his chin to adjust his head so you can have more access to clean. You move and hold him as if he's made of fragile glass. As if he hasn't done his fair share of evil things and murdered people left and right. Shinnok leans into your palm, moving his hand to cover yours. He looks you in the eye, a low grumble erupting from the bottom of his chest. His teeth come out before his tongue trails along the tops, eyes lidding as he takes in how you smile warmly at him as if you are unfazed and unthreatened by him. Shinnok didn't expect the warmth from the gentle touch of your thumb moving on its own accord. Your eyes stay locked on his stitches and the dried blood. You merely glance at him when he moves, watching his reactions for discomfort or pain.

As soon as he's thoroughly cleaned, he seems to regain some colour, the dried blood washed from his pale flesh and armour. His hand goes up to cup yours that had been supporting his neck, rubbing relaxing circles into the stiff and tense muscles. The god is confused. It would help if you weren't smiling, touching him, being near him. Shinnok slowly reaches down his hands towards where his amulet should be, only to find it gone. You give him a soft but apologetic look.

"Raiden wears your amulet like some kind of prize," you admit to him. The god sits straighter. You don't move from where you are; your hands slowly move to where his neck and shoulders meet as you massage the stiffness, hoping he won't stress the stitches. When a huff leaves him, your thumbs press deeper to release any stiffness holding on to the pale god. Shinnok almost melts as he feels his stiff muscles being worked on. He doesn't show this weakness. The god frowns at the realization that you are showing him more attention than needed, not that he's complaining, however. His large hand wraps around your smaller wrist as he stills your hands. "Am I entertaining you enough?" He spats lightly. Shinnok doesn't release you and inspects every detail on your skin.

"Apologies, my lord," you say softly as your fingers stop soothing his muscles. You move to pull away from him, thinking he's giving you this one tiny pit of mercy for giving him his autonomy back. Shinnok would not have the common courtesy or respect you are showing him now. Then again, you aren't trying to gain anything from what he can see. So why bother being so tender with him? There's no catch or reason behind it. Your warmth slips away from him and his hold as you give him space again. You don't seem concerned about him retaliating or escaping. You even leave yourself open to attacks when you turn away from him to clean up the tools you used to put him back together. Something inside the god roils, and he becomes impatient with himself when he doesn't have the proper words for how this experience is confusing.

As you putter about the room cleaning and occasionally offering him something or anything to drink or eat. Shinnok takes note of this kindness before he becomes angry. "Why do you offer me things? Why do you try to cater to me if I will kill you once my strength returns?!" The god demands loudly.

"Because I know that's a part of life. You live and then die, so why not just accept it when it comes for you instead of fighting it," you shrug as you give him a sad little smile. The words seem heavy for the god as he watches you move back to him. You know his eyes are on your form. You turn your back to him as you straighten yourself and move one of the heavy curtains to look out at the red sky of the Netherrealm. For a second, he wonders if you're stalling.

"Do I strike fear in you, Mortal," his voice is raspy when he finally moves to stand beside you, though his gaze isn't on the outside world; no, the god's eyes watch and scrutinize each feature. Your soft profile as your brows furrow at the darkest area of the Netherrealm. His interest in your words piques his curiosity.

"No, Lord Shinnok, you do not," you admit as you face him fully. There's a minute change in his expression. He doesn't show this. But his head moves just a tad. That little change isn't hidden from your gaze; you move just an inch. You sigh as you look back out the window. It was this or watched Raiden become a tyrant of a guardian of Eathrealm. Your smile fades to a frown as you ponder what Raiden has done since cleansing the Jensei. The memories of his booming voice and electrical fingers snapping a warrior's neck with barely any resistance flash in your mind.

Shinnok takes a half step closer as he eyes the way the red light casts shadows on the smooth plane of your face, highlighting your bone structure. "Raiden has become a monster. I'd rather die by death's hands than a tyrant like him," you say softly as your eyes meet Shinnok's for a split moment before your eyes return to the dulling light outside. It's only mid-day. Something settles deep in the god's heart and twists at his soul. That sweet smile is gone, replaced by a sorrowful, longing look.

You take a deep breath as you force a warm smile his way, "Don't worry about it, Lord Shinnok. You should be more preoccupied with recovering your strength," you say softly to him as you pat the side of his arm, hoping you haven't crossed a line with him. You move back to the doorway before you feel something cool wrap around the top of your shoulder. Your head slowly tilts back to look at him as if expecting him to attack. Nothing happens as he lowers himself to be inches away from your face.

His thumb and finger gently touched where a couple of scars were visible from the deep cut you had endured at some point. His voice is barely above a whisper, "A healer...Not a fighter...With those gentle fingers and voice, no wonder..." he trails off as the realizations flow through him. Everything was finally coming into perspective. Every gentle touch you had placed on him after you decided to try and give him another chance at vengeance. The fact your fingers worked quickly but calmly around each stitch. The way his anger rolls over you. How your smile never withers or fades with his attempts at scaring you. The lack of fear. He understood everything in an instant. You aren't afraid to die. He didn't even think to pry into your mind to pull those thoughts up. But now he feels he has the missing piece—the reason behind you doing this for him.

It's your genuine belief he'll kill you; even after risking both Raiden's rage and the revenant's rage, you'd been expecting him to repay your kindness with death. Your skin burns against the tips of the god's cool fingerprints. The touch is gentle. "Did Quan Chi send you?" He asks.

You laugh before you look at him dead in the eyes, "Quan Chi is off doing god knows what, my Lord. This was all my choice. He doesn't know I chose to do this at all. I wanted to wait until he was gone, a messed up little surprise for him," you say with a soft chuckle leaving your throat. He didn't miss that glint in your eyes when you said the word surprise. His sharp canines showed when you talked. He didn't move from his position behind you. As you turn to look at him, Shinnok doesn't see malice or hatred in your eyes. They're soft. You gently push his chest, telling him silently you need room, but you don't remove his hand. Instead, your hands cover him, and your eyes linger there, admiring the size difference for a few seconds longer.

You feel him exhale on the top of your head before he finally pulls away from your body, allowing you the space you need not to feel crowded. After all, how long had it been since he could breathe on his own? As he goes to speak, the door opens. Quan Chi enters, looking a bit worse for wear. Your blood goes cold at the sight. "Y/n." The one word the sorcerer had left was enough for you to panic. You had lost all words. You quickly move to help Quan Chi sit somewhere as you quickly begin patching him up, giving him hell for letting himself get banged up. He listens and keeps his head down for you as he hears your annoyed words. You give him a light swat to the back of his head, and he groans in pain as you keep working on fixing him up. Quan Chi gives you a pointed stare as he snarls lowly at you.

"Stop squirming, or you'll sew your lips shut," you threaten him. It's an empty threat, and Quan Chi knows it. It's not a threat; if it did, he'd shut his lips tighter for a challenge. But he does behave after that. You're very much a mother hen towards him with how he has no self-preservation in him whatsoever.

"For someone who claims to be a powerful Sorcerer and an even stronger mastermind, you seem to have little to no self-preservation whatsoever," You snap at him as you bind a wound on his arm tightly, earning you a hiss of discomfort. You give him a look that says, 'Sorry.' Even if you were upset at him, you were still nice to him. "Honestly, you're a handful, Quan Chi," you say as you finish patching him up. You watch him before gesturing to look behind him with a slight nod, earning you a confused sound from Quan Chi. As he twists to look behind him, the sound dies on his lips as his eyes widen. He stands quickly and takes a step away. You follow him up to sit beside him as Quan Chi watches him, and Shinnok does nothing but return the stare. You stand next to Quan Chi and clear your throat, pulling him from his staring as if telling him to greet his god correctly.

"Welcome back, My Lord. I see (Y/n) has brought you back to us," He says politely before his eyes flash down at you, taking you in before adding, "My gratitude, (Y/n) for completing such an important task." As if he was the one who asked for it. You smile at him as you roll your eyes at him.

"Any time," is all you say before a sound is made behind the two. They both twist to see Shinnok, seated as elegantly as ever, watching his subjects, "Are you sure there is nothing I can get you, Lord Shinnok?" You ask again gently, even though he refused the last time you offered him something. Quan Chi gives him a bewildered and incredulous look. He can't believe you're speaking like that towards the god and are unphased by him. "I believe you already served your purpose by reviving me, you insolent child," he snaps at you harshly as his teeth bare, clearly not intending to take you up on that offer. You softly chuckle as you smile brightly at his response. His eyes are fixated on the curve of your lips and the shine in your eye when your soft lips quirk. He hates how delicate they look. Shinnok hated how nice his name sounded coming from them, even if he spat it and growled.

"Whatever you'd prefer," You tell him before leaving the room. You turn just before you leave to call out to him again, "Just let me know if you need anything," then go before hearing a retort from the god. Quan Chi immediately snickers once you're gone, leaving the god with him. "They are a ray of sunshine," Quan Chi says sarcastically as he sees the stitches you left on Shinnok's throat. They are nicely done and appear to hold his pale skin together expertly. "Are they foolish or just reckless?" The god asks almost sarcastically how someone can have no fear.

Quan Chi grins, "Somewhere in between, they are too nice for their good," Quan Chi comments, knowing you took a heavy risk doing that alone, for the god known to tear people to pieces without much effort. Yet somehow, you have come out without any injuries or being killed. "They stopped fearing death because of something Raiden did; they don't like to speak about it," Quan Chi comments while explaining how he met you. You had wanted to help Raiden by trying to control revenants by resurrecting him. When Raiden discovered what you did, you tried convincing Quan Chi to manage them. He grew enraged and almost killed you with his powers. There wasn't that same kind of understanding, Raiden—just an angry tyrant who saw you as a traitor. Quan Chi had barely escaped when you struggled to get through the same portal. That scar on your cheek is only part of the damage Raiden did. You and Quan Chi had formed a strange relationship where you'd end up helping one another in the Netherrealm. You leaned on one another, yet your kindness and gentle energy never changed in this place, even after everything. He figured it was because of him. You lasted as long as you did. Your optimism was a bright spot of kindness here, which helped many of the revenant souls. It did ease things on the environment just a bit as everyone was not just angry and violent, just not wanting to kill every waking moment.

You added something missing for many here. You are a ray of light in such an evil and dark place. Many souls and trapped spirits in the realm called you a ray of sunshine. You also fixed the wounds of revenants, Quan Chi, and the demonic beings with no fear. They all enjoyed having you around. Not that Quan Chi would admit such things in front of the god. If he were asked, Quan Chi would say that you would keep everything running smoothly when he isn't there. Then Quan Chi comments, "Even after everything this realm and Earthrealm have done to them, they keep smiling and choosing to believe life can always get better, and eventually when their time comes, they will accept it willingly," Quan Chi sighs as he gives the god a lopsided smirk. "It is hard to dislike them."

"Hence, why do you allow such a weakness to live and serve you?" Shinnok comments as he hums, piecing together what he knows now.

"They worm and burrow their way into others' good graces without even trying," Quan Chi admits as he shakes his head. A gentle smile tugged at his features momentarily as he spoke with admiration. Shinnok knows that isn't true at all. What he knows of humans and the realms shows an ulterior motive hiding in them. With his finger, he gently moved his neck as the feeling of tight stitching became a bit irritating. But when a tiny click is heard, and he can finally breathe, he goes still. Quan Chi speaks your name as Shinnok listens to the door open, and the smell of delicious tea hits his senses.

"Sorry, I figured you'd want some tea, Quan Chi. You usually have some when you get back from your trips," You say as you place a warm cup in front of the sorcerer and then one in front of Shinnok before quickly leaving the room again. His gaze shifts to his cup, and sees a hearty brew with some honey and lemon, clearly made for a throat. Quan Chi quickly picks up his cup, pleased you remembered this weird little ritual you two did: patch him up and bring him tea to help him relax.

Shinnok's hands slowly curl around the mug as he brings it to his lips for a quick sip. The warmth makes his throat relax almost instantly. The faint taste of honey was thick on his tongue, making the drink tasty and rich. The lemon added a spiced layer with hints of spice and sweetness. Quan Chi smirks into his cup as he sees a flicker in the corner of Shinnok's mouth. The slight quirk upward gives the god away for liking the tea you brewed for him. The look was so small you probably missed it, but he didn't.

...

Weeks passed, and Shinnok took his time regaining his strength as his powers slowly returned. His reign, however, wasn't the only thing in the back of his mind. You were constantly a presence. Your gentle voice came to him each morning and afternoon, asking him how he was healing or if he needed anything. With gentle yet quick movements, you would check his healing stitches, clean them, and remove them if required, often smiling each time. How could this gentle soul exist? They are so out of place in this realm. The others will easily be corrupted and fall into the darkness, yet you stay happy, brightening this realm with a gentle kindness that Shinnok was unsure would ever wane. It makes the god wonder as he takes in the sight of you sitting peacefully while reading. He takes note of the subtle details about you, such as how you're perched, curled up on the large windowsill and bathed in light. Every time his eyes see you like this, they linger and travel every inch of your profile.

Perhaps he's been lulled in by your actions, but it's almost like he's curious and drawn to you like a moth to flame. Nothing about you is like the humans Shinnok had encountered. In this room, you were something far more delicate and rare. With his elbow on the table, Shinnok rested his chin on his fingers. A content smile on your lips, unaware the god was studying and appreciating how beautiful you looked right then and there. Shinnok stood with no notice, standing over you before clearing his throat, making his presence known. There was no change in your energy, the bright smile not leaving your lips.

"Yes, Lord Shinnok?" Your voice was soft, which you almost whispered before looking up at his sharp and eerily beautiful features.

"Will you do something for me?" He asked gently, allowing a subtle, tender tone to enter. Shinnok is unnerved at the very notion he can sound soft with you or even talk gently. You put a bookmark into the pages you were on in your book before placing it down softly as you move to stand and stretch. Shinnok catches the arch of your back with ease as you slowly move to pop your spine and muscles. He can't help but watch every movement your muscles and bones make—the soft hiss of pleasure of feeling things moving after sitting so long. After giving a hum, you gave him your attention.

"What do you need me to do?" Your voice isn't coated with malice, worry, fear, or reluctance. Something about how you talk makes the tension in his jaw loosen. He enjoys seeing and hearing you speak. He's drawn to them just as your words wrap around each letter so eloquently. It's like the wind flowing through the air; it's steady.

"Your smile irritates me; I demand it no longer be seen," Shinnok explains, deciding to come up with the most insulting but odd way to ask. There isn't anger in his voice, nor does his expression change. Your smile quickly drops as you watch him, waiting for another word or insult to be said to you. Silence. He isn't used to this. Why isn't his victim starting to get angry, ready to yell or leave? Shinnok waited a second to see if your anger would flare, even a spark.

"Is there anything else you need, Lord Shinnok?" When a few seconds passed, he quickly answered that there wasn't. He watched how you quickly grabbed your book and left for the library. Your energy remained the same, yet the smile that was plastered to your features disappeared without so much as an argument.

It was supposed to be simple, but that smile got in his way and distracted him. He couldn't understand what the soft, curved line did to him and made him feel. Then suddenly, there wasn't a curve. It's just a straight line with no ups or downs. Once you're out of the room, and the door shut behind you, the god feels uneasy at the silence. Did you leave just like that? Why don't you show some emotions? Any sign you are irritated or feel the urge to snap back is there; Shinnok notes each slight shift in your eyes and twitches of muscle as your calm face twists for a split second, only to smooth over again. How did it take one command to remove the source of light in his realm from his presence, and that was all he had to do?

...

Your smile hadn't been seen in a while, and when any asked why you stopped, you'd explain that Lord Shinnok asked for you to stop. Instead, now there is a static, flat look or a soft frown on your face. There weren't many places where revenants or demons could find you. Only two rooms in the castle are likely to have you: either the makeshift medical bay Quan Chi had allowed you to make in one of the spare rooms or the library. Either of those places is quiet. There were very rarely any revenants or demons lingering around as well. Their questions would only get the same response; 'Lord Shinnok asked that it was gone, and so it's gone.' The first time you responded with it, many knew that if Shinnok wanted it, he'd have it. None of them question further as you brush past and into the medical room and set to work on things.

Something about you not smiling was starting to become an issue with Shinnok. That same feeling and familiarity were a thing of the past. Now you are a bitter pill, he had to swallow. Nothing could take your attention away. No matter what anyone said or did to annoy, provoke, or enrage you, nothing. But it stung when he heard you answer the question that is always asked, 'Why aren't you smiling anymore?'

"Lord Shinnok asked it to be gone, so I removed it." Your voice was calm, which sent a shock of confusion down their spines. How can you answer like that with no bite, no sarcasm, and no harsh tone? There is nothing there. Even when angry, Quan Chi at least had an edge or snap of temper that could be felt radiating from him. You don't even give the time of day or raise your voice above the casual, calming tone you usually have. Some of the older and less rambunctious ones had been keeping tabs on you as you looked worn down. Dark circles under your eyes were evidence of lack of sleep. "(Y/n), have you been sleeping?" The question came from Quan Chi, making the god's shoulders taut with tension and curiosity, wanting to hear this conversation.

"No," you let out an exhausted sigh. "I don't have a place to sleep, so when I do sleep, it's usually in the library, hidden by stacks of books. It's not the best, but it works, much to my back's dismay," You admit gently with a shrug to say that it's alright. Shinnok sees how your smile is still gone, yet the exhaustion, pain, and what looks like slight sadness are evident in your eyes and frown. "Why haven't you found somewhere to sleep?" The Sorcerer's voice was confused about how no one helped. Everyone is loyal to Shinnok and him. You'd think that they'd do something.

"Because I'm just a human. I don't think I deserve a space besides what I already take up. We've gone over how much I self-deprecate and loathe myself, Quan Chi," You say, and the whole library falls silent as a shiver goes down the god's spine at your words. You don't believe you should be given much because you are so low, something no one but you saw, yet there wasn't an ounce of untruth to those words. "Why do you think I stopped smiling without fighting, Shinnok, over it?" You add as you stretch and feel your spine pop and crack loudly. There is a collective noise of winces when that happens. Quan Chi looks at you unimpressed as he asks,

"When was the last time you slept? In a proper bed?" Shinnok felt his entire body go cold when you answered. You had not had a bed for the last four years. From what Quan Chi had told him, you'd only been in the Netherrealm for about two years. Not once since being here have you adequately slept in a bed. It seemed odd. From everything he could observe and know, you were helpful and kind to any, even the demons. So why aren't you just demanding a space? Instead, you act like a martyr and punish yourself. That didn't sit right with the god. You kept caring for others yet refused to think you deserved to have that in return. Humans always seem selfish, greedy, and cruel, yet you are almost the opposite, choosing to remain unhappy but never showing it outwardly. Why would you keep putting everyone before you, even if that meant you were sacrificing your well-being? This is where the problem is, with the conflict and unsettlement stirring in him. He can't understand you, which causes a pulse to radiate in him.

"Where in here are you sleeping?" Quan Chi's voice is far gentler than he probably meant. His harshness, violence, and lack of emotion that make the god respect him seem to crack and crumble slowly. Especially when the words, "Usually in a small alcove by the window, thankfully it's warm enough by the window I don't need a blanket," escape you, the reaction is a lot worse, and a sense of frustration and disappointment enter the god's heart, wondering why your selflessness is something you keep up. "You don't have a-" Quan Chi's sentence was cut short as you cut him off.

"No pillows, no blankets, just books and a windowsill," you say as you let out a dry laugh as if trying to ease Quan Chi's increasing distress and discomfort. Everyone goes stiff and silent.

"That can't be safe or comfortable,"

"No, but it works." The quick and matter-of-fact statement that held no amusement or malice struck a chord. "I'm guessing you want to see my little spot, Quan Chi?" Your question is filled with fatigue. Shinnok listens as a soft confirmation escapes the sorcerer. It sounds like a silent question of what you are asking as soon as you wander up several of the large staircases to the large bay window with so many stacks of books around it. You walk up every flight to the top floor to the window. If you lay there, you are wholly hidden from prying eyes or walking bodies, easily missed and hidden from most people. In disbelief, you sit on the windowsill as Quan Chi looks at you and your 'bed'.

"Before you say it, Quan Chi, I've already checked. All of the spare chambers are taken. That includes the medical bay I made, so this is fine for me," you quickly say. There is no hint of annoyance, just an acknowledgement of his doubt and shock. Without so much as a fight, you give in as if accepting this as your fate until your body breaks. "Oh, don't look at me like that, Quan Chi. I'm okay, really; don't worry about me."

"How can I not worry (y/n)? I-" He starts, unsure if he wants to snap in annoyance, but he takes a breath to control himself. "You resurrected me, fixed everyone and anyone's wounds without questions, and even gave our Lord Shinnok his autonomy back! Yet you...you are reduced to this as payment? A thin piece of windowsill in the top area of the library?" A tear slides down your cheek as you fight back your bottled-up emotions. With a sharp sniff, your voice breaks and wavers as you feel something in you give way. "Well, not much I can do, can I?" Your laughter is hollow and filled with a pain that runs so profoundly deep it's bleeding through the edges of your persona. Quan Chi stiffened as he fought against himself to hug you. But the loud click of the top floor's staircase is heard as heavy footfall begins up the steps to reach the floor. Your hand quickly wipes at your cheeks, knowing it is either a demon or Shinnok. You brush your face and clear your throat, trying to regain your composure as the steps grow louder the closer they draw. Quan Chi stands there as he watches you hide in your tiny alcove to push and pull yourself together, to hold the cracks and leaks together with tape like a broken vase. Quan Chi would rather stand there and be a blockage for you than let a demon use your pain to their advantage. You keep trying to breathe calmly as your tears want to fall. You sniffle softly as you fight your issues and fight to hold yourself together despite everything inside you, screaming to let it all out and explode. Your voice stays steady and soft as ever. You have forced yourself to be a strong person that others can see as a ray of hope in this realm. However, on the inside, your self-hatred is at a whole new level now. All you ever do is care for people, but not once has anyone done something so simple for you, yet here you are without a place to rest, and it shows.

Quan Chi knows your emotions are finally rising as your nose grows pink, and your eyes swell slightly and have a shine to them. Something is bubbling under the surface of your soft, quiet composure. Whatever this emotion or thought is, it slowly begins to break away, eroding your hardened shell. How, instead of dealing with your problems, you bottle and bottle and take everyone else's problems to help them as though it will make yours disappear. You've just delayed the inevitable, and the pressure of all your bottled and unresolved problems and frustrations is slowly crushing you like a shaken soda left unopened for too long until the pressure becomes too much for the can to handle and explodes. Your sniffles, minor coughs to try and clear the lumps in your throat, your shakey breathing, and your wiping the tears away are hard to watch. As though a little child lost, Quan Chi takes in the view of how you've been hiding away in the top library so that you won't bother others with your issues. The footsteps are so loud in your ears as you slink deeper into your spot, trying too hard not to be seen.

Shinnok reached the top of the steps. Only seeing Quan Chi standing alone with a tense posture is off-putting. The soft sounds of sniffling hit his ears, along with choked breaths of someone trying to calm themself. "My lord, what are you doing up here?" Quan Chi asks as he tries to play off the situation. You stand quickly from behind the books, your back to them both as you wipe your tears away and clear your throat. Shinnok couldn't place what had Quan Chi tense, worried, and distressed. Or why did you have your back to them? You took a deep, shaky breath as you turned around and bowed slightly towards Shinnok in a show of respect.

The sight of your eyes red and puffy, a slight pink to your cheeks, nose, and ears, the shivers your body has from fighting to just letting your emotions out. It's not so much how you look, but the pain you feel is unmistakable. You had so readily accepted the lack of care. Any other would have fought tooth and nail. Instead, here you are, not even snapping at anyone's behaviour because that's what you were reduced to, having no anger to argue for what is yours. This is what you allowed them all to push you to after doing so much for others. They'd made it, and you took a step back. Without any arguments, you'd merely turn to acceptance with grace and poise like it was what you deserve and should accept. How is that fair, just, or even humane? Quan Chi stands slightly in front of you, acting as a shield as though his presence is a barricade enough against the god.

"Lord Shinnok. With respect, I'd have thought you had better things to attend to than this. What can I do for you?" Your voice is shaky as you fight to stay composed. It sounds painful and worn out. Nothing about your tone has that easygoing air or lightness. It is raw. There is a newfound weight to the title and respect you give. The god looks at you. He can't figure out what to say, and with a quick look from you to the still tense and guarded sorcerer. "Out of curiosity, what are you both up here for, if I might ask?" Shinnok asks as he watches how you won't even look him in the eye.

"Just investigating some rumours," Quan Chi responds flatly and quickly with a serious, monotone, and dismissive tone. Shinnok hears the snarl from his teeth, warning him to drop the question. He won't and sees Quan Chi's fingers twitching with the itch to throw a hex at him, "That wouldn't have any relation to (y/n) hiding away, would it?" Shinnok continues with a sarcastic purr that causes your body to freeze. It seems to strike a chord that only irritates the sorcerer. Quan Chi is stuck between a rock and a hard place with what to do.

"It is," you croak out as you answer for Quan Chi as he sends you a pleading look, not sure where this is going and if the god means actually to do something with this information. The sound that leaves your mouth makes Quan Chi flinch. It's raw, dry, scratchy, and hollow. "How so?" Shinnok asks coolly. The room felt heavy. The tension was thick from one moment, and the next, it felt suffocating. No one moves as Shinnok looks over you and at Quan Chi as he explains.

"They have been sleeping here, in this little nook, for two years. They haven't slept in days from how worn they look." A choked sob leaves you sitting on the windowsill, hiding your face in your hands while Quan Chi speaks. "With how hard they work and heal, fix wounds and listen to complaints, not once have they taken something from here. But when they dare to think this is okay." Quan Chi's tone grows venomous as he looks at you sympathetically. His rage seems so far, yet you've just rubbed the wrong way. You'd been respectful to the deity, never taking what wasn't yours, and tried to repay in knowledge and skills that would be far beyond what some revenants had, but there was no question. The damage is clear as day. You'd been taken advantage of by your kindness and never thought to help yourself. Instead, it is no question that they all took your generosity for granted. The question now was the issue. You may seem okay now, but as Shinnok thought, this was the problem. The signs had all been there. Every last person who went to you about any pain was sent off, treated and relieved, but never once have you complained about or talked of the strain. He glanced around your spot, seeing nothing of comfort—just the windowsill and books.

"Why didn't you speak up?" Shinnok knew his words would get under their skin and dig in like needles, but as you look at him, a sound tears his heart. You gave him his body and autonomy, and you never fought for your needs. "Because I'm fine, I'm okay," your voice is quivering as you fight back your tears and speak up in your defence. However, it sounded false, forced, and broken. "If you were fine, you would've argued and fought back on these choices. Why aren't you doing that now? Or the last two years, for that matter?" You close your mouth. The action was both hesitant and accepting, accepting that it would not hurt to give in to defeat and crumble.

"BECAUSE I DON'T DESERVE IT," you scream. A horrid sob of agony and pain leaves you. "I-" You're at a loss as you lose your composure. You curl in on yourself as you begin to shake and sob, trying to suck air in, to speak and just shut up. Shinnok was right. Even he could hear your pain. Even though it didn't matter if it hurt to bottle up everything that made up who you are. It seemed to bleed from you. It feels so wrong to cry like this to crumble, but now it's like everything had poured out of the bottle that was the straw that broke the camel's back. Everything that held the pressure in was no longer working. It had given way to everything you felt and suppressed. Your breathing was ragged and shuddering, your shoulders hunched forward, eyes closed as the hot tears streamed down your face. You wanted to scream but couldn't make yourself go further.

As though everything was suddenly closing in around you, you felt like the walls of this space were shrinking, the weight and force pushing, crushing you. Your body's shaking is hard to look at as you try to bury yourself and hide. Just wanting to disappear, you were too weak and tired to fight any more. The stress was enough to put a full-grown man on their knees with the force, the magnitude.

Shinnok saw, finally, what it was. What lay beneath the shell was pain and sadness. He understood now that, besides feeling weak, they were used, lied to and betrayed. It was the fear of not trusting a single soul here to ask for something simple, yet you're left on a window seal with no blanket, pillow, and nothing but the clothing on your back and meals that everyone gets. Not one person to share with. Always forgotten about and treated as a rug, there are no questions. So they didn't fight back or protest. Shinnok knew they weren't someone who would do it to others. All of the secrets you kept and listened to. As Shinnok watched, he realised they had always tried; you had helped everyone, yet no one wanted to help in return. But Quan Chi is the person you've looked to the most. You have never relied on anyone here or fought, argued, or opposed those you'd healed. All the nights where you didn't get sleep or you helped fix other's problems.

Your tears ran freely down your cheeks as you gasped out a breath of air. Your throat is thick, and the world seems blurry. As you pull your legs closer, you hope to make yourself smaller and less noticeable to the other two beings as you let loose a whimper. You'd helped them so much, fixed wounds and sicknesses. Everyone in the realm got their fair treatment. The exhaustion makes you feel miserable and frazzled. You hate what your body is doing, and yet you can't stop yourself from being like this, especially around people. Even you are shocked and disgusted as you sit there. With the stress and exhaustion, you begin to hyperventilate, and the tears become an ongoing stream as your gasps fill the air, and you start to cough and hiccup with more tears.

"I'm sorry, I-I shouldn't be crying. I'm supposed to be better than this," you say through shaky breaths. Your heart is beating wildly in your chest, and you keep forgetting to breathe as you force it. Even Quan Chi seems panicked at your state. The look on Shinnok's face is shock and bewilderment. This is the one person who restored his body to him, healed every demon that had ever come to the med bay, and never took anything. You force yourself to wipe your tears as you try and control yourself to regain your composure. Your body feels weak, your head dizzy, your eyes red and raw. Both sorcerers stood frozen, watching in horror as you looked broken. Your voice is uneven, the air filled with broken sounds. You seemed almost ashamed or embarrassed by how they saw you as your apologies slowly flowed from your lips in hopes of taking the attention away from yourself. "I just-" Your whine sent a pang to your chest. The sound that leaves your lips could make an empath break as they have nothing to calm their distress. No amount of reassurance can save them from this pain. Nothing could fix this. There is nothing good enough.

You stand up quickly and try to steady yourself as you suck in a lungful of air, then, with a hoarse cough, you push yourself up and promptly flee without warning. Quan Chi, even Shinnok, stands in shock before following you quickly. This situation felt odd. You'd left behind two confused men, both sharing the same concern. A gasp sounded loud enough to draw attention to who the source was. Shinnok quickly realised that not only were you hurting and pushing your limits, but that was a sign that you weren't taking care of yourself anymore. His heart pangs at that thought, causing him to press to catch up to you.

...

There aren't many places for you to go. You can make it to your med bay and lock the door, just needing a space to cry and recover by yourself. When you shut the door, you can hear someone trying to get in, turning that knob and knocking. You stand there momentarily as though hoping whoever it is will walk away. However, when the knocks turn to a bang and a hiss, your patience snaps, and you know it's either Quan Chi or Shinnok. Even though you'd hate for them to witness this part of you, you find the strength to walk to the door to tell them you don't want visitors.

"Please, just let me pull myself together. I don't want to be seen as weak or be given pity-" your breath hitches, and you can barely speak past the lump in your throat. Your nails dig into the door's wood in desperation. Shinnok makes no response except to listen to the crack in your voice as it breaks. He doesn't even realise. He's wrapped his fingers around the door handle until the rattling reaches his ears. He doesn't hear any steps come from the door. Neither he nor Quan Chi understands fully what you're going through. Shinnok was in his hell, yet this wasn't something he recognised. He doesn't think he can relate to this foreign concept.

When Shinnok's knuckles stop trying to move the locked door, there is no more yelling on the other end of the door to respond. Finally, after ten minutes, you open the door. There you stand, tremoring with shaky breath as you face Quan Chi and Shinnok. For a long time, it's silent, almost deafeningly so. The only thing either Shinnok or Quan Chi can hear is your raspy and sniffling breaths. The eyes are red, puffy, and shiny with unshed tears that stain your cheeks. All the emotions run through your brain. You aren't ready for them, especially now. "This should never have happened," you utter, looking everywhere except at them. Shame eats you from inside; no matter how much you fight it, you can't get rid of it. They see you as the weakest, pathetic, worthless- You feel pathetic right now. No one dares to speak; they watch how you fold into yourself. Neither says a word. There is a ringing that Shinnok realises is the blood rushing to his ears, pounding in his veins as he sees how your hands are shaking and tears stream down your cheeks. "I-I'm sorr-" your voice breaks again.

"Don't apologize." Shinnok has seen his fair share of pain and suffering, yet the expression on his face hurts, his heart aching, and he feels an ache in his chest. He watches as you cry without making a sound. You're gripping the edges of the sink so hard he is afraid the white ceramic will split with the strain. Shinnok takes a hesitant step forward, reaching a tentative hand to grip your shoulder lightly. Your body seems tense and, in a feeble effort, shakes beneath him, trembling and shivering like a leaf and pleading. Shinnok gently guides you and pulls you against his side, one of his long fingers brushing gently over the skin of your arm, giving a hint of touch. He feels the instant shock, his skin tingling as a tremor runs up his spine.

"How is this fair to you?" Quan Chi grits through clenched teeth. His brows furrow slightly as Shinnok stares at you. This isn't what you'd earned. The guilt that builds in his chest makes it hard to think. Seeing your anguish, the pain that comes from somewhere within. He understands and can relate. Pain comes from both inside and out. Yet, it would be best if you didn't suffer like this. You put him back together, and he has not given you your own space to stay. You gave up on Earthrealm and came here only to be mistreated in such a way. They could never repay your debt. Even Shinnok would not act like the others.

"Do you even sleep in your med-bay?" Shinnok demands. His anger and frustration simmer with concern.

"No, just the alcove you found Quan Chi and me in," you whimper out, unable to keep the tone in your voice regular. They both grow enraged again, and your shoulders hunch forward as your voice dies to a squeak.

"So, you are sleeping on a windowsill?" Shinnok asks as his voice loses all anger and bite, seeming more sympathetic and concerned. When you nod, he starts to seethe with his temper and concern. "Find an empty chamber and make them a-," Shinnok begins before you cut him off weakly, still being held against his side.

"I don't have a room because others fill all the spare rooms. The last one was used for the med-bay," you finish, but a fresh wave of tears still slides down your cheeks, but now he can tell why. He can see why Quan Chi had grown defensive when asked why you didn't deserve to sleep in comfort, that you worked too hard and listened to those in pain. His grip on you tightened. He is losing his ability to restrain himself from lashing out and acting like those idiots. Shinnok growls lowly as he turns his head away from you, his anger bubbling out of his chest with a sigh. You'd worked too hard to sleep on a window's edge and a hard, unforgiving surface without a blanket or pillow. You deserved far better, and that was a statement everyone would agree on. "Sleeping on the ground and with the harsh heat is better than nothing," you whisper. Shinnok is too mad for his mind and anger to calm themselves as he hears that coming from you. You were tired, exhausted, and aching from everything you'd experienced. The idea that you didn't have a room for your needs was outrageous. Shinnok and Quan Chi were outraged and angered to learn that, and a look passed between the two that spoke volumes. They both understood. Very few things made Shinnok so livid and furious to feel the full brunt, burning anger, and hurt. They are a shortlist. Yet somehow you, a human, have made it onto the list of things of his you don't fuck with. And how much he detests the idea and feelings.

He felt an icy fire inside his heart as it twisted painfully—a yearning to give something he never gave you: respect. Shinnok always considered himself the god among the gods, better and stronger. As soon as Shinnok's thoughts reached his body, they caused a tremor, sending goosebumps over his arms and making his hair stand on the ends. That shiver feels so different compared to the warmth and familiarity of your healing abilities. You'd spent days on your feet, sometimes sitting in the same spot and, from what Shinnok and Quan Chi had assumed, barely having enough energy and time for a nap or something to eat. Quan Chi looked you over and could feel the pain and the weight of the past two years. They weren't the most straightforward years for either. Their body is lined with new and fading scars. Those marks didn't represent a struggle you hadn't had. While his marks could heal, yours would fade, yet you wouldn't ever recover the scars on the inside. You can wiggle out of Shinnok's overly tight hold and hug Quan Chi, apologizing for making him so concerned about something as stupid as a cry.

"Shut up, do not speak," Shinnok states. When you comply, he is shocked, stunned that you had so quickly heeded the command. No questions. No hesitation, simply complying. Even though Quan Chi can see and feel your trembling, your hands clinging to his sides like you would fall apart at the seams. You seem to curl into his chest and let loose an audible, painful whimper of a sigh. Quan Chi can't even talk as his hands rub your back, and he knows. Despite the vicious glare Quan Chi gave Shinnok for ordering you to stay quiet, Quan Chi is in too much shock and horror that you would listen and remain silent. So obedient to his demands without thinking about the order and its possible repercussions. You loosen your grip on Quan Chi's sides when no other words are said. Instead of saying another apology, you fight to calm your breathing and quiet the water that filled your eyes, taking the time to blink them clear and keep from bursting into tears. You open your mouth to speak but shut it quickly as your lips quiver from the intense shaking. Then, as Shinnok grabs your hand and rubs the inside of your wrist soothingly, his gentle yet firm touch calms you. Your throat tightens, and your mouth forms a wobbly frown before turning away. You wish not to say a single thing. It'd taken everything to stop crying. You feel mortified with yourself that it'd gotten so out of control.

"Get them a room, now." Shinnok's dark tone makes it clear how upset he is at current affairs. Even now, Shinnok is curious about how someone who gives so much to the people here didn't get their private room. The fury he harboured had returned tenfold, the feeling in his stomach getting worse, making him feel sick and repulsed at how lowly his revenants and demons treated you. It's not right for you to feel like this, and while you did deserve respect from the people here, it was to treat you like an actual person and not a toy to play with until it broke or a cheap slave to do the bidding. You fixed him up and put his head back on his shoulders. You should be treated like something meaningful instead of this in his eyes. He knew that you'd suffered enough. His thoughts drifted. He thought of you sitting in the library when everyone was busy to get a quick moment of peace or resting and a night of uninterrupted sleep.

...

The room is so clean, yet he is sure you will take that all away. Quan Chi and Shinnok stand behind you as you hesitantly enter the room. You still haven't spoken since Shinnok told you to be quiet, but your eyes wander around the room, taking it in. The room is beyond luxurious with its furniture and decoration. The silk sheets and plush bed looked highly comfortable; you couldn't believe your eyes at first. Your silence is disturbing, and Shinnok worries that he may have frightened you into not wanting to say anything.

"Do you like the room?" You nod silently as if speaking would have this ripped away from you immediately. Shinnok would not allow you to live like that, though. His voice was softer, kinder as he saw that look in your eye. The look of someone waiting to have it ripped away is a cruel joke. "Are you going to keep that attitude until I permit you to speak?" He's trying not to sound annoyed by how obedient you try to be. You stopped smiling when he told you to, and now you won't speak because of his demand. "Please, speak. Your silence is quite troubling." There's a brief, deep-seated tension before you let your voice emerge in a rough mutter, clearly hesitating to be so bold as to question his request,

"But y-you ordered me not to talk earlier. I'm sorry." That slight, unspoken fear that if he felt insulted, he would lash out. However, it only showed you didn't want him to hurt or yell at him. It makes his stomach turn violently, and he feels the pangs of guilt that run through his veins. A painful throbbing that echoed into his mind.

"You can speak your mind, never stop, and speak freely, without fear or anger," Shinnok mutters as he wraps his arms around you. When had he come so close to you? Why did he hug you, to him? He keeps asking himself as he feels the tremors ripple through your form. You lean into him slightly as your fingers clench around the silken edges of his garment. The relief was so evident. His gentle, almost doting actions cause the shivers to increase to a noticeable degree, but they also make him want to pull you tighter to him. You have him so hooked. Something about how you show him attention makes him want more of it. Something in your manner or touch gets to him every time.

"Start smiling again, would you? It has been something the realm is missing," he adds softly as he lets go, stepping back slightly to give you space. When you crack a faint smile, it eases his fears and concerns as he feels the tensions ease somewhat. You were already regaining a quiet sign of happiness. Shinnok and Quan Chi leave your room, giving you time and space to acclimate to having a space to call yours. Once gone, your fingers are the first to uncurl and trace the edges and smooth the softness of the sheets.

You enjoy how incredible they feel as you wander around the room. Eventually, you walk into your washroom and are excited to shower peacefully. Having a luxurious bathing experience after such a long and arduous time, just allowing yourself to be immersed, is indescribable and cathartic. Once done with bathing, you open one of the wardrobes to see some clothing that Quan Chi had left for you—soft cotton pants and a shirt that feels like you're wearing a cloud. You also see night clothing that you brought from Earthrealm two years ago, and you are glad your clothing isn't ash from the heat. You groan as your body hits the soft bed and sinks into the soft covers and sheets. Your arms hug a pillow, and you remember, from now on, you won't have to sleep against a window or curl up on a hard surface. You can feel your back relaxing against the plush mattress. Sleep finally finds you, and your sleep is restful for the first time in two years.

...

Weeks had passed since you'd gotten a private room, and Quan Chi often visited to see if you were eating and taking care of your well-being. Since you have a space for yourself, you are much better. You look and act more restful. You even started eating better, although he wished you could sleep more. The past two years of not getting good sleep have begun to get to you. It showed whenever you did fall asleep. You slept like a corpse on a hard rock rather than an almost too-soft bed. Yet, when you smiled, he could see the signs that it was making things easier.

You sit in Quan Chi's private kitchen that only he and Shinnok use. Quan Chi sits at the table while you brew tea he hasn't smelt in a long time. Sipping the cup gently, a spark of nostalgia runs through Quan Chi, and the taste makes his ears feel hot. The last time you made this was when you reattached Shinnok's head several months ago. He finishes the tea and closes his eyes, enjoying the comfort of the warm lemon honey tea. He can taste and smell the extra spices and flavours you put in it. The homey aura was comforting after so long. As Quan Chi rests his elbows on the table, an appreciative hum leaves his lips, and a satisfied grin decorates his face. Your tea is excellent. Nothing has changed since the first sip, and you lean on the counter across from Quan Chi, blowing hot steam as you sip some of your own.

"Sorry, I haven't made tea in a while," you murmur as you move across the table from him. A smile lit up Quan Chi's tired face, and his cheeks flushed slightly. When you set your cup down and blink up at him, his mouth suddenly goes dry, and he has trouble swallowing his mouthful of tea. If Quan Chi could purr, you think he would at that moment. The appreciation on his face shows so clearly as he admires the tea. He relaxes subconsciously and sighs as he enjoys the warm beverage. Shinnok walks into the room, sniffing the air with surprise. Your back is to the door, but Quan Chi watches Shinnok enter the kitchen. The Elder god strides up to the tea kettle and pours his cup. Hearing the sound of liquid flowing, you turn around to see Shinnok joining you two. Shinnok smells it as he sits with you at the table. His senses tingle with delight as his tongue yearns for the taste. Shinnok sips and swears he has gone to some new form of divinity. You cannot stop a small smile from forming.

Shinnok sipped at the cup with delight before he had a sudden epiphany. His mind suddenly recalled the taste and feeling the last time this had happened. The previous time Quan Chi was drinking a cup of this, it had been the final cup you made, and then the memories of that day flooded his mind.

"It's been too long since you made this," Shinnok murmurs with a satisfied purr as he drains the cup slowly. Hearing Shinnok praise your skills, you feel proud of your efforts. Quan Chi doesn't say much as the two sip from their cups with a shared look of bliss. You can't help the bubbling warmth you felt seeing that. Their delight was subtle, but both of them could be overly dramatic or have the barest response in these situations. Quietly, they relax, and Shinnok closes his eyes as he drinks the hot tea. Shinnok opens his mouth to take a breath as he pauses his sip. A visible shiver runs down his spine as he downs it. Quan Chi's hands visibly wrap around his warm mug, and he purrs openly at the comforting warmth of the warm drink.

"Well, I'm happy to make more at some point. There is still that teapot full of it," you say softly as a light chuckle leaves your lips. There's a loud gulp, and both Shinnok and Quan Chi scramble to their feet as they see you standing, having set your cup on the counter near the sink. They follow you like baby ducks to the stove and grab their cups, refilling them as they settle in closer to you as you wander around their kitchen. The shared, intimate aura is lovely to be enveloped in. Their motions were fluid and flawless as their eyes focused intently on what you were doing as their free hands rested on the counter. They notice as you walk through their kitchen.

The peaceful quiet and tranquillity fill the air, the taste of tea coating their tongues, and the familiarity of your scent surrounds them. Being close to you, they have never felt such comfort. Both can agree that the smell of your clothing is beyond intoxicating.

"Y/N, did I mention your company is quite favourable?"

"This tea is delicious, please, never stop brewing it."

Both men chatter over each other, fighting for your attention. Although you doubt the true intentions were just the tea. After seeing them fighting, you roll your eyes and giggle. How much could your presence be craved? Your laughter sets them into a state of longing. They were desperate for another laugh, a smile. Yet, you could barely comprehend how you had them so hooked, like a moth drawn to a flame. In truth, your actions and nature got to them both, as you had not spoken one word to harm them, and nothing could ever compare. You're the complete opposite of both of them, yet they yearn for your presence as thirsty men in the desert. Your demeanour is the softness that contrasts their vicious nature, and you don't even realise their want. Even as the tea ends, they are loathe to see your presence disappear from their kitchen. You give them both a bright smile as you leave them in their kitchen. Their eyes don't tear themselves from you until you shut the door. As the door closes, a deep sigh escapes. Quan Chi and Shinnok share in the moping energy as they stare off wistfully in your direction, missing the comfort you gave them. Then the glares start, glaring at one another for looking at you in such lovesick ways. It makes their blood boil, and a strange fire ignites in their chests. It makes the ache worse that both of them have a terrible secret to confess:

They both yearned to go to court and treat you in a way that would make them worthy of calling you their significant other, lover, or spouse. Their affection was not shallow or straightforward; instead, it was much more profound. At least, a thick veil of jealousy had hidden the truth. Their hearts were torn as they stared at each other with contempt. They couldn't figure it out; every time their eyes were focused on your smiling face, they began feeling much more protective and coveting. Each wanted you all to themselves.

Their heated stares met the other's gaze before the snarky comments were uttered. Shinnok smirks cockily at the other sorcerer before his posture is met with a less amused glare from Quan Chi as his smirk evolves into a challenging snarl. With a growing smile that screams that it wants blood, his face relaxes and becomes stonier. Then they exchange words, not necessarily harsh and insulting, but venom-laced words.

...

Their disagreements usually stem from a conversation in which neither person likes the response given. Recently, you became the cause of their arguments, as neither man knew you held a special place in their hearts. How could you be so oblivious that their infighting had all to do with you? Haven't you figured it out yet? As soon as you walked in on their spats, they immediately quit fighting, acting like they weren't. You could hardly see it, yet their fights were most unusual and complex. Something they didn't want anyone else to know or possibly be revealed. They always had to be behind locked doors to keep others from hearing the quarrel and getting involved.

Then, the burning glare and hateful stare are thrown their way when the person is not in earshot. Both men yearned to argue finish in the best way for them, each wanting to win you as a prize to cherish forever. None of them had noticed how far gone they had fallen for your good, kind-hearted nature. How had they not known, had your pure soul broken the walls down? Either way, you'd somehow wormed your way into their hearts, even as cold and callous their beings could be.

How had you tamed the rabid heart of an Elder God and a Dark Mage, a creature of sin and corruption? None knew it; even you remained clueless to their want, although the hints had been sent your way. To them, you're either oblivious or are being willfully blind to their romantic advances, to their apparent, overwhelming desire to have and possess you. Their jealousy is the worst in its depths as it spirals and intensifies each moment they think the other may have taken a step ahead of them. There's a race to capture you as theirs.

You had left the Netherrealm to visit your friends in Outworld, glad to see Erron, Jade, and D'Vorah again. You're delighted to catch up and talk with them again. Jade and you gossip when Erron leaves to help Kotal with something. Jade and you talk about her relationship with Kotal while D'Vorha makes a grossed-out face at the intimate details. You talk about how hard it is to find people who might be interested in you, not a person people. You spoke openly about being poly with Jade and D'Vorah. You talked about how dense you can be to people's romantic interests. It will go right over your head if they don't just come out and tell you how they feel.

Your visit also allowed Shinnok and Quan Chi to argue. They argue violently as they debate whom you genuinely favour. Eventually, they begin discussing because the other won't stop pursuing you without considering their rival's feelings. Yet, that still didn't explain their feelings. Since you were the subject of their mutual love and envy, why wouldn't they argue because they are vying for your affection?

As you and Jade go for a walk in the shopping district, D'Vorah leaves; she always has hated being in public spaces, so you two thought nothing of it. D'Vorah, in reality, contacted Quan Chi while he and Shinnok argued about who would win you. The amulet Quan Chi gave her for communication glows brightly as she waits for him to respond. As his form comes into view from the glow, D'Vorah relays the information to Quan Chi and Shinnok, everything you and Jade spoke of. Both are eager to listen and can't believe the revelations revealed during the women's talk. So you are just oblivious to their affections...But hearing about polyamory is not something they expected to attend. Shinnok had been angry when they realized Quan Chi was probably winning and then when D'Vorah dropped the knowledge bomb they didn't expect. They feel their jaws drop in sync as their mouths dry and gawk at the realization. Their minds take in everything being processed. So, your mind was open to having more than one partner? Their eyes slowly drifted from the orb where D'Vorah spoke and settled on the other. What does one do with this newfound knowledge? It makes their previous thoughts shift, altering the possibility. Their rivalry did not have the moral high ground anymore. Each stood in awe as the thought raced through them.

...

When you return to the Netherrealm from your visit to Outworld, you feel that all too familiar warmth the realm has. That, and the achingly familiar energy of something else. Both men eagerly await your arrival, waiting to take you back to the castle. This is new, since when did they come to pick you up from trips? It's different, but you're not complaining. Seeing Quan Chi's and Shinnok's faces outside the castle walls and grounds is good.

"What are you two doing out here?" Your voice is light as you smile brightly at the both of them. Both Shinnok and Quan Chi swear your smile lights up the already-lit sky. With their arms folded and a neutral look, they respond.

"Shinnok wanted some sunlight. I thought it was a decent day and offered to join," the easy lie falls from Quan Chi's tongue before you can question anything further. The reasoning and story made perfect sense. Besides, the two have been at odds, and walking in the sunlight didn't seem terrible to do together. As you approach, they are unsure how to proceed with their subsequent actions; both suddenly have second thoughts. That is until you wrap an arm around both of their necks, pulling them tightly against you.

"Well, I'm still glad to see both of you," your tone is warm as you pull away after several seconds, pulling yourself out of their personal space. They stand stiffly on either side of you, shocked. Neither can respond. Suddenly, both men's resolve is reaffirmed and restored. If that didn't cement the idea in their minds of pursuing your affections, then what would? Nothing would deter their goal now. They would steal you as their paramour. You would be theirs and theirs alone. Yet the idea of a poly relationship seemed to appeal to them, and there's the idea that if the two can't make you choose, you have two significant others. You would have them both. The love from both men and none could pry the connection apart. Not even that you hadn't realized they were falling in love. Perhaps not as easily won as they had thought? Yet they still long for the affection. If you could not see their affection initially, their love and feelings would surely win.

You walk ahead of both of them, ready to return to the castle, so you've stopped noticing their flabbergasted expressions; you stand ahead, waiting for them to catch up with you. "Well, I'm going home to the castle even if you two aren't," you chuckle softly. 'Home' you called the castle home. That one word had nearly gotten Shinnok's knees to buckle underneath him, and the corner of his mouth quirked upwards. Hearing the word you spoke did something to both, how they treasured the idea of you belonging within the place they had claimed their lair and living quarters. Home...With the word, all worries melted away from Shinnok. Although your back is to both, you hadn't caught on to the dumb grins Shinnok and Quan Chi sport after hearing that. The walk back is comfortable as you chat and catch up. For the remainder of the day, the air is calm and pleasant. Their bickering has gone unnoticed. They need not argue over you anymore, for their plan has changed. All they need now is the proper timing to adequately convey their affection for you. The courting has started.

...

As you look across the room to Shinnok's library, it is strangely quiet; usually, the men talk or go on a project or mission they have been assigning revenants to. Lately, they have been very secretive and avoiding you at all costs, constantly disappearing behind locked doors. Neither man will acknowledge your presence, making you feel terrible. As much as you enjoy the library, there's a cold tension hanging in the air that makes you avoid it at all costs. Yet your love for it always calls you back to sit for hours reading, studying magic, or doing whatever is on your mind. There's no reason for you to stay or run off right now. Although the air feels thick, no danger or panic comes from them. You find a small spot to hide and read as soon as you enter it. Shinnok and Quan Chi enter the library, speaking to one another; they don't know you are in there.

"They probably think we are avoiding them."

"How have they not noticed by now?"

"Affection doesn't come as easy to you or me."

The voice was deep, husky, and agitated as they spoke, yet not directed at you. Shinnok growls and Quan Chi is exasperated, their voices rising as their annoyance rises. "We haven't made ourselves apparent to them," Shinnok says as Quan Chi keeps his mouth shut, almost contemplative. You move to get a better look at what they are arguing about. Their heated words are easy to hear as you're hidden between two shelves. Shinnok is not a soft talker. Quan Chi is just a loud. Neither seems to hear as they get even louder.

"Both you and I know it will never work." Shinnok sighs as their anger rises, and his expression twists. His face contorted to a snarling before they both heard you clear your throat from the floor above them.

"So, who's the lucky demon?" You chuckle softly as you lean over the railing to see them both. Each looks like a deer caught in headlights at your appearance. Even though anger still burned in Shinnok's milky-white eyes, the blush on their faces was enough.

"Huh?!" Both their mouths and their hearts speak for both of them. Both have confused tones, and their hearts pound viciously as they lock eyes, clearly horrified. Yet Shinnok's and Quan Chi's expressions morph to reveal a hurtful glare as they return their attention to you.

"I mean, I overheard a bit of your conversation. I can't say I'm not interested in knowing what demons have stolen your hearts," you say as you lean on your hand. You're pretty relaxed now; all three of you are in a much lighter mood. After hearing your confession, the rage-fuelled arguments are paused; instead, there's a rising panic in the air as they share glances.

"You think demons are my type?" Shinnok hisses lowly. The glare becomes more challenging, a sharpened dagger honing into an almost unnerving focused gaze. Neither wanted to confess, so what are they to do? You roll your eyes and walk away from the railing and out of their view. You could handle demons and beasts; that's a little difficult. Your book can wait; you sigh inaudibly as you feel something churn in your heart, something you didn't listen to. Not in a realm like this. You felt a bit heartbroken that they both seemingly found a person. Or persons, that wasn't you. But who are you to demand their affection? As you walk deeper into the library, you shake that sadness from your thoughts. No, you didn't even hold a place in their hearts...Why did that make your chest ache? Did the library's air affect you? That must be it. Neither even knew. You're clueless about the double-edged secret. You are their muse, their object of desire. You're everything. You're all they want, all they ever talk about. Yet they refuse to admit or confess. There's no way. It'll ruin the illusion. Yet their affection isn't shallow or fleeting...

You can hear two sets of quick, loud footsteps coming up the stairs, and as you look up, both men are trying to approach you, although both hesitate. There's a growing panic as each meets eyes, suddenly fearful. You've never seen the fear-ridden looks they exchanged before. You smile weakly; this conversation had to happen, or something had to give. It hurts you to watch the fear etched onto their faces. So much is unsaid. How are they to put their affections into words without causing strife? Both are afraid to shatter your friendship. Neither want that. Yet you feel the rift from the silent treatment, the fear from opening their souls, the unrequited love...Wait, love? Is this love you're feeling? Is there any room for such a flower in this place, surrounded by evil, death, and decay?

Quan Chi and Shinnok blink back, a nervous stinging behind their eyes. The tension is suffocating, and they can't help but share one final look. No words, yet they share a fear; neither wishes to part from the other. Yet neither can keep their silence forever. One has to confess...Or all of them.

"So, tell me about these demons that have stolen your hearts," you give a dry laugh as you try to soothe the atmosphere. Your hand lightly dusts your neck, an anxious gesture, wanting them to speak, anything. A reaction is better than their silence.

"This isn't a joke, (y/n)." You meet Quan Chi's angered glare. Why would you joke about such a matter? The quiet hiss had a threatening air that surprised you and got your full attention. The man is usually much calmer; this aggression isn't like him, yet there is some understanding in the background. To his credit, Shinnok is remarkably composed despite the intense rise and fall of his chest and the bared teeth.

"I-I'm sorry, I didn't mean to offend you. I'm genuinely interested to hear about whoever has your affection," you genuinely wanted to know who the recipients were. You couldn't fathom it, but you knew it was their business to speak of; maybe this was their way of telling you they had moved on. The anger passes by both men as you're entirely genuine, and they exchange an exasperated look and let out a sigh.

"You..." The sentence was barely over a whisper and easily misinterpreted.

"Hmm? Are you worried I'll steal them? Please, I could never!" You're completely clueless, only causing the pain to increase in your chest. They both are disappointed that they cannot confess directly. Their pride. Such is their biggest downfall. Yet the longer they keep the charade, the worse this will all be.

"You're the demon who's stolen our hearts," their voices echo as they stare down at you, the whispers mixing into a heavy tone filled with honesty. The air surrounding them all becomes tense again; no soul moves.

"Me?" you point at yourself, almost uncomprehending. Your heart beats against its bony cage in its chest, unsure what this meant or what their words mean. You could only stand there and stare in confusion, eyebrows furrowing in.

"I thought your species could read body language," Quan Chi scoffs at you as his arms cross and a brow raise, clearly impatient. Although his voice remains neutral. Shinnok's fury starts to bubble. You can't help the soft, nervous laugh from bubbling up in your chest as your face blooms with warmth and it travels from your ears down your neck. You have this giddy feeling like a school child with their first crush. You can't look at either of them as you feel your face warming up quickly. Your eyes shift to focus anywhere else than the pair, mainly the ground and books behind them, so you miss the warm, loving look they are giving you. Their mouths curve up as their faces break into broad smiles. Neither expected the reaction or the acceptance.

"Is this a confession?" Both of them move forward until they are a foot from your frozen frame; their proximity is comforting as neither crowds. Instead, their bodies mirror their facial expressions, and genuine smiles form. Their body language screams comfort and support, welcoming the invitation they are giving off. While your laughter rings, they focus on you as your hands rest on either shoulder. They still when your lips connect briefly with theirs. Both would lie if they said they weren't happy with the gentle kiss. It was something so pure and affectionate and nothing more than a peck. The lovesick sighs that escape them both are very loud in the ample space, yet none notice.

"So, what does this make us now?" your smile reaches your eyes.

"You can consider yourself ours, our significant other," the words from Quan Chi's throat were tender yet matter-of-fact. Shinnok hums, nodding his head, and he listens to Quan Chi and grins like a madman. You gently smack each other's chests in playful retaliation, playfully giggling, before they're close to you, crowding you against the railing. Their eyes show love and devotion, and so does their behaviour.

"Hey now," there is a warning in your voice. You're met with a flash of red before Quan Chi kisses you sweetly, pulling your body flush against his, savouring every second. He holds your face lovingly, cradling it as he deepens the kiss. You don't get long to catch your breath before Shinnok replaces his mouth on yours and takes full advantage of your slightly dazed state, drinking in the love you radiate. You can't even pull apart for another breath before you're brought into Quan Chi's arms. He nuzzles your face lovingly as you're a bit shaky and light-headed. This wasn't unexpected, just overwhelming; you aren't used to being spoiled. You could've stood there forever with them both pressed against you, their warm presence easing you into their affections. Yet the day is still young, and they need to attend to some projects. For now, there will be a new routine for them. To check-in and spoil their new significant other.

...

While they hesitated to let go and continue their day, they had many experiments and time-sensitive reports waiting to be seen, heard, and read. And with a proper promise from them both, they reluctantly retreated to tend to them, their energy leaving the library. You feel so flustered and giddy from all of this. After an hour of mindlessly staring and reading and re-reading, you also take your leave. You didn't have much to do since you hadn't had any new patients come to you needing to be patched up. Some time alone would be welcomed; this gave you plenty of time to reflect and prepare for what is next for the future with Shinnok and Quan Chi.

You wander around but find yourself in the kitchen brewing tea mindlessly. Just as it finishes, Shinnok and Quan Chi stand together outside the small kitchen space, watching you prepare. From the angle and the doorway, neither man can be spotted by you. So they watch and drink in all you have to offer. Their lips twitch upwards as they see how deep in thought you are. Your mind is constantly working over something, and they see that. You pour your tea, careful not to spill it. Once you're finished preparing your cup, you call out to both.

"I know you're both there," you chuckle when the shock registers. They seem shocked you can hear them so well; your ears are just as keen. As they step forward, they find that you made them their cups. They know this smell all too well. The tea makes them relax beyond any reason. Theirs and your favourite, yet you still refuse to tell them the name of it or what is in it.

"Ah, that smell. Delightful." Quan Chi groans with content, sniffing profoundly and savouring the scent. He doesn't realize the shudder that passes through his body as he breathes it all in. That particular spice in the tea overtakes his senses. Quan Chi can't describe why it's so good, but it immediately relaxes. Shinnok watches closely and smirks a bit, hiding it behind his mug. You watch how they both melt, their features softening as they take a long, long drink from their respective cups, gulping loudly. The shudders aren't hidden, nor is the growl that emanated deep inside them. You always enjoyed the reaction their bodies and souls gave. Your soul flutters, almost vibrating with your heart beating. You can't help the joyous smile spreading over your face. You were happier to see your two new lovers relaxed. With each other and yourself, especially now knowing how much it all meant to you.

"You both look so handsome when you're relaxed like this," you say softly as you sip your tea. You can hear them both choke, if not nearly spit out their respective sips. "You okay there?" You watch them as a devious thought passes through your mind. And the smirk that plays over your features is not missed. They can't answer as they try to cough up a lung from how quickly they tried to inhale their drink instead of spitting it out. The tea's heat made their already darkening cheeks glow. Once they managed to catch their breath and the lightheadedness cleared up, the embarrassment over their previous state replaced it. They turn to each other and grimace. There was no winning against you. You give a few pats to the parts of their forearms you can reach, causing them to shudder again.

"We are more than okay." That came from Quan Chi as they shared a glance and an embarrassed grimace, unsure what else to say. Each man wants to communicate their overwhelming emotions. Shinnok doesn't even say anything before a scarlet hue paints his cheeks, his thoughts catching up, and his soul swirls inside, pounding like a war drum. He can't speak, and the nerves cause his mind to shut down completely. Your laughter dies into a soft, content sigh as you smile at them. Both couldn't be happier to be in your company. It's soothing and has a familiar calming quality. They each try to school their expressions, keeping their thoughts quiet before either act on them.

...

You lay in your bed, your shorts and tanktop pyjamas hanging loose on you while you lay on your back. You enjoy the calmness your room brings you after this past week. While comfy and warm in bed, it's missing some warmth, a warmth the weather or your blankets can't provide. As your mind starts wandering and your eyes shut, sleep creeps up, lulling you. Though it isn't there yet, your brain has taken note and your body tenses. You're fully alert when your door opens. You bolt up in bed, ready to pounce and attack or run, but you ease upon seeing a familiar man standing there, Quan Chi. You let out a relieved breath as your body relaxes.

"What has gotten you all jumpy, pet?" You didn't notice his eyes roamed your figure, now very relaxed.

"You didn't even knock; scared the hell out of me," your complaint is flat as you lean back slightly and crack your neck. Quan Chi snorts as he leans against the door's frame and chuckles. The sound of him laughing is quite musical and attractive.

"I don't see why you're all concerned. It is not like you have anything to worry about," he doesn't seem amused. The rumble of his voice is seductive to you.

"Still doesn't explain why you're creeping in my room at three in the morning," he knows better, yet he still teases and smirks while sauntering to you. You have half a mind to ignore his behaviour and tell him to leave and be more courteous, but you notice he doesn't meet your eyes, and his body is tense. Like he is afraid, you'll snap. You sigh, tired, as you pat a spot next to you; his steps are soundless as he lays down next to you.

"Quan Chi, you should know better. Why are you here this early in the morning?" While you give him the third degree, you've noted the darkness under his eyes, how dark and heavy his skin is and how ragged his breathing is. As much as you want to scold him for his manners and to break in, you have to consider that he did walk in without knocking; the latter has his reasons, whether personal or business-related.

"You must be tired of being this rude. Go to bed." You playfully bump into him and gently pull him down beside you. The pillows are nice and soft against his head, and they envelope and cradle him so well. You're pretty comfortable, too. How you caress his cheek and trace the tattoos on his skull is soothing as you rest your forehead against his. He has no problem obliging you.

"You look exhausted," his arm reaches across to wrap itself tightly around your waist as the words ghost over the bare skin on his chest. He can't control his body and soul. Quan Chi doesn't realize he lets out a shuddered breath as your nails softly drag across the skin of his scalp. An encouraging sound rumbles and vibrates from his chest, almost akin to a pleased purring sound from a giant beast. His head angles, eyes fluttering in relaxation, and his body sinks fully into your mattress as you massage and trace his skull and tattoos. "Go to bed. You need rest." The words are gentle and filled with compassion.

He is happy to let you comfort him and relax his muscles, bones, mind, and soul. They haven't been soothed and made to relax in aeons, if ever. Relaxing for once is very cathartic and soothing to the warlord. With his face hidden against the pillow, he could finally close his eyes and let himself be a person. You kiss his cheek as you hear him murmur words of love and appreciation for his significant other. And that is when the tiredness sets in; sleep becomes more effortless. He holds you and curls his body to yours. He falls asleep swiftly. His entire aura and demeanour relax significantly, which you're grateful for. This would help him stay and think with a clear mind. He deserved eight hours and will get it whether he wants it or not.

...

The quiet creaking of your bedroom door awakens you. The sun is up, shining through your windows, but it is early enough in the morning to keep it dark. But even that slight beam blinds your eyes, making them squint.

"Where are you going?" You murmur as you roll and wrap your arms around Quan Chi's waist. You kiss the small of his back, and your fingers trace circles into the pale skin. The touches earn you a low growl; a chill rushes through your spine and down your back. You squeeze and wrap your hands over the toned muscles, humming, which startles him and freezes him in place.

"To attend to my duties. I shouldn't be long," Quan Chi starts to stir in your grasp.

"No, stay, you're so warm and cosy," you whine, half asleep, placing another soft kiss on his lower back, tighten your hold around him and wrap your legs over his thighs, refusing to let go or budge.

"I won't be too long," he wants to see where the touching and kisses lead, yet he can't give into that. You let out a high-pitched noise of disappointment and squeeze him closer, unwilling to let go or wake up to an empty bed. You yawn and stretch, but your arms and legs refuse to uncoil or untangle from Quan Chi's torso and limbs.

"No, don't leave, please," you whine more, nuzzling your head against his warm back. Your warm breath caused him to shiver. He takes a deep breath, clearly enjoying your affections and actions and wanting to savour more.

"You're adorable," he chuckles softly. You smile wide, placing several soft kisses on his skin. Your hands gently knead into his muscles, and you feel him shuddering from your touch, which causes him to inhale sharply. You have your revenge. His sounds and reactions prove you were right. Quan Chi lays in bed with a half-grin on his face, rolling and staring at you.

"Needy thing, aren't we," your grumbling response earns a hearty laugh from the man, who rolls himself and curls around you, kissing you passionately and pinning you underneath him. You don't fight against his forceful ways, even if he had not fully displayed it.

"Thank you," you murmur against his neck as you nuzzle into him, hugging his ribcage tightly. His eyes drift shut as he returns your hold, squeezing and letting his breathing fall in time with yours. Both of you drift back off to sleep in the warm sunlight together. It is hot under the sheets and within his arms; it's the type of comfortable warmth one can never tire from, the kind you feel through the soul and the most effective to melt the heart. He never wanted to leave, nor did you want him to. The one time you both overslept the day away, neither minded at all.

You wake up again and feel Quan Chi holding you tightly to him as he snores. The noises are high-pitched and endearing, and you can't help the laugh that falls from your mouth or the large grin as your heart melts for the sleeping man. He sounds and looks content and satisfied. You hear a gentle knock on your bedroom door as you admire his sleeping form. Quan Chi jumps slightly in his sleep but is still out cold. Your head perks up as you make a noise of acknowledgement, telling whoever to come in. Shinnok greets you. He looks stressed and annoyed, only for it to melt off of his face upon seeing the two of you. He stands and stares, stunned, before coming back into focus.

"So that's where he's been," Shinnok speaks with a pleased, relaxed smile, entering fully and coming closer, but he stops just before your feet, looming. Quan Chi's forehead is pressed against yours, and his nose is right under your jaw. His arms cradle your frame, but his upper body weight rests partially on you.

"Comfortable?" Shinnok asks curiously as he watches.

"Quite," the affection on your face melts Shinnok, who swallows and tries not to stare too intently. "I felt needy and didn't let him get up, so don't be mad at him. He fought bravely against me," you add with a soft giggle as Quan Chi hugs you tighter in his sleep.

"Oh? Needy, are you?" Shinnok hums softly. A dangerous note enters his tone that doesn't register at first with you.

"He started it, waking me up by trying to sneak out. So I made him curl up with me a bit longer," you grin as you slip an arm off Quan Chi and pat the spot next to you. You then turn your upper body, pouting and looking at him pleadingly.

"Please, join us," your eyes do not hold their playful mischievousness anymore, though your hand is beckoning him.

"Perhaps later, doll, I am-" but Shinnok can't finish. Not as you gently catch his hand and tug him down, and in surprise, his eyes go wide, and he falls forward and onto his stomach. Thankfully, his momentum and the light tugging don't rouse Quan Chi, the only movement being him curling closer, further pressing you into the man.

"Oh no, did you trip, dearest?" You tease as you pull him against your back, holding his arm and hand against you to keep him held there. "Come on, it's warm, join us." You begin to rub circles on his back while smiling and adjusting the position, your hands gently stroking his hair as he lets out a shocked yet pleased huff. Shinnok didn't wish to overstep the boundary; that was not his way. The former elder god moves into a position where he's comfortably lying. He hugs you against his chest, spooning and wrapping around you, trapping you between his body and Quan Chi's; he relaxes after you purr, which eases him.

Shinnok and Quan Chi remain silent, both appearing to sleep with you. Your grip doesn't loosen as you smile warmly, listening to Quan Chi's even breaths, but you also feel Shinnok's nose pressing to the nape of your neck as his breathing deepens, the weight of his body changing slightly as it relaxes and feels slacker than before.

Your eyes drift, the warmth surrounding and consuming you as you're sandwiched between two sleeping lovers. For some unknown reason, you're sure this isn't the last time you'll be sandwiched between their chests. All your thoughts, worries and concerns vanish as you melt. Eventually, a sleepy mumble escapes Quan Chi and sends his warm breath caressing your neck. You gently kiss his nose as you rub soothing shapes into his back, easing him back to sleep. Your nuzzling encourages him back to sleep. Before you shut your eyes, Quan Chi whispers a drowsy thank you to you for relaxing him and letting him sleep. Your brain isn't fast enough to return the thanks to Shinnok, who nuzzled the back of your neck and wrapped his limbs even tighter as a reassurance of your affection. Your eyes slipped close, and it wasn't long after that you all had fallen back asleep, leaving behind a pile of tangled limbs, blankets, and satisfied sighs. It has never felt more perfect, and you are ready to be wrapped in it whenever possible.

...

You let out a groan as you stretch slightly, feeling a warm body squishing you on both sides. "Too warm," you grumble as you rub the sleep from your eyes. As you're fully aware now, you sit up and gaze at the sight that was your sleeping companion. After another quick yawn, you notice Shinnok shifting; you hope he isn't upset that you pulled him into bed.

"Did you enjoy yourself?" You lean and ask as you brush your thumb across his temple. "Oh, don't look so sour. I think you enjoyed yourself plenty." He rolls onto his side and away from your touch with a huff. A massive grin spreads across your face, knowing he can't lie to you, which seems to anger the elder god as a deeper scowl settles across his features. Shinnok pulls a pillow over his face to avoid you or the possibility of responding.

"You are such a cat," you joke, running your fingers down his side. A chuckle slips from his throat, his whole frame vibrating and shaking as he does. While your hands are busy tracing shapes into his skin, the third person in the room stretches. Quan Chi had rested and recovered well.

"Good morning," you coo at Quan Chi, kissing his nose softly. Shinnok grabs the hand you're caressing him with. You were paying no attention, or you would have noticed how annoyed the older man looked. He could barely keep his jealous thoughts in check. He was much closer to having an outburst than you had believed. You move your hand and intertwine your fingers with his. You let out a breathy groan as you sit up and stretch your ribs. Each time the action occurs, you do so with a pleased hum, and they crack loudly.

You lean down and kiss Shinnok on his nose like you did Quan Chi's, giggling as his eyes widen. His expression is priceless. It shows how much he wants a repeat. When Quan Chi stretches, his body shifts, and he moves and lets out a strangled, muffled grunt and a popping noise. You giggle again as Shinnok scowls deeper; the sight alone causes you to kiss him. He should show you more emotion because seeing him squirm as he pulls away is fun. The affection leaves him pleasantly surprised, speechless.

"Let's go. I need to shower and try to save my terrible sleep schedule. Which was all your fault, I hope you realize." He hears the playful, accusing tone as he exits the bed. His feet barely make a noise as they brush against the wooden floor, and you raise an eyebrow as his shirt rides up. He raises his hands in the air while stretching his stiff limbs, showing off a bit of skin. His mouth opens and stretches slightly, his teeth showing. He looks sleepy still. His movements and the way his hands push, grab and pull down seem graceful and elegant, no matter how sluggish Quan Chi was. The best thing is his pleasant sound, a low-key hum in his throat that sounded more like a grunt. It's almost cute and has the slightest touch of feral.

You slip out of bed behind Quan Chi, ready to deal with today begrudgingly. You also wonder what their mornings are typically like. Both men are quiet, but you assume it is simply for the same reason you are. Quiet stretches and groans fill the room as each man goes through their morning rituals. Quan Chi stretches tall again, and his bones give another satisfying crack in his spine, shoulders and knees.

Shinnok grumbles as he rolls out of your bed to get dressed and groomed, ignoring your presence for the most part. Quan Chi sits on your bed with a bewildered and amused smile.

"What?"

"Is he always in such a lovely mood in the morning?" You ask as you let out a yawn that turns into a high-pitched squeak. It shows your teeth. Quan Chi is stifling a laugh from how loud and obnoxious that squeak is. A few more squeaks accompany the stretch. There's a shift of your upper body, followed by an extended groan, a crack, a snap. Oh, that felt wonderful. You let out a moan that catches both men's attention; their hands freeze on the buckles they are securing and buttoning.

"Ahh, that felt great," you breathe as you pop your neck. You beam with enthusiasm and a spring in your step. Their minds race and fill with images and visions of what else would earn those delightful sounds from you.

...

You're outside with Shinnok and Quan Chi while they interact with the demonic horses they raise. Your back is sore and won't pop, no matter what you've done. You sit with D'Vorah, who you've learned works for Shinnok. The two of you chit-chat before you figure you'd ask her for help.

"D'Vorah, weird request, but. Will you hug me hard enough to crack my back?" You ask as you look over at her. She gives you a weird look as if confused.

"This one will help you. Just give detailed instructions," she replies as she stands up. You will never understand why she refers to herself as 'this one', but you won't bother with that now. You grin as you stand and explain what you need her to do. She wraps her arms around your back and squeezes you tightly to her. You and D'Vorah both hear and feel your spine crack and pop as she works her way from the top of your spine to the bottom. The moment is cut short by Quan Chi. His reaction isn't violent.

"What. Do you think you're doing?" He calmly asks. You frown as he tries to step closer to you.

"I'm having her crack my back," you reply as your back lets out a loud crack. Your head is on D'Vorah's shoulder as you lean into her for support while she helps crack your back.

"By. By doing what exactly?" Quan Chi narrows his eyes at you, then turns and glares daggers at the bug woman. D'Vorah tilts her head.

"I'm having her squeeze me as tightly as possible on my spinal cord to make them release so I can be more comfortable," you sigh as a deep crack is heard coming from your shoulder blades. You feel her arms move lower as she keeps going. The jealous glare that you can see from Quan Chi is ridiculous. You can hear Shinnok clear his throat, just as jealous of the sight.

"It feels so good," you let out a groan of relief as more pops and cracks are heard. Your hands lay limply on her hips as she keeps going. Your knees buckle when her arms make it down far enough, and a loud, satisfying pop is heard.

"There we go. No more pain?" D'Vorah softly smiles. Her hands slowly slip to your hips as her grip disappears, giving you space to pull away.

"Much better, thank you so much, D'Vorah," you sigh as you pull away, giving her a warm smile that makes your nose wrinkle. You can almost see the jealous aura coming from both men as they glare daggers at D'Vorah. You fully pull away from her and walk towards your partner as if what happened was normal.

"Was there something you needed me for, Quan Chi?" You ask with a happy smile as you look up to the angry and very jealous sorcerer. He's barely holding himself together, and his face says it all. His teeth are grinding, jaw tight with tension, eyebrows knitted together, fists clenched at his sides, his fingernails digging into his palms, and his legs stiff and unmoving.

"Love you," you coo as you kiss his cheek along with Shinnok's as you walk past them both. D'Vorah goes to take over Quan Chi's duties. Before he's about to blow. You were far too comfortable with a being that isn't them. A possessive, jealous urge rises through them as they watch you walk away with a small spring in your step. You've never really understood the fuss with possessive men. You don't see D'Vorah as anything more than a good friend.

You sigh as you wander into the stable, seeing the prized horses Shinnok had been raising for what you could only imagine was centuries or not more. You find these animals both beautiful and disgusting with how they have exposed goat skulls. You know it's because they are technically still demons, but you do like how they are somewhere between a horse, goat, and ghoulish demon. They are such amazing creatures, but in a creepy way, just like their masters.

A quick flash of jealousy strikes them as Quan Chi sees your affection for his or their horses. Regardless of ownership, the idea of anyone besides Quan Chi and Shinnok being the receiver of that adoration was unfathomable. Shinnok's irritation stems from watching you being overly affectionate towards others, including D'Vorah. And all while not showering your affections on him and Quan Chi.

"Hello, handsome, yes, you." You coo softly as you gently pat the red stallion. The horse whinnies and leans down. It knows who you're talking about. You reach out and scratch his snout with a toothy smile. "You are so lovely, yes, you are. Very good boy. Who is such an amazing horse." The stallion nudges you affectionately as the affection. You will probably never get used to the sound of your nails against its bony nose—the idea of riding him, though you're excited.

Quan Chi moves silently and takes your side. The stallion's head swivels, and he stomps and paws his hooves at the ground near Quan Chi and then lays his head against you and lets out a loud snort as its head is flat against your chest. You giggle as you pat the animals' ears while Quan Chi stands near you, looking beyond jealous.

"You are such a big sweetheart," you coo at the animal. The horse perks his ears up to listen more closely. Your fingers loving stroke over his leathery skin, the coarse fur seeming like velvet compared to the leather texture beneath; he leans into every movement, enjoying your touches immensely. You kiss the animal's skull as you hug it gently, being careful of its glowing red ram horns. Quan Chi grits his teeth, and his jaw clenches as he glares at the red horse.

Shinnok enters after hearing a commotion; the jealousy between Quan Chi and the red horse grows quite a bit. You gently scratch between the red stallion's eyes. You keep whispering sweet nothings and compliments as the stallion relaxes.

"Such a sweet guy, aren't you? Such a good boy, who's the best you are. Yes, you." You coo quietly as Quan Chi and Shinnok grit their teeth. "Good boys get treats," you speak sweetly and without judgment towards the creature. The soft expression you've always been using is warm and inviting and all too quickly becomes a lovely target for these two. You were pulling a thread that led to feelings of possession. You give the animal a treat as you coo and giggle softly as its tongue licks your hand as it gobbles the snack up.

"Who's a sweet boy who loves getting pets and treats?" Your nose crinkles as you grin wide. The stallion shuffles slightly. You don't notice the growl or the clenched jaws. Your eyes sparkle as you look towards both of them. You are enjoying yourself, even if you shouldn't be. "He's a very good boy," you hum quietly, patting his snout with a loveable grin. The stallion grunts and snorts loudly in agreement. Shinnok clears his throat, drawing your attention to him.

"Come along, pet," Shinnok commands as you turn to him. Before you could think, you let out a breathy response of an 'Oh please,' causing Quan Chi and Shinnok to exchange glances before returning their jealous and territorial gaze upon the beast. A growl comes from their lips as they stare down the demon horse. The demonic horse lowers its head to stare back at them.

"Don't tell me you're both jealous of a horse," you laugh as you pat the animal again. A very soft glare is settled in both men's eyes and their muscles tensing, showing they are getting angry, with a bit of disbelief on their features as well, at the accusation of them being jealous over a mere beast, no less, the irony and hypocrisy are not lost to them.

"No. Of course we're not," Quan Chi replies, his eyes staring intently into your own. Your eyebrow is raised. You didn't quite believe that, although they have facial expressions of disgust towards feeling this way.

"You're an awful liar," you tease lightly. His gaze hardens at you. He's annoyed. Quan Chi has no problem glaring, but it was more intense this time. It's borderline harsh, and honestly, you did find a part of it intimidating, like he's displeased with your tone. You pat the animal's nose before you walk out of the stable. You raise your brows at him, not impressed with his behaviour. Shinnok shakes his head and places a hand over his eyes, pinching his nose and groaning. You could have sworn the two are growling towards the demonic stallion, but maybe it's the wind. The atmosphere has a light chill but is otherwise lovely. The two follow after you before they lock up the building.

You wander back into the castle with no genuine concern or worries. You keep meandering until you make it to the library. You find a book that you've been meaning to read as you sit in the middle of the loveseat that you begged Shinnok to add in there for you. After about 15 minutes, the two men walk in. They sit on either side of you as they slightly loom over you.

"Something bothering you two?" You ask as you turn to the next page of your book. You've got a smug grin; you knew something was off with these two, but you can't pinpoint it.

"What did D'Vorah do to crack you back," Quan Chi asks.

"I had her bear hug me with all of her strength. It helps release built-up pressure in the spinal cord," you reply calmly as you put a bookmark in your book, smiling up at him.

"That was the only time?" Quan Chi asked, his voice wavering slightly with worry. You roll your eyes. The fact it wasn't obvious worried him.

"She squeezed me like that one time before, Quan Chi. If you're scared that she'll 'steal' me, you have nothing to worry about. She and I are just friends, and that's it," you gently touch his and squeeze lightly. You do the same for Shinnok as well. Their eyes turned to meet yours. Both had worried looks; anyone could've picked up the possessiveness and jealousy.

"This is about the fucking horses, isn't it," you groan. Their jaws clenched, but that seemed to be in the correct spot. Quan Chi looks away from you before muttering that it wasn't the horse. You scowl before putting your book down and standing.

"What do you want me to call you both good boys and feed you snacks?" You ask clearly, trying to make them laugh. All you get are blank stares. They would prefer that over nothing.

"Of all the things to get jealous over. I prefer both of you over an animal!" You let out an annoyed groan before pacing the room.

"If I knew your other half was so important," Shinnok says in a deadpan tone.

"Shin, I've always had a soft spot for animals," you say, turning to him and watching him stiffen at the nickname.

"Not quite what I was aiming for," he chuckles dryly. Quan Chi's grip on his armrest tightens.

"Can both of you stop? Please! You are acting ridiculous!" You state your annoyance about their behaviour, which is evident as you give them both a disappointed look as you stand up and make space between the three of you. You cross your arms and look at them both like an unhappy parent.

"I thought I'd made it abundantly clear that I love you both." There's that disappointed parental tone you learned from working with the general public. Your arms are crossed, and there's no mercy behind your glare as you stare at your partners.

Shinnok moves to stand up as if to keep the argument going in circles. "Sit," you say in a very agitated tone as you point at the loveseat and give him a sharp look.

"Wha-" He's confused by your response to him. You step closer towards him.

"Sit. Back. Down. Now," you say sternly, each word sharp and calculated. Your gentle and kind attitude is replaced by a disappointed and annoyed one. One they have never seen as your small form looms over them both as you rant about how their behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated, how you love them both equally and that there's no chance another person could take you from them. You speak to them like an angry mother would as your gaze shifts between them sharply as you talk.

They feel the sharp sting of embarrassment and disappointment, a twist in their guts that burns as the harsh and almost venomous scolding leaves their lips. Your tone is severe and sharp, expressing extreme disappointment and almost fury mixed to create a perfect weapon against their emotions. You are scolding them. It would put Kronika to shame if she saw this.

They swallow as your voice keeps going strong and firm. You pause and catch a breath when you know your points are fully gotten across. You pull back slightly, giving them both space as you hold your head high, looking down at them with an expectant look and your arms crossed. They both look like kicked dogs. Neither have been spoken to like that except from Kronika or Cetrion.

"Now, I would like an apology from both of you, along with a promise something like this will not happen again." You stand up straight and stare down your lovers. You use the most disappointing tone you can muster, and they understand where it came from and can't quite bring themselves to do much besides what you said. You dominated the situation they both believed they had the upper hand in—the audacity to discipline them like they were children.

"Behave like a jealous child and be treated like one," you say as if you can read their minds. They know your words are correct but will never fully admit that to themselves. Not without a fight, anyway.

My bedroom will be locked at night until I get a response," you threaten. "Be. Good. Boys," you hiss at them before storming off. Both have no idea what hit them. They can only comprehend that you spoke down at them and struck the right parts to get your desired effect, even if it was uncomfortable for them. Your hands clench tightly as you turn to see the fear in their eyes from you snapping at them like that. You are making sure neither of them will be getting anything tonight. As promised, you locked your bedroom door, much to their horror. They thought you were bluffing about it. No apology, no spot in your bed for either of them.

A bit of regret lingers with Quan Chi and Shinnok after your battle. Although they may have a new respect for the power behind your wrath and the verbal lashings, you can dish out. If Shinnok and Quan Chi were truthful with themselves, they deserved the lecture, but it did not stop the throbbing jealousy. So the two lie in their bed in silence, each thinking about ways to get you back. The only thing they know you want is something their ego and pride will never let happen: an apology.

Three days, three long, arduous days, you did not give them the attention they craved—at least 36 hours of cold, cold, lonely silence on either of your parts. You are adamant, refusing to give in. In some ways, they appreciate it but despise the emptiness and their aching heart. You are acting cold, hurting them worse than anything you could have said. They missed having someone sleep beside them. You had no clue how hard it was for them not to have you by their side at night.

One would have assumed Shinnok and Quan Chi could have handled sleeping alone. The two are whining to themselves like small children missing their toy or comfort blanket. Three days without you by their side has proved more than enough torture to coerce an apology. You continue the silent treatment for now.

Quan Chi on day four of the silent treatment. He knocked on your door cautiously, hoping to hear you beckon him in. As a master of manipulation, his skills are significantly lessened on you. All he can offer is sincerity, even when his ego screams to think he's a fool. And yet here he is, admitting that he was a complete idiot to fall for his possessive tendencies towards you. He's on his knees begging and apologizing as best he could and saying he couldn't live without you and would rather die a thousand deaths than risk losing you. You open the door, seeing how miserable the sorcerer looks on his knees in front of your door. You gently lift him, pressing a tender kiss to his lips as a reassurance.

"Apology accepted, now get off your knees," you smile, letting him rest on your shoulder. He nods silently and wraps his arms tightly around your waist, lovingly rubbing his nose against your neck as he basks in your warmth again. Since he apologised, you'll let him have this as a bit of a win. You know the act is difficult for him and proves he loves you deeply. You slowly pull him into your room and shut your door, ready to shower him with the affection he's missed.

"Oh, you missed me that much?" You hummed in question, to which he quickly replied yes. You kiss him lovingly as his arms tighten around you, needing the reassurance of holding you tight. The two of you exchange sweet nothings in between kisses. Your fingers rake, scratching his bald scalp as his hand pushes and strokes every part of your skin his hand can reach.

"Thank you for apologizing," you whisper sincerely. You move him to sit at the edge of your bed. He follows your motions eagerly, happy you aren't rejecting him. He leans his head back slightly; he lets out a whine, which would be embarrassing to the sorcerer, but right now, he can't bring himself to care as his forehead rests against your shoulder. You gently stroke your finger down his spine to relax him.

He breathes shallow, ragged breaths as your fingers scratch along his exposed flesh and run up and down his back to relax him. You smile as the muscles tense in his arms and then relax. You gently scratch along the muscles and bones at his back, tracing over every edge and feeling the warmth of his back with your touch. Quan Chi whimpers with relief. You tenderly caress his cheek, kissing his jaw, letting your lips trail up and down it. A soft shudder goes down his spine. He bites his lip, but it isn't stopping a needy sound from escaping his throat. He purrs in contentment, rubs the side of his face into the crook of your neck and shoulder, and lets out a happy grunt. You peck him on the tip of his ear before cooing softly, "Just relax for me, love," he shivers and nods slowly. You curl up on your bed. Quan Chi quickly cuddles you and pulls your head to rest in the crook of his neck. You hold his hand and whisper soft praises as you go to sleep.

In week two, Shinnok still hasn't come to terms with the fact that his mind will break if he is forced to remain separated from you for a long time. He stares blankly at your door. He thinks back to how Quan Chi spoke about how easily you forgave him with his simple apology. How you then happily showered him in affection. A rush of envy coursed through the Elder God. He doesn't want to admit it, but he wants the love, too. So he knocks, and you can't help the little smirk as you walk over and open the door. Shinnok hesitates for a split second before asking,

"May we talk?" You hum slightly before you nod.

"Yes, speak your mind," you gesture but don't move from your doorframe.

"I apologize for my behaviour," he exclaims, only realizing what he'd done after the sentence had left his mouth.

"Thank you for the apology, Shinnok," you smile as your hand finds his cheek and guides him to you, planting a chaste kiss that he's been craving far more than he'd like to admit. As his hands rest on the sides of your ribs, a faint shuddering whimper of relief slips from his lips into your own, allowing you to seal the silent promise of forgiveness and love as he leans his body weight into the kiss, savouring your lips against his own. You pull back, letting your foreheads rest against one another. He groans at the action, so desperate to taste the tenderness again, only now allowing you to feel how much his body craved affection and intimacy. You tilt his head to face yours as your hands cup his cheeks.

"Come in," you pull away from him, allowing Shinnok to slink into your room, desperate not to let you move. Your fingers twirl in the dark silvery locks as his hands ghost up and down your sides as he seeks to feel more and savour more of the feeling of you.

"Thank you," Shinnok finally states before planting another loving peck on your lips.

"Thank you? What did I do?" You smile softly and laugh through your question. You stand up straight, pull him in by the back of his neck, and wrap his arms around you before giving him a loving hug.

"For being merciful," he replies honestly, almost whispering into your ear. He grips onto you, nuzzling his head into your shoulder. He's struggling with the feeling of raw affection that wells up in his chest and blooms like wildfire across his entire body, taking all sense of rationality and leaving his mind fuzzy and needy as the Elder God purred against you and sunk deeper into your touch and arms. You walk towards bed, ready to let him wrap himself around you like a snake and savour what he's missed.

"Think nothing of it," you brush your finger against his jaw. Your eyes watch with deep admiration at the once vengeful being slowly reduced to a purring cat wrapped in a silk blanket, the epitome of relaxation and comfort, as his arms coil around you possessively. As you two crawl into bed together, you are ready to snuggle up, but Shinnok's embrace is so tight you can't budge.

"I must admit something," he mumbles, causing you to tilt your head to hear better, "I slept miserably for the past two weeks, my love."

You kiss his knuckles, and a deep, calm sigh passes the god's lips. Shinnok leans his head against your neck, hiding his expression, though the love and tenderness he can't help but feel are transparent enough in his voice. "Please, just stay here."

You kiss his head, resting your forehead against him. "Where do you think I'm going?" He smiles.

"Sleep," he murmurs before pressing another gentle, featherlight kiss to your skin.

...

You sit in their lab watching Shinnok and Quan Chi. Shinnok is writing a new spell while Quan Chi uses his magic to carry different instruments. While they usually work separately, how they work together is undeniably attractive. Watching their skilled hands wave gracefully through the air, their fingers flexing delicately to adjust to their movements. You sigh dreamily as their lips move in rhythm, casting their spells, neither uttering a word. The raw focus and power make you feel hot under the collar. You've gotten good at hiding how they affect you, significantly after you distracted them long enough that some concoction they were making exploded.

You're not proud of how filthy your thoughts can be about them when they work like this. You haven't been intimate with either of them, yet your mind flickers to scenarios and fantasies you have about each other individually and together. You've had to take cold showers because of how warm you feel from just being around them. You want them both, but neither shows interest in sex...ever. Sure, they will flirt and rile you up, but they don't seem interested in going all the way, which frustrates you to no end! You're feeling more and more sexually frustrated by the day, from each gentle lingering touch, each kiss, everything! It's pure torture. You begin to wonder, could they not be attracted to you sexually? You know there are more ways to experience attraction. You were fine with them being asexual or demi. You'd respect that if they are, but they never talk about anything, and you are losing it!

You're okay with the idea you'll have to use your hands or toys if they aren't interested in sex, but they constantly change the subject about it. Neither of them seems to want to have this critical conversation. They have danced around the topic for the last few months. Quan Chi is either sarcastic about it, deflecting the question to Shinnok, or they both claim they are too busy for that right now. So, instead, you groan with frustration, clearly annoyed that the two are too occupied to give you attention. Shinnok flicks his gaze to your irritated self. He furrows his eyebrows for a second. Shinnok carefully asks.

"What is wrong, my heart?" It was more of a command for you to talk. Shinnok watches your body language as you sigh heavily, gravelly. Shinnok doesn't pry; instead, he waits for your response to see if he must make his other partner respond for him.

"Are you both asexual?" You blurt out, tired of the way they skirt around the subject. Shinnok is caught off guard as his nose and eyebrows pinch at your request. Quan Chi spins around to look at you with a weird look, raising his eyebrow high at your question. Your eyes flicker between the two, who were looking very confused about your question, and you feel a slight irritation welling up in your chest as your lips pull tight in annoyance and your eyebrows twitch downwards.

"I mean, neither of you likes to talk about sex. Usually, you skirt around the topic. I can understand if you are, but I'd like to know so I can...Deal with that on my end," you say as you try to insinuate what you need. It wasn't a lie. You can manage. Hell, you've worked just fine these last few months. Both of your lovers are silent, eyes wide, glancing at each other, still not quite saying anything, their faces slightly pink and ears burning from the direct question.

"No," Quan Chi finally spits out as his eyebrows arch in exasperation,

"I just never gave it a second thought," Shinnok stated, almost surprised by the idea,

"It doesn't cross our minds that often... We just," Quan Chi replied, his hand waving up and down slightly at the statement. You glance down at the table and sit a bit straighter.

"It's fine. I should have figured you two have very, very low sex drives," you cough. You know, in most relationships, sexual attraction is essential. Most partners who are even a bit into you will want that eventually. You shift in your seat. "Don't worry about it. You've put me at ease," you add, sighing softly. You quickly leave the room. Your skin feels warm and sticky again; you need another cold shower.

...

Even under the cold water, your skin burns and craves to be touched, even more so now that you know that they can, in theory, want sex... they are just indifferent to the whole thing. You squeeze your legs shut as your brain starts to think up scenarios again that cause your core to throb. Maybe you're just reading into things, and neither of them is interested in the sensual pleasures...which you can respect and understand if that is true. You shiver in pleasure and frustration, wondering what their hands would feel like against you... You want them. You crave them.

You push the intruding thoughts away for now and continue your shower. You can't take it anymore. You need something to ease your desire. Maybe just letting yourself pleasure yourself with thoughts and fantasies isn't that bad for now. Even with the cool water hitting your neck and back, your skin burns as you let yourself enjoy what you've desperately needed. You exhale slowly through gritted teeth, trying your best not to moan as you flick a finger against your sensitive, swollen clit. It has been too long since you have given yourself the satisfaction and release you've been denied so cruelly for months. All you can think about is how rough their hands would feel caressing and pleasuring you or the sensation of their tongue teasing you... you have such an insatiable appetite that the once-thought-of images only served to arouse you further. You lean your head against the shower tiles. The more your finger moves along your slit, the more you grow impatient.

"Fuck," you sigh, enjoying the moment for a while, your core growing hotter with each flick of the finger. Just imagining what their mouths might feel like against your sensitive folds is nearly too much for your oversensitive brain to think about. It feels too damn good, and it has been so long since you have had the chance to relax this way. You inhale deeply, trying not to pant at the image and fantasy of the sorcerers. It was futile. "Damn," You huff again, knowing it wouldn't be long before you completely break and release after so long. You tease and rub your inner walls, barely able to hold back your sounds. Your hand tightens at the tiled wall behind you, feeling your climax rising. You whimper loudly, letting a muffled moan pass through your lips. Your thoughts return to the two men, making you picture the sight of them pinning you to the shower wall and filling you.

A surge of bliss and pleasure ran through your body, leaving you lightheaded. As you gather yourself up, your chest begins to rise and fall. The haze of your orgasm leaves your mind hazy and blissful. You feel like you're seeing stars as your thighs quake and shiver. You chuckle slightly, almost chuckling to yourself, realizing your fantasies are quite the danger zone if they make you cum that fast. Still, you can't bring yourself to care. You've been needing that for quite a while. The cold water drenched your body again, cooling down your hot skin. You take a moment to catch your breath as you shower off, hoping that will ease that hungry desire inside you after your orgasm.

....

A week passes, and you go on like nothing is wrong. You'd visited Outworld and got yourself a little...gift. You have used it often, especially when you shower and every time you cum to the thought of one of your lovers. Jade and you had gone to the market, and you'd gotten a dildo to help your need. However, both Shinnok and Quan Chi have started to notice you're a bit tense. It was subtle, a small sign they were quick to identify. You're far more relaxed and seemingly satisfied. However, they did notice a slight limp that would appear occasionally. They were no fools. However, their minds always seemed to go to the worst outcomes first. There was no way that you would seek satisfaction and sex with someone else... would you? They worried you may have. After all, you're the one who asked if they even wanted to have sex. The idea didn't sit well with either, as they watched you from a distance for a week. They hoped that they wouldn't catch you meeting up with another person. They watch intently from a distance, trying their best not to raise suspicion that they have been tailing you like some common crook. It's not until they search your room while you and D'Vorah are out doing something that they find it: the dildo you had gotten yourself. Both of them feel slightly relieved that they're not seeking another person's embrace behind their backs. Neither one dares touch the phallic object you use, however. Shinnok is the one to say it out loud,

"I didn't peg them to use something like that." Shinnok rubs his jaw thoughtfully with his hand. Quan Chi sighs heavily.

"At least they don't seek pleasure from another and have opted for this instead of cheating on us." Shinnok hums before he hears your footsteps approaching your room. Both of their cheeks heat up with the knowledge of you having such a toy, not recognizing that you're using it for satisfaction. Just the mere knowledge is enough.

"What were you two doing in my room," you inquire as your head pokes past the doorframe. Both look caught. Neither had genuinely thought about what they would do if you returned early. You immediately spot the open drawer that held your 'toy.' Both their eyes follow where you are looking, and you watch their faces turn redder than an apple in a few seconds. Your head cocks to the side.

"Ahh...you both could have asked, you know," you blush, just a little embarrassed that they snooped in your drawers. "It's rude to snoop, you know," you tease. Both men look down, very shy from the subject. You gesture.

"Well, I did tell you I'd deal with it myself," you grin, feeling a light flush on your cheeks. You may feel a little ashamed for using such a thing instead of asking your lovers, but you also feel no reason to hide it. Both Shinnok and Quan Chi flush deeper as Shinnok fumbles with what to say,

"My love-" Shinnok starts, only for you to put your hand up.

"I knew neither of you desired sex. It's OK if neither of you is interested in it. It's not an important aspect of a relationship." You interject before either of them can attempt to justify themselves. Shinnok pinches his eyes shut, feeling somewhat upset he caused you to worry that he'd be offended. Quan Chi feels almost stung at the knowledge you felt that way, "I love you both regardless, you know, regardless of our conflicting sex drives," you sigh softly, "Please don't take offence. I just didn't want either of you to feel forced to perform for my benefit, I prefer enthusiastic consent from my partners," you lightly chuckle.

Quan Chi looked relieved and slightly taken aback at how composed you are with this situation. How calm you are, understanding why neither of them talked about sex was enough for him. The understanding you gave them made him feel less like a horrible partner. They were just bad at discussing personal things. Shinnok scoffs a tiny laugh,

"So then," Quan Chi's ears were on fire as his face felt too hot to look at either of you for longer than a few moments. Both of them clear their throats. Neither one had ever brought up a sexual aspect to a relationship. Still, both felt like they couldn't address this now, not after how wise you were and especially not after you mentioned enthusiastic consent. Shinnok then inquires about the bravery you often admire.

"Have you been enjoying your...thing, alone?" His voice is wavering ever-so-slightly. You observe them both.

"In the shower, but yeah, I have," You pause before mumbling quietly, "using it too long causes that limp I get," Quan Chi had to cough into his fist, "I don't expect either of you to have sex with me," you reiterate, both sorcerers stare at you for a moment. You shrug awkwardly, trying not to wilt under their heated gazes, "You didn't seem interested. So I didn't bother you with it." You wave your hand and smirk awkwardly, your tongue suddenly feeling dry as their intense gazes burn through you. Neither sorcerer said a word as your words finally registered in their heads. You're using something to satisfy yourself in the shower instead of pressuring them for sex. Neither of them knew how to react. Should they thank you and reassure you that it isn't a dealbreaker? What were they even supposed to say now? This isn't their area of expertise, after all. The room was dead silent, the air thick and uncomfortable between you. "Should...should we talk about this?" You question. You shift from foot to foot. Shinnok coughs lightly, clearly not knowing how to discuss such a taboo topic. He feels uneasy about discussing this new topic, for he does not like being seen as incapable. You're very supportive and have never looked at them any less because they're not 'normal' like most others are. Now you're questioning their willingness, and he hates the position it has put you in. You start talking to fill in the dead silence, rambling anxiously. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make either of you uncomfortable," Your back slumps a bit, looking and feeling ashamed. Shinnok shakes his head lightly as he opens his mouth, only for no sound. This was such an unusual topic that neither knew how to discuss it.

"No! No, (Y/N), I...-We," Quan Chi trailed off before his hand lifted to rest at his temple. You begin to mumble and apologise again. Your shoulders slump slightly.

"(Y/N), its...-fine," Shinnok grins. He doesn't want you to apologize for how you have behaved. You have never pressured either of them. Neither would admit that they hadn't entertained the thought that your questions were directed towards them. At that moment, neither of them felt pressured or even worried. They knew that if you asked them directly, you would still respect them for their choices. Neither would ever admit it was mostly just them trying to avoid having the conversation about sexual matters that made them shy away from the topic.

"Please, don't apologize to us," Quan Chi raises his gaze from his feet to lock eyes with you as you cock your head to the side.

"Neither of us can offer a direct answer, as you asked. I haven't given the subject any thought," Shinnok mumbled out. A wave of relief washed over you as your shoulders sagged, and the tension and dread dissipated.

"Okay," You breathe. "That's okay," you smile a little. "I know the idea of talking about it isn't the easiest... I'll give you both space about this, okay?" They both nod as you sit on an armchair in your room. The conversation dies down, and they leave the room.

....

It's been three months since then. You still used your toy when you felt your urges bubbling to the surface. Both men have had extraordinary feelings towards seeing and learning that their lover used such an item to please themself. Every time you would enter a shower, they both imagined your pretty, pleasured face. They both had heard your sounds of pleasure while in the shower. Both have always longed to see your face scrunch in pleasure at the euphoria you would experience. Now, every time you went to the shower, both sorcerers would imagine the sight that they couldn't get off their brains, not that they wanted to, either. It drove both of them mad with their longing to see the beautiful expression of pure ecstasy on your face. Shinnok finds his mind drifting back to the toy each time, wondering what would make you moan so beautifully when it's inside. Quan Chi's curiosity is piqued by a part of him wishing to see you getting off, even if he didn't participate. Their thoughts ran amok during the late hours when neither was asleep, where one would slip a hand into their shorts and think of seeing their lover being pleased by their hand. Both shame and arousal burned their skin red and raw when they finished with thoughts of you splayed and vulnerable while they pleased themself with the image. Neither mentioned it, but a pang of jealousy came whenever their minds returned to it, yet at the same time, a burning sense of longing made their insides melt. Neither talked, and neither could tell why. Quan Chi had a couple of wet dreams about it, while Shinnok merely conjured those images whenever he felt the urge for satisfaction.

A knock on his door distracted Shinnok from the fantasy he had going of you riding his face. You came by. A smile adorned your gorgeous lips as you came to him for his attention while Quan Chi worked on something dangerous and time-sensitive.

"Hello, my dear," Shinnok grinned, trying not to make it too obvious he had been pleasuring himself in a not-so-primal way for the last half hour. His breathing is heavy, and his face is sweaty and red. He's hiding something, and you can tell, but he gives no hint about the activity you're positive he had done or was doing before you stepped through the door.

"Are you alright, dear? You look haggard," you look and sound so concerned about the literal god of death and destruction. "Are you coming down with something?" You ask as you place a hand on his forehead, checking for a fever. Shinnok almost melted with how nurturing you can be.

"I'm fine, darling. Don't concern yourself with me," he murmured. You weren't convinced. His posture and face made you concerned.

"Nuh-uh," you hold up a finger in the negative, "None of this," you point to his entire form, "makes me confident, dear. What's going on?" You question, locking eyes.

"I appreciate your concern. Yet there is no need for it," he continued to murmur, even though your facial expression was increasingly sceptical. You have an inkling of why he looks like this, as his skin feels like it usually does.

"Am I disturbing something?" You ask as a light smirk plays across your lips. You have a feeling that is the case. Shinnok's mind nearly shut down at the accusation. You raise a brow, challenging his response. Shinnok stares, a slight flush and a guilty look on his face. Biting your lip, you take a chance to ask the question. Yet you are intrigued, not disgusted, "Because it looks like I am, no?" You gently nudge, trying to encourage him to speak to you. You gave a soft look, which was comforting. Shinnok's chest tightens slightly.

"Are you disturbed?" Shinnok inquires. As his voice wavers slightly, his face betrays his nervousness.

"No, not at all. I think you should let me in if anything," you purr as you move closer to him. Shinnok doesn't say much and gestures his hand.

"If you're sure." You grin wickedly and kiss him deeply, allowing yourself to moan into his mouth, getting a light groan from him.

"Did I catch you pleasuring yourself to the thought of me, hmm?" You purr lightly, taking note of the erection hidden by his pants, his hands trailing your hips slowly, letting out a small and subtle whine. "My, that sounds like quite a pleasant image," you nip his ear. Shinnok's composure shatters at the sensation. You place your hands on his sides, letting his fingers trail your shirt.

"Maybe," Shinnok sniffs with an unimpressed sneer on his face. Still, you can hear his arousal as his voice cracks slightly. "Yet you're teasing me so...it seems," you kiss his neck, leaving marks as you bite the sensitive parts of his throat and neck. You're giving him affection. It feels glorious. You feel the vibrations on his neck as he groans, whimpering as your teeth tease the skin, marking him for everyone to see that he's yours. When you reach his ear, your tone low and husky,

"Can you blame me for wanting to taste you, my love?" Shinnok shivers in delight at the promise, and his eyes narrow with a feral desire as his hand pushes you off him by your shoulders to guide you onto his bed, kissing him in a frenzy of need. His hips grind into yours in a needy fashion. It makes a familiar pressure build at the base of your pelvic muscles as he starts to nip and kiss at your neck in a very primal manner, hands pawing and grabbing, dragging and pulling your body to his, grunts of approval filling the otherwise silent bedroom, along with the rustling of clothes. As the two of you exchange bites and moans, your lips are practically bruised from the force and roughness of his.

As soon as his belt was undone, his pants and underwear were tossed aside with no regard or care as to where they landed. He watches as your hand snakes down his body and wraps your digits around his length, pumping slowly. He can't stop the guttural moan that erupts from his chest at the sweet sensation of your digits stroking him, bringing him so much joy he might not survive this encounter. Shinnok's sounds are encouraging, and he's so lost in the euphoria that he doesn't recall his desires. Your ministrations stop when you feel yourself get pulled into a deep, sensual kiss, a hand clutching the back of your skull, urging you to continue pumping him as his tongue enters your mouth, filling your senses with everything he is. The kiss feels filthy in all the right ways as the passion burns into your body with ferocity. When it's over, you can't help but bite his throat hard enough to mark his neck, leaving evidence for all to see, groaning as you suck, trying to soothe. Shinnok cackles in pleasure at the attention before he looks at you expectantly.

You sit up and fight to get yourself in a similar state of undress. He watches hungrily at the view of you becoming exposed as you slide out of your garments, leaving him with a strong sense of reverence. His eyes drink up your form like a dehydrated man drinking cool, refreshing water on a hot day. He loves every part of your figure, even the curves you are sometimes unsure about. Shinnok thinks you're perfect, regardless of your opinions. When the two of you are both nude, he allows himself a moment to devour your appearance.

"Let me take you, my precious," Shinnok rumbled uncontrollably. It sends a shiver down your spine into your core.

"Yes," you murmur. Then, you gasp and moan loudly as Shinnok drags his tongue across the apex of your thighs. You blush intensely at the feeling of the sudden tongue. He watches you shiver at his ministrations as he grips your inner thighs to prevent your escape as he tastes and takes. You moan and whimper softly, and you grab his shoulder, urging him not to stop as your arousal glistened, practically dripping for him. You weren't prepared when his finger probed your entrance, earning another startled cry of his name. You spread your legs open, wanting to make everything easier for him. Another moan from you, and he slips another digit inside. He grinned as your noises spurred him to quicken his motions as you clutched and pulled his hair roughly. He savours your sounds. "Fuck-" the sensation is pure bliss. You look at him in absolute awe and passion. He groans against you, feeling you pull his hair. Shinnok keeps moving at an achingly slow pace as he adds a third digit inside you. With your eyes shut and mouth agape, you're caught up in the throes of passion. He admires you while you ride his tongue and fingers with gusto. He's drinking in the sight and feeling of you grinding against his face and fingers. How could he have not thought about this before? He can't believe it has taken so long to admit he wanted to have you ride his face, taste you, make you scream and moan his name, be at his mercy, feel you yank and pull his hair to keep yourself grounded, savouring the sting it causes him. He wanted this more than he ever admitted. After the teasing, the talking, the mental images in the back of his mind, he's savouring the sweetness of your slick flowing into his awaiting mouth. Feeling how you grip him tightly when you orgasm, how you scream his name as you release, his digits sopping from your juices, Shinnok drank every last drop, pulling his head back only slightly to savour your taste.

Your legs quivered slightly, unable to support your weight as you fell back to the sheets. Your breathing is heavy, and your eyes are screwed shut as you savour your orgasm. When you opened your eyes, you were surprised to see him staring at you, the area around his mouth wet, glistening in the low lighting. A tender gaze locked onto yours, tingling your skin with renewed excitement. Shinnok hummed. He sounded happy, proud even, of his actions and his prowess. Your nerves feel sensitive and charged with electricity as he looms over you.

"Fuck," is all you can mutter. Shinnok was delighted by your reaction, placing little kisses and marks on your collarbone, shoulders and neck before returning to his mouth with you. You could taste yourself as his tongue mapped yours. Shinnok wrapped a hand around your hips. His touch is soft yet firm.

"I do believe we're not done here," Shinnok gave a lust-filled, leering glance down. As his cock nudged your wet, ready folds, he growled with lust and leaned towards your ear, whispering huskily, "Shall I show you what you've done to me?" You nodded and gasped in surprise and pleasure as his length plunged into you, slick enough to ease the entry and not cause discomfort. It felt fantastic. Every drag of his member brought you so much enjoyment, and it felt divine to your senses. He filled you so perfectly. The pace is languid but deep as his hands wander and worship your form.

Shinnok watched how you crumble from the building sensations he provided with a smirk. His hips were fast, hard, deep, and very satisfying, as was the delicious pace. It didn't hurt or harm, either, which only pleased you. Your arms wrap around him as your fingers scratch his back, trying to find a hold, leaving behind angry red marks that earn you sounds of approval and lust from the delicious pain it brings him. Every sound you make and touch you provide has him losing his usual composure, reducing him to a snarling, drooling mess, deep down enjoying his loss of control. As Shinnok thrusts, he murmurs encouragement to you in such a sinful voice and is so sexy. "Oh, that feels good, yes, darling-yes, harder, more-" are common phrases and gasps to leave his lips. The way your pussy wraps around him in such a sinful way, it's like a vice and so wet and warm as he continues thrusting inside, losing himself in the sounds of squelching moist flesh slapping. It is so delicious, so passionate. Shinnok gives everything to bring you ecstasy as he sucks, bites and bruises you to his satisfaction, seeing the marks left. Feeling your nails dig and trail over his shoulder blades and spine was something so exhilarating to feel, driving him wild, making his rhythm jerk and stutter as a growl rippled from his lips. He wished he would not get this so lost in pleasure so easily. He had never experienced anything like this with any lover. The pleasure felt sinfully good. This is carnal. Fucking like this made your bond stronger. He'll never give it up. He didn't care if Quan Chi could hear the creaking and moans of the bed or the sound of skin slapping. It felt wonderful. Your lover has no qualms about his loud and guttural groans of ecstasy and growls, the primal noises only adding to your arousal. Every mark he leaves has you begging for more, wanting his claim to be made known and apparent. The smell of sweat and sex-saturated the room, thick and heavy like fog.

As you draw closer to your orgasm, he sees you shiver and gasp, moaning his name like a hymn from a song he loved. Your climax is his end as his fingers clutch your hips as he is driven to finish inside you. When his essence floods into you, he growls, but not in anger, in bliss and relief from his intense orgasm. The orgasm has you see stars and colours dance behind closed lids. You can feel the sticky and heavy substance covering your inner walls with warmth as it's splashed. He rides it out with slow, hard thrusts that wring everything out. Shinnok watches with a deliriously fucked-out, adoring expression as your chest rises and falls, signifying the way his presence stilled the rise and fall of your body as your heart pounded in its cage. Shinnok slows his rhythm down before collapsing by your side. Your chests are heaving, a thin layer of sweat coating your bodies from exertion. As he takes a moment to rest his tired limbs, a smirk appears on Shinnok's face, and a light chuckle erupts. You raise a brow curiously as you catch the sound.

"It seems I missed one hell of a sight," his gaze lands on his doorway. Sure enough, a person is leaning there, having witnessed the event unfold before their eyes, aroused. Quan Chi, with his bulging pants and reddened face, is the person watching. It didn't shock you in the slightest. You knew how they looked and felt. Shinnok laughs softly at his partner and lets out a sharp bark of a laugh as the other man shamelessly ogles your naked form.

"Quan Chi, give me a couple of hours, and we'll revisit this; I'm way too overstimulated," you breathe, trying to catch your breath. It's a breathless promise of what he will happily wait for. Quan Chi is beaming in delight, and there's no doubt the anticipation would build further. He licks his lips at the idea of having his way with you, yet he'll wait because you're so delicious.

"Very well. That's only fair, I suppose," Quan Chi sighs and walks off. You giggle, watching him walk off with his pants tighter than they should be. Once he's left, your body falls back into the sheets, and your limbs and body feel heavy and satiated. Shinnok continues watching you momentarily, leaning close to kiss you gently and lovingly. Your body tingled happily from the display of intimacy.

"Thank you, my heart," he whispered. There were no more words that needed to be said. He settles down and hugs your body close, allowing sleep to find you both as your eyes flutter and eyelashes softly brush your cheeks.

"Anytime." It's a whisper as his nose brushes yours. For the first time, you truly understand the concept of afterglow, and your body is alight from the happiness and adoration.

..,

It took you longer than expected to recover from your passionate activities with Shinnok. You'd just lay in bed feeling how sore he left you. You stayed in his bed all day as he did his best to give you some aftercare. Though, you don't mind. You dozed off at times, yet mostly, you cuddled him, feeding off the warmth of his presence and the physical touch. The contact also helped soothe your sensitive body from the intense encounter. When you'd woken up a few hours later, your eyes roamed over the slight bite and bite marks, bruises and cuts he left and shivered in joy at the memory of what had happened the evening before. He had used some spell to fix you up and remove any soreness while you slept. If not, you'd be feeling aches everywhere, and it would take a lot longer to recover, despite how pleasant the memories of how the lovemaking started, ended, or any of the acts occurred.

You remember that you made a promise to Quan Chi, and once your energy recovered and you dared to move, you pulled on some clothes and went looking for him. The man was in his chamber when you found him. He immediately began eyeing you as you stepped towards him with his hungry, desire-filled stare.

"Sorry I took so long; I was more worn out than I expected to be," you told him, approaching him slowly, intending to give him his due for being such a good, patient man. He greeted you with a deep, passionate, tongue-heavy kiss, practically devouring your mouth with need.

"Now, no need for that," he purred, tugging at your lower lip. A grin spreads on your face at his tone and expression. Quan Chi kisses you, and the action is both tender and fierce. It doesn't take much to pull him into bed as you both exchange needy and feverish touches and kisses and nips in an exchange, turning this room into another source of pleasure.

While in the throes of your lust-induced haze, it seems that Shinnok appeared and settled into the armchair in the corner. If Quan Chi got to watch you and him, he gets to protect you and Quan Chi. Quan Chi entirely ignored Shinnok, wanting nothing but you. He couldn't find a reason to care in his pleasure-filled state, his hands pawing and caressing the bare skin of your shoulders and sides. The noises from the man were only spurring you onwards, earning you sounds of gratitude. Quan Chi gripped you tightly, encouraging and begging in desperation to get all he'd desired since witnessing the debauchery between you and Shinnok. Your focus was split as he was beneath you, moaning, growling, and groaning in utter bliss as you rode him. The spectacle before Shinnok was indeed impressive, and he had to stop his hand from travelling between his thighs and making things interesting. With the sound of heavy breathing and bodies grinding, his dick grows stiff from his appreciation of the view he has of the two of you.

Shinnok can't get enough. Even though he had already fucked you into the mattress until you couldn't walk, the way you moaned and writhed against Quan Chi's chest as he groped and kissed your skin, the way your body shook and moved as you rode Quan Chi's legs spread for him as a new person to look upon your glorious nude form with hunger and delight, it fills Shinnok with such glee and passion. This was an intimate, private showing he had been waiting to witness.

Every bite, nibble, groan, every touch that sends shivers through your skin is intensely erotic to watch. Shinnok growls as Quan Chi hisses from your teeth on his Adam's apple and how his length is fully buried in your depths, jerking with every grind and rock. Quan Chi rolls his eyes when your tongue laps his neck in apology and delight. Watching Quan Chi use a hand to spread your ass so he can push himself in more profoundly, with a pleased smile as he admires your skin with an open-mouthed moan, and Shinnok purred at the delightful scene in his mind.

Shinnok allowed himself some satisfaction, even without the use of your body, in the fact that he's finally experienced you intimately and gets to watch. His friends' ecstasy is in no way undermined, and neither is the mutual enjoyment. Their desires were equal, and there was no shame or regret. Shinnok takes his pleasure as he strokes his shaft in time with the motions, it's a stunningly attractive sight, and his mind will burn and engrave the image of you fucking one another. You glance at him, noticing the attention from your eyes, and with a grin, you acknowledge him enjoying this moment as much as you and Quan Chi.

"My heart," the tone is breathless and respectful, "we can talk later. I need you, fuck- Quan Chi-" the voice is a ragged, growling hiss, full of desire. Quan Chi doesn't need to speak, and you know that look so well as you moan when his fingers glide over your stomach as you move in rhythm with his thrusts. Quan Chi keeps biting his lip, huffing and muttering under his breath. He grins before taking you by surprise as he slaps your rear roughly, causing you to moan loudly.

Your thoughts are going wild, as are Quan Chi's, from the sinful high you're experiencing. Quan Chi has become less patient and needier. There's so much fire to his motions, a wanton quality. As you grab his shoulders, nails digging into his flesh as your knees support and carry your weight. It seems the stress and desire got the best of him, with the way his pace became savage and lust-filled. It makes for an exceptionally enthralling sight as he eagerly and ravenously devoured you to have you keen with desperate lust as you sought mutual satisfaction, needing his body for release as much as he did yours. As you bounced harder and faster against his body, his chest, his strong arms pulled you even closer, his heartbeat sounding faster than the moments that had gone before. Your clenching around him makes him moan your name, and, oh, that brings you such joy as Quan Chi bites your collarbone and leaves a new bruise, a reminder that Shinnok had made the previous. With such force, you nearly came as you shuddered around him. A quiet, erotic chuckle passed your lips, seeing the glint in the sorcerer's eyes.

When your pleasure mounts to an indescribable level, your thoughts are nought but lust, bliss, satisfaction, and a wave of white-hot ecstasy. Shinnok himself comes along with you both. Quan Chi is still chasing his high as you tremble from the aftermath. There's something so appealing and satisfying about Quan Chi reaching his orgasm and Shinnok not far behind you. Knowing they derived pleasure from your activities feels exhilarating, a validation you did not think you'd want until you had it. Both men's loud noises sound like heaven as the tension in Quan Chi's form melts away, and he relaxes, softening within you. The world disappears until it's just the three of you. Mutual affection and passion have always given you the confidence to show these affections and desires.

The living yet passionate kiss Quan Chi gives you is full of his tongue as if the words will not come out unless shoved into yours in a silent way of expressing his devotion and admiration for you. His hands hold either side of your face as he kisses you like this. Despite the need to breathe, the moment is beautiful. It's breathtaking and memorable. Every motion and move made by each of you was so fulfilling, no matter if it was sexual or romantic.

Shinnok almost loses control upon witnessing the afterglow and tenderness from the aftermath. What a sight. The sorcerer with the strength and skills to do anything he pleases with you was so tender. With so much care, it's almost romantic, but it is also so sweet as you rest your forehead against the sorcerers'. And Shinnok cannot believe it, but it's adorable how content you two look.

He does not care that Shinnok sits not far away, watching with a very intense and pleased gaze as the afterglow between the two of you settles. You slowly move to entirely free Quan Chi from your depths as your thighs shiver slightly. But, he can see how wet the space between your thighs is from your fluids and the result of Quan Chi. He'd given it everything. He is breathing heavily as he settles himself next to you on the bed, pulling you down to snuggle and hold him. You beckon Shinnok to join you both in bed, curling against your back to enjoy your warmth. Your legs are jelly. You'll stay snuggled for hours. No words are needed. No talking is necessary.

This was bliss. Shinnok murmures sweet-nothings into your ear, leaving soft kisses along your bare neck and shoulder. Tender hand movements rub your belly, and his body presses closer to yours. As well as Quan Chi rests his hand on your cheek, the tender gesture lulls you, but you would do anything for them, and Shinnok and Quan Chi are proud and smug when they have you all to themselves in their arms and nestled into the bed. Their heartbeats sync with your own. A promise was made without a word spoken aloud.

Both men will want you in their arms or their beds and will show off how proud and pleased they are for it. There would be no cause for embarrassment or shyness, no regrets or anger. Any objections would never make it known. The thought of it is appealing and a delight to your ears as you bask in the contentment, a warm feeling in your chest that bubbles to your lips as a happy smile despite your eyes remaining closed.

These men knew how to make your knees buckle, whether with magic, tenderness, or sinful promises of debauchery and ecstasy. Whatever was brought into play, there were no complaints to be found. That fact alone meant they both made you extremely happy, which filled them with delight.

"Rest for now," is the whispered response of Quan Chi, smiling at the peace you found and a secret feeling that wants this, them, to remain.

You relish the feeling of a gentle kiss to the space between your neck and shoulders as your eyes close again, too satiated and warm to the point of sleep falling upon you quickly. Sleep claims all three of you. It's bliss. Shinnok wouldn't have it any other way than you in his arms, knowing that the man beside him isn't even going to bicker or disagree, their grudges and animosity set aside. They'd argue and throw spells at another day when there isn't the desire to fall asleep next to you and wake up to a vision they will come to adore. It was too rare that you could get such peaceful moments together. There is time, and their presence is soothing, a softness and acceptance only allowed around one another. Finding comfort in their presence in times of such calm and tenderness is a habit.

:readmore:

[konstantin609]

Sup people . I gonna start doing my own scenarios on Tumblr for male reader in such games as Mortal Kombat 10 , Mortal Kombat 11 and Injustice 2 . It will be taking long cuz I want to go through full roster (no D'vorah cuz I hate her for killing Mileena)

Mortal Kombat X

Cassie Cage;(you met her on Shang Tsung's island in comics events)

Jacqui Briggs; (here it's a alternative universe

where she didn't get into relationship with

Takeda )

Ferra/Torr; (here the race there from have a long

lifespan so she is already over 18 years old)

Kitana ; (here she was freed from Quan Chi's

control and don't have feelings towards Liu Kang)

Mileena; (here we saved her from been killed by

D'Vorah)

Sonya Blade; (here she didn't get into relationship

with Johnny)

Tanya ; (here we saved her from been killed by

Rain)

Honestly I'll be writing for lot of fandoms so if you got any requests I'll be glad to hear them out

[undertale-anomaly20]

Mortal Kombat 11 x reader: Chapter 10 To hell and back

(OK I know this might be shorter than the other chapters but that's because Scorpions part in the game didn't run for that long. On another note do you guys know how hard it was to try and figure out a way for Hanzo to live in this chapter?)

Across the shoreline, (Name) and the Grandmasters of the Shirai Ryu and Lin Kuei walk toward their destination. They stop to take in the view of a large bridge of rock - too thin to be a natural occurrence, and with no visible support from one end to the other - stretching across the skyline.

The camera cuts to the bridge itself, showing the massive army - numbering in the thousands - of Netherrealm oni and Cyber Lin Kuei walking across it. A glowing figure beaming light from her being hovers high above the bridge, and that figure is Cetrion.

A close up on her face reveals she is visibly straining, and her arms are held aloft in the air. It becomes apparent that the constructed bridge of rock is her doing, and she is focusing on keeping it aloft for the army of demons to traverse across it. Back on the shoreline, Hanzo Hasashi looks to Kuai Liang.

"Those warriors must be headed for Kronika's Keep" Hanzo stated "Agreed. But why not use Kharon's fleet? The bridge clearly taxes her power" Kuai replied "The fleet's bound to Kharon. It sails only by his command. That it's still moored suggests he won't help Kronika" Hanzo said to which Kuai replied "In which case he may help us" (Name) looks to them both "true but Kronika wouldn't allow Kharon to roam free. so where is he?" she questioned making the grandmasters think.

Back on the bridge, the last of the Netherrealm army has finished

crossing. Still focusing as best she can, Cetrion disperses the bridge, causing it to disintegrate into a green mist. On the shoreline, a scream of agony resonates across the surroundings. Scorpion turns to look at a nearby shack, determining that was where the scream came from.

"It looks like Kharon is home, perhaps hosting some unwelcome guests" Hanzo says then he turns to Sub-Zero and (Name) "Return to Earthrealm. Tell the others we've found him. We'll deploy as soon as I return" he says "Are you certain Kharon will aid us?" asks Kuai "No. But he's our best chance"

Kuai leaves but (Name) remains with her arms crossed with a stern look "you're not getting rid of me that easily, Hanzo" she says then smiles uncrossing her arms "I can handle this on my own, (Name), It is not necessary-" "what have you always told me?" (Name) said interrupting him. he is silent for a few moments "Be strong enough to stand alone, be smart enough to know when you need help, be brave enough to ask for it" he said sighing when he looks to her. she walks to his side and holds his hand "I'm not leaving you to do this on your own" she said. Hanzo slowly smiles and hold her hands "and for that I am thankful" he says as they look at each other lovingly in this one moment.

The scene cuts to a closer shot of the shack. Hanzo and (Name) approach it, taking cover behind an outcropping of rock. The camera cuts to him peeking through the window of the shack, where he sees Kharon.

Kharon himself would almost pass for an old human, were it not that his skin on the top of his head is pitch dark and his eyes a milky grey. He is also laid on a table, wrapped in a webbed cocoon. The camera pans across the shack to show the creature

responsible, who drops down from the ceiling.

It is D'Vorah.

"You should have aided Kronika, Kharon. Now you must suffer" she says as she approaches the table and releases a swarm of insects from her hand. They engulf Kharon's face, but he remains defiant "I am immortal, D'Vorah. You cannot kill me" he says "This One needs only render you unfit to ferry Kronika's enemies" she replies smirking when she suddenly lurches forward in pain as something plunges into her back.

"GET OVER HERE!"

D'Vorah is violently yanked out of the shack window, courtesy of Hanzo's chained kunai. She falls onto the shoreline in a crumpled heap, but as Scorpion lands nearby, she pulls herself to a standing position with the help of her extendable stingers.

"First Shinnok, now Kronika. You fight for lost causes" Hanzo growls as (Name) follows behind with a deadly glare "This One ensures the Hive's survival. You will not save the Shirai Ryu"

They fight. In the past, D'Vorah has managed to overcome Hanzo, and her fighting ability and unique control over parasites and poison has not waned since then. But Hanzo's discipline and skill have also improved immensely, and he takes the fight to

the Kytinn. After a brutal exchange, he beats her into unconsciousness.

"The Shirai Ryu will not fall"

A noise from behind him causes Hanzo to turn, but he reacts too late. His younger self teleports in to punch him square in the face but (Name) steps in catching his fist in her palm and throws him back "don't touch him" she growls surprising Scorpion as he stands back up "why? why do you protect this man who has abandoned his traditions!?" Scorpion yells "because changed for the better. because he found a way to be happy and let go of the past. because he is the man I love" She replied her heart finally feeling free, finally saying the words she held back. Hanzo's eyes widen and his heart melted at her words that's he's waited so long to hear. Scorpion didn't know how to feel on the one hand he was filled with an unknown warmth in himself at the fact that (Name) was in love with his future self but on the other hand his future self had abandoned his traditions and his anger towards those who took everything from him.

"Your clan of impostors will indeed fall" Scorpion sneered looking past (Name) to Hanzo "I've restored the Shirai Ryu. Built a clan that's never been stronger" Hanzo replied walking in front of (Name), placing her behind him. Scorpion angrily points a finger in his direction "On a foundation of pretenders and outsiders! Kronika told me" he yells. He pulls out his ninjato sword and twirls it in his hands. Hanzo pulls out his own ninjato. Scorpion charges his older self, who meets the charge with one of his own. They clash, with Hanzo pressing the attack. His younger self blocks and parries his sword strikes, pushing back on him after their blades briefly lock.

They each block and deflect one another's strikes until Hanzo ducks a swipe from his younger self and delivers a counter stab, but Scorpion teleports away in a flash of hellfire before he can connect. This time, Hanzo is ready and does a 180 degree turn just as his younger self emerges behind him.

In slow motion, Scorpion throws his chained kunai, but Old Scorpion skillfully knocks it aside with his sword before it hits. He then grabs the chain, tugs on it to unbalance his younger self and ignites the chain with some hellfire of his own. The fire travels down the chain in an instant, torching Scorpion and forcing him onto his knees in pain.

Hanzo stops attacking, but his younger self is not willing to surrender just yet. He remains on one knee "Without our original bloodlines, there is no Shirai Ryu. Our clan's massacre extinguished them. Kronika will revive the true Shirai Ryu in the New Era!" he yells as he stands back up and assumes a fighting stance. Hanzo does so as

well "Do not trust Kronika! She uses your anger to enslave you, as Quan Chi did both of us. I let go my rage, and it saved me. To save yourself, you must do the same"

They fight. The battle is truly an epic one, with both kombatants equally matched in strength, fighting skill and powers of hellfire. But the elder Scorpion has one thing the younger lacks; control over his anger. He uses it to fight intelligently, gradually finding weak spots in his younger self's attacks and taking advantage. After a hellacious battle, the younger Scorpion is finally beaten into submission.

"It's past time you were freed. We both know what truly drives you. It's not Shirai Ryu pride... it's your wife...and child" Hanzo said walking towards his younger self. (Name) follows him quickly "Harumi and Satoshi were stolen from me. Murdered. Seeing them again is all that matters" Scorpion says as he stands back to his feet, still enraged "We share this pain. I fought through Hell to end it. But Kronika's New Era is not the remedy. She would resurrect Shinnok - the same devil who brought death to our family and clan. He cannot be allowed to return!" Hanzo said angrily while (Name) looked on in worry. Hanzo walks up to his younger self, who is ready to fight, but taking in the words spoken to him.

"When I revived the Shirai Ryu, I vowed our clan would ensure Earthrealm's protection and promised (Name) a life where she would never again need to fight" Hanzo said as (Name)'s heart melt. (Name) stands in front of Scorpion, his milky white eyes meeting her warm amber eyes "Kronika only wants to use you to complete her goals. she doesn't care what happens to you or anyone else" she says and holds her hand out to him "please Scorpion...help us" She pleads.

Scorpion looks away from her, lost in thought. As he looks

as her, remembering that back in his time she is there a bright and happy 18 year old girl, how she had grown from a playful pup into a fierce and protective wolf. Then he looked to his older self in the eye again, his look changes from thoughtful to horrified, as four stingers arise behind Hanzo. He turns around just as D'Vorah stabs Hanzo in the chest, the blow so powerful the stinger goes clean through his body.

(Name) turns around quickly her eyes widen in horror "HANZO!" she screams. Hanzo grabs the stinger with his hand, but is unable to pry it loose. D'Vorah comes in closer, fondling his cheek with her hand in what could be described as a twisted lover's embrace. Her other stingers lightly tap Hanzo's body, until one of them finds a soft

spot, stabbing into his side. He groans in agony, but remains defiant, and he suddenly channels hellfire through his entire body, blasting D'Vorah away from him. He struggles to remain upright, though.

"Poison..." he struggles to say. He groans and falls to one knee. D'Vorah stands back to her feet, grinning sadistically. "Kronika knew your past sins would distract you. Now This One ends your misery" D'Vorah says smirking.

Unbeknownst to her, Scorpion sneaks up on D'Vorah from behind and chops off all four of her stingers with his ninjato. She falls to her knees in pain "Now, you die!" Scorpion yells. D'Vorah suddenly whirls around and blasts a swarm of insects into

Scorpion's face. As he backpedals and destroys them with a burst of hellfire, D'Vorah scrambles backwards on all fours in a reverse crab walk, before going to burrow herself underground when a blast of fire hits her sending her flying into the wall of rock.

Scorpion rushes to his elder self's side, who still has not risen from one knee "Raiden is at the Fire Gardens. Enlist Kharon's aid. Bring Raiden's army to the Keep. You must!" Hanzo begs "You have my word" Scorpion says.

D'Vorah struggles to get up when a pair of brown boots enter her line of sight. she slowly looks up to see (Name), her (e/c) eyes glowing menacingly, her hands set ablaze with her flames, her teeth showing her sharp canines and her face showing a variety of emotions. rage, anger, fury and hatred. for the second time in her life D'Vorah felt true and utter Fear.

"You" (Name) growled sending a chill down D'Vorahs spine. (Name) grabbed the stunned D'Vorah by her throat, picking her up off the ground with one hand extinguished, and pinning her to the wall "how DARE you lay even one finger on him!?" she yelled. she squeezes her throat harder making D'Vorah gasp for air "this...one cares only for the survival of the hive. not pitiful men" (Name) raises her other hand in full view, making the flames brighter, and brings it towards D'Vorahs mouth, causing her to panic, (Name)'s glare hardens as she brings her hand down on D'Vorahs mouth burning and melting the flesh. D'Vorah tries to scream in agony but only muffled screams are produced. once (Name) removes her hand from D'Vorahs mouth all that remains is a mangled and melted glob of flesh where once was a mouth. (Name)'s cold eyes glare into hers "never again...will you harm those I love" (Name) says as she pulls her fist back "I'm going to do what I should have done 2 years ago" and with that (Name) thrust her fist through D'Vorahs chest and grabs her heart. D'Vorah spasms a bit trying to scream in pain but all that stops once (Name) pulls her hand back out, dripping with dark green blood, with D'Vorahs bleeding and still beating heart in her grasps. the light in D'Vorahs eyes die out as her body hangs limp.

Hanzo almost stands fully, but staggers. Scorpion catches him before he can fall, bringing him to gently rest in his arms. Hanzo groans snapping (Name) out of her rage as she snaps her head in Hanzo and Scorpions direction "no..." she whispers as she drops D'Vorahs corpse and rushes to them, dread filling her heart "The new Shirai Ryu are worthy. It's heart, not blood, that makes them warriors" Hanzo says struggling to stay alive "Hanzo!" (Name) cries out dropping to her knees at his side. Scorpion allows her to hold Hanzo in his final moment.

Hanzo, with his head on her chest, looks up at her and smiles weakly "(Name)..." he says her name in almost a whisper "I wish...we had more time" (Name)'s eyes fill with tears threatening to spill over, her heart breaking "what are you talking about? you're..you're gonna be fine. wh-where gonna go back to the fire gardens a-a-a-and you're gonna get help and then you and I will retire from fighting" she stammered as she held him tighter, her mind running through every way to save him, the tears rolling down her cheeks. Hanzo weakly reaches his hand up and caresses her face. (Name) quickly hold that hand to her cheek nuzzling it as Hanzo rubs his thumb across her cheek wiping away her tears "my love...you and I both know I will not survive" "no no no" (Name) says in denial. " I want you to promise me..." "I can't....I can't" she babbles " I want you to...promise me that...you and Calithea will live happily" "I CAN'T!" (Name) yells, her eyes squeezed shut, a silence hung in the air "how...how can we live happy...with out you there...please don't leave us..don't...don't leave me" she begs. Hanzo can feel his time drawing near as it becomes harder to breath for him "I know you can...if not for me or yourself..do it for Calithea" he says. (Name) finally opens her eyes...finally accepting the cold hard truth. she sniffles and nods "I...I promise...I promise I will" her voice trembling. Hanzo smiled softly "I love you with all that I have, my beloved" he says looking into her eyes. she gives him a wobbly smile "and I love you in this or any universe, my Hanzo, my love" she says lowering her head and capturing his lips. every memory they shared flashes through their minds. the first time they met, their first fight against one another, there first fight, their heartfelt reunion, there time training together, the injuries they patched together, Hanzo's first confession, Hanzo meeting Calithea, raisng Calithea together and their first kiss. Hanzo's hand goes limp and his head lolls to the side breaking the kiss. (Name)'s eyes widen in heart break and horror, her lips trembling and her tears falling faster than before as Scorpion can only watch her as she breaks down, his own heart feeling the pain, and she wails in pain with her voice echoing throughout the realm.

The scene fades from the Netherrealm to the Fire Gardens, just as a breeze blows the autumn leaves into the sky. In the gardens, Liu Kang and Sub-Zero walk together in conversation.

"Your Shaolin masters, they're ready?" Kuai asks "They will fight until the last man" Liu Kang replied "That is likely what it will take" "There will not be a fight if Kharon does not help us. Is there any word from Grandmaster Hasashi?" "No. If we do not hear soon, I will return to the Netherrealm"

Before them, Scorpion emerges in a flash of hellfire with (Name) in his arms. she looks weak, her eyes puffy, red and half open. Instantly, Liu Kang and Sub-Zero shift to fighting stances, but Scorpion does not follow suit, instead looking around at the scenery while keeping a firm hold on (Name) "Wrong Scorpion. This cannot be good" Liu Kang says to Kuai "Get Raiden!" Kuai shouts

As Liu Kang runs off, Sub-Zero faces Scorpion down "The Fire Gardens, rebuilt? The Shirai Ryu are indeed restored" Scorpion says amazed, (Name)'s head is on his shoulder staring off into space "Why are you here, Scorpion? Where is Grandmaster Hasashi? What have you done to Lady (Name)?" "...He is dead" Scorpion replies and then looks down at (Name) in his arms, his heart aches knowing how it feels to loos someone you love, and brings her closer "as for Lady (Name)...she is grieving" Kuai grits his teeth "And now you have come to finish us" he growls causing Scorpion to look up at him "I understand your mistrust, but I am here to assist you!" Scorpion tries to explain "I find that impossible to believe! now release her!" Scorpion knows nothing will stop Kuai from fighting him so he carries (Name) to a near by tree to put her down but as he does something stops him. (Name) is holding his clothes in a tight grip "lady (Name) I must-" "no..." he hears her mutter "please...I must quell Sub-Zeros anger. I promise you I will come back" he says trying to convince her as Kuai watches in confusion. (Name) reluctantly lets go of his clothes and allows her hand to drop into her lap still staring at the ground. Scorpion goes to face off against Kuai.

They fight. As has been the case with their many fights before, Scorpion and Sub-Zero are equally matched in skill, strength, speed and powers. But this time, it is Sub-Zero who fights recklessly, allowing Scorpion the opportunities he needs to exploit his weaknesses. After a back and forth exchange, the wraith knocks the Grandmaster to the floor.

"You misunderstand my intentions"

Suddenly, a lightning blast catches Scorpion square in the chest. He is hurled backwards and crashes to the ground hard. Raiden stands above the beaten Sub-Zero, his hands charged with lightning. Liu Kang stands beside him, who quickly runs to (Name)'s side worried "Who sent you here, Scorpion? Raiden demand. Scorpion struggles to his feet and says "My future self is dead. I am here at his behest"

"Grandmaster Hasashi sent you?" Liu Kang asked turning his head away from (Name) to look back "I honour his dying wish. Kharon will ferry your armies to the Isle of Kronika. We must leave at once" Scorpion replied "Do you have proof of Kharon's offer?" Raiden asked not believeing him "...Only my word and Lady (Name)'s but as you can see...she is in no state to answer" everyone looks back to (Name), who is staring at the ground with a blank expression.

"Your word is worthless. At the tournament, I trusted you to spare Bi-Han, and you betrayed me" Raiden says glaring "A mistake born of rage. I seek redemption Scorpion tried explaining "Lies, Scorpion! You are a slave! And Kronika is your master!"

They fight. Scorpion finds himself in the battle of his life. Raiden himself is at full strength in Earthrealm, he has the power of thunder and lightning at his beck and call and thousands of years of fighting experience. It takes all of Scorpion's martial arts skill and powers of the Netherrealm to even keep in the fight, but he refuses to fall, and manages to knock the Thunder God to his knees for a moment.

"Raiden, you must listen!"

"Spout your falsehoods elsewhere, Scorpion! Kronika will not entrap us" He says as he stands back to his feet "It is no trap! Kharon awaits you in the Netherrealm"

(....I said TRY to figure out how to make Hanzo survive....never said I actually succeeded....yes I know I'm an evil bitch trust me I cried writing this part but I can make it worse...who's telling Calithea her daddy isn't coming home)

[undertale-anomaly20]

Mortal Kombat 10 x reader: Chapter 7

3rd P.O.V

The scene cuts to the Sky Temple. Team S-F creep up behind a wall overlooking a crevice as D'Vorah speaks with Liu Kang, Kitana and Sindel "Lord Shinnok is nearly finished. Soon the Jinsei's corruption will be irreversable" D'vorah spoke to them "The invasion can then proceed Raiden and his allies will be unable to offer resistance" Kitana stated Kung Jin missteps, and some stones crumble under his feet and fall into the crevice below them. Takeda and Cassie stop Jin from falling "Once the realm falls, our path to victory will be clear. Advise Lord Shinnok that the Oni and Orochi are ready. At his command, we'll unleash them on Earthrealm" Liu Kang commands D'Vorah nods and walks into the Sky Temple. Kung Lao and Smoke walk up to the rest of the revenants "Have you found Raiden's portal to the Heavens?" Liu Kang asked "Yes, but his wards protect it. We can't break through" Kung lao answered Team S-F peer over the wall at the revenants "That is unacceptable. After Earthrealm is destroyed, we must complete Lord Shinnok's vengeance; invade the Heavens and destroy the Elder Gods" Kitana said annoyed "Come" Liu kang said as he, Smoke and Kung Lao walk off "Make war on the Heavens?! If Shinnok can take down the Elder Gods--" Takeda freaks out whispering "End of the universe. Got it" Jacqui finished his sentence (name), with her mask pulled back up looks to Kung lao, whose face shows pain and sorrow, and places a hand on his shoulder "Jin..." she whispers "Kung Lao... to see him like this..." he says to himself "We'll all be hangin' 'round the Netherrealm water cooler if we don't pull this off. C'mon" Cassie saysAs they creep along the wall, a rock comes loose from where Takeda puts his foot. Unlike Kung Jin before him, the rest of Team S-F are unable to catch him and he falls, just barely grabbing into the crevice edge in time "Takeda!" (name) shouts. She reaches her hand for Takeda to grab Sindel and Kitana notice the noise. Realising they've been spotted, Cassie motions to Jin and they spring out of cover, running forward and engaging in kombat. Kung Jin swings his staff at Kitana as Cassie fends off Sindel's strikes. Kitana gets through Jin's staff swings, punches him in the stomach and kicks him in the face as he bends over, staggering him. Cassie punches Sindel, who blocks two more strikes from her and sends her reeling with a punch of her own. Cassie begins to retreat as Sindel advances on her

"Has your mother ever told you what I did to her friends? Killed them all in the blink of an eye" she taunts Cassie "And your own daughter. You proud of that?" Cassie barks back "We are bonded in death. You will join us and I will give you a proper upbringing!"They fight. Without the magic of Shang Tsung and his consumed souls in Sindel's body, she is unable to bring up the same power and strength that killed so many of Earthrealm's warriors. That is why she finds herself unable to take down Cassie so easily and that allows the leader of Team S-F to rally and beat her down, eventually leaving her unconscious on the ground "Nice offer, Mommy Dearest, but I'll pass." (name) is still trying to reach down and pull Takeda up from a sticky end at the bottom of the crevice the Sky Temple rests on. They both strain to reach each other's outstretched hand. Takeda suddenly loses his grip and falls... but (name) leans down and grabs his hand in the nick of time. Both of them struggle for a few moments, but eventually (name) pulls Takeda back up "I owe you one" he says smiling at her She pats him on the shoulder "I'll remember that" she replies Kung Jin yells out as he is flung backwards, crashing into the large gong in the temple courtyard. He passes out from the collision. As Kitana moves in to finish him, Cassie calls out to her "Back off, princess!" "You think mere words can stop me?" Kitana taunts she turns as she spots Takeda and Jacqui running toward her. The four, counting Mileena, of them surround the revenant "Thanks for the assist" Cassie thanks them "Any time" Jacqui replied "Tick tock, ladies" Kitana blocks strikes from Cassie and Jacqui with her fans, kicking Cassie away at the same time she punches Jacqui backward. Takeda lands two punches across her face, but she blocks a third and counters with a roundhouse kick that staggers him then knocks aitlyn into a stone pillar making her stunned. She then levitates him and Jacqui into the air with her fan-nado attack and chucks of her fans into his abdomen. She follows up on Jacqui by throwing her remaining fan into her shoulder. With them both down, Kitana recalls both fans to her and twirls them around, turning to face Cassie

"No!" Cassie screams "You wish to die first? So be it"They fight. Kitana proves to be a huge test for Cassie, as her speed and skill in battle matches and surpasses the young Earthrealmer. However, Cassie shows that she has tricks of her own up her sleeve, and these allow her to remain in the fight and take it to the revenant. After a fierce battle, Cassie manages to emerge victorious."You're not killing anyone" As Kung Jin pulls himself to a seated position, Cassie rushes over to Takeda. "Help Jacqui!" she commanded as Mileena ran to (name) helping her up. Realising the situation is dire, Jin does as he's told for once. Cassie helps Takeda to his feet. He's favouring his abdomen, which is bloodied up from Kitana's fan. Cassie: Messed you up pretty bad "Ugh, great bedside manner. I can fight" Takeda said but Cassie puts his arm around her shoulder to support him. They walk over to Jin and Jacqui, who's sitting down and favouring her shoulder "Jacqui?" she asked "It's nothing. Just like Kurdistan" Jacqui said putting on a smile "(name) what about you?" "I'm all good" Team S-F hear someone call out in Chinese.They turn to spot Liu Kang, Kung Lao and Smoke rushing toward them "alright you two get going" (name) stated "Mileena, Takeda, Jacqui and I'll handle them" Cassie and Kung Jin try to argue but she cuts them off "just go! have faith in your team" Cassie looks to them and pulls out her pistols "Damn it. Keep your heads down. I'll see you on the other side" She nods to Jin and they take off into the Temple. The scene cuts to Shinnok in the Jinsei Chamber. He has now completely corrupted it with his presence. Raiden is still trapped in the skeleton hand, barely conscious.

D'Vorah is with the cocooned Johnny Cage, watching as her insects slowly eat into his face "They taste your flesh. Burrow deep. Inside you they will grow. Gnaw your innards" D'vorah taunts Johnny is still fully conscious during this horrific ordeal, but he refuses to cry out in pain. Cassie and Jin rush into the Jinsei Chamber "By the gods!" Kung Jin shouts "DAD!" Cassie yells D'Vorah turns around at their voices and engages them in kombat. She blocks a kick from Jin and a punch from Cassie, kicking her in the stomach and forcing her backward. She blocks a punch from Jin and extends one of her stingers, stabbing him in the chest. She coldcocks him with her fist and ducks a right hand from Cassie. Once more, D'Vorah launches her stinger, but Cassie catches the appendage. She blocks D'Vorah's strikes as best she can, but is forced backward by a punch to the face "First father, then daughter. Will they taste the same?" D'vorah taunts.They fight. Under normal circumstances, the fighting prowess and powers of D'Vorah would have been too much for Cassie to handle alone. But now the daughter of Johnny Cage fights with an aggression and strength unknown to her before. She relentlessly pummells the Kytinn, not stopping until she is well and truly unconscious at her feet. Cassie: You're the bug? I'm the windshield"

Outside in the Sky Temple courtyard, (name) Takeda Mileena and Jacqui are going up against the revenats Takeda and Jacqui hold their own agaisnt Smoke and Kung Lao, (name) finds herself fighting Liu Kang again while Mileena is up against Kitana. (name) is dong fine on her own as are the others but no one counted on Sindel sneaking up behind Mileena. (name) didn't notice until she heard that chilling scream her head whipped around and what she saw made her heart drop. Sindel had managed to distrate Mileena long enough for Kitana to shove he closed fan through Mileenas' chest "NOOO!" (name) screamed and kicked Liu Kang away then ran to them and absolutly smashed them into the wall behind themshe then ran back to Mileena, dropped to her knees and cradeled her head

"Mileena? speak to me!" she cried out Mileena slowly opened her eyes "P-Pretty bird..." she replied weekly tears welled up in Kaitlyns' eyes "don't worry we'll fix you up w-we'll get help" she said more so of trying to convince herself "Pretty bird we both know I won't make it" "don't talk like that please! please don't go away! we still have so much to do! w-we-" "Pretty bird i want you to listen to me very carefully...I-In the palace there is a hidden room...to...to enter it you need to press the only stone on the wall that with the lotus symbol...behind the tapastry" Mileena reaches for Kaitlyns hand, who snatches it up quickly, and places it on her cheek "p-promise me..." "I promise! I promise...please..." Mileena smiled "I love you my pretty bird" Kaitlyns eyes overflowed with tears as they left stains on her cheeks "I love you too, Beautiful" Mileena took her last breath and her hand fell back onto the ground.

Kaitlyns world fell apart in that one moment the sadness drained from her body and was replaced by rage "GRAAHHHHH" she let out a feral roar as she stood up and whipped around facin Kitana who had only just gotten up "YOU!" she charged at her. Kitana on instinct swiped her fan up hitting Kailyn in the face knocing her back a few steps she went to attack again but paused "you know me...and i know you" (name) let her see her face Kitanas eyes widen "(n)-(name)" taking the advantage (name) landed a hit on her knocking her to the ground she sat on kitanas stomache as she hit her in the face over and over and over again. it was just a blur and no noise could be heard as flashbacks of her and Mileena.when they fisrt met, finding eachother again, training together, sleeping in the same bed and her dying moments. (name) finally snapped out of ith when someone grabbed her from behind and threw her off. she hit the ground with a thud but quickly had arisen to face her thrower Liu Kang "lady (name)" he tried to speak to her "fuck off!" she hissed at him uppercutting him.

Back in the Jinsei Chamber, the insects burrowing into Johnny's face have all died once D'Vorah fell unconscious. He looks up to find his daughter trying to free him from the cocoon "Hey... Punkin..." Johnny whisper "I'm a little old for "Punkin"" Cassie tries to joke The cocoon proves to be tough for Cassie to open, but she still goes at it "No... Get... Shinnok" Johnny urged "But--" "I love you"He falls silent and his eyes close "Dad?" Cassie panics. Before she can check if Johnny has died, the corrupted form of Shinnok descends from the Jinsei onto the chamber floor itself, looking toward her "So you are the issue of Johnny Cage. Fitting that I exterminate his entire line" He chuckled out Cassie's fear at the sight of the fallen Elder God is quickly replaced by determination and resolve "You want him, you're gonna go through me" Cassie barks As Shinnok strides towards her, Cassie lets rip with several punches that he effortlessly blocks. One slips through, but it doesn't faze him. She throws a supergirl punch, but only hurts her hand when she punches his skull. Shinnok throws a light jab that almost floors Cassie before grabbing her by the throat and lifting her into the air. He throws a measured punch to her face that sends her flying across the chamber, just barely conscious "Yes, that's better. Watch, Miss Cage, as I rend your father's flesh" He summons magic into his palm and blasts Johnny square in the face with a red beam of power. This time, Johnny is unable to keep from screaming in pain. Cassie looks up and struggles to her knees as Shinnok breaks off the spell. "This is what awaits those who defy me: excruciating, exquisite death" He blasts Johnny again in the face with his magic, prompting more screams from him. Cassie gets back to her feet and charges forward "You son of a BITCH!" she screams.As she runs at Shinnok, the same green energy that surrounded her father twenty-five years ago envelops her as well. As Shinnok blasts her with his magic instead, she puts up her hands to block it. Like Johnny before her, the magic has no effect and she throws off the blast. She takes a moment to look at the glow on her body "Holy shit, it does run in the family!" "Your father's power will not save you. You cannot hope to survive!"

They fight. The battle is truly epic, with neither the enpowered Cassie or Shinnok getting any clear advantage for the majority of it. For what seems like an age, the daughter of Johnny Cage and the fallen Elder God fight with everything they have, but eventually Cassie Cage gains an advantage and with one final assault, she knocks Shinnok to the ground "You got Caged" As Shinnok rises, Cassie throws a knee that he blocks, but hits a kick that connects to his stomach. She follows through with a punch to his abdomen, an overhead punch to his head, a low roundhouse kick to his crotch and a knee to his face, staggering him. With a battle cry, Cassie lands one more punch to Shinnok's face and finishes him off with a somersaulting kick that leaves the fallen Elder God knocked out for the count. With Shinnok defeated, the green glow of power surrounding Cassie fades out. Kung Jin picks himself off the floor and walks over to her, noting that Shinnok is out like a lightbulb "That you? Nice" Kung Jin complimented "Cassandra Cage..." they turn their heads to Raiden, who is still imprisoned by the skeleton hand, which has since blackened slightly with Shinnok's defeat. Cassie and Jin run up to him "Put me... in the Jinsei" he whispered "what?" Cassie Questioned "But you're-- it-- it'll kill you!" Kung Jin tried to argue"Must... be... cleansed. Hurry" Raiden urged them. Together, Cassie and Jin support Raiden and walk him onto the floating rocks leading up to the Jinsei. He floats into the corrupted Jinsei and starts chanting in Japanese. His arms charge up with lightning that envelops his body. As Cassie and Jin look on with concern, he blasts Shinnok in the chest with a lightning bolt, lifting his unconscious form into the air. The lightning acts as a conduit, and Raiden begins to absorb the corrupted essence of Shinnok into his own body. He begins to grimace in pain, but does not stop the spell. Shinnok's demonic form is eventually restored to his original self, still unconscious and now no longer holding his amulet. With the power gone from Shinnok, Raiden cries out once more and blue essence expells itself from his body, back into the Jinsei. The chamber is completely filled with white light, so bright the entire screen whites out.

Outside of the Sky Temple, the revenants have been unable to beat Jacqui and Takeda. Everyone stops fighting as the corrupted cloud pouring out of the Jinsei Chamber dissipates, and the clouds above it begin to lose their blood red hue "We must withdraw" Liu Kang said to his revenats. Jacqui and Takeda look to the sky, smiles on their faces as sunlight breaks through once again. They only notice too late that a portal opens up that takes the revenants back to the Netherrealm. Nonetheless, this does nothing to their current joyous mood. Takeda puts a hand on Jacqui, and they both walk over to the temple, sitting down near the giant statue of Raiden, completely exhausted "we need a vacation" Takeda said "Poolside. Umbrella drinks" Jacqui replied They look at each other and smile, but soon those smiles dissapear as soon as they look to (name) who is holding Mileenas body close to her trying to hold in her tears. Takeda came up behind (name), sat on his knees and hugged her as did Jacqui. (name) let it all out and sobbed as her friends held onto her being her support they wouldn't let her go through this alone.

Back in the Jinsei Chamber, the lifeforce of Earthrealm is back to it's regular blue hue. Cassie Cage and Kung Jin both hold Raiden up and walk him back to the chamber floor. Raiden has fallen motionless from the ordeal and they set him down as gently as they can "Is he alive?" Cassie asked "Barely. I'll help him. Help your father" Cassie runs back to Johnny, still cocooned but alive. He smiles as he spots her "And to think... I was worried when you started dating" Johnny says smiling "Afraid I'd come home with someone like you?" "Funny, beautiful, saves the world. My work here is done" "This way! In here!" Sonya arrives in the chamber, flanked by Special Forces soldiers "Isolate Shinnok and D'Vorah. And get the medic!" she commands. She runs up to Cassie and Johnny, finally looking at her ex-husband with concern "We'll fix you up. Help is on the way" "You shoulda seen Cass. Wiped the floor with Shinnok" Johnny said smiling "I believe it. And you... you did a great job with your team, Johnny" "You hear that, Cass? She called me "Johnny"" Cassie smiles "I thought she might"

As the Cage family smile at one another, the camera pans up to the Jinsei, restored to all it's former glory. Cut to black. The final scene - partway through the credits - opens in the Netherrealm. Raiden stands in the throne room of a gigantic fortress, but it's not the Raiden we've seen earlier. He wears darker attire, his skin tone is darker, his eyes glow yellow instead of blue and most tellingly of all, Shinnok's Amulet is now worn on his chest. Who he is speaking to is not shown "Too long have I allowed Earthrealm to endure the horrors of war. Time and again we've defeated our enemies. But we've exacted no retribution. Demanded no remuneration. What have we gained for our mercy? More intrigue. More senseless violence. As the new rulers of the Netherrealm, heed me. No longer will I simply defend Earthrealm. I will seek out and destroy all who threaten it. No mercy will be shown. No quarter given" Raiden states as he opens up a satchel that he has been carrying and throws out the contents. It is the severed head of Shinnok - still alive and in terrible pain "Shinnok was an Elder God. Impossible to kill. There are fates worse than death" He teleports out of the fortress. The camera pans around the decapitated head of Shinnok to the people Raiden was speaking to - Liu Kang and Kitana, the Emperor and Empress of the Netherrealm. They both regard the head in silence. Cut to black.