#there is so much to talk about differences between scorpion and noob and how quan chi treats them

[cienie-isengardu]

You know it must've been really awkward when Hanzo killed Bi-Han after Quan Chi makes up a bs animation of him killing his family to Hanzo and then Bi-Han proceeds to get resurrected as Noob like five minutes later.

You can't tell me there wasn't this awkward pause because you know they were still bound to Quan Chi and now they're just kind of expected to work together like nothing happened. Like they had to interact with one another, it must've been awkward as fuck.

For the sake of not complicating stuff with the mess of timelines, I’m gonna go with MK 9-11’s storyline.

It would be awkward as hell, but during the Outworld Tournament and Invasion (MK9), did Hanzo even know Noob Saibot was a resurrected Bi-Han? 

I have no doubt Noob was aware about their bitter connection, as he kept memories of Kuai Liang (the previous life), but under Quan Chi’s magic, A) he most likely didn’t feel much human emotions anymore and B) even if he was angry, he couldn’t act on it and/or was waiting for a good opportunity to strike his murderer, as Noob likes to patiently bide his time. 

(And let’s be real here, if Noob did not tell Quan Chi about his ties to Cyber Sub-Zero and he reveal his true name to Kuai Liang alone, I think no matter how angry or bitter Bi-Han was, he would not tell Scorpion who he is or what connects them, as Noob is not driven by emotions the way Hanzo was. Why lose the advantage over his enemy, if he is not using trademark ice powers anymore thus is harder to recognize?)

However I don’t think Quan Chi had any reason to let Hanzo know the truth, as he did not benefit from it at all? Scorpion went from fury-driven Wraith to broken man once he killed Bi-Han and in result wasted an opportunity to bring his family and clan back from death.

Then mighty Scorpion, the creature of fire, got beaten by presumably weaker cryomancer than original Sub-Zero and was saved only by the unexpected arrival of Cyber Lin Kuei who stopped Kuai Liang from killing him. Sure, Quan Chi could tell Hanzo about Noob’s true origin to rekindle the fire (anger) that made Scorpion powerful in the first place, but then there is a great chance the Wraith would turn against the sorcerer or try to destroy Noob Saibot. Not that Quan Chi couldn’t deal with the problem, but that would demand his focus, energy and time when he was already busy with his scheme to bring back Shinnok. Also, it wasn’t just easier to control Hanzo as the broken man he was, but that way he could easily torture him emotionally by feeding his self-hatred, guilt and depression. The truth about Noob would refocus this negativity on Bi-Han again, as Hanzo still didn’t know Sub-Zero wasn’t the architect of his suffering and in result, keep the man from performing his new task and purpose. 

Adding to that, once Quan Chi created Noob, he barely acknowledged Hanzo, most likely due to how the Wraith lost his determination and dwelled in self-pity. Like, the moment Noob is added to the picture, Scorpion is all forgotten in MK9’s storyline. It was Bi-Han who cooperated with Cyber Lin Kuei during the invasion, and who accompanied Quan Chi when resurrecting Sindel and performing a dark ritual at the cemetery. I don’t think Quan Chi was even interested in using Scorpion anymore when he had much better henchman now and Noob definitely was less likely to fall into any emotional distress since he was “perfected” by cutting the emotions off, while Hanzo was powered by his own hate and anger. Which is why Noob Saibot is called Quan Chi’s “Masterpiece” in MK11 intros & skins, not Scorpion. 

Furthermore, as the sorcerer kept Noob Saibot around to assist him in his necromancy and dark magic tasks, I don’t think Scorpion and Noob interacted much during Outworld Invasion and since everyone assumed Bi-Han died in Soulnado - as we could see it with Kuai Liang and Hanzo’s shock when meeting Noob Saibot twenty years later in MK11 ("You were killed, swallowed in a storm of souls"), they did not interacted during Netherrealm Wars either. It may be just me, but Scorpion in MKX was pretty much like a dog beaten into submission compared to what he was at Tournament, while resurrected Kuai Liang had no will on his own, so the awkwardness was not a concern of any of them either.

And sure, the MK11 intros mention Hanzo and Noob’s partnership

Noob Saibot: What about our partnership? Scorpion: Quan Chi's magic binds me no longer. Noob Saibot: Then goodbye, Hanzo.

but they also imply Noob helped/taught Revenant Jax

Jax: So you knew my Revenant. Noob Saibot: I taught him to embrace death.

but Jax was killed and resurrected AFTER Noob was thrown in soulnado and presumably died there, so it makes little sense. Because if Noob interacted with Revenant Jax, then Hanzo and Kuai wouldn’t be surprised by Noob’s presence in MK11 or that he survived the events from MK9. As I don’t think MK 9 - X - 11 games showed us Hanzo Hasashi and Noob Saibot working together, I assume the intro is between MK11!Noob and the past!Scorpion, after he switched sides as he promised to his older-self. Otherwise I feel it makes little to no sense within an alternative timeline storyline.

So to summary it up, I think it would be awkward if they interacted and Hanzo was aware of the bitter connection they had. Otherwise Noob would be just another Quan Chi's servant as far as broken and depressed Scorpion was concerned I guess.

(MK Onslaught is definitely a different story but I don't have the full details to dwell on it right now.)

[aion-rsa]

Mortal Kombat: Sub-Zero and Scorpion’s Rivalry Explained

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Whether you’re a longtime Mortal Kombat fan or someone who is mostly just interested in the upcoming film’s status as one of the first proper blockbusters of 2021, you’re probably at least aware of the feud between the series’ resident ninjas: Sub-Zero and Scorpion. It’s a battle that almost transcends the already legendary franchise and has entered the public pop-culture consciousness in a way that makes many almost subconsciously think “rivals” whenever they see the two characters.

While the truth is that nearly everything about Sub-Zero and Scorpion makes them natural rivals, only those who have dared dive into the details of this series’ mind-blowing lore know the fascinating story that has fueled this franchise feud. While filmmakers everywhere have rarely struggled to find reasons for two ninjas to fight each other, the story of Sub-Zero and Scorpion’s rivalry goes so much deeper than two warriors battling to see who is best.

We’ll stop short of recounting every event in this twisted tale that takes place across multiple timelines, but if you’re just wondering why Sub-Zero and Scorpion can’t seem to get along despite shopping at the same stores, then here’s a brief look at the history of a rivalry that ranks among the best in fighting game history.

Scorpion and Sub-Zero Were Rivals From the Start

Before we dive into the lore aspects of the Sub-Zero/Scorpion rivalry, it should be noted that their feud was no accident or one of those things that just happened as the games evolved. It was actually one of those rare pieces of long-lasting lore that was pretty much planned from the start.

The story goes that Mortal Kombat co-creator John Tobias started reading a book called “China’s Ninja Connection” not long before the initial work on what would become Mortal Kombat began. The book tells the story of a clan of thieves and assassins in China that it claims essentially inspired the popular idea of the Japanese ninja. Fascinated by that concept, Tobias sketched a ninja warrior modeled after the story’s clan and lead characters. That fighter would go on to become Sub-Zero.

As Tobias revealed years later, he soon became aware that the cultural and historical claims in that book’s narrative were heavily disputed. As such, he decided to add a second ninja character to the game but that one would be of Japanese origins. That character eventually became Scorpion. 

The rivalry between those two fighters would be sealed by the MK team’s decision to rely on palette swaps for some of the game’s characters in order to ensure they didn’t need to come up with entirely new designs for every fighter. As such, Sub-Zero and Scorpion were given largely similar looks but aesthetically opposing colors (blue and orange). For a generation of MK fans, the fact that these two characters looked similar but wore different colors was actually their first indication that they were rivals.

Quan Chi’s Task Fuels the Sub-Zero/Scorpion Rivalry

In the spirit of their real-life origin stories, Sub-Zero and Scorpion were written to be members of opposing ninja clans in the MK universe. Sub-Zero (real name Bi-Han) belonged to the Lin Kuei clan and Scorpion (real name Hanzo Hasashi) pledged himself to the Shirai Ryu clan. Essentially, the two were natural rivals in the franchise’s universe before they even actually met. 

However, their rivalry wouldn’t properly begin until the sorcerer Quan Chi commissioned the Lin Kuei and Shirai Ryu clans to help him find an ancient artifact that he planned to use to resurrect his master, Shinnok. Naturally, the clans sent Sub-Zero and Scorpion as their respective representatives on this task.

As you can probably guess, Sub-Zero and Scorpion met while trying to complete their assignments and, despite the number of things they clearly had in common, decided to battle rather than strike a meaningful and lasting friendship that certainly could have saved everyone a lot of trouble down the line.  

Sub-Zero Kills Scorpion

Sub-Zero would end up winning the first battle between him and Scorpion, but it should be pointed out that Sub-Zero had the undeniably useful ability to manipulate ice at that time while Scorpion was just a renowned warrior that possessed mostly human (though certainly enhanced) abilities. 

Not content with merely beating Scorpion in battle, Sub-Zero decided to kill Scorpion and end this feud before it could go any further. I don’t think it’s a spoiler to say that his plan would go on to fail spectacularly.

Scorpion’s hard times wouldn’t end in death. As part of his “payment” to the Lin Kuei, Quan Chi wiped out the Shirai Ryu clan, which naturally included Scorpion’s family. In any other universe, such a flawless victory (see what we did there?) would make it easy to proclaim Sub-Zero the winner of this feud. However, this whole situation would soon take a strange turn. 

Scorpion’s Resurrection and New Powers

In sudden need of allies after his initial plans go wrong, Quan Chi runs across the spirit of Hanzo Hasashi in the Netherrealm and offers to resurrect him if he agrees to serve as his personal assassin. To ensure that Hasashi feels properly motivated to seek vengeance against Sub-Zero, Quan Chi conjures an image of Sub-Zero leading the assault against Scorpion’s clan and killing his family. In reality, that was all Quan Chi’s doing. 

Nevertheless, Hasashi buys into the lie, is resurrected as Scorpion, and even gains some supernatural fire-based powers that would not only go on to define his early in-game fatality and special moves but would add another way for players to clearly distinguish him from Sub-Zero (fire vs. ice).

Scorpion is asked to enter the Mortal Kombat tournament depicted in the first game as Sub-Zero has also joined the tournament on an assignment for the Lin Kuei. Scorpion gets the better of Sub-Zero this time around and kills the ninja during their next battle. In what you’re probably realizing is quickly becoming a recurring theme, the death of Sub-Zero does not end this rivalry. 

Read more

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Sub-Zero is Reborn as Noob Saibot

Since resurrection is kind of his thing, Quan Chi decides to bring Bi-Han back to life (kind of) and turn him into the soulless warrior known as Noob Saibot. Initially, Noob Saibot was mostly interested in taking his ruthless aggression out on the residents and rulers of the Netherrealm. He quickly established himself as one of the underworld’s most fearsome forces.

Interestingly, the entire Noob Saibot character was created as a joke by Ed Boon who wanted to add another secret character to MK2 that even Tobias didn’t know existed until the development of MK3 was underway. That’s particularly hilarious when you realize that Noob Saibot’s name is a reverse play on Boon and Tobias’ names. 

Saibot would become a bigger player in MK lore later on, but he certainly wasn’t initially intended to be the reincarnation of Bi-Han, and Scorpion’s rivalry with Sub-Zero didn’t immediately detour into battles against Noob Saibot. Instead, the Scorpion/Sub-Zero rivalry would properly continue with the emergence of Bai-Han’s brother, Kuai Liang.

Scorpion and Kuai Liang’s Feud and Alliance

After Scorpion murdered Sub-Zero in the MK tournament, Bi-Han’s brother Kuai Liang decided to abandon his own codename (the admittedly awesome “Tundra”) and assume the Sub-Zero moniker as he searched for his brother’s killer. 

Scorpion sees the new Sub-Zero during the MK2 tournament, thinks “new Sub-Zero, who dis?” and proceeds to battle the frozen warrior in the usual manner. Scorpion gets the upper hand, but he soon realizes that this isn’t the same Sub-Zero that he still believes killed his family. We’ll dive into the difficult job of reporting what happens next in a bit, but for the moment, let’s just say that the two actually form a kind of bond that grows into an alliance.

Quan Chi is having approximately none of that and (in one version of this story) works his magic to make Scorpion believe that Kuai Liang was involved in the massacre of Scorpion’s family as well. Scorpion nearly kills Kuai Liang, but Quan Chi steps in to finish the job himself. In the process, he can’t help but do a full James Bond villain monologue by revealing that he was responsible for the pair’s rivalry this whole time. While he tries to banish Scorpion before killing Sub-Zero, Scorpion is able to overcome Quan Chi and manages to drag him into the Netherrealm before the sorcerer is able to murder Sub-Zero. 

From here, things start to get a little weird.

Sub-Zero and Scorpion Settle Their Rivalry Across Multiple Timelines

There are several versions of what happens next (and even slightly before). Which one matters most depends on which game you’re talking about, which timeline you subscribe to, and how you choose to process a whole lot of multiverse shenanigans. 

To make things as simple as possible, there’s a version of this story in which Scorpion eventually dies in the Netherrealm while hunting Quan Chi. However, this ending is non-canonical and rarely refered to as anything more than a fascinating aside. 

There’s also a sequence of events that sees Scorpion escape the Netherrealm, become a servant to the Elder Gods, and eventually try to destroy those gods after they resurrect his clan as undead creatures. In that scenario, an enraged Scorpion is eventually killed by Sub-Zero. 

2011’s Mortal Kombat (which famously reworked the timelines as part of a massive series’ story retelling effort), suggests that Scorpion and Kuai Liang only battle after Raiden is unable to prevent Scorpion from killing Bi-Han. However, Scorpion is eventually sent to the Neatherrealm before he can kill Kuai Liang. In that game’s Sub-Zero ending, we see Kuai Liang learn what happened to Scorpion’s family and how Quai Chi’s deception is largely responsible for their rivalry. He shares that information with Scorpion, and the pair form an alliance. 

While Mortal Kombat X would play with that ending a bit by portraying the now-united Kuai Liang and Scorpion as specters, their humanity is eventually restored, and Scorpion is finally able to decapitate Quan Chi and claim the vengeance he sought after all these years. 

Without diving too deep into the insane bits of lore that make up later MK games, Sub-Zero (Kuai Liang) and Scorpion continue their alliance and rarely battle in the series’ stories outside of those aforementioned timeline shenanigans that sometimes see alternate versions of themselves (as well as their kin) continue their war against each other for various reasons. 

Ultimately, though, Sub-Zero and Scorpion’s rivalry began as a natural feud fuelled by lies and outside influences. It essentially ended when Sub-Zero’s brother and Hanzo Hasashi realized they had common enemies and decided to unite for the common good. 

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Given that the upcoming Mortal Kombat movie features the Bi-Han version of Sub-Zero, though, fans can expect that film to further the most classic version of this rivalry and the one that you probably think of when you imagine Sub-Zero and Scorpion battling. What happens next remains to be seen. 

The post Mortal Kombat: Sub-Zero and Scorpion’s Rivalry Explained appeared first on Den of Geek.

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[geekgemsspooksandtoons]

I have made a reblog but it never turned out or whatever. It was on my phone. Compared to other video game films during that time. Which were films like Super Mario Bros, and others. Mortal Kombat was honestly the best one out of all of them. Which was a pretty big deal. It was an entertaining film and it was pretty alright from my experience seeing it when I was younger.

Yeah, the series have a pretty good track record. I will admit this, a part of me feels like and I have wanted to talk about this on my spooky blog. A part of me feels like the conflict of Scorpion and Sub Zero the heart of the movie was...you know...as a huge fan of both characters. I don’t mind it.

And I think compared well...I sound weird saying this. I feel like they did that to give the movie a more personal investment. But...you know, I feel like maybe things could change. What kind of killed the movie for me was really the pacing. 

There’s also the fact Warner Bros that I read, forced a surrogate character like Cole Young to be in there. I don’t mind character, and he could be developed. But I feel like changes like...I’m gonna be open about this.

I still want Quan Chi having some involvement in the death of the Shirai Ryu. Maybe being the one who granted Bi Han to somehow be still living. But to gain that, he would have to kill the Shirai Ryu...

And I feel like this is gonna be a problem. Because this means Kuai Liang is gonna have to be an ancestor of Bi Han instead of his brother. I think that could be a promising dynamic explored in the sequel. Cole and Kuai having to put aside their clans differences for the better purpose and that there was another player in the extermination of the Shirai Ryu. And Kuai trying to redeem the Lin Kuei. 

Almost like a redemption story. I’m gonna reblog this to my spooky blog. Because I’ve been wanting to speak about this. Yet there’s a lot to do in this sequel.

Kitana, Johnny Cage, Shan Kahn, the tournament, and the fact Joe Taslim signed a contract to be in more films. He’s definitely gonna be Noob Saibot.

Considering I mentioned MKX and MK11 as inspirations long ago or so. I do feel like Cole replacing Hanzo’s place in this story...bothers me. It’s just despite all the criticism the new games get. I’ll always like the development between Hanzo and Kuai that went from this rivalry to a friendship almost like brothers. Despite the pain and loss both had went through, they were able to achieve that.

As much as I love that rivalry between Scorpion and Sub Zero. I’ll always love the fact of them  developing as characters and becoming close like brothers.

Wanted to get a good shot from Sub Zero’s ending in Mortal Kombat 2011. I feel like my followers are gonna be surprised by this dump of lore like, “Holy crap, MK has some interesting lore about these two” or whatever.

There, I finally talked about what were my issues with the recent film. I really like Hanzo and Kuai. Now I think people can understand my excitement seeing Kuai in the Battle Of The Realms trailer. Considering how awesome the trailer was.

Will admit considering MK11′s story...and in my ideas for a reimagined thing. I like the idea if Hanzo didn’t just also meet past Scorpion(Spoilers), but also if Kuai didn’t just meet a still alive past Bi-Han. But also Bi-Han meeting Noob Saibot.

But then parts of the story would have to change. I’m rambling about my own ideas. I’m interested in what the next MK film will be like. I just feel like Battle Of The Realms and whatever else has me covered on that relationship between Scorpion and Sub Zero. While the 2021 film with what it did, it’s going to be challenging. Unless they really don’t do that...

Overtime despite I liked Greg Russo’s advice like you need to find a balance of adapting video games to film...and it’s tough making a movie...

But the dude pissed off a lot of fans using characters(I don’t know much) like Nitara and Reiko as fodder. And I feel like with how they used Mileena(A huge fan favorite) was basically make her a monstrous villain that needed to be killed. Almost like how Ralph and Lizzie were in Rampage 2018. But with how the Rampage movie was. That could be understand and forgiven...

Yet this is Mortal Kombat...and the lore has expanded...I’m sounding like a comic book geek. Instead, it’s about video games. 

Sorry bro...it’s 2:10 am. Thanks for the response dude. :) 

So it's been some minutes since I completed the Resident Evil 3 remake. My 2nd time ever on my PS4. So I got my vacation bucket list done.

I put in Batman 1989 some minutes ago. I was just adjusting the volume.

So...a C rank with 11 deaths on standard...I kind of don't care. Because I'm glad to finally get it done. I have thought I won't really watch the 1995 Mortal Kombat movie. Because, I never opened it actually.

Okay...I literally thought that Hot Dogger was an instant weapon...it's not...but it's better than the regular knife anyway...but the recovery coin during Nemesis boss fight in the pit like area...that recovery point is your best friend...

Again, my vacation bucket list is done mostly.

The remakes of Resident Evil 2 and 3 are done. And Modern Warfare 2 Remastered and having had Predator play last night that I recall...

Glad to get shit done lol.

[cienie-isengardu]

Honor: Bi-Han’s disillusion vs Kuai Liang’s idealism

Did you notice how Bi-Han in the previous timeline barely talks about honor in contrast to his younger brother?

Like in Mythologies: Sub-Zero, Bi-Han does not describe himself as honorable man or part of honorable clan, as in his own introduction he calls himself mortal, then thief and assassin before Lin Kuei warrior and Sub-Zero

When accused by Raiden for putting Earthrealm in danger, only says "I was just earning my living" - considering how he balances between death and life, as he either fulfill incredible difficult missions or he will be killed for failure sounds to me more like "I'm trying to survive" kind of argument.

The Elder Sub-Zero mentions honor only when facing the Grandmaster

"Grandmaster, in honor of the Lin Kuei, I bring you this sacred Map of Elements."

as Lin Kuei custom demands and MK11 Noob Saibot's BIO points out Wraith's desire to reclaim the honor that was forcibly taken away from him

Mortal Kombat 11: "Shadow of the Netherrealm. In life, Noob Saibot was known as Sub-Zero. Unjustly murdered by Scorpion, he was resurrected by Quan Chi and granted power over darkness, but as Quan Chi’s slave. Now, Quan Chi is dead. Noob Saibot is finally free to reclaim the honor that was stolen from him."

and that is basically all? None of Noob’s intro dialogue directly uses this word but honor (and honoring someone or something or alternatively, dishonor) is one of Kuai Liang's constant used term, from 

Mortal Kombat 9

"[...] assuming Bi-Han's identity is the best way to honor him."

or

"I am his family and clan! I fight for his honor!"

Mortal Kombat X

"Our honor is indeed stained. Please. Sit."

&

"After you and I were freed from Quan Chi's control, I sought out my clan. I had hoped rebellion from within would have quashed the Grandmaster's plans. But Sektor had realized his father's vision. The Lin Kuei had been fully cyberized. I pledged to kill Sektor and his followers. Reform the Lin Kuei and restore our honor."

&

"When I finally killed Sektor, I discovered the Lin Kuei had not sacrificed its honor with the Cyber Initiative. We had abandoned it long before."

 to Mortal Kombat 11

Erron Black: That's some outfit. Sub-Zero: It honors Lin Kuei tradition.

or

Liu Kang: I admire your discipline, Sub-Zero. Sub-Zero: And I your honor, Liu Kang.

or

Mileena: You're so cold to me, Sub-Zero. Sub-Zero: Because you are utterly devoid of honor. Mileena: Who needs honor when you have power?

or

Sub-Zero: Can Tarkatans be redeemed? Baraka: My tribe seeks no redemption. Sub-Zero: Then it has no honor.

or 

Sub-Zero: You serve Shao Kahn. Kollector: And I am well compensated. Sub-Zero: Wealth without honor is pointless.

to name few examples.

And this seems to be carried out to the new timeline even though the games don't exploit much this difference between brothers, the Bi-Han’s disillusion vs Kuai Liang’s idealism. Previous timeline gives the feeling Elder Sub-Zero was more aware of Lin Kuei's true nature, as he witnessed Grandmaster and Quan Chi's deal that resulted in death of Scorpion's clan but Kuai Liang would not believe Lin Kuei could be responsible until he found a hard evidence how wrong he was. Now, one brother sees Lin Kuei servitude as enslavement while the other blindly believes and chose to honor the tradition passed down for generations.

At the same time I feel like original timeline Kuai Liang, the same as his elder brother, was much more disillusioned about Lin Kuei but I will leave that subject for another time.

[cienie-isengardu]

Bi-Han and: Sareena, Shang Tsung or Sektor

I’m pretty indifferent* when it comes to the romantic aspect of shipping Bi-Han with Shang Tsung, Sareena or female Sektor but if there is one thing I like about all those potential relationships is how the theme of freedom and/or being freed is something those three ships have in common.

Bi-Han and Sareena? In Mythologies: Sub-Zero, the demoness asked Bi-Han to take her away from Netherrealm as she wished to escape this place for a long time:

Sub-Zero: Why did you help me?  Sareena: You are still mortal... that means  you can escape the Netherealm.  Sub-Zero: There won't be anywhere to go if I don't get the amulet back.  Sareena: Take me with you... I've waited an eternity to escape.  Sub-Zero: You don't understand. I can't leave  without the...

Bi-Han couldn’t leave Netherrealm without the Shinnok’s amulet because if he failed to steal it back, Earthrealm would be destroyed. We have no idea if after fulfilling mission Sub-Zero would take Sareena with him or not, as the demoness was killed by Shinnok.

But then in Mortal Kombat X, Sareena joined Special Forces against Quan Chi and on mission confronted Revenant Kitana:

Sareena: "It is possible to escape Quan Chi, Kitana. I can aid you as Bi-Han aided me." Revenant Kitana: “You became too familiar with Bi-Han. Allowed emotion to corrupt you." Sareena: "Emotion freed me!"

And though we have no idea if demoness talked about mortal Sub-Zero or Noob Saibot from between MK9 and the current game, she associates Bi-Han with escaping Quan Chi (freedom).

I have talked before how past timelines' Bi-Han and Shang Tsung share similar theme of reputation vs reality  and despite how dangerous or cunning or skilled they are, they are pretty much enslaved characters, as both were bound one way or another to their merciless masters (with the difference that Sub-Zero actually could left the clan if he had enough money, as was implied by his original ending from the first Mortal Kombat game). Noob Saibot and Shang Tsung have also in common patience to bid their time to overthrow their masters and rise to power, as was suggested by their various endings (mentioned here). So though power is associated with both men, the theme of enslavement and freeing themselves is also vital to their characters. 

And with Mortal Kombat 1 (2023) we have Bi-Han wanting to reject centuries-old tradition of Lin Kuei servitude to Liu Kang and Earthrealm and even saying to his brothers how father’s teaching (tradition) should guide them, but not shackle. Only to be seen literally shacked and by allying himself with Shang Tsung, being (visually and symbolic) freed from it by no other than Shang Tsung himself.

(And then NRS was a bastard and completely ignored Sub-Zero after dueling with Scorpion for the rest of the game).

This leads us to female Sektor, who shares Bi-Han’s vision of rejecting Lin Kuei servitude. In her BIO, Sektor is called Bi-Han’s kindred spirit and both are willing to go to great lengths to achieve their goal. At the end of Khaos Reings, Noob Saibot was seen put in coffin and taken to Temple of Elements,

where Liu Kang was supposed to undone the effects of Chaos Magic that influenced Bi-Han’s mind. In Sektor’s ending, Bi-Han is freed by her from being “imprisoned”:

Sektor:Though I had returned to the temple after Titan Havik's defeat, I remained livid. Livid with Bi-Han's foolishness, Kuai Liang's betrayal, and Cyrax's defection to his Shirai Ryu. So when Quan Chi arrived to parley, offering to eliminate the upstart clan, I listened... For his services, Quan Chi asked that I retrieve an amulet that was locked away in the Temple of the Elements. No small task, given its wards and guardians. Though one worth understanding, if it would finish the Lin Kuei's rivals. But before I could find the amulet, I found Bi-Han. There he was, imprisoned and forgotten, when Liu Kang had promised to restore him! As I rescued Bi-Han, all thought of retrieving Quan Chi's treasure was quickly forgotten. I will never forgive Liu Kang for this betrayal. That he is a god will not stop me from seeking vengeance." 

And I must say, there is something interesting about how three so different ships involving Bi-Han seem to share a similar theme of being freed. That, and the how Sareena, Sektor and Shang Tsung are all named on S.

*By indifferent, I mean I don't care one way or another, as Bi-Han is my precious aromantic & asexual cryomancer that I ship with freedom before any other character XDD

[cienie-isengardu]

What is up with Shirai Ryu?

Or, is Hanzo a hypocrite?

While looking through various MK11 intros, I’m kind of tired about the whole “honor” stuff that Hanzo and Kuai Liang and so many other characters like to talk. Mainly, because honor is very unspecified term whose meaning (thus the line between acting honorable and dishonorable) will change from one person to another. And as much I love cultural clashes between characters of different clans / fraction or realms, Hanzo’s talks about Shirai Ryu make me wonder what the hell is going on with his clan right now?

Lin Kuei and Shirai Ryu were rival clans for ages, but the japanese ninjas - and the whole ninjutsu created by them - has its roots in Lin Kuei teaching. Bi-Han called himself thief and assassin and we know that ninjas played similar roles through the ages. Stealing, killing, doing all dirty job someone paid for, it was what Lin Kuei and Shirai Ryu did for years. The two fractions of course vary in clan traditions and family matters, but I think we can all agree that morally wise, assassins and master thieves aren’t the common image of honorable men, right?

Of course, both Hanzo and Kuai Liang decided to reform their respective clans, pledged to serve Earthrealm as the protectors rather than working for anyone who can afford their service. Thus both grandmasters reject job offers from gods & Outworlders alike; reject offers that would pose a danger to their home realm. What is nice and all, but clan has its own needs; there are people who must be feed, clothed, sheltered, medically equipped, armed with the right equipment and trained. This of course cost a lot money and maybe the Shirai Ryu and Lin Kuei do have the right funds accumulated over the centuries. But as far as MK11 intros are concerned, Sub-Zero most likely did not change completely Lin Kuei. Of course, Kuai Liang’s clan is meant to be protectors of Earthrealm, but there is still (rogue) Frost who is proud to be an assassin. And since she joined the clan between MK9 and X, the fact she is so aware of the clan history, the feud with Shirai Ryu and assassins traditions may imply that at least to some degree Lin Kuei is/was still involved in “old bussiness”. Whatever the case - Lin Kuei still training assassins who just don’t work anymore for “outsiders” or Frost (with Noob) being a rogue " remains of ancient glory”,  both versions are representing the better and the darker sides of Sub-Zero’s fraction.

Hanzo on another hand, as solely representation of Shirai Ryu in MK11 game, seems at times as, well, deluded person. Especially when intros aren’t clear if that was supposed to be P.O.V of current or past Hanzo.

First, let me quote little backstory provided by MK: Mythologies Sub-Zero:

Scorpion is the code name for a modern day member of the Shirai Ryu named Hanzo Hasashi [...] He learned this technique from his own father, a ninja himself who forbade his son to become a member of this ancient group of assassins and wanted him to accept the trappings of modern day life. But the lure of quick money and his own wish to afford his wife and child the finest in life force him to join the Shirai Ryu.

His latest mission leads him into the heart of China, home of the rival Lin Kuei and location of the Shaolin temple where his mission is to steal the sacred Map of Elements.

So, Shirai Ryu are ancient group of assassins, the last mission of Scorpion was to steal the sacred Map of Elements from Shaolin Temple and Hanzo wasn’t forced to join the clan, he did it mainly for money to afford his family in finest way.

After coming back to life, Hanzo made great effort to redeem his clan and became ally to other heroes. At the same time, he himself says Shirai Ryu are not bound to Special Forces (U.S.)’s laws what results in fact Sonya Blade keeps eye on Hanzo and his clan. Probably attacking SF’s base and killing captured Quan Chi is/was still fresh in her mind. Anyway, the real question is, what Shirai Ryu does? What kind of jobs the clan takes, from where Hanzo get money to cover needs of his ninjas and funds to rebuild destroyed years ago home? What Shirai Ryu ninjas do between crisises threatening safety of Earthrealm?

The reason why I wonder such things is tied up with Hanzo’s character banters, particularly with other merceneries.

Scorpion: Why seek out my clan?

Kano: You're a clan of assassins, ain't you?

Scorpion: You refer to the Lin Kuei.

It is hard to tell, if Scorpion here is the younger or current version thus if he talks about old Lin Kuei (a true statement about clan of assassins then) or refer to Kuai Liang’s one clan that was supposed to change for better. Whatever the case, if clan of assassins is what refers to Lin Kuei, I’m sorry, what Shirai Ryu is or was then? Because it was assassin clan too not so long ago and Hanzo himself joined and worked for such group.

Kabal: The Shirai Ryu hiring, Scorpion? Scorpion: We're family, not mercenaries.

Not mercenaries, said a man who was once hired to steal sacred Map and did it solely for money (or maybe even satisfation/chance to kill Lin Kuei). Even if Hanzo is speaking only about current situation of clan, it still does not answer are his ninjas involved in illegal jobs or are they just train in case of emergency?

This statement (and other intros with Jacqui anc Jax) makes it clear to join Shirai Ryu means became part of the clan for good. But frankly, that still does not mean that family unit like ninja clan can’t (couldn’t) be mercenaries. I mean, mercenary is person primarily concerned with making money at the expense of ethics and you know, taking jobs like assassination or theft is, well, dark side of mercenary profession. Soo, did Hanzo’s statement “not mercenaries“ was purely about joining the clan (not hiring unknown people) or as a whole, no more doing illegal stuff by his clan to gain money?

Erron: I thought Shirai Ryu were mercs. Scorpion: You understand little, Black. Erron: I've killed people for being less rude. 

This one is similar to the previous intro but I feel this time the focus is more on the past of Shirai Ryu, since Erron (as hired gun by Shang Tsung / Shao Kahn) lives for one or two hundred years so he may be familiar with old!Shirai Ryu ninjas reputation.

Of course, Hanzo may be right, Black (and us, for that matter) as outsider, does not have insight into internal clan traditions, ethics or internal matters thus the lack of understanding may lead him (and me) to incorrect conclusion. Maybe Shirai Ryu for ages served Japan in a way Special Forces serves now USA? Maybe they worked always for their homeland’s well being? We don’t know. But then if Shirai Ryu aren’t/weren’t mercs, how else one should think about ninja clan that send his own warrior to Shaolin Temple in foreign (hostile) territory to steal sacred artifact while being paid by some weirdo (Quan Chi)? Like, how that was more honorable than, let’s say, Erron working for Kotal?

   Scorp: There will be no deal, Kano.    Kano: Gotta make a buck, mate.    Scorp: The Shirai Ryu are not criminals.

Hanzo says his clan members aren’t criminals. I sorry, aren’t attacking Special Forces, the supposed allies, isn’t sort of crime? Even if two years passed since then, Shirai Ryu ninjas went to foreign country and attacked its army (who were at times helping refuges from Outworld). Of course, they weren’t motivated by greed or bad will, they were following their grandmaster. But Hanzo literally put his own need for revenge above needs of other heroes, including dead ones. Oh, and let’s no forget that past!Hanzo attacked Shaolin monks and killed who knows how many of them. Indeed, no criminals, ha!

Scorpion: The Shirai Ryu do not respect thieves. Kollector: I collect only what is due Shao Kahn. Scorpion: It is robbery, nothing more.

Sorry, what was your last mission again? Stealing from Shaolin Monks some precious map for some dude Quan Chi? I’m sure Shirai Ryu would never respect thieves! Riiiight.

Hanzo of course may talk about reformed Shirai Ryu, but that would look, once again, like he keep silent about past sins. Unless he really believe his clan never did anything dishonorable.

It’s hard not to wonder how exactly Hanzo reformed Shirai Ryu is he alone seems to ignore his own deeds. Mercs are looked down, so are thieves or in general, people working for money. As much as I can agree than Black Dragons - especially Kano - are the worst kind of scum, it would be actually nice to learn more about Shirai Ryu ethics or how ninja define honor. We know that for Hanzo, his “clan's honor is priceless” but he himself did a lot questionable stuff through the course of all games.

My biggest problem with Scorpion and his talk about honor (or in some causes, how pretty quick he is to accuse others of lack of thereof) is the contrast with Kuai Liang. Sub-Zero is the one willing to admit faults of his clan while Hanzo rarely acknowledges such in Shirai Ryu. Sub-Zero is the one trying hard to estabilish Lin Kuei as protectors of Earthrealm AND ally to other heroes, while Scorpion for a long time freely(?) keep himself and his clan isolated. Of course, both grandmasters treat Earthrealm’s best interest as priority, but between them two, it’s Kuai who is seen actively protecting Earth while Hanzo often was the source of problems, like killing capuring Quan Chi. Mind you, I don’t think Hanzo was wrong to assume as long as evil sorcerer will live, Earth is in danger (though, since Quan Chi is demon(?) shouldn’t he reborn in Netherrealm at some point?). But attacking your supposed allies and destroying the one chance to save fallen and enslaved comrades because Hanzo knows better does not strike me as the most honorable thing.

Once again, what is honor in Mortal Kombat? How Hanzo or Kuai Liang or Raiden or anyone define such matter?

I keep wonder about that, because Hanzo talks a lot about how Shirai Ryu are honorable while other merceneries are just thugs and all. What sounds a bit like hypocrisy when one look at Scorpion’s own history. Especially when younger!Hanzo is involved, because he is still the prime example of Shirai Ryu ninja working not-so-long-ago as assassin and thief.

But yeah, sure, everyone is greedy bastard and thug, even if said person is doing the same stuff like (old) Shirai Ryu did.

[cienie-isengardu]

MK 11 story

Since  there are already MK11 storymode / cutscenes out on net, of course I couldn’t help myself and watch. For now, this is more like chaotic rambling than any serious meta, but I really need to get all the emotions out so, beware spoilers:

Things I like and/or wish were more exploited

RACISM/SPECIESISM IN OUTWORLD what always was a big part of storyline but rarely were talked or pointed out. We see this with Tarkatans, who were always treated as animals / slaves / beneath the Edenians or other Outworld cultures. I liked how Kitana and Jade (who in MK9 called/treated Baraka like dog) changed - or at least started changing that. The fact princess Kitana and Baraka worked against Shao Kahn reminds me one of old MK comics, what only adds points of awesomess.

Also, I freaking love how MK11 gives Outworld cultures so much details. Tarkatans (among them females too), people of Kotal with their masks and painting and all. SO GREAT! Oh, and the people watching fight in arena, cheering all the bloodness and not giving any fuck who will win and become the new khan XDDDD

Scenery. Everyone is So Beautiful. Also, nice to see old arenas, including Shang Tsung’s Island :3

KUAI LIANG AND HANZO HASASHI’S TEAMWORK :3 :3 :3 I just can’t! I love it so much. The way they work in sync with each other and their banters, SO BEAUTIFUL ;3 Also, people’s reaction at seeing them / hearing about them on good terms. So much fun! My favorite little things is their meeting before mission to destroy Cyber Lin Kuei and Sub-Zero making sure Hanzo is looking in right direction to see entrance he is actually talking about XD

ALSO, KUAI LIANG AND CYRAX. Cyrax once again breaks my heart :( Please, someone let him have his human body again! I wish there was younger, human version of Cyrax then, if just to see the epic scream match between him and Cyber Sektor XDDD Once again, Cyber Cyrax proved he never should be in command of C.I. Project; give him a free will for like few seconds, and he will be willing to blow up all cyborgs including himself :(

I’m gonna tell more about Sektor, Noob and Frost while rambling about things that irked me more or less, but let me tell you this: I start think my meta about Sektor and Bi-Han’s relationship may be actually valid thing. Also, all of them are right now the trio of black sheeps of Lin Kuei which makes this little scene

quite... heartwarming? Taking care of each other - even if just for pragmatic reasons - hits me hard cause no one really care now for Frost, Sektor and to some degree, Noob (Kuai cares, sure, but in story mode he says they share the same blood but are not brothers) :(

OLDER JOHNNY! God, I love this version of his character :3 Also, the way he deals with his younger self :D :D :D :D

Generally, I liked very much all the interaction between younger and older selfs and all family feelings :3 This reminds me MK movie (1995)’s quote, how Mortal Kombat is not about death but about life and hell yeah, MK11 brings a lot good emotions.

Wonder what happened to Erron, to change so much from his younger reckless(?) self to more calm, loyal(?) to Kotal self. Even Johnny pointed something along the lines.

For once Raiden does not fuck up stuff and his relationship with Liu Kang ends on good terms. Nice.

Kung Lao’s remarks! Haha, I missed his sense of humor. Shame there was no Jinn to share sarcastic humor...

The talk about Cassie kickings Shinnok’s ass cause she has some magic in her while Jax/Jacqui needed to use magic item to beat godness makes me wonder how Jacqui is doing, the normal mortal between all those fighters with special powers (Cassie & Johnny and their magic, Takeda & Kenshi with reading minds and so one). I wish we could see more about this.

Here are things that irked me more or less.

The inconsistency between games.

I know, messed up timlines and all, but for example, Sektor as Grandmaster and his supposed crimes. Destroying Shirai Ryu & having deal with Quan Chi wasn’t Cyber Sektor doing, but his father, the Grandmaster from Sub-Zero Mythologies. I don’t like how Sektor is now blamed for stuff he wasn’t in position(?) to do back then. He is messed up evil, but please stop making him a scapegoat for everything that went wrong with original Lin Kuei >_<

Wasn’t Jax already out of military in MKX?

I’m not sure about Kotal’s backstory too, the supposed Shao’s betrayal and being given to Shang Tsung, as “ laboratory rat”. I’m pretty sure MKX gave different story, in which he was Kahn’s loyal general once who simply put Outworld’s good over serving Mileena.

Also, the thing that pisses me off for good is the whole Jax’s wife died so he can’t deal with grief and/or wish Jacqui did not serve as soldier so he is working (for some time) for Kronika. Eh. I’m so dissappointed with this one. Killing older!Sonya does not help the feeling but frankly, why not use Sonya’s death as motivation and have two combined tragedies/family dramas into one, since Briggs and Blade-Cage are one big family? I mean, Kronika was talking about Jax’s fear that something bad will happen to Jacqui on duty which makes sense, because this connect the game to previous one and all. But it makes me sad there is little connection to Sonya’s death. Okay, maybe I need to rewatch the cutscenes to get better perspective about this plot.

MK11 in my opinion also lack the great friendship between Cassie and Jacqui seen in previous game. I get it, really, there is so many stuff happening and both girls have family crisis to deal with and all, but there is something off about their relationship and that upsets me a lot :(

The treatment of Noob Saibot, Sektor and Frost. The first two were in game solely to be beat down while the way everyone give up on Frost so fast makes me really sad. I’m supposed to believe that Kuai wish to redeem his brother (in Sub-Zero’s ending) but does not think twice about Frost? His precious student? Not to mention that once again Frost plays the villain. I wish there was second Frost to stand up with her mentor against Cyber Lin Kuei/Kronnika. Or at something that could judge how much her claims is delusion and how much truth. Did Kuai really failed her so much? :(

Also, where the hell is Smoke and Sindel? The dead queen at least was mentioned by Kitana and Shao Kahn and, if I remember correctly, wraith Jade. While there is no mention of Smoke??? :( Okay, there is, but in intro. Thanks Noob, for once you were uselful XD

Frankly, the lack of Takeda is also something I wish was changed. His presence would add a lot weight to discussion between Scorpions, what makes Shirai Ruy. The younger version felt those new students of grandmaster Hasashi aren’t worth (cause no real blood ties to original clan members) while Hanzo disagree. Takeda, as an example of great skills and loyalty to clan/Hanzo could be nice addition. Lack of Jin upsets me too :( And Syzoth :( :(

And this is really minor thing but why the hell Noob Saibot would tell Jacqui and young!Jax his former name? Like, fine, Jax knew, but why he didn’t just call himself Sub-Zero? What would made much more sense.