#toschemewithintrigue

[sxvethelastdance]

“Tsung, we have everything we could ever need here,” Raiden says in his usual, neutral tone of observation. There is something behind his eyes that suggests there is more to this than the usual, so the sorcerer will likely be inclined to allow him to continue. “I searched long for something that might further delight you…” He produces a package, finely-wrapped, carefully tied with a ribbon, and hands it over. Within, Raiden’s former student will find a medallion shaped like the symbol of the Elder Gods, with which Tsung has decorated his island. The eye of the beast glows softly with a tiny orihalcon fragment.

The Sorcerer regards his divine partner with a listening ear and an open mind, allowing him to speak his desires, be they for himself or his loved ones. The years have been kind to Raiden and the matters of wanting, an act of courage as much as it is an act of will. His eyes appraise the package not for imperfections, but the careful precision with which he knows the deity has prepared this for him. It is a gift that only his husband can give, modest on the outside, and filled with wonders. Shang Tsung runs his fingers along the thing greedily, each finely carved scale, but the eye- he does not touch the eye. Transfixed by its beauty, for he knows what its presence means, and the cost, though small for any other, devastating in its magnitude for a being as covetous as his lover. It is a piece of him, blood for stone, and so very, very beautiful, and so very loved.

"My dear, having has never kept man from wanting.” With purpose, his fingers wrap around the hand of his thunderous lover, pressing his lips to each knuckle.

“That you have brought me this,” One kiss,

“Searched, given a piece of yourself to me each time.” Another.

“- is a gift of its own, and I am most gracious to receive. ” Finally, he lets go, only for his fingers to tip the Thunder God’s chin, bringing him down for a searing kiss. 

[sxvethelastdance]

The vast expanse of the sorcerer’s palace greeted them. Walls high and ornaments twice such, his abode was as opulent as Shang Tsung himself, walking with purpose in a direction known best to himself. Dark, calculating eyes took in the form of his newest acquisition, a deity without knowledge of his nature. A marvelous and curious thing to witness. He was well aware of Shao Kahn’s designs, could admire the pragmatism of Konquest and the requisite bargains to strengthen an army. A thief at heart, it was in his nature to seize. The island’s master was a great many things, but a hypocrite he was not. However, his approached was much more subtle, refined as it were. As were his tastes, evident in the decor that progressively ascende with each step.

The Sorcerer guided Rayden through a high arch, stopping to incline his head in the direction of the Outworlder as gracious hosts were known to do.

“My audience chamber, Lord Rayden. This is where we gather to witness Mortal Kombat once a generation.” His outstretched hand brought attention to the mix of polished tile and rock. At the center of the room was a throne of jade, framed by stone pillars wrapped in dragons carved from gold, the finest of jewels set in the eyes of the beasts. The middle of the room was spacious enough for a large crowd, it was a place for bloodshed among the masses. But only those who had clawed and cut their way to the top. The principles of worthiness existed among good and evil alike, the souls which cried out within him held this to be true.

“It shall be a pleasure to observe with you in attendance, of that I am certain.” His gaze told a bottomless greed, and the gilded gauntlets which adorned his polished fingers as he gestured to the large area at which they’d taken pause.

A fool indeed. The Emperor knows not what he holds, or what he once held.

a marriage most foul (they’re very happy)

//closed starter with @sxvethelastdance

It had completely escaped Rayden’s mind—mostly because such things did not, in the long run, matter—that he actually had to wed the man, not simply be given over to him. Mortal traditions had the potential to be tedious and he had resolved himself to let Shang Tsung know if he was becoming bored. 

Mischief when one’s mind was not otherwise occupied was a specialty of his and now that he also had the element of lightning to aid him, who knew what trouble he might cause? A smile flashed across his face as the two armed guards near the great doors grasped the massive handles and pulled them open for the pair.

Shao Kahn was a fool to send me here. I hope the price was a good one.

[sxvethelastdance]

Liu Kang wanders through the quiet Halls a childhood home. She has returned on holiday for a very special occasion. She has not announced her arrival, though of course Liu Kang realizes how difficult it is to surprise either of her parents. All the same, she thinks it is a delightful game to try.

Her gifts have been offloaded and are being brought to the palace of course, but she prefers to ride horseback and quickly and so has beaten the caravan. Her steps take her upward to the study where she learned so much and therein, she finds her Baba.

"Happy Father's day, Baba," she calls quietly to the sorcerer, smiling.

He’d known since she crossed the veil, magics taught by him thrumming within the young woman’s veins. Shang Tsung to let his progeny practice the art of a surreptitious entrance. She will be a force, this one. And she will not need to command the skies as her other parent once did. He muses on this for the entirety of her climb to the study, fingers flying across the page of his favored scroll, disassembling and reassembling its ancient contents from memory with a mere flick of the hand.

As always, he has the grace to take an artful pause from his sorcery, eyes alight with an affection bottomless.

“A happy day indeed, my child.” Shang Tsung opens his arms and brings his daughter into them, the greatest gift he could possibly receive.

“Welcome home, Liu Kang.”

[sxvethelastdance]

Liu Kang climbs from her ornate bassinet, a feat she has just recently learned, and toddles her surprisingly quick way across the short space from her sleeping nook to the raised dais whereupon her parents sleep in the pre-dawn darkness. She mounts the shallow steps, one at a time, as she has been taught, and then with adept skill not entirely uncharacteristic of a child her age, hauls her tiny body up onto the luxurious coverlet. She then opens her mouth and, like a precocious rooster, bellows the hour in a language only she truly understands.

Shang Tsung met the dawn without delay, hands reaching out to bring his beloved daughter into his arms, the luxurious silk of the bedspread pooling around his waist as he brought the girl close to deliver her a kiss to the forehead- as he did each morning. The Sorcerer then swung his legs over the bed, coming out from his side with the toddler in his arms, presumably to avoid further disturbances in Raiden's consciousness. He was a light sleeper, unused to the act of rest, but without danger or true urgency it seemed easier to convey the sentiment that the bellowing little girl is the Sorcerer's before the rise of the sun. Not in so many words, but he has always been if nothing else, adept in the art of inference.

"Come, Liu Kang. Let us allow your father his rest, and see what the kitchens have in store for us today."

[sxvethelastdance]

"Liu!" Johnny hisspers (hissing whisper) at the chosen one behind a hand, "I am getting serious" he sticks his index finger into the loop of his opposite hand's thumb and forefingerr, "vibes from those two." The actor points toward the white-haired god of thunder and his sorcerer companion; they appear to be in the midst of a rather engaging conversation. "Exes. Definitely exes."

The Chosen One craned his neck, looking between the deity and the master of this island with a critical eye, the pieces slotting together until...

"You watch too much TV." Liu then shrugged, attending to his business. Unbeknownst to him, Shang Tsung and Rayden were in the midst of a rather salacious round of remarks dressed in pleasantries. A touch above the belt here, a hand to the arm there, and the sparkle of soulless eyes, hungering for the one thing that could put to rest his appetite.

[sxvethelastdance]

How very forward of you.

“And now a taste of things to come.”

Shang Tsung (Mortal Kombat 11)

[sxvethelastdance]

You did well, Tsung. The tournament and island are yours and Earthrealm is safe. I am proud of you. [Raiden @ a relatively young Shang Tsung]

The champion met Raiden’s eyes, for a moment mystified by the impossible gift that he was given. An island and a victory, acquistions. This... It was strange, new, yet not unwelcome to hear these words in their wanton sincerity.  

 There is more to him now than want that is fathomless, genuine satisfaction and pride. Something to show for his efforts, decades they have spent together, preparing for the tournament. Shang Tsung’s victory in the Mortal Kombat  tournament and his subsequent conquest of the island beyond  went uncontested by any gods, Elder or otherwise.

“You honor me, Master Raiden.” A closed fist over his upturned palm, Shang Tsung bowed before the man. Power over peace, and a silent vow to command this sentiment from his mentor once more through his excellence.

The newly christened champion then moved to shorten the space between them, now chest to chest with the Fire God’s Emissary. 

“Allow me to do the same.” Their lips met, and somewhere beyond time, the sands shifted. 

[sxvethelastdance]

Kidd Thunder screams viciously and snaps at Shang Tsung from the end of one of those kiddie backpack leashes.

Shang Tsung screams something fierce into the air, moving a healthy distance from the thunderous thing.

“RAIDEN! RETRIEVE THIS HORRID LITTLE CREATURE!”

[sxvethelastdance]

Ship meme! Warring exes

General:

Rate the Ship -   Awful | Ew | No pics pls | I’m not comfortable | Alright | I like it! | Got Pics? | Let’s do it! | Why is this not getting more attention?! | The OTP to rule all other OTPs (Two old queens throwing shade on a dinky boat, what more could you want???)

How long will they last?: Depends on the universe, but it's safe to say that an eternity wouldn't be enough for one as greedy as Shang Tsung.

How quickly did/will they fall in love?: It was the slowest of slow burns I tell you. All is fair in love and kombat, but it’s never quite that simple is it? They didn’t kindle things until a universal reset and a generation of training together. 

How was their first kiss?: Electric.

Wedding:

Who proposed?: Shang Tsung. Something along the lines of “Be mine, Raiden.”

Who is the best man/men?: I WANT to say that Fire Lord Liu Kang is the best man for Raiden. 

Who is the braid’s maid(s)?: BRAIDS MAIDS- I know what this is a spelling error but see. I can’t let it go. 

Who did the most planning?: Shang Tsung.

Who stressed the most?: Shang Tsung, he’s a staunch perfectionist. Everything had to be just right, more than that. It had to be a ceremony befitting of a god’s status, but accustomed to the sensibilities of one who lives for the simplicity of life as Raiden does. Getting all their guests to the island was the tricky part. 

How fancy was the ceremony? - Back of a pickup truck | 2 | 3 | 4 | Normal Church Wedding | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | Kate and William wish they were this big.

Who was specifically not invited to the wedding?: The Kytinn. Shao Kahn, etc etc

Sex:

Who is on top?: Shang Tsung, sometimes Raiden when he’s comfortable with taking a ride. 

Who is the one to instigate things?: Typically Shang Tsung. Raiden’s a rather chaste fellow.

How healthy is their sex life?: Barely touch themselves let alone each other | 2 | 3 | 4 | Once a couple weeks, nothing overboard | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | They are humping each other on the couch right now

How kinky are they?: Straight missionary with the lights off | 2 | 3 | 4 | Might try some butt stuff and toys | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | Don’t go into the sex dungeon without a horse’s head (Shang Tsung is a kinky bastard BUT, BUT. They take things at Raiden’s pace, he has the reins on how far he wants to go. So the numbers can fluctuate)

How long do they normally last?: ;)))) 

Do they make sure each person gets an equal amount of orgasms?: If Raiden hasn’t had multiple orgasms, then Shang Tsung simply cannot end the night. 

How rough are they in bed?: Softer than a butterfly on the back of a bunny | 2 | 3 | 4 | The bed’s shaking and squeaking every time | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | Their dirty talk is so vulgar it’d make Dwayne Johnson blush. Also, the wall’s so weak it could collapse the next time they do it.

How much cuddling/snuggling do they do?:  No touching after sex | 2 | 3 | 4 | A little spooning at night, or on the couch, but not in public | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | They snuggle and kiss more often than a teen couple on their fifth date to a pillow factory.

Children:

How many children will they have naturally?:  0, my friend. Nobody wants or has the means to go through that.

How many children will they adopt?: One lovely girl by the name of Shang Liu Kang (Stiles and I have affectionately nicknamed her “New Kang”)

Who gets stuck with the most diapers?: The servants

Who is the stricter parent?: Shang Tsung, surprisingly enough.

Who stops the kid(s) from doing dangerous stunts after school?: Raiden

Who remembers to pack the lunch(es)?: The servants

Who is the more loved parent?: She loves her parents equally!

Who is more likely to attend the PTA meetings?: Homeschooled child is homeschool

Who cried the most at graduation?: Yes :)

Who is more likely to bail the child(ren) out of trouble with the law?: If you don't think that Shang Tsung is going to roll up to the jailhouse in armani with a team of the best lawyers money can buy then you are simply WRONG

Cooking:

Who does the most cooking?: The servants

Who is the most picky in their food choice?: Shang Tsung

Who does the grocery shopping?: The food on the island is locally sourced

How often do they bake desserts?: Not too often. A little bit more when Shang Liu Kang enters their lives. 

Are they more of a meat lover or a salad eater?: I’m actually not sure of Raiden’s eating prefrences (humbly asking @bastardsunlight for an assist on this), but Shang Tsung’s policy is ‘why not both?’

Who is more likely to surprise the other(s) with an anniversary dinner?: Shang Tsung

Who is more likely to suggest going out?: Shang Tsung, again.

Who is more likely to burn the house down accidently while cooking?: Raiden, I’d think. The man’s never had to cook to sustain himself before.

Chores:

Who cleans the room?: The servants

Who is really against chores?: No one, they're well paid.

Who cleans up after the pets?: The servants

Who is more likely to sweep everything under the rug?: Not anyone who wants to live.

Who stresses the most when guests are coming over?: Shang "We can't let anyone know that we SIT" Tsung

Who found a dollar between the couch cushions while cleaning?: Couches? In THAT palace? It's less likely than you think.

Misc:

Who takes the longer showers/baths?: Shang Tsung

Who takes the dog out for a walk?: The servants

How often do they decorate the room/house for the holidays?: Not often, I'd think

What are their goals for the relationship?: To live a life of lavished love and drink in its wealth together.

Who is most likely to sleep till noon?: The only way they're sleeping until noon is if it's the both of them. Tsung's an early riser.

Who plays the most pranks?: Shang Liu Kang, look at the girl. She's a menace!

[sxvethelastdance]

"Tsung, I really don't need any more jewelry... You've furnished enough for ten gods. I'm only one." With his arms folded in his robes, one would never know the finery draped upon his flesh underneath it all... But Shang Tsung knows, intimately.

“Nonsense, pet. You are a deity, and much be lavished accordingly. Where I come from, we call such paltry offerings tribute.” If this is a lie, it is well buried beneath the smooth silk of the sorcerer’s delivery, hands flitting about the Thunder God’s torso. A touch here, a brush there, never where intended, but always close enough to communicate his aim. Raiden is well-acquainted with the nature of this, wise in the ways of his former student.

[sxvethelastdance]

Shang Tsung I dare you to take your lover on that solid jade throne of yours

"You dare, do you?" The sorcerer raises his chin, staring down from the throne of Jade which seats him. His lover is nowhere to be found, either roaming the halls in contemplation, or awaiting trouble with an impeccable sense of timing that told his age. He stroked his chin in deep thought of this dare, unmoved by whatever enchantments the anonymous hoped to cast upon his person.

"Very bold. But what a fine idea. I think I shall do just that." Shang Tsung rose from his throne, stopping short of the stairs with the raise of one manicured hand.

"Ah, it seems there is one thing I have forgotten." The clicking of gears preceded the many fiery jets that spewed from the floors of his throne room, swallowing the subject and their screams whole.

[sxvethelastdance]

Shang Tsung what makes you worthy of the time and attention of a god? What in any realm makes you believe you have earned his love? Who are you to presume?

The island's master lifted his chin, hard, dark gaze sweeping the stranger in his court. It was the silence that proved most piercing of all, for he did not rush to an accusation. It was his ability to lie in wait as the serpent does its catch, and strike as such.

"You do not earn love. You simply have it, or you don’t. It is my fortune that I have his, and your misfortune that you have brought me this commentary.” The leather duster drops from his shoulders, revealing a form honed to the art of kombat.

“Who am I, you ask? I am Shang Tsung, husband of Lord Raiden by his vow. You must presume yourself a worthy alternative, if you are so bold as to speak on matters of how the thunder god's time is best spent. Meet me in battle, defeat me, and your prize will be honesty." It was an apt strategy for the acquisition of souls, enticing the opponent with something rare and unattainable.

[sxvethelastdance]

Gentle touches, the whisper of fabric, the rumble of thunder not so far off—the boudoir is open to the night air, gossamer curtains floating in the breeze of a many-faceted ocean. The moons of several realms hang in the sky, casting a beautiful, chilly glow down through the glass camera above the bed’s artfully-carved canopy. Nothing but the glittering, bejeweled eyes of the dragons entwined about the posts are their witnesses this night.

Already pleasured, such that his great, shapely legs will not hold him, the former god of thunder and celestial emissary is on his back, cushioned by luxury, pillows and sheets of only the finest material, silver-white hair spread out around his head like a halo. His partner must wonder minutely how he could ever, for a second, have though this glowing-eyed being beneath him could be anything but a god.

Fingers trace the intricate markings of divinity—there are so many—finding purchase where those skilled hands will be most appreciated. Words off affirming praise flow from the mouth of a man who, in other timelines, is the greatest enemy Earthrealm has ever known.

Raiden’s heart—his core; it is no heart as he is not of Earthrealm—is pounding still, racing and thudding viciously in his broad chest as Shang Tsung looms over him, leaning down to press a kiss to that most sensitive flesh between ear and jaw. Turning his head to receive another, the thunder god is given what he desires and still the rumbling thunder approaches; it must surely be almost atop them.

The air is still and the curtains have ceased their movements. It is heavy in the sorcerer’s chambers and they are both now acutely aware of their own exertions, and delighted thereby. Shang Tsung awaits only permission, pressed close as he is, ready to take what he is freely given, and to give back just as much.

A minute nod from the chaste entity below him and a whispered plea are the signal which he has so long awaited—perhaps thirty years or more. But he is gentle still, despite his deep desires, he remains gentle, pressing forth slowly, entering with great care, taking each moment as it is offered, acutely aware of the stillness in the room and what that signifies. He presses a kiss to that same spot, then to the lips which hang open in a quiet gasp. This, the sorcerer swallows greedily and without remorse.

They are one, with slow and deliberate motions, they have become that which never could otherwise have been and it is then the rain begins gently to fall, like the strange, mythril tears on the face of the god of thunder as he reaches up and wraps powerful arms about the sorcerer’s neck and whispers the three words of the oldest magic in existence.

“Look at you, how magnificent you are.” Utters Shang Tsung, running his palms with deliverance alone the hard planes of his lover’s body, grunts stifling the flow of his smooth speech. Velvet is the feel of one to another, and a gem more precious than all the treasures in the realms the texture of what belongs to him, and him alone.

Lost in the thunderous parting of the skies and the quiets exaltation of a spell that so thoroughly had the sorcerer in its thrall, Shang Tsung finds the words to illuminate the sky of their shared domain with proclamations that open the realm’s firmament with a single cry. Tsung drinks the sight, smell, and sweetness of the Thunder God’s gift, His submission is freely given, and so much more enticing is the taste of him when offered. Mortal Kombat’s victor anew and ancient descends to please and to take pleasure from the act of it.

This is more than a mere island’s conquest, but it requires the careful planning in spades, for Raiden is a being that requires the utmost tender of handling. To handle him as such would certainly be his end, and as the power that thrums within him is shared in the booming voice that floods their chambers and makes Shang Tsung more than he has ever been. No gold or gossamer compares to the exquisite vision that holds steadfastly to him, as if to part from the sorcerer is to be adrift in the sea of the veil. As lightning wrests peace from the skies, Shang Tsung wrests this from his lover and gives him direction through the storm.

[sxvethelastdance]

Ship meme, 1995 era warring exes

General:

Rate the Ship:  Awful | Ew | No pics pls | I’m not comfortable | Alright | I like it! | Got Pics? | Let’s do it! | Why is this not getting more attention?! | The OTP to rule all other OTPs

How long will they last?: It's hard to say. They keep coming back to each other, but the divergence of interests... It proves quite troubling.

How quickly did/will they fall in love?: It took a generation for them to kindle the strange romance that hung over their heads. Shang Tsung was quite the smooth talker, and Rayden? Not so easily moved by mortal speech, but intrigued with the champion's ability to make it sound so charming.

How was their first kiss?: Electric... At first. Not so much when Rayden flipped Tsung onto his back.

Wedding:

Who proposed?: Shang Tsung

Who is the best man/men?: No one, Shang Tsung doesn't have friends.

Who is the braid’s maid(s)?: Kitana is the only one in their social circle with a braid, but she couldn't be present. Her step-father is quite the hater.

Who did the most planning?: Shang Tsung

Who stressed the most?: Shang Tsung

How fancy was the ceremony?: Back of a pickup truck | 2 | 3 | 4 | Normal Church Wedding | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | Kate and William wish they were this big.

Who was specifically not invited to the wedding?: Shao Kahn. He's still very miffed about it.

Sex:

Who is on top?: It depends on what your definition of 'on top' is. Because Rayden is very, very skilled in the art of climbing atop the man and taking him for a ride with such smoothness. The palanquin could never.

Who is the one to instigate things?: Shang Tsung, the handsy bastard.

How healthy is their sex life?: Barely touch themselves let alone each other | 2 | 3 | 4 | Once a couple weeks, nothing overboard | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | They are humping each other on the couch right now

How kinky are they?: Straight missionary with the lights off | 2 | 3 | 4 | Might try some butt stuff and toys | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | Don’t go into the sex dungeon without a horse’s head

How long do they normally last?: Until the palace cannot take anymore punishment from the storm.

Do they make sure each person gets an equal amount of orgasms?: Rayden usually gets more orgasms. He deserves them, I think. - totally not Shang Tsung

How rough are they in bed?: Softer than a butterfly on the back of a bunny | 2 | 3 | 4 | The bed’s shaking and squeaking every time | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | Their dirty talk is so vulgar it’d make Dwayne Johnson blush. Also, the wall’s so weak it could collapse the next time they do it.

How much cuddling/snuggling do they do? - No touching after sex | 2 | 3 | 4 | A little spooning at night, or on the couch, but not in public | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | They snuggle and kiss more often than a teen couple on their fifth date to a pillow factory.

Children:

How many children will they have naturally?: 0

How many children will they adopt?: Does Kidd Thunder count? Liu Kang? His dad's dead and Rayden was totally absentee enough to fit the father bill.

Who gets stuck with the most diapers?: No one, but the servants would be if there were diapers.

Who is the stricter parent?: Shang Tsung

Who stops the kid(s) from doing dangerous stunts after school?: Not Rayden

Who remembers to pack the lunch(es)?: The servants

Who is the more loved parent?: Rayden

Who is more likely to attend the PTA meetings?: Shang Tsung, the PTA quivers before him. Who invited this man?

Who cried the most at graduation?: Oh, they're not crying. They're laughing.

Who is more likely to bail the child(ren) out of trouble with the law?: They'll let you stew for a bit.

Cooking:

Who does the most cooking?: The servants

Who is the most picky in their food choice?: Shang Tsung

Who does the grocery shopping?: Shang Tsung handles the import catalogs.

How often do they bake desserts?: Not often at all, it's bad for the figure.

Are they more of a meat lover or a salad eater?: Why not both?

Who is more likely to surprise the other(s) with an anniversary dinner?: Shang Tsung, and it isn't a 'surprise', because Rayden saw it coming a mile away.

Who is more likely to suggest going out?: Rayden

Who is more likely to burn the house down accidently while cooking?: Rayden, though the 'accident' is debateable.

Chores:

Who cleans the room?: Shang Tsung, actually. He's very meticulous about how he likes his chambers. A spell here, a bit of soul servant there...

Who is really against chores?: The cursed souls.

Who cleans up after the pets?: The servants are tasked with this.

Who is more likely to sweep everything under the rug?: Do we just not value our souls in this palace??? The absolute nerve.

Who stresses the most when guests are coming over?: Shang Tsung, if he sees a spec of dirt then it's all over for you.

Who found a dollar between the couch cushions while cleaning?: Rayden, but he didn't find it in the couch cushions, and he sure didn't find it while cleaning.

Misc:

Who takes the longer showers/baths?: Rayden, but don't you worry. He has company.

Who takes the dog out for a walk?: You mean Kidd Thunder? It's either Rayden or the servants. Shang Tsung isn't getting near that horrid little creature.

How often do they decorate the room/house for the holidays?: As often as Rayden demands that they put a color in the palace that isn't 'more gold'

What are their goals for the relationship?: Would you believe that there was no goal at the outset of this coupling? That it was a draw of two, one soulless, and one burdened with a duty sworn to the little realm that could? A test of might in the other's draw. It's likely that this will end in blood, and still... They cannot stay away.

Who is most likely to sleep till noon?: They're both early risers.

Who plays the most pranks?: Rayden, he is dastardly. Neither the servants nor Tsung know peace. It is alright though, because Shang Tsung is going to take it out on his champion

[sxvethelastdance]

There is a storm rolling in from the ocean toward his Island. It is unclear which ocean and from what actual direction, as the island itself is positioned in a strange nexus between Realms, but the smell of it is on the breeze. Liu Kang drawns close to the master of the island as they watch it, closing her eyes and feeling tears like diamonds clinging and presently falling from her thick, dark lashes. In the distance, the rumble of rolling thunder can be heard.

"I miss him, too, Baba."

The sorcerer known to many as Shang Tsung and only one as ‘Baba’ stares out over the oceans of his domain, hands upon the stone and rock. He no longer holds the form of his prime, looking all in the world as if he has been aged by the events, and he has. Shang Tsung silently gestured for the young woman to meet him at his side, to join him in the view. His unspoken acknowledgement of what is lost and so thoroughly yearned for between the lover and the child of the light that split the skies. 

“Child,” He said after a time, his hand on hers. 

“I cannot live this way, without him, so forgive me if I do not try.” He takes Liu Kang’s hand into his and despises the tremors he has brought upon his progeny, the last remnant of the Thunder God and the cultivation of their love. She is his pride and joy, and a distant part of him knows that this pain plagues her as he. He is a selfish man, this he knows. But he cannot bear to be the summit of her grief.

So he makes a request. Gives her a task that she can accomplish to quell the torrent of grief that washes over him, and draws her into his arms as the horizon cracks in two.

His tears are lost in the rain, and so is he.

[sxvethelastdance]

"Master..." Raiden approaches the time sorcerer's innermost sanctum, that in which he keeps the well of souls and the hourglass, with some hesitation. The lord of all realities does not much like to be disturbed, but this is urgent. He is willing to await Shang Tsung's pleasure, but the way the beautiful, black-and-gold constructed arm is clutched close to the thunder god's broad chest speaks of agony. His voice does not reflect this, but the way the red lightning snaps about him betrays much.

It is true,, the lord and master of their new reality does not care for disturbances during the hours unlimited if planning. It takes time to acquire, and time to assess to excess. Raiden’s entry is the one graced where others would fall to his feet in an agony exquisite. It is he who descends his throne and shrinks to a size best suited to socialization.

“Speak.” The crown’s keeper presses a tender hand to the side of the Thunder God’s face, voice carried into the vast expanse of the new era’s keep, a construction of destroyed pedestals.

“What ails you, pet?” Asks Shang Tsung, knowing full and well what pain torments his servant, how it threatens to crack the pillars that decorate the place and do much worse to any stray servant caught in the blast. He must hear it from the lips of the deity himself, the sweet supplication of a plea for assistance.