#yes it’s Liu Kang as Li Shang

[yumchxa]

‘I’ll make a man out of you’ but it’s Liu Kang (I had a vision ok)

(thanks again to @/niku30_ on Instagram for the template for Liu’s tattoos. it really saved my life and time. 😭)

[cureofthenonesense]

I finally watched all the new animalities

My thoughts in the tags

[evilbihan]

Bi-Han is an honorable man

I can't believe that I'm making yet another post pointing out the obvious but every time I go into a Youtube comment section I'm starting to question whether me and the rest of the Mortal Kombat fandom have even played the same game.

1. He shows opponents mercy

Sub-Zero: You want peace? Let us be. Liu Kang: The Lin Kuei's sins aren't easily forgiven.

Sub-Zero: Surrender and Shao will show mercy. Mileena: If you believe that, you're a fool.

Sub-Zero: Walk away while you can. Raiden: I'll never give up, never surrender.

Sub-Zero: I won't hold back, Brother. Scorpion: Do your worst.

Sub-Zero: We have no cause for dispute. Kitana: You aided Shao's attempt to steal the throne!

These dialogues honestly speak for themselves already, they don't even need explaining. Compare that to actual villains like General Shao who sends Reiko after Bi-Han to kill him simply because he "doesn't like loose ends" even after Bi-Han saved him or Shang Tsung who killed Reptile's family out of nothing but sheer cruelty.

The fact that Bi-Han is willing to let people walk away from a fight, that he gives them a chance to walk away alive, speaks volumes about his personality. He warns his opponents in his intros and even during his end of round taunts ("Flee now and live."), he tries to solve things peacefully and without violence if possible. He's not bloodthirsty, malicious or eager to kill anyone, but will do so if given no other choice.

Despite Bi-Han's flaws, a man willing to show an opponent mercy is an honorable man. SPOILERS AHEAD: May I again remind you that Kuai Liang is not willing to show a defeated and dying Bi-Han mercy when he gets turned into Noob against his will? Not only that, but Kuai Liang wouldn't have hesitated to kill Frost who is probably around Hanzo's age at his own wedding if Harumi hadn't stepped in to save her. Harumi had to beg Kuai Liang to show someone mercy, while Bi-Han grants it without a second thought. Like it or not, at least in that one aspect, Bi-Han is the better man.

I don't know why some people think of him as this aggressive guy going around trying to pick fights with everyone when all he wants is to be left alone? It's wild to me how people think he's the problem here.

2. He respects/admires their fighting skills

Sub-Zero: You will surely test my might. Ashrah: I will overwhelm it, Sub-Zero.

Sub-Zero: This fight I will long remember. General Shao: Who says you will survive it?

Sub-Zero: I'm pleased to fight Outworld's foremost mage. Rain: Will it also please you to lose?

Sub-Zero: I hear your skills are formidable. Li Mei: As are those of all who have been Umgadi.

Can we also talk about how respectful Bi-Han is towards his opponents? He compliments them on their skills as opposed to Kuai Liang who even talks down to his own allies. Yes, Bi-Han is arrogant, but he can still acknowledge other people's strengths and respect them, even if they are his foes.

3. He admits when he's wrong

Sub-Zero: I was wrong to trust you. General Shao: Yes, Earthrealmer. You were.

Sub-Zero: I wasn't aware of Shang Tsung's experiments. Liu Kang: Had you known, would your choice have been different?

Sub-Zero: Your mother's death is regrettable. Kitana: I consider you complicit, Bi-Han.

You can say what you want about him, but he certainly takes responsibility for his actions and even shows regret over some of them. Bi-Han might not be the most compassionate character, but he does express some sympathy towards others. Compare that to Kuai Liang who tells Havik it's his own fault that his face was burned off as if he had nothing to do with it. Yes, Bi-Han doesn't show much sympathy towards Baraka for his condition, but neither does Kuai Liang. Why Kuai Liang is still considered the more honorable brother regardless of that and his very obvious ableism, is beyond me.

Bi-Han's good traits are all too often overlooked. I don't know if it's because people don't pay attention to intros, but it's so easy to see he's not a bad person deep down. It's just the media comprehension skills of most MK fans that are seriously lacking.

[isabelawritesthings]

My headcanons for EVERY (I think) Mortal Kombat 1 character

— Liu Kang is a big fan of Chinese food, because well, in the previous timelines he was Chinese, so he constantly goes to Madam Bo's restaurant to eat.

— Johnny Cage is a great dramatic actor, but unfortunately, Hollywood studios always cast him as comedic characters or male characters who are himbos, wasting his potential as a dramatic actor.

— Kenshi met Suchin after saving her from being attacked by thugs in Tokyo, and the two's connection was almost instantaneous, with Suchin agreeing to run away with him after Kenshi left the Yakuza.

— Raiden has a huge crush on Kitana, and constantly draws pictures of the two of them kissing (he's a cartoonist btw)

— Kung Lao loves Chinese and South Korean comedy dramas, his favorite South Korean comedy drama is "True Beauty".

— Kuai Liang is extremely protective of Harumi, like, if Harumi gets a scar, he won't rest until the person who did it pays dearly. When he was dating Cyrax, he was also quite protective of her as well (He's not a sexist who thinks women are too defenseless to protect themselves, he just wants to keep Harumi safe because he loves her so much).

— Bi-Han trusts women more than men, thanks to the complicated relationship he had with his father and the loving relationship he had with his mother (thanks to his daddy issues, he doesn't trust masculine nature very much, even though he is also a man).

— Shang Tsung is not a "victim of Liu Kang's intrigues", this guy is a sociopath to the core!

— Tanya is not Mileena's first lover, she had a girlfriend as a teenager, the daughter of an archduke, but was forced to end the relationship because the archduke's daughter had to marry a man, breaking Mileena's heart.

— Kitana is a voracious reader, she loves books, especially about the history of the Earthrealm and Seido, her favorite historical figure of Earthrealm is Queen Mary Stuart, a queen of Scotland, reflecting the thinking of some outworlders who think that she should be empress in place of Mileena, just as some 16th-century English Catholics wanted Mary to be Queen of England in place of her cousin, Queen Elizabeth I.

— I don't usually do SMUT headcanons, but I like to think that Sindel and Jerrod had an active sex life, and she never married any man after Jerrod because she only liked to have sex with him, she herself was impressed that she only had the twins and not like, three more children!

— The souls within Ermac have been in the living forest for so long that over time they have become one big family.

— Quan Chi was a thief when he was young and was sentenced to work in the gold mines as a way of paying for his crimes, which is why he hates Sindel so much.

— Tanya was not given to the Umgadi when she was a child, she was actually stolen from her mother's arms like several other Umgadi (a bit cruel, but I wanted to make it similar to Marvel's black widows).

— Li Mei has always been in love with Sindel, but she never had the courage to express her feelings.

— Takeda is destined to meet and fall in love with Jacqui, even though in this timeline she is not Jax's daughter.

— Sektor is a lesbian and has a fraternal relationship with Bi-Han.

— Cyrax can speak several African languages, including Zulu and Arabic.

— I'm going to join @rasta-bot AU that Nitara is also a lesbian, there's a 19th century irish lesbian book called "Carmilla" that I really like, it's about a sapphic vampire, just like Nitara.

— Reiko was a mommy's boy, just like Bi-Han.

— Shao suffers from narcissistic personality disorder.

— Syzoth and Ashrah's love language is physical caresses, such as kisses on the forehead and cheek.

— Ashrah is pansexual (yes, another wlw woman, it's "Mortal sapphic Kombat" for me) she has always felt lonely, so she would like any romantic companionship, no matter the gender.

— Baraka prays to Delia every day that a cure for Tarkat will be discovered (this is actually canon btw).

— Slavery is (unfortunately) legal in Seido, and Havik was enslaved (also canon), so he is an anarchist.

— Tomas is a polyglot, he can speak Czech, Chinese, English and Japanese.

[click4rainy]

(Mk1) Flirty Intro Dialogues (part 4)

-Suggestive Content-

Quan-Chi, Li Mei, Ashrah, Havik, Geras, Reiko, Nitara, and Omni Man

︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶

Quan-Chi 🦠

༶•┈┈⛧┈♛┈⛧┈┈•༶

★Y/N: “Allow me to introduce you to true defeat, sorcerer.”

-Quan Chi: *smirking* “Why, I’d be delighted to see you try, Earth Realmer…”

★Quan Chi: “Y/N, dear, you should consider joining the sisterhood of the shadow…”

-Y/N: “Absolutely not, sorcerer.”

★Y/N: “Shang Tsung tops you, ten fold.”

-Quan Chi: *Chuckles* “I can guarantee you, he doesn’t.”

★Y/N: “Liu Kang should have wiped you from this time line…”

-Quan Chi: “Another one of his many, many mistakes.”

★Y/N: *Scowls* “Don’t you ever mention raidens sister again.”

-Quan Chi: “Struck a nerve…did I?”

★Quan Chi: “Your persistence is irritating, yet commendable.”

-Y/N: “And yours is just irritating.”

★Quan Chi: “Tsk Tsk, Y/N, you really should reconsider joining…”

-Y/N: “Why can’t you take rejection?”

︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶

Li Mei 🎆

༶•┈┈⛧┈♛┈⛧┈┈•༶

★Y/N: “So, I hear you’re a former Umgadi?”

-Li Mei: “You’ve heard correctly…”

-Y/N: “So do I have a chance?”

★Y/N: *smiles* “What a sight for sore eyes.”

-Li Mei: “So I’ve been told…”

★Y/N: “Once being the leader of the Umgadi, now being the royal constable…what can’t you do?”

-Li Mei:*shakes head* “I can’t accept such praise, Y/N.”

★Li Mei: *eyeing you* “Your fighting technique is quite applaudable.”

-Y/N: “There you go, making me wanna kiss you again.”

★Y/N: *smirking* “Hey, hey, hey… where did you come from?”

-Li Mei: “It’s much more simple, if I show you.”

★Y/N: “Here to finish me off, sweetheart?”

-Li Mei: “Precisely, Earth Realmer”

★Li Mei: “Your weapon (s) is (are) beautiful.”

-Y/N: “And you, Li Mei, are even more beautiful.”

︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶

Ashrah 🤍

༶•┈┈⛧┈♛┈⛧┈┈•༶

★Y/N: “I just can’t believe such an angel, came from the nether realm.”

-Ashrah: “Your words are too kind, Y/N.”

★Y/N: “Do you see evil within me?”

-Ashrah: *shakes head* “My kriss senses nothing evil within you, dear Y/N.”

★Y/N: “You’ve traveled so far from the nether realm.”

-Ashrah: “And I plan on never revisiting.”

★Y/N: “I’m happy you’re here, Ashrah.” *smiles*

-Ashrah: “As am I, Y/N…”

★Y/N: “You’re absolutely stunning, hard to believe demons look that good.”

-Ashrah:*snickers* “Were you not informed about our true forms…?”

★Y/N: “So…does Kriss have a crush on Sento…?”

-Ashrah: “You amuse me with your questions, sweet Y/N…”

★Y/N: “You’ll get your absolution eventually, Asharah.”

-Ashrah: “I thank you for your kind words, Y/N.”

︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶

Havik 🩻

༶•┈┈⛧┈♛┈⛧┈┈•༶

★Y/N: “There’s a difference between seeking justice, and seeking revenge.”

-Havik:*scowls* “I know, far too well Y/N.”

★Havik: “You, out of all people, would be worthy of joining my cause-“

-Y/N: “And participate in countless murders?”

★Y/N: “Surely, you can see the chaos you’re causing…?”

-Havik: “And surely you can see the freedom it induces.”

★Havik: “Exactly who I was searching for…”

-Y/N: “Aw, lil old me? For what? A fight?”

-Havik: “I have much more in mind, than just a simple fight, Y/N…”

★Y/N: “What is this…? An I heart zombie concert?”

-Havik: “It will be, once I achieve winning your heart.”

★Y/N: “I understand your cause, I just can’t comprehend your actions for it…”

-Havik: “Then join me, and I will help you understand, Y/N.”

★Havik: “Y/N, you are a slave to Liu Kang.”

-Y/N: “Slave? No. Loyal? Yes.”

︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶

Geras ⏳

༶•┈┈⛧┈♛┈⛧┈┈•༶

★Geras: “You won’t be able to kill me, Y/N.”

-Y/N: “I don’t wanna kill you Geras, I wanna kiss you~” *winks*

★Y/N: “I’ve heard you don’t mingle with mortals…?”

-Geras: “Correct.”

-Y/N: “Certainly, I could change your mind?”

★Geras: “It seems even in this timeline, you have a way with flirtation.”

-Y/N: “But of course, Geras.”

★Geras: “Liu Kang has the utmost, sublime plans for you.”

-Y/N: “Ooh, tell me— wait don’t! No spoilers!”

★Y/N: “I never saw myself crushing on a time wielder.”

-Geras: “You can do better Y/N, though I am flattered.”

★Y/N: “In the past, did I ever get the chance to kiss your handsome face?”

-Geras: “In the past, you wanted anything but.”

★Y/N: “I find it hard to believe you were ever considered a ‘bad guy’ in previous lives…”

-Geras: “You have Liu Kang to thank…for this time lines out come, dear Y/N.”

︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶

Reiko🛡️

༶•┈┈⛧┈♛┈⛧┈┈•༶

★Reiko: “Your battle skills are worthy of Shao Kahn.”

-Y/N: “Thanks…but no thanks…”

★Reiko: “You could be the only exception— why won’t you take this opportunity?”

-Y/N: “It’s not an opportunity, Reiko, it’s madness.”

★Y/N: “You’re blinded by your loyalty to Shao Kahn…”

-Reiko: “And you are not by your own, to Liu Kang…?”

★Y/N: “Ignorant of you to assume I would betray my realm.”

-Reiko: *snickers* “I suppose you’re right.”

★Reiko: “You are about to face out worlds most worthy soldier.”

-Y/N: “If ‘most worthy’ means ‘most traitorous’ then yeah.”

★Y/N: “I pity you, you seem to have a lot of childhood trauma.”

-Reiko: “Do not grant me your pity, Earth Realmer.”

★Reiko: “Don’t think for one moment that your beauty will parry my attacks, Y/N.”

-Y/N: *smirks* “So you do find me attractive…?”

-Reiko: *Sighs*

︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶

Nitara🩸

༶•┈┈⛧┈♛┈⛧┈┈•༶

★Y/N: “Damn, blood looks good on you.”

-Nitara: “It tastes just as good as it looks, Earth Realmer.”

★Nitara: “You don’t understand, we need humans for our immortality”

-Y/N: “Sounds greedy to me, especially since you have other alternatives.”

★Y/N: “Why are you so violent?”

-Nitara: “Hunger drives one to the brink of desperation.”

★Y/N: “All of vaternus’s suffering is due to the selfishness of its kind.”

-Nitara: *scoffs* “Of course a human, out of all beings would say such a thing.”

★Y/N: “Vaternus has perverted the beauty that immortality should be…”

-Nitara: “I don’t care for your disapproval, nor does Vaternus…”

★Y/N: “You won’t be able to sustain for long. Humans will fight back.”

-Nitara: “That hasn’t been an issue thus far.”

★Y/N: “You’re too pretty to be acting this ugly…”

-Nitara: “Who are you to say bathing in the blood of my victims is ugly?”

︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶

Omni Man ⚪️ (bonus)

༶•┈┈⛧┈♛┈⛧┈┈•༶

★Y/N: “What the hell are you doing in this realm?”

-Omni Man: “Why don’t you come over here and find out?”

★Omni Man: *chuckles* “What an adorable little thing.”

-Y/N: “Man, fuck you.”

★Omni Man: “You dare fight a powerful being such as myself?”

-Y/N: “Damn straight. Somebody’s gotta humble you, oldie.”

★Y/N: *laughs* “You really think you can over take out world?”

-Omni Man: “Is it really that hard of a concept to grasp?”

★Y/N: “This is gonna be fun.”

-Omni Man: “Funny, I was thinking the same thing…”

★Omni Man: “I wouldn’t mind you being by my side, on a leash, as I over rule out world.”

-Y/N: *cringes* “I’m gonna pretend I didn’t just hear that…”

[spiralingemptyness]

MK hc

sooo I’m sick, got some time 🤷🤷🤷

Kung Lao gets his gossip from Johnny, then tells it to Raiden (who probably tells it to Tomas)

Liu kang knew the Lin kuei brothers when they were just kids

liu kang also helped train kuai liang to control his pyromancer (cause yknow he came from a line of cyromancers and how tf would they know what to do with fire when they use ice)

Bi-Han is older, but Kuai Liang is just barely taller, so whenever Bi-Han pulled the ‘I’m older card, Kuai Liang would pull the ‘I’m taller’ card (also despite being taller no one mistakes Bi-Han as the younger)….. Tomas is also taller than Bi han (just bc it would piss him off)

Raiden once pulled out an uno reverse card on Kung Lao after he tried to make Raiden pay a large bill (Kung Lao had to pay)

Liu kang’s hair took awhile to fade from the grey/white back to his original black

This being said his hair will revert back to grey depending on how much godly power he uses, so he literally has rapunzel hair (minus the length)

Syzoth gets cold easily, especially when in earth realm, so he is always bundled in blankets, sweatshirts, fluffy socks etc.

Bakara is basically a dad to everyone 

Johnny is the best movie picker, and when he’s not it’s always on purpose

Liu kang has naturally good locks, it makes Kitana and Kung Lao jealous (mk11)

Liu kang and Geras are meet up at least once a month or one every other month

Liu kang is pretty much unrecognizable without a bandanna/headband (only people who can recognize him is Kitana and Kung Lao (sorta mk11 but can be both mk11 & mk1))

Tomas and Raiden often hang out a Madame Bo’s 

Madame Bo is the ultimate mother/grandma figure, not even Liu Kang is safe

like she scolded him for about an hour for overworking himself with his godly duties

Shang Tsung tried (and failed) to befriend Raiden and Kuai Liang after the stairwell battle…. Didn’t end well 

Mileena and Bi han would hang out and braid each other’s hair (bi han is better) and honestly gossip/shit talk

Bi Han has a deep and sorta raspy voice cause he obtained a bad throat injury (slit throat, crushed vocal cords, smth like that), also why he wears a high collar

Yes Tomas is one of the nicest people, but he is also one of the most scariest

Li mei surprising gets along with the Lin kuei and is one of the only people to get them to stop bitching at each other (the others is madam Bo and sometimes liu kang)

Bi han doesn’t flinch when fire/pyromancy is used around him (idk if that’s bc he’s cocky and a cyromancer or bc he was trained not to be scared) (I base this off the scene in cage mansion where everyone but bi han moved back when liu kang flared up)

[odditycircus-2002]

Mortal Kombat 1 Intros with Medusa!Reader Part II

Li Mei

Y/N: Are you sure we cannot keep the traitor as a lovely ornament?

Li Mei: Reiko has to face trial like anyone else, Y/N.

/

Y/N: I still regret that I could not have done more for Sindel.

Li Mei: I know it pains you, but no one is accusing you of doing nothing.

/

Y/N: I am not sure I can give a testimony without trying to kill Shang Tsung on sight.

Li Mei: Justice cannot function properly unless you follow it thoroughly.

/

Y/N: I hope you're still not holding it against Syzoth for disturbing the lantern festival.

Li Mei: After everything he's done for the Empire? I'll let him off with a warning this time.

/

Li Mei: It is thanks to you that most of Sun Do's constables survived our battle with Shao and his allies.

Y/N: I am glad to hear they made full recoveries.

/

Li Mei: You must put your faith in justice.

Y/N: There is no such thing as it, the best I could hope for is revenge.

/

Li Mei: It still baffles me that you managed to slip away from me the first time you came to the palace.

Y/N: What can I say? I've always been the slippery type.

Kitana

Y/N: I am presuming that Li Mei wishes to speak with me about slipping hallucinogenic mushrooms into the rebel army's food supply.

Kitana: You did what now?!

/

Y/N wistfully: It seems like only yesterday to me that I helped bring you into the world.

Kitana: Time tends to fly by like that, Y/N.

/

Y/N surprised: I understand honoring Baraka, but Mileena wants to do the same with me?

Kitana: You have served Outworld with as much determination and loyalty as any honored soldier, Y/N

/

Y/N: I am truly sorry I couldn't save your mother.

Kitana: My family and I know more than anyone how hard you try to keep her alive.

/

Kitana: By the gods, NO! That is absolutely a cruel idea.

Y/N: How is throwing food that is secretly explosives worse than Shao weaponizing Onaga?

/

Kitana: Perhaps you should stop coming to the strategy meetings...

Y/N: Is this about my latest suggestion?

/

Kitana: You have a sister?

Y/N: Yes, but we're not as close as you and Mileena.

Liu Kang

Liu Kang: Even though he proves to be resilient, I’d be wary of Baraka loosing control.

Y/N: Have you forgotten I too was once a beauty now a turned beast?

/

Liu Kang: Baraka and his fellow Tarkatans view you as a beacon of hope for all you’ve done for them.

Y/N: Only because NO ONE elssse would help those poor unfortunate soulsss!

/

Liu Kang: Do not become tempted by Shang Tsung’s Well of Souls.

Y/N: If you had any chance of saving the one you loved from a cruel fate, wouldn’t you take it? /

Y/N: I asked you to kill me in a previous timeline???

Liu Kang: Kronika made it so you cannot go on without Shang Tsung. /

Y/N: I was a dangerous enemy in a past timeline, why didn’t you erase me for good?

Liu Kang: Because I had hoped that with better circumstances, you’d turn out kinder.

/

Y/N: I am grateful that you didn’t have me predestined to marry Shang Tsung

Liu Kang: As am I that you had an actual choice to choose who to love.

/

Y/N: I hope you do not expect I pray to you, not when I have to rely on myself to heal others.

Liu Kang: No, I do not need any of the sort, Y/N.

Kiu Liang (Scorpion)

Y/N: For freeing me from Shang Tsung and Quan-chi, I am in your debt till death.

Kiu Liang: I could not stand idly by and let the Sorcerers continue to use you.

/

Y/N: Thank you again for those earthrealm medical books you've gifted me.

Kiu Liang: May they prove to greatly help your cause.

/

Y/N: Truth be told, I envy that you and your new bride have life to look forward to together.

Kiu Liang: I understand why your heart would be in such turmoil.

/

Y/N: My venom is more than strong enough to overpower yours.

Kiu Liang: But can you take the force of my sting?

/

Kiu Liang: Baraka and the rest of the Colony are fortunate to have you as their healer.

Y/N: As is the Shirai Ryu for having you as Grandmaster.

/

Kiu Liang: I promise you, my clan and I will ensure that Bi-han is tried for his crimes-

Y/N angrily hisses: I do NOT care that he'sssss your brother! He must be cut like the tumor he is for hisssss attack on the colony!

/

Kiu Liang: You taught Outworlds High Mage hydromancy?

Y/N: Only the basics. He bringsssss me great shame for abusing the magic he's learned.

Sub-Zero (Bi-Han)

Y/N: Kuia-Liang will be disappointed that he's not the one who finished you.

Bi-Han: He will be disappointed to know you died thinking you could.

/

Y/N: You are plague to everything you touch.

Bi-Han: Only to those who would stand against me or my clan.

/

Y/N angrily and hissing: You killed my patientssss!!!

Bi-Han: I did them a favor by releasing them from their misery.

/

Y/N: Taking Shang Tsung's offer was a foolish mistake.

Bi-Han: You're right. I do not need his sorcery to bring power and glory to my clan.

/

Bi-Han: What manner of illness did you give my Lin Kuei, witch?!

Y/N patronizingly: I thought your clan was supposed to be stronger.

/

Bi-Han: I know your cold blood will stand no chance against my cryomancy.

Y/N: Actually, I ssstill remain warm-blooded.

/

Bi-Han: Your hydromancy has no chance against my cryromancy.

Y/N: Have you forgotten what ice is made from, Bi-han?

Rain

Rain: Why did you never teach ME how to control blood?

Y/N: I wished to spare you of the magic’s cost of madness.

/

Rain: I will always regret my crimes against Seido

Y/N: If you’re truly remorseful, then their ssssouls shall haunt you till the day you die. /

Y/N: I did NOT teach you how to control water, sssso you could dishonor me or your family!

Rain: I know how deeply I’ve shamed all of you. /

Rain: With the magic you know, why did you never pursue becoming High Mage?

Y/N: To avoid being overwhelmed with ambition asssss you were. /

Y/N: Your once cleansing water are ssssstained with the blood of Seido’s victims.

Rain: It is something I can never truly wash away. /

Rain: I have surpassed your water magic!

Y/N: How bold to assume that I’ve taught you EVERYTHING about water’s capabilitiessss.

/

Y/N: You want to come with ME into the Kytinn Hive???

Rain: So I can finally start my penance.

[behindthesoul]

Forgotten Child - Ch. 3

Shang Tsung x Reader

Masterlist || Previous Part || Next Part

Characters - Shang Tsung, you, Li Mei, Kitana, Mileena

Summary - A night alone gives you feelings that spill into the next day

Word Count - 1600

Warnings - angst :) not proofread :)

Tags - @mortal-kombat-shitposts @geeky-trash01 @fandom-garbage

The black dahlia, a mysterious and alluring bloom, stands tall as you admire her petals. She’s been your favorite flower since childhood. You remember annoying your family with facts such as its petals are not actually black! Rather, it’s a purple, almost maroon color, and did you know they are native to Earthrealm?

Your admiration for the flower meant the palace gardens had a patch of black dahlias dedicated to you. Smaller than the patch of flowers dedicated to your sisters, but arguably more loved.

“You were always fond of the dahlia,” a voice says behind you, making you jump. Hand over your heart, you turn to confront the voice.

“First Constable! What are you doing here?!”

Li Mei smiles apologetically, not meaning to scare you. You were the only royal to remain close to her after the death of your father. His death hurt, yes, but your anger was never taken out on her.

“I should be asking you the same. It is late, you shouldn’t be out here.”

Though you trusted Li Mei, you couldn’t let slip that Shang was to visit you soon. It’s frustrating he’d rather keep your love hidden, but you’ll always respect his wishes. It would be nice if she could leave sooner than later.

“It’s been too long since I’ve seen you roam the palace grounds,” you deflect. “Does mother know you are here?”

She nods before moving in to give you a quick hug. She sighs, and you can tell her heart is heavy. The grief of not only losing her emperor, but her closest friend too, was almost too much to bear. You’ll never envy her position in life.

“My family is in deep mourning, Li Mei. I know you miss everyone; I promise they’ll come around soon.”

There’s not much truth to your words. Your mother will most likely hold a grudge against her until the end of time. Still, you hope your worlds will comfort her. Li Mei shakes her head, as if to remind herself why she’s here.

“I was instructed to inform you the Empress wants you to welcome the Earthrealmers for the tournament tomorrow.”

“Ah! The tournament. It completely slipped my mind.”

Li Mei suddenly looks concerned, much to your confusion. She holds your face in her hands and looks deep into your eyes, trying to find something wrong. You relax in her touch; she’s always felt like a second mother to you.

“Not once have you ever forgotten about an Earthrealm visit. You enjoy talking to Liu Kang. What occupies your mind?”

Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung, Shang Tsung -

“Nothing, I have just been busy.”

Li Mei wants to press further, but decides against it. She wishes you well before taking her leave, leaving you alone once again. You wander around the garden for some time. Shang is a tad bit late, but not enough to make you worry. You return your focus to the garden, heart aflutter in anticipation. There were better, more hidden places for the two of you to meet, but something about the gardens heightens the experience of your secret romance. Maybe it’s the way Shang plucks a rose before placing it in your hand, or the way the dahlia seems to capture his heart, too.

In the distance you spot a clock tower, its chiming announcing the midnight hour, and still, there’s no sign of your love. Anxiety laughs and begins to taunt you, but you swallow the negative feelings and choose to have faith Shang will appear soon. Gazing up at the moon, you whisper his name, hoping he’ll somehow hear your call.

Hours and hours pass. It’s a bit embarrassing, spending hours in the same spot. He isn’t going to show, you know he won’t, but your mind tells you to stay put. The first glimmers of dawn appear, the dark sky morphing into pinks and golds; despair settles in. The birds sang with you not too long ago but now they mock you with their joyous songs.

The sun’s golden rays cast shadows over the garden as you lower your head in sorrow. Precious time that could’ve been spent reading, writing, or sleeping was now wasted by false words. You allow yourself to drown in sorrows for a little while longer before making your way to your bedroom. It’s time to start your day.

Resting before the tournament would’ve been wise. You feel a bit off as you wait for the Earthrealmers with your sisters. All-nighters aren’t uncommon for you. You learned from an early age how to make yourself appear as normal as possible even when you’re running on two hours of sleep. Still, rest would be appreciated. If only someone told you he wasn’t coming…

“Something bothers you. Are you unwell?” Kitana asks, looking over at you. Sighing, you erase any current thoughts of Shang, realizing your frustration with him is easily shown on your face. Maybe you aren’t good at appearing normal.

“I’m fine, Kitana.”

“Are you sure? Mileena and I can greet the Earthrealmers alone. You look upset, you need time alone.” Kitana places her hand on your back and gently nudges you away. Mileena notices your pained expression, and shoos you away.

“You both treat me like a child…” you want to protest more, but you honestly don’t feel like being here. You want to find Shang Tsung and berate him for not showing up, but you also want to curl up in your bed and cry. Finally giving in, you leave your sisters, but not before telling them to apologize to Liu Kang for your absence. You make your way to your room, carefully avoiding any place your mother may be.

To your surprise, Shang Tsung sits on your bed while staring out the window. The sight of him turning around and looking at you with soft eyes would normally make you melt, but you feel anger seeping in. You glare at him, before climbing into your bed.

“Get. Out. I am not in the mood for you right now.”

He sighs before standing to close your door; Shang has to make sure no one sees you’re in his room. He climbs into bed with you and you quickly turn around so your back is facing him. For a moment, guilt passes over his features. It’s a feeling he’s never been familiar with. Throwing an arm over your waist - and noting how you make no effort to move it - he speaks:

“I had matters to attend to last night, something I couldn’t avoid.”

You roll your eyes. “I would’ve appreciated a message, a note, anything, to let me know you were busy. Instead, I sat in the gardens like a fool. A fool who was mocked by the sun’s rising. I wonder if you even care about our time together.”

“I do care, more than I once thought,” Shang replies, gaining your interest. You turn around and face him, eyes still dark with anger. It feels like a small win to him.

“More than you once thought? You did not care in the past?”

“When we met, I did not expect to fall in love with you. Nor did I expect a royal to pay attention to someone like me. You are beautiful, loving, and so much more than I deserve-”

“Get to the point, sorcerer,” you snap, “I currently have no stomach for your tangents.”

He sighs, taking a moment to collect himself. “I cannot explain the circumstances of my absence right now. But know that it was a matter of utmost importance. I do apologize for being unable to notify you, and I ask for your forgiveness.”

Torn between your love for Shang Tsung and the pain of his absence, you stay quiet. Anger fades but leaves behind slight resentment. “I took time to think to myself last night. I cannot be in a relationship I have to hide. I want Outworld to see I am proud of my love, and I want you to be proud, too. I wonder if these feelings are wasted on a man like you.”

“They are not. I understand your wishes and I ask that you be patient for a while longer.” Lying to you is odd, he can’t describe the feeling, but it doesn’t feel good. Making your relationship public could bring unwanted attention to his and Quan Chi’s actions. He briefly wonders if getting involved with you was a mistake, but he can’t bring himself to break things off. Shang feels selfish for wanting your touch.

“You say that often. I wait, and wait, but nothing happens. Your words are starting to feel empty.” You want to cry. Neither of you expected a lonely night in the gardens would bring up so many feelings. It’s late in the afternoon now; Quan Chi will surely wonder where Shang is by now. He begrudgingly gets out of your bed and opens your window, preparing to leave.

“I will return tonight, we can talk further then.” Shang looks back at you with a neutral expression, but his heart is annoyingly hopeful. This conversation felt disjointed and leaves you both uneasy and unsatisfied. It doesn’t matter to you though, you want time to yourself.

“Do not bother, sorcerer. For now, I think it’s best if we go our separate ways.”

[atlasofthestaars]

[MK X READER] New Era - Chapter .006

first part | previous part | next part

NOTE: Not sure if the beginning needs any warnings and what to label it? But it is a little more dreary than the rest of the story has been previously, so take note of that.

Originally was going to be a bit of a faster paced chapter, but I started writing in like, the complete opposite way, and I kinda liked where it went so I just rolled with it. So it’s a little bit slower of a chapter this time, but I hope the fluff makes up for it since it has moments with the champion squad.

Hopefully, according to my plans, we should only have a few more chapters left in the pre-outworld arc? I think about chapter 11 is where we will hop back to it with the mini tournament for Earthrealm’s champion, but that estimate may change depending on the ideas I have. I just want to make sure we have plenty of time with all the Earthrealm men before we head back into more of the plot.

Looks like Shang Tsung is part of the official love interest line up! This actually quite heavily affects the story, so hopefully you all will be pleased by how it turns out when that part rolls around! Reiko did not make the cut, sorry to all those who wanted him! He will get screentime, but the reader will have a different type of dynamic with him due to this. 

Also double whammy poll! While we have a lot of lovely men to fall for, someone asked about Kitana and Mileena! So here’s your time to let me know your thoughts on them! (Especially Mileena, because it WILL change whether I portray Mileena x Tanya in this fic or if Mileena is not with her so she can be romanceable).

I LIED I JUST REALIZED I CAN ONLY DO ONE POLL AT A TIME. KITANA WILL BE NEXT CHAPTER, THEN HAVIK WILL BE AFTER THAT.

FROM THE EYES OF ONE WHO HAS STRUGGLES RELAXING

Turns out, you struggle with forcing yourself to relax.

It was odd, you had been content before with a life of a simple routine. All you had to do before was train yourself and be at Liu Kang’s side as your duties, you could do whatever else you wished for the rest of the day. Most times that meant going on long walks and trying to decipher your memories. 

It was a routine you settled on after many had decided you needed no further routine training, and after a certain incident. Of course, you pushed yourself to train with others occasionally nowadays, but you were a student no longer.

It was a routine most were happy you had, for before that simple routine, you had found yourself often run ragged. You often went from place to place, too ambitious to train, too ambitious to strive for more. In between those training sessions, you found yourself often running around doing too many tasks that others had given you upon your request. You sometimes skipped meals, and sometimes cut hours of sleep to try and cram everything into your schedule.

It wasn’t like no one noticed the way you were slowly ruining yourself, they did, you just ignored their concerns. You waved it off, saying you were fine. You found yourself saying that line to Liu Kang the most, who always seemed to want to stop you.

It got so bad even Bi-Han had to sit you down and scold you for how exhausted you had become.

“Fool, don’t you know you’re inconveniencing everyone else when you destroy yourself like this!?” He had told you, pinning you with a harsh glare. He had slammed his hands on the desk, ice spreading from his hands onto the desk from his frustration. 

You had, of course, defended yourself in every which way back then. Who cares if you were tired? You had to get things done so others could relax. Why did he insinuate that you were a burden when clearly everyone else was benefitting from this? Those points and many more were tossed between you two, and that had caused a large argument between you two for a long time.

That grudge between you two carried for a while. You had been too stubborn to admit Bi-Han was right. How could you? That’d be admitting defeat.

And you loathed defeat.

Furthermore, that meant that you had to stop doing stuff for people. Certainly you could not stop your training, that would lead to you weakening. You had to get stronger! People were counting on you, and you had a feeling that you just had to get stronger, even without thinking of others. The tiny voice in your head was screaming that you had to.

And if you didn’t cut down on training, you had to stop doing tasks. And how could you tell someone that you couldn’t do something for them? The idea of the look of disappointment followed by a pitiful “it’s alright” scared you. You already promised so many people many things, you couldn’t just go around and tell them that you couldn’t all of a sudden.

You’d be a disappointment.

So you deluded yourself that you were doing the right thing, letting yourself get carried away. It was a harsh, dark part of your life. It was a part of your life you were not proud of. You pushed many people away. Kuai Liang, Tomas, Madam Bo, Master Kai…so many people that kept on telling you to end this foolish pursuit.

You didn’t listen.

You carried on with your destructive lifestyle, aiming to try and do anything and everything all at once. If you could do it all, everyone else would be happy, and that’s all you wanted. You lied often, saying that you were okay, and tried to cover it up with a weary smile

It wasn’t until you had collapsed during training and gone unconscious for nearly a day that Liu Kang stepped in.

“I have been a fool.” Liu Kang had murmured when you had awoken that day, You felt faint, nauseous, and so many things all at once. He had reached a hand to touch your forehead, eyebrows furrowed with worry. “I should have realized earlier that you had been running yourself into the ground, I should have trusted my own instincts and never let you go this far.” 

“I’m fine.” You had insisted, trying to sit up. The god had to force you down, which was easy in your weakened state. He had instructed you to take a break until you were better. “How long?” You had asked, your voice hoarse as you asked desperately, feeling the grip of fear at the idea of becoming useless for the people that meant so much for you.

“As long as it takes.” Liu Kang replied, with a tone of finality. Back then, those words were like a death sentence. Nowadays, you realized it had been a blessing in disguise. You try not to think of how long those days felt, constantly being shadowed by one of the Lin Kuei brothers or even Madam Bo. It was painful to think of, some days. But then again, it wasn’t all bad.

After all, that’s the main reason you had gotten closer with all of them. 

Kuai Liang had been helpful, giving you advice and being there at your aid any time you needed. He had been a good person to confide in, for he never shamed you for the worries you carried. He was a gentle flame, providing the warmth you did not know you needed in your life.

Tomas had been a welcoming presence, giving you laughs and joy in a situation where you struggled. He was much more playful than his brothers, and the dreary days were always made a bit bright with him around. He had been encouraging too in his own ways, telling you that being vulnerable was okay. You were okay.

The other two were a bit more harsh. Madam Bo had given you harsh lectures, but in a loving way. You could tell you had terrified her with your decline in health. Those days she had given you so much food you felt often full. You were happy though, her cooking really was the best. Eventually you had learned some cooking from her to pass the time.

You still had to learn how to perfect her recipes.

Bi-Han’s shadowing at first was easily the worst. Days that felt like were filled with tension, some days you felt like you could not breathe. Then, some other days it felt like you would rather be asleep with the rants he had given you, telling you on how you should have listened to him. Eventually, the frost around the situation melted, and the days went from tense and dreadful with him, to more comforting.

Eventually he became a person you learned the world through, as begrudging as it was, he answered your many questions. And when your questions ceased, the two of you could turn to occasional conversation, ones where you both were a little more open with each other, a bit more honest. Even the silences began to feel comforting.

Occasionally, Liu Kang would take over shadowing you. It wasn’t as common as the other four, but it happened often enough. At first, you were filled with guilt whenever you were around him. You had failed the fire god, but he had told you that you did no such thing.

“I have failed you, instead.”

It mystified you, but you chose not to question it. You weren’t certain what you’d do with the answers to the questions you had about that statement. You ended up developing most of your healthy habits with Liu Kang, falling into a simple routine. You ended up developing the habit of watching the sunrise with him during these times.

Days had blended into weeks, and weeks into months, and you slowly were allowed your responsibilities again. You had been allowed to train much earlier than your responsibilities so your body would not weaken, but the responsibilities felt much more significant.

Slowly, you were given room to breathe and develop your own routine. One that was…less rigorous, one that everyone agreed that was healthy and safe for you.

You guessed your inability to relax was still a remnant of the insatiable workaholic from back then. Your mind was filled once again with responsibilities, plans, and schedules. Training the champions, the tournament…so many big things to worry about.

You worried that you didn’t have time to do everything if you relaxed, and you knew how important these tasks that were ahead of you were.

It was almost instinct to dive into everything, try to take the burden of everyone and force it upon yourself.

You were really trying though, to relax. You couldn’t bear to see the concerned looks on their faces again.

“You know, you’re doing an awful job at taking a break.” Johnny pointed out as he pulled up next to you, snapping you out of your reverie. You watched with curiosity as he pulled out his phone. You had vague memories of technology from what you presumed to be your past life, but you haven’t really used it in this life.

“I’m just watching, is that so wrong?” You inquired, trying and failing to fend off the defensive side that tried to come out. You sent him a raised eyebrow, looking at him. He sent you the sassiest look, peering at you. 

“No.” He said, shrugging as he returned his attention back to his phone. “But I can see that calculating look in your eye, teach.” Johnny said, tapping the side of his head with his two fingers. “You’re not just idly watching, you’re thinking. That’s the same look my directors get when they’re reviewing a scene, and trust me, that’s anything but relaxing.”

You huffed, crossing your arms. As much as others thought otherwise, Johnny Cage was smart and observant.

“Plus, when people usually say they’re taking a break they’re usually off doing their, like, hobbies or something.” Johnny continued, pausing for a moment before looking back at you. “You do have hobbies right?”

“I refuse to elaborate.” You said after a few moments of contemplation. You really couldn’t think of anything that was a hobby of yours. Sure, you liked to cook, but that wasn’t a hobby you found yourself doing all too often outside of meal times. 

The only other thing you could think of that you did often was try and make sense of your memories. And that was something you could do for hours on end. But it was all too confusing, and it gave you a major headache. Aside from the fact that you didn’t exactly want to think of those memories right now, you had a feeling that also didn’t count as relaxing.

So your next best bet at doing something to relax was watching the students of the Wu Shi academy train.

Were you really that boring?

“You…don’t have hobbies?” Johnny asked, pulling a face that made you frown. “No wonder you’re struggling to relax.” He said, scratching the back of his neck. You had an urge to defend yourself, but you averted your eyes instead, knowing that trying to defend yourself was fruitless. You really didn’t have anything to defend yourself with in the first place.

“Living a life like mine leaves little time for hobbies.” You said, which was partially a lie. You had time, and lots of it before you were entrusted with training the four of them. So you certainly could have picked up some hobbies. 

But you never knew what to do. There weren’t many people in the Fire Temple who had hobbies you could indulge in, and it wasn’t like you were too close with them either. And, oddly enough, you were a bit embarrassed to ask the Lin Kuei brothers for any ideas on hobbies.

Plus, it was annoying trekking through the snow just to ask for something small like that.

“Okay, so hobbies are out of the question, got it.” Johnny said, before humming and looking up, contemplating over things. “Don’t you have anything else to do, like reading, or watching movies?” He suggested.

“I’ve read all the books they have in the Fire Temple, they’re pretty boring and not worth a reread.” You said, sighing as you remembered the lack of interesting literature. You’ve thought about asking Liu Kang for the chance to get better reading material, but you didn’t want to sound…rude. “And I’ve never watched a movie.”

That wasn’t totally true, you’ve probably watched a movie in your past life, but you’ve never done that in this life.

“You’ve never…what?” Johnny Cage said, seeming to be caught off guard by the confession. You’ve never seen such a look on his face before, one that was both shocked and almost…offended? You supposed it only made sense that he out of everyone reacted this way. Acting was his lifeblood. “You’re kidding me.”

“I’m not.” You said, raising your hands up trying to show no offense. You couldn’t help but let out a chuckle at the look Johnny was sending you. He was so,,,expressive. It was really entertaining. Is that why people liked watching him so much?

“We’ve got to right that wrong immediately.” Johnny said, a determined look on his face. He shoved his phone into his pocket. “We’re going to have a movie marathon. You get to relax and see a bunch of great movies, win-win.” The actor declared.

“A bunch of great movies, huh?” Kenshi said, approaching the two of you as he sheathed his sword. He looked between the two of you, sending a pointed look towards Johnny Cage. “I’m guessing you’re going to try and show our instructor a bunch of your movies, Cage?”

“You know it, tattoo.” Johnny confirmed with a self confident smirk. You nodded towards Kenshi, who acknowledged it back with a nod of his own. “Don’t look so prissy, you and the farmer boys are invited too if you want.” You glanced towards Kenshi, raising an eyebrow out of curiosity. 

“That doesn’t sound so bad.” Kenshi conceded, much to your surprise. “I get to help pick the movies, though. We’re not watching a marathon of the Ninja Priest movies, they’re all the same.” You watched as Johnny groaned, clearly disagreeing with the swordsman.

“Whatever, you just have bad taste.” The actor huffed, rolling his eyes. He took out a paper and pen from gods knew where, and tossed it towards Kenshi who sent him a puzzled look. “Go design whatever list you want, just know I’ll be blaming you if teach over here,” He gestured towards you, “thinks movies suck.” He stretched before pointing his thumb away from the courtyard. “Now I gotta bounce, gotta make arrangements to make this whole shebang work.” He turned towards you. “You go figure out how to relax, or whatever, meet here tomorrow night.”

And without much more explanation, the actor jogged off, leaving both you and Kenshi behind.

“What did I just get myself into?”

“I’m surprised you’ve never seen a movie.” Raiden commented after he and Kung Lao met you at the entrance of the Wu Shi academy. He and Kung Lao walked beside you as you traversed down the hall, dressed in more casual clothes as opposed to the uniforms they usually wore. With amusement, you noticed how they were not wearing the hats for once. The clothes they wore reminded you of the clothes they donned during the exams.

“In the Fire Temple, we don’t have much, if any, technology.” You explained, not elaborating much further. After all, it’d be hard to explain the whole ‘you might have watched one in a past life, but you barely remembered anything about it’ ordeal. “Johnny seemed very offended that I’ve never watched one, it was a sight to behold.”

“It makes sense, that is what he is known for.” Kung Lao pointed out, shrugging. 

“Have either of you seen Johnny Cage’s works?” You inquired, looking between the Fengjian men. You were a bit surprised that they knew about movies, knowing that they both hailed from a simple village. Then again, you supposed you were being hasty in assuming their area was as technology deprived as the Fire Temple was.

“A few.” Kung Lao answered, thinking a bit before grinning. “Their techniques were totally wrong, but they sure do know how to make something entertaining.” He admitted before cockily laughing and pressing a hand to his chest. “Of course, I think if I were there to help them, they would be much better.”

“I saw a few as well.” Raiden piped up, smiling towards you. “They were flashy, and like Kung Lao said, very inaccurate, but I actually enjoyed watching them.” He put on a thoughtful look. “I think you’ll like them too, as long as you look past the technicalities.”

“I hope so too.” You said, humming. “Otherwise this would be a rather bad introduction to movies.” You joked, knowing that you could probably look past the most egregious techniques. All you wanted was a chance to relax, and you hoped to the gods that this was going to work.

“Fret not, teach, I made sure to look through Ken-bro’s list.” Johnny said as he turned the corner, a grand grin on his face. “He chose a few decent ones, but I made sure to add the best of my works in there too.” In his arms he held a large of what you believed to be popcorn. You inhaled, and you felt a bit nostalgic for a reason you weren’t quite sure.

“I tried to keep the list decent, so don’t blame me if Cage ruined it.” Kenshi quipped as he also rounded the corner, holding another big bowl of popcorn. You looked between them, noting how this was the first time you’ve seen both Johnny and Kenshi were something more casual. It wasn’t too bad of a look.

“I’m sure it’ll be fine.” You said, grinning as you crossed your arms. The actor led all of you to a room you knew had not been previously used much. “You’ve all brought up my expectations, are films really that good?”

“Oh trust me, films can get good, especially action films I’ve been in.” Johnny cackled, and you stifled a laugh as you noticed how the group had all collectively rolled their eyes. He opened the door for you all. You marveled at the projector that had been set up, along with a basic couch that seemed big enough for you all to lounge on, more or less. “Hollywood magic will astound you, trust me.”

“I’m already astounded by all of this.” You admit, walking over to the projector. Seeing technology sent a wave of nostalgia through you, and you smiled. Something about this all brought a hazy vision of you and Johnny sitting in a room doing something similar to this, but there had been four other younger people with you instead.

How odd.

“Where did you get all of this?” Raiden asked, looking at the set up of the room. “I don’t think the monks normally have any of this stuff,” He observed as he made his way to the couch. “Well, maybe the couch makes sense.” He said, before sitting on it carefully.

“It’s a secret, my friend.” The actor replied, and you all sent him a look. He groaned and sighed. “You’re all no fun. I asked the big boss, Lord Liu Kang.” He said, shrugging as he also took his place on the couch, on the other end of the couch. “I explained how our instructor was struggling to relax and how I pitched a movie night to you. He seemed pleased by the idea, and was willing to give me all of this stuff.” 

You were surprised. Liu Kang was the one who helped Johnny out? The idea of it made you feel warm.

“Lord Liu Kang did all of this?” Kung Lao echoed your thoughts, nodding slowly as he looked around. He put on a face that told you he seemed to approve, and plopped down right next to Raiden. You found yourself not knowing where to sit, before Kenshi stepped beside you and tilted his head to indicate the spot where you should go.

Right between where he would go and Johnny Cage.

You supposed that wasn’t too bad. 

Taking the advice, you walked over to the spot he suggested and sat yourself carefully, making sure to leave room for Kenshi, while making sure you didn’t intrude on Johnny’s. 

“Popcorn?” Johnny offered, holding the bowl out to you. As he did so, you noticed as he turned on the movie, it starting the movie which seemed to be labeled “Ninja Mime”. Shrugging, you took a small handful, popping the food into your mouth.

This was going to be interesting, wasn’t it?

“Wow, that was…amazing.” 

“See! I told you, Hollywood magic.” Johnny Cage said, a satisfied smirk on his lips as he looked over to you. You rolled your eyes but nodded, conceding to the fact that you had honestly enjoyed seeing the film. It was goofy, wacky, and just the thing you needed.

“If you think that’s good, you should watch other types of movies.” Kung Lao piped up, before shoving a handful of popcorn into his mouth. He had stolen the bowl from Kenshi shortly after the movie started, taking most of the buttery goodness for himself. You watched with silent amusement as Raiden sneakily stole a handful. “Comedies, romances, there’s more than just Johnny’s actions.”

“Why would anyone need to watch anything but my movies?” Johnny bragged, earning silence and stares from the group, mostly from Kenshi. He rolled his eyes. “Whatever, but other types of movies are for another night.” He said, waving off the silent complaints.

“We’ll have another night?” You inquired, peering at the actor with a curious look. He grinned and shrugged.

“As long as you let us, teach.” The American said, before gesturing to the projector. “First, we gotta go through the list we made first.” You watched as Johnny got up to set up the next movie. Kenshi leaned over, looking at you with a small smile.

“The next movie is going to be better, trust me.” The swordsman told you, a slight tone of playfulness in his voice. “I made sure to also introduce you to some of Cage’s better works.” You raised an eyebrow, surprised at the fact that the man was even a fan of Johnny’s works in the first place.

“I’ll be sure to hold my expectations high then.” You replied back. sending the man a small smile as you took yet another handful of popcorn. It was almost addicting to eat alongside the movie. “How many movies are we watching?” You asked, suddenly aware of the time that had passed as you spied the clock that hung on the wall.

An hour and a half passed? That movie felt like mere minutes!

“I believe we’re watching two more, including the next one.” Raiden informed you, leaning forward to look at you. “Johnny wanted to do a bigger marathon, but Kenshi and I advocated that we only do three since you haven’t watched many and we weren’t sure if you would like them all.”

“Next time, let Raiden and I pick some movies, too.” Kung Lao also mentioned, looking back to the actor who had just finished swapping the movies. 

“As long as your choices don’t suck.” Johnny said before plopping down next to you. He spread out, his thigh touching yours, but you didn’t quite mind. “Alright, buckle up, time to start the next one.” 

That night was the first time in a long time you remembered drifting off to sleep on accident. 

You felt something shift, and you were pulled out of the arms of sleep. Yawning, you covered your mouth as you looked around. The projector was running the last bits of a movie you had no recollection of. You blinked as you also registered how you were leaning on someone. 

Looking up, you were surprised to see Kenshi sleeping peacefully, allowing you to have rest on him. Or had he fallen asleep first? Your memory was hazy. Either way, you felt oddly embarrassed that you had fallen asleep during the event the men had created for you, but also grateful they had let you rest. You leaned forward, and you saw Kung Lao and Raiden who had also fallen asleep.

Oddly enough, Johnny was nowhere to be seen. 

Carefully moving so you did not disturb the sleeping men, you stood up, trying to catch your bearings. You looked up, noting the clock you had seen earlier. 

It was an hour before sunrise.

You stretched, letting out another yawn before you looked around once more. The popcorn bowls were gone, and the room seemed generally clean. You walked towards the door of the room, before it swung open to reveal Johnny Cage.

In his arms were blankets and some pillows. You blinked in surprise, and so did he before he let out a small chuckle.

“Finally woke up?” He asked, a slight teasing tone in his voice. “You know, you fell asleep during the best one.”

“Ah, I’m sorry.” You apologized, crossing your arms as you tried to cover up your embarrassment. It was odd, this type of thing never happened. It was weird to have slept so easily, and on accident. “I usually don’t fall asleep that easily, it’s odd.” 

“Nah, I’m just kidding. You actually stayed up to watch all of the movies we had planned, then you knocked out.” The actor informed you as he walked over to set down the blankets on the couch. “We just decided to make a bet of who could stay up the longest, and I won.” The man bragged smugly, “I was just getting some blankets and pillows for you, actually.” He explained, gesturing to the items he brought. “But judging how you’re awake now, you don’t need them.”

“I thank you for the pillows and blankets, but you’re right, I don’t need them now.” You said, chuckling. “I’ll be going back to the Fire Temple.” You informed him. You gestured to the others. “What about them?”

“Eh, I’ll just wake them up and send them back to their rooms.” Johnny said, shrugging. “So, what’d you think of movies? Still amazing, right?” He asked, confidence dripping from his tone. And while you were tempted to lie to knock down his ego, you knew better than that.

“They were all lovely.” You admitted, and paused for a few moments, staring at the projection as the credits scrolled by. “Thank you, Johnny. I really needed this.” You told him, a tone of sincerity in your voice. You were really grateful. “It was fun.”

“Anytime, wildstyle.” The actor brushed off your thanks with a wide grin. You raised an eyebrow at the new nickname, thinking it was probably linked to your shapeshifting powers. He had such an interesting imagination. “Just remember this when I talk to you next time about acting, yeah?” 

“I will.” You promised. You looked back at the sleeping men for another moment, taking note to thank them for also helping to make this wonderful night happen next time you saw them. “Goodnight, Johnny.” You said as you exited the room, and you heard with simple satisfaction as Johnny bid you goodnight too. 

Obnoxious as the actor could be sometimes, he had an honest heart.  You understood a bit more why Johnny was chosen to be a champion. You’d have to repay his kindness.

The air was crisp and cool, and as you made your way to the Fire Temple, you could not help but think back to the movies you had seen. What entertaining bits of work! You chuckled to yourself as you mentally commended Johnny on his acting too.

You’d never let him know that you actually thought he was an excellent actor, though.

As you crossed the bridge to the Fire Temple, you blinked in surprise as you saw Liu Kang idly waiting by, seeming to have expected you. You walked towards him, a bit uncertain whether he needed you urgently or not.

“How was your movie night?” The fire god asked, after greeting you with your name. You smiled. Ah, he was just curious about how it went. You went on to ramble about the movies you had seen, talking for a while about them and your newfound fascination with them. Liu Kang listened diligently, a warm smile on his face as he nodded and acknowledged your words. “I’m glad to hear it went well.”

Liu Kang was a good listener.

“Yeah, I think I really needed it.” You admitted, looking up to the sky which was losing its dark color, the beginnings of the sunrise appearing. You two stayed there in silence, basking in the comfortable atmosphere. “Thank you, by the way. I heard from Johnny that you helped get everything for him.” 

“It’s no issue.” The protector of Earthrealm told you warmly, looking at you with fondness. “I would do anything for you.”

The way Liu Kang said those words, there felt like there was a hint of something else within his words that made you feel warm, much like the fire he wielded.

“Thank you.” You said, not knowing how to follow up his heartfelt words. You looked up to the sky for a few more moments, before sighing. You felt oddly tired. “I’m going to go and sleep in today, I think.” You told the god, who simply nodded in return. He seemed to approve of your decision, if the smile on his face indicated anything. “Goodnight, Liu Kang.”

“Goodnight. Sleep well.”

part seven

[fsfghgee]

I agree, Bi-Han was very close to his mother. In fact, I believe he probably took most of her personality and appearance (thin eyebrows and sharp cheekbones). A dialogue line between Smoke and Li-Mei states that his mother was “nonsense and tough as nails”. Some people think he speaking about his bio mom but I truly believe he was speaking about his adoptive mother because whenever he takes about his bio mom there is always a somber tone.

Now I’m only making assumptions here, but I’m she was the only woman to understand him until he got with Sektor.

Yes. You're right. Sektor is the only person who truly understands Bi-Han and has supported him since his mother died. And as strange as some people may find it, men like Bi-Han — men who are truly attached and close to their mothers — are often (when not exclusively) attracted to women who are similar to their mothers. And this isn't just a male fetish thing, nor is it a conscious choice. Bi-Han certainly doesn't see Sektor as his mother. But she definitely has personality traits that he feels familiar enough to be attracted to, behavioral traits that he grew up admiring, physical traits that he feels comfortable with. Her affection for him takes him to a safe place, a place he hasn't had access to since his mother's death, he feels safe enough in her presence to expose his vulnerabilities:

I can't even imagine how comforting it must have been for him to hear Sektor's voice and see her face after spending hours being tortured to death by titan Havik. And worse, being forced to obey him, knowing how much he hates obeying and being controlled.

I saw a lot of people (intentionally or not) reading this scene the wrong way. Trying to paint this scene as a sample of a toxic relationship, where Bi-Han doesn't care about her or that Sektor has no dignity for accepting this. And I was like, "WTF". The only thing he did was abruptly break free from her strong grip to punch Liu Kang. The important point of this scene has been completely ignored…

The authority and lack of fear she shows when holding him tightly and telling him not to fight was just another way they found to show us that Sektor is Bi-Han's significant other. A simple follower, just another subordinate of the ruthless Grandmaster, would not have the courage to do this. And even though she is very important to him and he loves her, he is not the type of man who obeys without a good reason. He is not a man with an easy temperament to control and truly hates being controlled. It's even unfair to compare the situation between Sektor and Bi-Han with that of Harumi and Kuai Liang as some people have been doing…

First, Kuai Liang didn't have the adrenaline of a bloodlust running through his veins like he would have had if he had gone after Cyrax to kill her, Cyrax was the one who offered her neck to Kuai's wrath.

Second, Kuai Liang, not even at that moment, had half the hatred for Cyrax that Bi-Han has for Liu Kang and Havik. It's literally confirmed by him and her, in story mode and intros, that they have a past.

Third, Harumi actually gave Kuai Liang convincing reasons to spare Cyrax. Sektor didn't give Bi-Han any, and even if she had, I doubt it would have changed his mind. After all, Bi-Han's goal was to give Liu Kang a quick pummeling to kill the man/titan/god who tortured him to death.

Even though the expansion's story isn't a masterpiece of literature, the part about making Sektor and Bi-Han's relationship romantic without diminishing the threat that Bi-Han actually poses as an antagonist in the game was successfully achieved.

Sektor is Bi-Han's only weakness (just as he is hers)...

Shang Tsung: Bi-Han will pay a steep ransom for your return. Sektor: Just how are *you* planning to abduct *me*?

Shang Tsung: This hostility is unwarranted, Bi-Han. Noob Saibot: You tried to abduct Sektor!

Noob Saibot: You wish to bargain? After what you've done?! Shang Tsung: Do you wish to rule or not, Bi-Han.

Noob Saibot: It is time you answer for Sektor. Shang Tsung: For what, exactly? She escaped me unharmed.

Noob Saibot: You tried enlisting Sektor against me?! Quan Chi: Not against you. To help you see reason.

Noob Saibot: Leave. Before this gets ugly. Quan Chi: I am here to haggle but if we must fight, so be it.

Noob Saibot: If Liu Kang seeks to punish Sektor -- Geras: It would be his right to do so.

Kenshi: So you and Sektor, eh? Hm. That tracks. Noob Saibot: If that is mockery, you are a dead man.

Liu Kang: Sektor should have trusted me to heal you. Noob Saibot: You should not have made her wait.

Liu Kang: You should have trusted me, Sektor. Sektor: Why?! You left Bi-Han to rot.

Sindel: Your 'beloved' should never have crossed me. Sektor: He doesn't fear you. And neither do I.

Kitana: I have to question your taste in men. Sektor: Please, Princess. Share your thoughts.

Geras: If you love Bi-Han, return him to Liu Kang. Sektor: It's because I do that I cannot.

Kenshi: You and Bi-Han deserve each other. Sektor: I couldn't agree more.

But she is also his greatest strength.

Rain: What will Bi-Han do without his Master Armorer? Sektor: He'll never find out, will he?

General Shao: Sub-Zero sends his woman after me? Sektor: He sends his most skilled warrior.

Sub-Zero: Together we will make the Lin Kuei immortal. Sektor: I am honored to fight by your side.

Sektor: We will stop Kuai Liang. Sub-Zero: And finish his Shirai Ryu.

Sektor: I couldn't leave you locked away in the Temple. Noob Saibot: You were right to be impatient.

Sektor: Is it best for you to remain this way? Noob Saibot: It is best for the Lin Kuei.

Sektor: If Liu Kang continues to stand -- Noob Saibot: We will neutralize him.

Cyrax: With Sektor as the Lin Kuei's grandmaster -- Smoke: I know. They could be even *more* dangerous.

Li Mei: You may be more dangerous than Bi-Han. Sektor: Ha! May be?

Sektor: I won't let you near Bi-Han. Ermac: You are one. One cannot stop Us.

Sektor: Keep your souls away from my clan. Ermac: The Lin Kuei must answer for Sindel.

Mileena: I can’t trust Lin Kuei. You were complicit in -- Sektor: Bi-Han knew nothing of Titan Shang Tsung.

Sektor: Bi-Han risked everything to free you. General Shao: Not every gamble pays, Sektor.

Geras: Your experiments with automation must end. Sektor: Interesting. I must be on to something.

Sub-Zero: The armor isn't enough. Sektor: Patience, Bi-Han. There is more to come.

Noob Saibot: How long before the prototype is ready? Sektor: It will be done when it is done.

Tanya: You've created more mechanized monstrosities? Sektor: Many. And I can't wait to unleash them.

Sektor: Once all Lin Kuei are equipped like me -- Scorpion: It will be a dark day for Earthrealm.

General Shao: Are you still Lin Kuei? Noob Saibot: I will *always* be Lin Kuei.

General Shao: Your army's battle armor masks its incompetence. Noob Saibot: If you think so, take the field against us.

General Shao: I need Sektor's services. Noob Saibot: You should have thought of that before freezing me out.

Reiko: Do you share Bi-Han's power? Or just his bed? Sektor: Careful, Reiko. Disrespect can be fatal.

Reiko: You should be a weapon in the General's arsenal. Sektor: The Lin Kuei won't partner wih him again.

Reiko: What will it take for you to equip our army? Sektor: There isn't enough gold in the realms.

Ashrah: The Lin Kuei's course can still be changed. Sektor: We are far beyond the point of no return.

Ashrah: Your ardor for Bi-Han is -- Sektor: I don't need a demon's advice.

Scorpion: You have influenced my brother -- Sektor: He is his own man, Kuai Liang.

And I honestly find it strange that there are those who think that Li Mei would remind Tomas of his biological mother when he calls Bi-Han's mother his mother too:

Smoke: If Mother were alive -- Sub-Zero: She would applaud my actions.

This intro…

Li Mei: I remind you of your mother? Smoke: No-nonsense and tough as nails, just like her.

describes a fighter, not a hunter. Which Li Mei is, just like Bi-Han's mother was:

Sindel: Both your parents were excellent fighters. Scorpion: I can only hope to live up to their example.

*Plus, Li Mei and Bi-Han's mother (in mk1) are Chinese (inspired appearance), I doubt that Smoke's biological mother was not Czech like him.

Smoke remembering his adoptive mother as a serious, firm,  straightforward, strong, extremely tough and determined woman. No-nonsense and tough as nails, like a warrior is supposed to be, makes sense to describe Bi-Han's mother in a few words. And Bi-Han being right about his mother…

Smoke: If Mother were alive -- Sub-Zero: She would applaud my actions.

This dialogue between Li Mei and Sektor kinda proves that Sek would have had her mother-in-law's blessing if she were still alive:

Li Mei: In another life, we might have been friends. Sektor: That is pointless speculation, Li Mei.

Liu Kang, his father and brother may disapprove of Sektor now, but his mother would love her (almost) as much as he does and that's all that matters to him.

[cienie-isengardu]

Does Bi-Han really has no idea where his brothers are living now?

To me, the most funny thing about the origin of the MK1 Shirai Ryu clan is Kuai Liang and Tomas' assumption that Bi-Han has no idea where their new clan is stationed.

We know from intros, Scorpion and Smoke do not share its location even with their allies so that Lin Kuei can't find it.

Kenshi: Why keep the Shirai Ryu's location secret? Smoke: So that the Lin Kuei can't find it.

But then we have Kuai Liang's ending:

"No sooner had Titan Shang Tsung had been defeated than Bi-Han and his loyalists hunted us down. Outnumbered, we fled to Japan. There we sought refuge from an old family friend. As children, we played together. But Harumi Shirai was a woman now, the head of her clan. Her strength, beauty, and intellect awed me. Also incensed by Bi-Han's betrayal, Harumi agreed to help me forge a new clan. One that would stand against him and defend Earthrealm. Her aid proved invaluable. And as time went on, we grew closer. To honor Harumi and pay respects to my new bride, I named the clan after her, calling it the Shirai Ryu. Now the battle against my brother begins in earnest. The Shirai Ryu won't rest until Bi-Han is defeated and the Lin Kuei's honor restored."

in which:

A) Kuai Liang and Tomas fled to Japan and sought refuge from Harumi Shirai who is called an "old family friend"

B) she and Kuai played together as a children

C) Harumi is the head of her own clan living in Japan so between Scorpion and Smoke and her, it is Harumi who own land, money and/or necessary goods for a clan to prospere AND to fund Kuai Liang's new clan

D) Kuai Liang named his clan, Shirai Ryu, in honor of Harumi.

With such a description, the chances that Bi-Han is not familiar with Harumi are pretty slim to none. He already knows Scorpion and Smoke are in Japan, as they were hunted down by Sub-Zero's loyalists. Kuai has no money so for him to start a new clan, he needs to ally himself with someone who can fund it and support the two former Lin Kuei - and Harumi Shirai is an obvious choice, as the old family friend.

But even if that was not the first Bi-Han's conclusion, the fact that Kuai Liang married Harumi Shirai AND named his clan the Shirai Ryu makes it clear where he is - around Harumi. Scorpion's clan may go into hiding but I doubt Harumi would abaddon her land and clan or force everyone under her rule/protection into hiding so Bi-Han doesn’t even need to search for his brothers, he needs find only Harumi, as Scorpion and Smoke will come to protect her against Lin Kuei.

Since these days it seems everyone, including Outworld and Netherrealm characters, know about Kuai Liang's marriage and Bi-Han is A) operating in Sun Do, the capital of Mileena's Empire and B) is know to collect secrets, it is no surprise he knows about brother's relationship with Harumi. As even intro dialogues outright says so

Scorpion: Stay away from Harumi. Sub-Zero: In this war, family isn't off limits.

and look, putting aside the threat, Bi-Han already considers Harumi part of the family even if they are enemies.

So yeah, the whole "keep Shirai Ryu's location in secret" is so hilarious to me, because the Shirai name is total opposite of secret for Bi-Han, as he knows Harumi and where she is living, if Kuai Liang and Tomas knew where they should go while fleeing to Japan.

Good job, Kuai! 

But you know what is even more hilarious? The fact that Kuai Liang has no real idea where is currently his older brother and goes asking allies and enemies alike for help or information. Like yes, he and Tomas know the Lin Kuei clan is operating somewhere in Sun Do, but Li Mei found them and confronted them about Shirai Ryu activity in her city, while they did not capture Bi-Han there. And sure, Sub-Zero may not stay in one place for too long, however his own ending

"I had broken the Lin Kuei free of Liu Kang's enslavement. We were now masters of our destiny and could take our place among Earthrealm's greatest nations. But taking and holding territory would require a vast army. I needed more fighters to make our presence felt. Then I recalled Shang Tsung's dragon warriors. An army of them would be unstoppable. But trafficking in such strong magic would surely draw Liu Kang's attention. Sektor advised me that we avoid detection by building our army using science, not sorcery. We've invested much time in this endeavor, and we are beginning to see results. Once again proving the depths of Sektor's genius. When we are done, all of Earthrealm will honor our desires and heed our demands. If not, they will face the Lin Kuei's wrath."

says Bi-Han wanted to take and hold territory for his clan and so Lin Kuei invested time and energy into building an army based on magic Dragon warriors. Though it is not specified, I think it is right to assume the building of the army happened on Lin Kuei territory,

as that was their best secured base of operation. Like sure, Liu Kang and Shirai Ryu knew where Lin Kuei home was based but as the clan was living in hiding for centuries, their land was probably well guarded and the headquarter was located in a naturally defensive place.

And I admit, the whole idea that Bi-Han knows perfectly well where his brothers are hiding while Kuai Liang and Tomas have no idea about Sub-Zero's whereabouts and can't find him because none of them thought - or dared - to check Lin Kuei home is way too more hilarious than it should be.

People may make fun of Bi-Han not being smart during story mode but damn, Kuai Liang for sure is no mastermind either. 

[xxrainbowvibezxx]

I knew Li Mei was fruity as hell when that whole conversation between her and Liu Kang went down. The aggression behind her "Were I still Umgadi,he (Shang Tsung) would never have breathed the same air as the Empress" ........sis, you're not beating the allegations. Like at all.

Then when she finds out about Mileena having Tarkat, it's an immediate "the Empress must be beside herself". Like,damn, f**k Mileena's feelings,I guess. All the concern goes to Sindel and her wellbeing,like she's the one who's sick. Yuri maths at its finest.

Lmao, yes. Yuri math at its finest. Li Mei was so concerned about Sindel. Like fuck everyone else, is the Empress okay? Li Mei, your gay is showing.

Also, in every scene between them, there was tension. Like this one

This moment gave us more taleena and sinmei all at the same time. I know it probably wasn't written to look this way, but I think of this scene as a parallel between taleena and sinmei.

[motherqueensindel]

The moment I knew something went down between them was during the conversation between Li Mei and Liu Kang. The whole "Were I still Umgadi, he (Shang Tsung) would have never breathed the same air as the Empress".......diva, do you realize how that sounds? Like,at all?

(Oh, and that her immediate response to learning about Mileena catching Tarkat was a "the Empress must be beside herself". Not a fuck given about Mileena, but instant concern for Sindel. I'm not saying that's kinda gay of her, but........)

Yes, I understand that if there is one person who knows Empress Sindel very well (as well as her daughters), that person is certainly Li Mei. And I'm impressed by the way Li Mei demonstrates that she knows exactly how the Empress must be in such a situation, or how Sindel must be feeling about something. And that is very precious!

I see that Li Mei is very committed to her work, but she is even more committed to her loyalty and her protection of Sindel and her daughters more than anything else. I realized that Li Mei has a lot of special affection for Sindel's daughters that she watched grow up, that she trained the girls to one day be equal to or surpass their mother, the great Empress Sindel.

Li Mei is a truly precious, hard-working, loving person and above all she is loyal and fights for what she believes is right, giving her all.

That's why I understand that Sindel was very close to her, and even though she was disappointed in Li Mei for what happened, she never stopped loving her.

[crazybojoe]

Mini aus that I haven't expounded on

Geras and Liu Kang dad bonding -Liu Kang teaches Geras how to embrace the life he was given -a wholesome au where they travel together, takes him to hotpot nights, help him train in the fire temple, and read him literary works that he would find amusing. -Geras would keep a pet rabbit they found in the wild, naming it "Pompom" due to its fluffy fur. -Here we see Liu Kang as a tired but a loving father.

Kronika accepting her mistakes -she apologizes to her children (Cetrion and Shinnok) as both try to help their mother from becoming crazed of the effects of the hourglass (as to how it showed how she wanted to perfect it). -Instead of a cruel and overruling twat, she's a loving mother to the two and keeps one timeline instead of an infinite amount to her desire. Where she would be a titan who knows herself better than being selfish to abuse one's power. -Kronika would seem rather creative in this au to craft different paths of the timeline she holds, rather than sticking to the same thing til the end of the world. -Cetrion and Shinnok have a better sibling relationship, free of their own will to the desired destiny of the mortals in their mother's creation.

Tarkat but with buffs -more likely a zombie apocalypse event instead of treating something similar to corona virus, victims are more likely to be seen (in the first scene where we saw Li Mei in MK1) to have cloths tied around their mouths and chained to prevent them from biting other people. -With the same hunt for bloodlust, there's an insatiable hunger that causes them to grow more rabid. Making them into disgusting creatures that cease to harm people of Outworld. -Shang Tsung screen time? Yes, with a few of the combatants trying to survive and prevent the virus spreading to Earthrealm next.

Jerrod's Secret -This is an idea I had in my head for quite a time, I needed some time to think of it before posting. This occurs to the last lived moments seen with Jerrod, getting to know him being Sindel's man and the dad of both Kitana and Mileena. -Instead of dying mysteriously without NRS giving us proper reasons to how he died, what if he was caught up with Tarkat? He and Li Mei had to keep it a secret and make a cover up story instead of Sindel learning its dark truth. -The moment he fully transformed to an infected Tarkatan, he promised to Li Mei that when all goes wrong from Shang Tsung's medicine that he promised to the king himself, she would kill him. -Yes she did get a backlash from not "saving" Jerrod, scolded by Sindel as she was still mourning with her daughters, she allowed herself to be demoted down to first constable from her Umgadi place.

[isabelawritesthings]

Mortal Kombat 1 dialogues with Loki reader

characters included: Liu Kang, Raiden, Johnny Cage and Shang Tsung

notes: The dialogues will be with both the male and female versions of Loki, and since Loki is a canonically gender fluid bisexual character, there will be flirting in both forms.

a/n: Loki and women are my new obsession, maybe I'll do more dialogues with Marvel or even DC characters.

Liu Kang

MALE VERSION –

Liu Kang: You're causing a mess in the timelines!

Reader: What? Is it so wrong to travel through the multiverse?

-

Reader: Are you as powerful as He Who Remains?

Liu Kang: Who is this, Loki Laufeyson?

-

Reader: Do I remind you of a sorcerer?

Liu Kang: Unfortunately, yes.

-

Liu Kang: Make peace with Thor.

Reader: Why? Isn't it enough to live in his shadow all my life?!

-

FEMALE VERSION

Reader: You're quite handsome for a Fire God.

Liu Kang: Focus, Loki (Sylvie).

-

Liu Kang: You need to stop with the time travel!

Reader: Why? Are you afraid I'll break your perfect timeline?

-

Liu Kang: Shang Tsung is seduced by you.

Reader: Tell him I won't be a concubine!

-

Reader: Does Johnny Cage know there is a difference between flirting and sexual harassment?

Liu Kang: I'll talk to him later.

Raiden

MALE READER –

Raiden: Does your brother have lightning powers too?

Reader: Believe me, creating illusions is more impressive!

-

Raiden: Have you allied yourself with the sorcerers?

Reader: Come on, Raiden, you know I'm greedy.

-

Reader: Is your amulet your mjonir?

Raiden: What is a mjonir?

-

Reader: Come back to Fengjian, farmer boy!

Raiden: Not while you're out there causing chaos!

-

FEMALE READER –

Raiden: Is Shang Tsung jealous of me?

Reader: He thinks you're my boyfriend or something like that.

-

Raiden: How many gods are there in Asgard?

Reader: Our pantheon is as numerous as the stars in the sky.

-

Reader: What does Hela want with you?

Raiden: I don't know, but I hope it's nothing bad.

-

Reader: Very handsome for a shaolin

Raiden: This isn't going to... Wait, are you flirting with me?

Johnny Cage

MALE READER –

Johnny: Thor is more badass!

Reader: And why should I listen to the opinion of a mediocre actor like you?!

-

Johnny: That Sylvie has no right to be so hot!

Reader: You know she's technically me, right?

-

Reader: You're a womanizer, right? Have you ever tried something different?

Johnny: Look, I respect people with different tastes, but that's definitely not my case.

-

Reader: I also had problems with my father.

Johnny: This isn't going to make me sympathize with you, superhero movie villain!

-

FEMALE READER –

Johnny: Are you sure Hela is the goddess of death? Because you can kill with this look!

Reader: It's not too hard to see why your wife left you!

-

Johnny: I bet Asgard doesn't have gods as beautiful as me.

Reader: Please, have you seen my brother?

-

Reader: Who is this Madam Bo?

Johnny: You would have to go to Fengjian one day to know, do you like Chinese food?

-

Reader: I think Liu Kang is mad at me.

Johnny: Of course! You and your variants have wreaked havoc on the timelines!

-

Shang Tsung

MALE READER –

Shang Tsung: We could both benefit from an alliance.

Reader: HA! I am a God! I make no alliances with mortals who came from poverty!

-

Shang Tsung: *laughs* shall we start, God of lies?

Reader: As you wish, sorcerer...

-

Reader: I invaded Earth once, it will be easy to dominate Outworld!

Shang Tsung: Good luck facing Liu Kang and Mileena's forces!

-

Reader: You are as evil as I am.

Shang Tsung: Correct statement, Loki.

-

FEMALE READER –

Shang Tsung: Think, Loki (Sylvie)! You could-

Reader: Be your consort? May Odin protect me from this cruel fate!

-

Shang Tsung: Your body, so beautiful I could-

Reader: Ewww... Keep your perverted thoughts to yourself, sorcerer!

-

Reader: What did you see in me?

Shang Tsung: Power, beauty and cunning... Everything I admire in a woman.

-

Reader: You took advantage of Sindel's desperation to manipulate her!

Shang Tsung: *laughs* and the idiot fell right into my plan!

-

[rachelfoleyisntdead]

Only going to say this once, so open your ears:

Liu Kang WAS messing with people's lives. Yes, he didn't personally toss Quan Chi into the mines or tell Shang Tsung to be a snake oil salesman but he DID manipulate things so they wouldn't have magic. Geras literally says that Shang Tsung is "defying the arc of his destiny" which uh... means that he does not have the free will to choose his own destiny.

The Lin Kuei as protectors of Earthrealm is repeatedly referred to as a 'role', one that Liu Kang gave them. Thus depriving any member of the Lin Kuei a destiny that is not Liu Kang-approved.

Kung Lao and Raiden were raised to be the chosen ones and personally trained by Liu Kang's proxy, Madame Bo.

Liu Kang specifically says that the Amulet of Shinnok does not exist in his timeline... meaning he either made it so that Shinnok doesn't exist or manipulated it so that the amulet wouldn't.

Liu Kang started the Mortal Kombat tournament, which inevitably affected people's lives--more than likely, Liu Kang manipulated other 'chosen ones', including the Great Kung Lao (canon that they knew each other). Not that this ensures that he also gets a variant of Kung Lao very close to the original.

Liu Kang also allowed Outworld to become a nepotism state where people he needed to keep an eye on were in positions of power (Sindel, Mileena, Kitana, Shao, Li Mei, rain, Tanya). He may not have had a hand in this but... what do you bet that, at the very least, when he saw Sindel as Empress again, he suggested the MK tournament to 'foster peace' ie keep an eye on them?

Oh, also. Sending Kenshi, Johnny and Kung Lao to spy on Outworld bc he suspected they were up to something. Not manipulative at all.

Now, do I disagree with Liu Kang's decisions? Not necessarily. Shang Tsung and Quan Chi are threats in any timeline. So are the Lin Kuei (individual members as well as the Cyber initiative). My problem is 1) the narrative not acknowledging that Liu Kang is a bit of a hypocrite (hypocrite is not a bad character trait, most people are at some point, and figuring out how the character justifies themself as not a hypocrite is fun part of writing!!!) and 2) people denying that Liu Kang did in fact manipulate the destinies of certain people. Not to a Kronika extent, but he did essentially the same thing for the reason of 'peace' rather than 'balance'. The fact that he 'stepped down as time keeper' is irrelevant, it just meant he needed to find more manual ways to manipulate... which he did.