(Happy Thanksgiving Everybody! I just want to say how thankful I am for all of you who read my stories. If I was told that in a year of writing on Wattpad, I would have a story that reached over one hundred thousand views, I would've called them crazy. But no, it has actually happened and I can't thank all of you enough for that. But enough about that, hope you enjoy the chapter.)

Months have passed since Lord Liu Kang has gathered his new champions. At the Wu Shi Academy, the Shaolin monks can be seen training, whether it's be practicing kombat with each other, with wooden training pillars, or in the case of a few, merely sifting through sand. Currently, Raiden is seen training with a group of six other Shaolin monks. Raiden blocks two strikes from the first before sending a double fist strike, pushing him back. The second one sends a kick followed by a punch, which is blocked by Raiden who then sends a kick to the side of the monk's head, knocking him down. A third sends a punch which is blocked but the monks then sends another punch. Raiden grabs hold of the punching hand and sends a punch to his face followed by a kick, knocking him back. Raiden preforms some movements, signifying that training is over. The monks walk away from the area as Raiden sees Kung Lao approaching with a new hat in hand, one equipped with razor blades going across its edge.

"That is not a good idea." Raiden points out.

"It is genius, Raiden. The next time we see Sub Zero, I will have to thank him for inspiring it. Ow!" Kung Lao says before wincing in pain as his fingers rub against one of the blades.

"See? It won't be effective." Raiden says.

Kung Lao smirks before throwing the hat like a frisbee, slicing through a training dummy. And like a boomerang, it spins back towards Kung Lao who effortlessly catches it in his hand. He then places the hat on his head, Raiden looking on in shock.

"Maybe it's too effective." Raiden says.

Johnny Cage then approaches them.

"We just need to get on with it. We've been cooped up here for months. I can't base a cinematic universe on Outworld's monsters and magic if I don't ever see them." Johnny complains.

Kenshi then joins them.

Kenshi: "That's why you're here?" Kenshi asks.

"Liu Kang said this gig would change the arc of my life. That's how it gets done. My ex'll rue the day she gave up on me." Johnny explains.

"So selfless." Kenshi quips.

"Oh please, Tattoo. You're just here to get your sword back." Johnny points out.

"We all have our reasons for being here. Some better than others. But we are not here to fight among ourselves. We are here to fight for Earthrealm." Raiden explains.

Suddenly, the sound of a gong ringing catches their attention.

"It's about damn time." Johnny says.

The four of them turn to see Liu Kang before approaching him.

"And today one of you will be chosen to fight for it at the tournament." Liu Kang announces.

"Only one of us, Lord Liu Kang? Isn't Outworld fielding several champions?" Raiden asks.

"The tournament's rules give the host realm that advantage. And it is Outworld's turn as host." Liu Kang replies.

"You know I don't know why I've never asked this, but... uh... (laughs) ...what's our record at this tournament?" Johnny ask.

"Earthrealm and Outworld have long been evenly matched. But Outworld is gaining strength. Should it win, its more militant factions will be emboldened." Liu Kang explains.

"I thought you admired Outworld." Raiden points out.

"It is place of great knowledge, wealth, and beauty. But our realms do not share goals and beliefs. We coexist peacefully because Outworld respects our strength. Should we show weakness... our rival will become our enemy." Liu Kang explains.

"I will not lose, Lord Liu Kang." Kung Lao vows.

"First you must win the right to represent us. Whichever one of you outlasts the others will be chosen." Liu Kang explains.

Liu Kang then takes a seat as over a dozen Shaolin Monks kneel down onto their knees behind him.

"Raiden, step forward." Liu Kang says.

Raiden takes a step forward and bows to him. Johnny merely laughs.

"Good call. Cull the weak first." Johnny says.

"You shall face him, Johnny Cage." Liu Kang announces.

Kenshi looks towards Johnny.

"Ready for your close-up?" Kenshi asks.

"All right, let's do this. But remember, farm boy, I'm a global martial arts icon. I don't think you can handle this much boom." Johnny points out.

Liu Kang merely rolls his eyes.

"I am ready, Johnny Cage. My mind and spirit fight as one." Raiden says, assuming a fighting stance.

They then fight. Both Raiden and Johnny Cage show great skill in their kombat with very different styles. However Johnny's ego and arrogance makes him Overestimate Raiden. And in the end, Raiden is victorious.

"This fight was an honor." Raiden says.

Raiden helps Johnny back to his feet, Johnny looking defeated.

"You're welcome." Johnny replies.

"Kenshi Takahashi, you are next." Liu Kang announces.

Kenshi approaches, sword in hand as Johnny passes by him, the two glaring at each other as Kenshi has a smirk on his face. He then looks towards Raiden.

"You have skills, Raiden, but you're inexperienced." Kenshi says.

"Whatever experience I lack, I make up for in heart." Raiden replies.

"It's nerve, not heart, that wins fights. I should know. I've been in hundreds of them." Kenshi explains as the two assume their fighting stances.

They then fight. Kenshi proves to be an equally skilled opponent as Johnny, and with a sword in hand is given the reach advantage. Raiden however proves his skill in close quarter kombat and manages to knock Kenshi to the ground.

"Do you still question my nerve?" Raiden asks.

Kenshi rises back to his feet.

"I do not. Yours was a well-earned victory." Kenshi says, bowing to Raiden.

"You may rest, Raiden. This evening you will face your final opponent." Liu Kang says as he then looks towards Kung Lao, who's face wears a confident smirk.

That night, Liu Kang is seen still sitting with the monks still kneeling down behind him, but this time accompanied by Johnny and Kenshi who stand behind him. Raiden and Kung Lao are sitting on their knees facing each other. They then stand as Johnny leans closer to Kenshi.

"Fifty bucks says Kung Lao wins." Johnny bets.

"Make it interesting. Bet me Sento." Kenshi says.

"Ha! Not on your life." Johnny replies.

"Raiden. Kung Lao. The winner of this match will represent Earthrealm against Outworld. It is a grave duty, not to be undertaken lightly. You may step back now and suffer no dishonor." Liu Kang explains.

Raiden and Kung Lao turn towards him.

"I choose to fight, Lord Liu Kang." Raiden says.

"As do I." Kung Lao says.

"Then may the best person win." Liu Kang announces.

Liu Kang then bows to the two of them as they do to him. Liu Kang then sits back down. Kung Lao, being every so confident, laughs.

"Concede, Raiden. You have never beaten me. That won't change today." Kung Lao points out.

"No? If the monks have taught us one thing... it's that the only constant in the universe is change." Raiden explains as they assume their fighting stances.

They then fight. Like before, Kung Lao proves to be a tough opponent for Raiden to face with both his skill and now his newly acquired bladed hat. However like Johnny Cage, Kung Lao's arrogance and overconfidence proves to a hindrance which Raiden takes advantage of. It proves to be a close match, but in the end, it is Raiden who comes out on top.

"There is a first time for everything, Kung Lao." Raiden says.

Raiden helps Kung Lao back to his feet as Liu Kang approaches them.

"Although you have all trained well, Raiden has excelled. This outcome does not surprise me." Liu Kang says.

Kung Lao looks in disbelief that he had lost.

"How could I have -- Congratulations, Raiden." Kung Lao says before bowing to him.

Liu Kang looks towards Raiden with an amulet in his hand.

"For the tournament, you will need this." Liu Kang says.

Raiden grabs the amulet, lightning crackling from the amulet to his hand.

"Forged by the Elder Gods, it gives the wearer power over lightning and thunder. Go ahead. Try it." Liu Kang explains.

Raiden then turns and holds the amulet out. Lightning disperses out from the amulet and strikes a statue. Johnny is seen recording the scene with his phone.

"Holy Ark of the Covenant!" Johnny exasperates.

"It is incredible. But is it necessary?" Raiden asks.

"In addition to possessing great might, the Outworlders you will face also wield great magic. The amulet levels the playing field." Liu Kang explains.

Kung Lao places a hand on Raiden's shoulder.

"You must be careful, Raiden. You could get hurt. Even killed!" Kung Lao warns.

"No tournament participant has ever been grievously injured or killed. (Places a hand onto Raiden's shoulder) I would never send my champions unwittingly into Mortal Kombat. We leave in seven days for Outworld's capital, Sun Do. The tournament will be held at the Palace of Empress Sindel." Liu Kang assures.

A week later, Liu Kang is seen opening a fiery portal with his magic. Raiden, Kung Lao, Kenshi, and Johnny stand behind him, Johnny with phone in hand recording the whole thing. He points the phone at Kenshi who merely swats it away from him. The five of them then enter through the portal, accompanied by several Shaolin monks.

"Outworld can be both alien and intoxicating to Earthrealmers. Do not become drawn in. You must focus on the task at hand." Liu Kang explains.

"Toto, I've a feeling we're not in Kansas anymore." Johnny says.

He then notices two female warriors in blue and pink attire respectively, standing at the top of a staircase in front. Accompanying them is a group of other female warriors and standing in between them is a male warrior wearing purple attire. The man and the two women step down the stairs to greet the earthrealmers.

"Oh my. Are those..." Johnny asks.

"Empress Sindel's daughters, yes." Liu Kang replies.

"They do not disappiont." Johnny says.

"We are Earthrealm's ambassadors, Johnny. We'll show them respect... not unwanted attention." Raiden points out.

Johnny winks at him as they pass by another female warrior, this one dark skinned and wearing yellow attire. The earthrealmers then bow as the man addresses first.

"Lord Liu kang." The man say, bowing to him.

"Manado Chujin. It pleases me to see you again, my friend." Liu Kang says.

Manado nods his head.

"Lord Liu Kang, welcome." The woman in pink greets.

"Thank you, Princess Mileena." Liu Kang replies.

"You remember my sister?" Mileena asks.

"Of course. Princess Kitana. (Kitana nods her head.) May I introduce Johnny Cage, Kung Lao, Kenshi Takahashi and Earthrealm's champion... Raiden." Liu Kang introduces.

"I hope you're prepared, Raiden. Our champions are determined to win." Kitana points out.

"None more so than me. It's been too long since we've known victory." Mileena says.

The woman in yellow, Tanya, approaches Mileena.

"Princess Mileena... We should be on our way. Empress Sindel awaits." Tanya informs.

"Thank you, Tanya. (Looks back towards the earthrealmers) Follow me, please." Mileena says.

Manado, Mileena, Kitana, and Tanya lead the earthrealmers to where two carriages await them.

The city of Sun Do is filled with festivities as its citizens celebrate for the upcoming tournament with music filling the streets. The carriages move through the streets, accompanied by several dozen warriors walking beside them. In the carriage in the back, Johnny, Kenshi, Kung Lao, and Kitana are seen, Johnny recording the scenery as they past by. The carriage in front is where Liu Kang, Raiden, Manado, and Mileena sit. Raiden looks on in fascination at the citizens they pass by them.

"Those are Centaurians. And Shokan!" Raiden realizes.

"The six-armed beings are Naknadans." Manado informs.

"The monks described them. But seeing them in person..." Raiden says.

"I see that Her Majesty once again spares no expense on the festival." Liu Kang points out.

"Should she not? It commemorates my late father." Mileena says.

"I admire, Princess. I do not judge. As did all of Outworld, I valued greatly Jerrod's fellowship." Liu Kang says.

A whistle is heard and Mileena looks out to see the constables leading a group of prisoners through the street. Mileena looks towards the head constable and a scowl forms on her face. Manado notices and places a hand on her shoulder.

"Sit tight. I'll handle this." Manado says.

Mileena hesitates but nods her head. Manado then knocks three times on the side of carriage and it ceases its movement. Manado then hops off the carriage and approaches the head constable.

"First Constable Li Mei! You must understand that our route was meant to be clear. Could this not wait?" Manado asks.

"Should I allow Tarkatans to infect the city, Manado? Those arrested were harboring some here, rather than report them for quarantine." Li Mei explains.

Manado sighs.

"While I understand your reasoning, your timing could not have been more wrong. Keep them moving if you wish, but make it quick. We can't keep the princesses and the earthrealmers waiting." Manado points out.

Li Mei nods her head and makes haste as Manado moves back towards the carriage. Mileena still has her scowl as she looked on to what had transpired. Raiden looks towards Liu Kang.

"Princess Mileena doesn't seem to like her very much." Raiden points out.

"Li Mei used to lead the Umgadi, the palace guard. It was on her watch that the Princess's father was murdered." Liu Kang explains.

"Even to this day, I still fail to understand why Manado keeps her around." Mileena says.

"As you know, Manado and Li Mei have been close. It helps that Manado also trained her since she was a child." Liu Kang points out.

"Maybe so, but I still feel that he should have better judgement." Mileena says.

"As Outworld's protector, it is Manado's duty to keep the realm and its citizens safe. But even so... that doesn't mean even he has the power to save everyone." Liu Kang explains.

Mileena looks towards Liu Kang, but doesn't respond as she sits there in deep thought.

At the palace, the earthrealmers stand in waiting, Raiden looks nervous and Liu Kang notices.

"Worry expends energy for no purpose, Raiden." Liu Kang points out.

"But the tournament. If I lose..." Raiden says before being cut off.

"Focus on your actions, not the outcome. It is all you can control." Liu Kang advises.

Raiden nods his head as a giant humanoid with large horns and wearing red and gray battle armor pushes his way through the crowd.

"Red alert. Incoming stock villain." Johnny quips.

"General Shao. (Looks towards Raiden) Do not let him goad you." Liu Kang warns.

Raiden nods his head as General Shao approaches them, looking down at Raiden as if he's judging him. He then laughs.

"Is it me, or is Earthrealm's champion scrawnier than usual?" General Shao asks, almost in a mocking manner.

"Would you care to test his strength?! Raiden will-" Kung Lao asks before Liu Kang stops him.

"Will prove himself soon enough." Liu Kang says.

"Have you still not told most Earthrealmers that Outworld exists?" General Shao asks.

"It is safer that way, General." Liu Kang points out.

"I suppose so. Your people's frail minds couldn't handle the truth." General Shao replies.

"You presume them frail, General? Should you... given how frequently they win this tournament?" Liu Kang asks.

General Shao leans in closer.

"We will destroy your champion, Liu Kang. He will taste no victory." General Shao says.

"Don't be so sure." Manado says, standing behind him.

General Shao turns to see Manado, red glowing eyes staring him down.

"Still you defend the earthrealmers, when you should be on the side of Outworld." General Shao points out.

Manado steps closer.

"Believe what you will, General. But be forewarned, I don't take too kindly to threats... even if it's on those of another realm." Manado warns.

General Shao then walks off, Raiden glaring at him as he passes by. They then move to the side as Kitana and Mileena walk in, alongside their mother, Queen Sindel. The three walk past the crowd and make their way to the three thrones, Sindel of course sitting down on the largest one in the center. Manado stands beside her.

"Welcome, members of the royal house. Welcome, our esteemed Earthrealm guests. We gather once again to honor my late husband's legacy. To continue the tournament that he founded with Lord Liu Kang in hopes that it would foster peace among realms. May Jerrod's soul watch over us with pride from its resting place in the Living Forest." Sindel announces, the last part having her show a look of sorrow.

The sorrow is then replaced with a soft smile as Liu Kang approaches.

"Lord Liu Kang." Sindel addresses.

"Empress Sindel. It pleases me to once again be your guest." Liu Kang says.

"Here, you are always welcome. Now. Let us meet your champion." Sindel replies.

"Earthrealm's champion is Raiden, Your Majesty. He has earned his place by embodying the very best qualities of Earthrealm's people." Liu Kang announces.

Raiden, although stands there with pride and humility, is still visibly nervous and Sindel notices.

"You seem nervous, young man." Sindel says.

"I'm a stranger in an unfamiliar land. Here to compete against its greatest fighters. Yes, I am nervous." Raiden admits.

"As you should be. You have a difficult path ahead." Sindel says.

She then stands from the throne.

"It has begun! (Li Mei walks in.) As tradition requires, Outworld's initial competitor will be Sun Do's First Constable... Li Mei. May she defend our realm's glory as well as she preserves our capital's order." Sindel announces.

Li Mei approaches the throne.

"Your Majesty. I will honor both the royal house, and all of Outworld, with my kombat." Li Mei vows.

Sindel places a hand on shoulder.

"If so, you will vastly exceed my expectations. Remember. Were it not for Jerrod's tradition nor Manado's request, you would not be here." Sindel points out.

Li Mei lowers her head as Sindel walks back to her throne and sits back down. Li Mei then moves to face Raiden as Liu Kang places a hand on his shoulder.

"All you need to do is your best. The rest will take care of itself." Liu Kang advises.

"Yes, Lord Liu Kang." Raiden replies.

Liu Kang then moves to the side.

"Shall we see what you can do?" Li Mei asks.

"Hopefully, this will be the first of many victories." Raiden replies.

"I will prevail, Earthrealmer. This fight is more important to me than you can ever know." Li Mei says as the two assume their fighting stances.

They then fight. Li Mei proves to be quite the formidable fighter with her skills and almost firework-like magic. Raiden however perseveres and emerges as the winner.

"Thank you for the match, First Constable." Raiden says.

Li Mei stands back up, a look of despair as she realizes she has lost. She nods her head to him before walking away, the crowd murmuring as she walks past them. Raiden then looks towards Sindel.

"My compliments Raiden, on a well-fought match. We'll see how you fare in the next." Sindel says.

She then Looks towards General Shao.

"General Shao. Whom have you chosen as our next competitor? Sindel asks.

"Your Majesty, I have chosen Reiko, my second-in-command. (Reiko walks in) As a boy, Reiko was orphaned during the Kafallah War. Though captured, his spirit remained unbroken. He scratched, clawed, and survived. After the war, I took him in. Molded him into the perfect soldier. Few others are as well versed in the ways of war." General Shao announces.

Reiko then stands beside Raiden, looking towards the crowd preforming a series of movements. He then faces Raiden.

"In whose army have you served? In what wars have you fought?" Reiko asks.

"I have done neither." Raiden replies.

"Then you are woefully unprepared, Earthrealmer. This will be your last battlefield." Reiko says.

They then fight. Reiko proves to be a difficult match for Raiden, showing the truth in General Shao's words. Raiden pushes on and through sheer determination, knocks Reiko down.

"Felled by a simple farmer." Raiden quips.

Raiden turns towards Sindel as Shao huffs in irritation before walking off.

"I am ready for my next opponent, Your Majesty. Whom shall I face?" Raiden asks.

"Patience, young man. We are adjourned until first light. I hope to see you all at this evening's banquet." Sindel announces.

That night, the banquet is in full swing, with a variety of food and drinks. Kung Lao sits besides Kenshi as he rips off a chicken leg and bites down into it. General Shao and Reiko sit beside him as they glance at him in annoyance. On another table, Johnny is seen conversing with Princess Kitana.

"I'm sorry. You're ten thousand years old?" Johnny asks in surprise.

Kitana merely shrugged.

"Talk about aging gracefully." Johnny compliments, Kitana smiling with amusement.

Across the table, Raiden is seen speaking with Liu Kang.

"What do you see in him?" Raiden asks.

"He is a hero, Raiden. Though he may not yet know it. (Looks around) Do you recognize everyone here?" Liu Kang asks.

"Most, yes. From your descriptions. (Looks down at the other side of the table) Except for him." Raiden replies.

"That is Rain, the High Mage of Outworld. Not his given name, but one earned due to his mastery of water magic." Liu Kang explains.

Mileena, who sits beside Rain, hold her stomach in discomfort, something clearly bothering her. Tanya approaches in concern and places a hand on her shoulder.

"Are you unwell, Princess?" Tanya asks.

"I am fine, Tanya." Mileena assures, though she clearly still shows great discomfort.

"I know I'm to fight Mileena, but will I also face Tanya?" Raiden asks.

"By tradition, you should not. If you did, you would be tested." Liu Kang replies.

"Why?" Raiden asks.

"Umgadi, like Tanya, are warrior priestesses. Selected from the first born daughters of Outworld. From infancy, they are trained to defend the royal family." Liu Kang explains.

"Outworld must see much conflict, if the Empress needs such protection." Raiden says.

"Its past has been difficlt. Though the last thousand years of Empress Sindel's reign have been a true golden age, the memories of that strife still linger." Liu Kang explains.

Liu Kang then sees Manado approaching, accompanied by two others. Raiden notices.

"I know of Manado. But I don't recognize them." Raiden says.

"Zaveer and Talion Chujin, Manado's children. Zaveer is the son of Mileena, while Talion is the daughter of Kitana." Liu Kang explains.

He then stands up.

"Excuse me." Liu Kang says.

He then turns and approaches Manado who looks towards Zaveer and Talion.

"Why don't you go be with your mothers?" Manado asks.

"Alright dad." Talion replies as she and Zaveer walk off to sit beside their mothers.

Manado looks towards Liu Kang.

"It once again pleases me to see you here. I take it you are enjoying your time in Outworld?" Manado asks.

"As always, Manado. How are things with you and the royal family?" Liu Kang asks.

"I could have a no greater honor to be by their side. It's most certainly better than my previous life." Manado replies.

Liu Kang smiles.

"Indeed, my friend." Liu Kang says.

Sindel then stands from her seat, holding a glass of wine in her hand. The crowd ceases their chat and look in her direction.

"My husband Jerrod believed that the future of our realms lay together. Let us move forward in open dialogue, letting no secrets tear our bonds asunder." Sindel announces.

The crowd then stands, everyone holding their own glasses.

"Your Majesty. It's an honor to be here and to meet your people. I can already see there's more that joins us than divides us." Raiden says.

General Shao shakes before he does a snarling laugh.

"Our peoples could not be more different, champion." General Shao says.

Raiden turns towards him.

"Excuse me?" Raiden asks.

"You heard me. Earthrealmers are devoid of all-" General Shao says before being cut off.

"That's enough, General." Sindel says.

General Shao sees Sindel glaring at him.

"My apologies, Your Majesty. Perhaps I've enjoyed too much of this excellent wine. With your permission-" General Shao says.

"You may go." Sindel replies.

General Shao then knocks his glass of wine to the ground as he walks off with Reiko, the glass shattering on impact. Later, Sindel is seen speaking with General Shao in some form of a meeting room, clearly displeased from the general's actions form earlier.

"It is bad enough we may lose to the Earthrealmers. But then you go and drunkenly insult them?! You needlessly stain my honor and your family's proud military tradition!" Sindel scowls.

Sindel then walks towards General Shao, who has his hands behind his back.

"May I speak freely Your Majesty?" General Shao asks.

Sindel sighs exasperatedly, already knowing what he will say.

"Again with this? If you must." Sindel says, walking past General Shao.

"We must act on the sorcerer's prophecy. He warns that Liu Kang will conquer Outworld and that Manado Chujin will betray not only you, but the rest of your family." General Shao points out.

Sindel stops mid track at his words.

"And his predictions are usually impeccable. But I've no proof of Liu Kang's nor Manado's ill intent. Their interventions have kept Outworld at peace for centuries." Sindel points out.

"they herd us into compromises, shackle our independence. If we could meet our enemies in battle... We'd take-" General Shao says before Sindel turns towards him.

"You would consign us to endless war!" Sindel points out.

"Better that than be Manado and Liu Kang's lapdog." General Shao replies.

Sindel glares at him before approaching him, having heard enough.

"If I see evidence of the prophecy's accuracy, we will act. But only then and only at my command. Did not your illustrious father teach you that war is the last resort, not the first?" Sindel asks.

"He did, Your Majesty." General Shao replies.

"Do not forget that, General." Sindel warns.

Then there is a knock on the door.

"Come." Sindel calls out.

The door opens to reveal Manado, Kitana, and Mileena. They walk into the room as General Shao leaves. Sindel faces away from them.

"You asked to see us." Mileena asks.

"I saw what happened this evening." Sindel says.

"That was nothing. Something I ate." Mileena explains.

Sindel turns towards her.

"Was it? I can't chance it, can I? If you fight tomorrow, the symptoms of your disease could manifest. Kitana will take your place." Sindel says.

The sisters stand there shocked.

"What?! There are already whispers she should replace me as your heir. This will make them screams!" Mileena points out.

"Your illness is your fault. Why you left the place that night unattended is still beyond me." Sindel wonders.

"I just needed time alone, away from all this. I never thought that-" Mileena says before being cut off.

"That's your problem, Mileena. You never think." Sindel says.

Manado places a hand on her shoulder.

"Mileena, Empress Sindel only wishes for your safety." Manado points out.

"Manado is right. Mother is only trying to protect you, sister. If your disease becomes known, you will be banished to the Wastes. For you to hold the throne, we must keep your secret." Kitana explains.

Irritated, Mileena walks out of the room. Manado turns towards Kitana.

"Go comfort your sister, Kitana. Your mother and I need to talk." Manado says.

Kitana nods her head before walking out of the room to catch up with Mileena. Manado looks back towards Sindel.

"Don't you think you were being too harsh on her? I understand that she is to blame for her own illness, but belittling her won't change that." Manado says.

Sindel sighs.

"I just don't wish to see her putting herself in such danger so recklessly." Sindel replies.

"For what has happened, she couldn't have known better. (Places a hand on her shoulder.) But now all we can do is help find a cure for her." Manado says.

Sindel sighs before looking up at him. She then embraces him, Manado doing the same.

"Just promise me you'll be there for her and Kitana." Sindel says.

"I can assure you, I will keep them safe, no matter the cost. I promised you that the day I wed them." Manado says.

Sindel smiles briefly before turning into a frown.

"Still... I wish we didn't keep this secret." Sindel says.

"You still haven't decided whether to tell them or not?" Manado asks.

"As much as I hate it, I just can't bear telling them. Not after everything that has happened." Sindel says.

"I understand. But just know that I will be there when you do. And I'm sure they'll understand." Manado says.

"Thank you." Sindel says.

Manado smiles before walking out of the room. Sindel sees him leave, a soft smile forms on her face. The next day, Sindel can be seen sitting on a throne in the courtyard of the palace. Manado stands beside her as Raiden and Liu Kang stand across from her.

"You continue to suprise, Raiden. Among others, you have defeated Kotal, Motaro and Sheeva. Only two fights remain. Are you ready, Earthrealmer?" Sindel asks.

"I am, Your Majesty." Raiden replies.

"Then next you face my daughter... Kitana." Sindel announces.

Just then, Kitana walks into the courtyard. Liu Kang approaches Sindel.

"Your Majesty, this is unprecedented. Raiden's next opponent should be your heir." Liu Kang points out.

"Mileena is unavailable. She's away on pressing imperial business." Sindel explains.

"But I have not prepared him to battle Kitana." Liu Kang says.

"He's already demonstrated great skill. Can he not improvise?" Sindel asks.

Raiden looks towards Liu Kang.

"Do not worry, I can do this." Raiden assures.

"Very well." Liu Kang replies.

Liu Kang steps to the side as Raiden confronts Kitana.

"I will be no easier to fight than my sister, Earthrealmer." Kitana warns.

"I suffer under no such delusion, Your Highness." Raiden replies.

"I will win this fight. For her, my Empress, and all of Outworld." Kitana vows as the two assume their fighting stances.

They then fight. True to her word, Kitana proves to be quite the challenge for Raiden. Her skills in kombat puts her on equal grounds with Raiden. It proves to be a tough match but in the end, Raiden wins.

"You fight well, Princess." Raiden says.

"As do you, Earthrealmer. Surprisingly so." Kitana replies.

"I hope we meet again. Under different circumstances." Raiden says.

A wave of nostalgia hits Manado as he remembers saying those same words to Kitana in his previous life. Kitana looks to Raiden before moving towards the seat on the left side, next to her mother.

"It's time for the final match. It's a testament to your abilities that you've made it thus far. But now you must face General Shao. (General Shao walks into the courtyard.) Victor of Tervarian War. Conqueror of the Kuatan Plains. Defender of the Navala Coast. As has his family for generations, General Shao defends us with zeal and tenacity. All of Outworld is grateful for his service." Sindel announces.

"That's a notable list of accomplishments, General." Raiden says.

"It is a mere fraction of them. A full recitation would take days." General Shao replies.

They then fight. Out of all the matches he has fought, General Shao proves to be the toughest of them all. It becomes clear why he was chosen to be not Outworld's General for its armies, but also the one to be final battle in the tournament. It takes everything Raiden has, but in the end, he knocks General Shao to the ground.

"It's over. I have done it!" Raiden realizes.

Manado smiles at Raiden, proud of his accomplishment. Sindel then stands from her throne.

"Congratulations, Raiden. Earthrealm wins." Sindel announces.

Sindel leaves the courtyard, followed by Kitana and Manado. Raiden approaches General Shao, who is apparently dazed from his battle with Raiden. Raiden hold out a hand to him.

"May I assist you?" Raiden asks.

General Shao merely swats his hand away.

"Stay away, Earthrealmer." General Shao retorts.

Raiden says nothing to him as he then turns toward Liu Kang.

"Well done. You have exceeded my greatest expectations." Liu Kang says.

"Thank you, Lord Liu Kang." Raiden replies, nodding his head.

"Because of you, the Outworlders who would disturb the peace will once again be held at bay. (Places a hand on Raiden's shoulder) Come. Let us bid our hosts farewell and return to Earthrealm." Liu Kang says.

They walk towards Johnny, Kenshi, and Kung Lao who bow to him, Raiden bowing to them in response. They then walk out of the courtyard, the group congratulating Raiden.

"All right, yeah!" Johnny says

"You did it!" Kenshi says.

"That was fantastic, Raiden. You really showed those Outworlders how it's done." Kung Lao says.

"That was great." Johnny says.

"Very impressive!" Kenshi says.

Later in Earthrealm, Liu Kang can be seen meditating by a fireplace. A sound catches his attention as he sees a ball of light surrounded by whirling sand emerges. The light then takes shape and Liu Kang smiles as he sees who it is.

"Geras, my old friend. It's been eons. It is good to see you." Liu Kang greets.

"Likewise, Lord Liu Kang. I have watched you with the Hourglass. You are relishing your role as Earthrealm's Protector." Geras replies.

"It suits me far better than being Keeper of Time ever did. I never wanted to replace Kronika. Being history's architect drove her mad. I had no wish to share her fate. Which is why I am forever grateful that you volunteered to safeguard the Hourglass. Despite having relinquished its power, the new era has unfolded as it should." Liu Kang explains.

Geras approaches a shelf, grabbing hold of a jade statue.

"You created me in your own image. Duty is my highest calling." Geras replies.

"While I am glad you are here, you are not one for social calls. Is there trouble with the Hourglass?" Liu Kang asks.

Geras places the statue back onto the shelf and turns back towards Liu Kang.

"With something it has shown me." Geras replies.

"What, Geras?" Liu Kang asks.

"When you restarted history, you altered the destinies of certain malefactors to neutralize them. At least one of them is defying that destiny: Shang Tsung." Geras informs.

Liu Kang's face turns serious.

"Go on." Liu Kang urges.

"He has escaped his meaningless life and is on his way to becoming a powerful sorcerer. He has already infiltrated Sindel's court." Geras informs.

"I saw no sign of him during the tournament. But if that snake is in Sindel's ear -" Liu Kang says.

"Your vision of peace may already be compromised." Geras warns.

"I appreciate this warning, Geras. I will investigate. (Places a hand on Geras' shoulder.) Please return to the Hourglass and see what else you can learn." Liu Kang says.

Geras nods his head before leaving the room. Liu Kang hopes he can stop Shang Tsung before it is too late.