After receiving the Jensei from Geras and N. Brio, Kronika called Shao Kahn, R. Kitana, Sektor, and the familiar jackal to meet with her. With them waiting, the tension was thick due to Revenant Kitana and Shao Kahn quarreling with each other.

Shao Kahn: "To see another daughter being killed so easily. I can see why I had a need for Mileena."

R. Kitana: "I died because of you and your pathetic attempt to merge Earthrealm and Outworld! I am now free of your treachery... Until now. Mileena was as weak and as bad of a ruler as you are."

Shao Kahn: "How dare you?! With this rage and evil lurking around and hiding, I might have had no need for your pathetic beast of a sister!"

R. Kitana: "Once Kronika gives Liu Kang and I the title of Netherrealms rulers in the New Era, I will make sure you and your armies are squashed like bugs and your head is on my mantle."

Shao Kahn: *Laughs* "You think you and that filthy Earthrealmer can stop me? You couldn't even stop your own mother!"

R. Kitana: "That wench was not my mother! She was the brainwashed killer that you and Quan Chi made!"

R. Kitana took out her fans and wielded them as Shao Kahn flipped the table and summoned his hammer. Sektor cut the table in half as he then aimed his arm flamethrowers at the two.

Sektor: "Kitana and Shao Kahn! Stop your idiocy! Lady Kronika won't be happy to see this."

R. Kitana: "I will risk myself to kill Shao Kahn myself!!"

Shao Kahn: "You are a fool for thinking you can do that! Kronika will not mind if I get rid of one expendable item!"

Shao Kahn charged at R. Kitana and vice versa but R. Kitana was stopped by loud screaming and hair grabbing her by the neck as Shao Kahn was stopped by confusion and the flames that Sektor threw. The screaming stopped and Kitana looked to see Sindel's Revenant, though she seemed to be different and glitching all red thanks to the Phantom Ruby.

R. Sindel: "Hello, Kitana."

R. Kitana: "M-mother?"

Shao Kahn: "Wife...?"

R. Sindel disappeared into red Phantom Energy Cubes and vanished as Kronika floated into the room with N. Brio holding Vortex.

Kronika: "I see you two could not behave as nicely as I would have thought. Behave yourselves or else you both will answer to me! I may not be so kind to you as I was for N.M.E. The same could be said for All for One as well."

The two glared at each other but called off their weapons as they sat down in their chairs. And here we see the Madman of the Phantom Ruby himself!

Kronika: "Thank you, Sektor and Infinite."

Sektor: "Of course, Kronika."

Infinite: "If they don't stop acting like little children, I'll make sure Sindel's screaming is worse."

"Infinite!" (Infamous Jackal of Sonic Forces & User of the Phantom Ruby!)

Kronika: "Ah, they now see your power, correct?"

Infinite: "Yes. They'll play nicely now. If they refuse, their fears will haunt them for life." *Glares and R. Kitana who glared back*

Kronika: "Excellent. Now then, both Geras and N. Brio have acquired the energy to resculpt the Sands of Time. The NetherRealm's undead army will be able to protect the keep as I work. I have also acquired blueprints from Nightmare Enterprises of monsters & creatures that could be rather useful in guarding the keep. I have also found a warehouse of Nomu created by All for One's subordinate, Dr. Ujiko, who is more than useful to our cause. He and N. Brio here will be working with you to help create them, Infinite."

Infinite: "Very well... What's with the kid N. Brio is carrying?"

Kronika: "This is Vortex Sakamoto. One of the three heroes that had arrived to stop Geras from getting the Jinsei and one of the members of the Y/N Heroes. We had thought of him being of use for you, Infinite. Do whatever you want with him."

Infinite: "Hmm... If my Phantom Ruby can copy his ID, I'm sure I can make a Phantom Copy of him and do whatever I can with him. What should I do if he has no use for me?"

Kronika: "I'm sure Bison and Mileena will find many uses for him. Maybe Sektor can have him as a general for the Cyber Lin Kuei or a powerful Nomu. For now, cage him and make sure he's restrained to the fullest."

Infinite: "Very well. It'll be done."

Kronika: *Looks at Shao Kaan* "Shao Kahn, when will your Outworld army be ready?"

Shao Kahn: "Soon. It will be mine when Kotal is killed."

Kronika: "Take Kitana and Sindel's Revenant side with you. She will be of some use when you defeat Kotal Kahn."

Shao Kahn: *Growls* ".... Alright then. If it means I can see Sindel again."

Kronika: "And what is your progress with N. Gin and Mother Brain, Sektor?"

Sektor: "The Cyber Lin Kuei factory is modified to your specifications. Production exceeds projections. Mother Brain and N. Gin's mech suits are almost done. Once ready, they'll be put to good use."

Kronika: *Smirks and gives Sektor some of the Jinsei* "Use some of this energy to make your army unstoppable."

Sektor: "Very well."

Kronika: "Good. You are all dismissed. I must recruit a few more people for my army."

Kronika disappeared to look for a familiar sentient Gorilla as the meeting was dismissed.

Back at the secret base...

Raiden had returned from talking with the Elder Gods as D. Raiden watched.

D. Raiden: "I see you consulted the Elder Gods. How was I so Naive?"

Raiden: "The Elder Gods are good people and have given advice on our mission. We'll need to find Kronika and gain control of the hour glass. Only then will our destinies change. The Elder Gods have helped..."

D. Raiden: "Go on, Raiden. When? When have they ever helped us before Shao Kahn tried to merge the realms together? When Shao Kahn invaded Earthrealm and took the souls of millions, the Elder Gods did nothing but watch as I pleaded for them to aid us."

Raiden: "How can I trust my own self when you've been corrupted by Shinnok's amulet?!"

D. Raiden: "I saw the truth! The truth is that the Elder Gods couldn't help until millions were killed! Until Liu Kang died by my own hand by accident! I still feel this grief for his Revenant Counterpart. There are fates worse than death, Raiden. Far worse!"

Raiden didn't respond, bit sighed as he walked away, doubting the Elder Gods a bit and wondering if this Raiden was correct.

D. Raiden: "You may not trust me now but you will see. They wouldn't protect Earthrealm so I had to do it myself. For the greater good of Earthrealm!!"

Before Raiden went back inside, Liu Kang and Kung Lao were teleported back as Shadow Y/N appeared and saw the two Raidens.

Liu Kang: "Lord Raiden! We have terrible news! We need the Y/N Heroes to meet us."

Raiden: "What?"

Shadow Y/N: "It's true. The villains took the jensei along with Vortex."

D. Raiden: *Gets his lightning ready* "And who might you be, Intruder?"

Shadow Y/N: "I'm the Ultimate Life Form duplicate of my organic counterpart! Shadow Y/N! Is Y/N here?"

Raiden: "Shadow Y/N? A clone of the Y/N we saw I presume. We'll take you to him."

D. Raiden: "No trickery or anything like that."

Shadow Y/N nodded as the five walked into the base and looked for Y/N.

With Young Y/N, Jack and Tohru...

Jack and Y/N were playing Mario Bros. themed Chess as Tohru watched and hoped things went well with Vortex and his friends.

Young Y/N: This is a really boring game I'm gonna be honest. Even if I'm winning & losing."

Jack: "Then why did you manifest it?"

Young Y/N: "I thought I knew the rules. Now I'm just here getting all my pieces taken which leaves me with my next toxic move." *Flips the board* "There we go. Now no one wins."

Jack: "I like you when you're not a brat."

Young Y/N: "Whatever. I'm bored so let's go around this place or play Rayman Raving Rabbids 2."

Jack: Seeing as how you running around here might be a bad idea... Sure."

Young Y/N: "Sweet!

The three heard a knock on the door and Tohru opened it to show Shadow Y/N.

Tohru: "Mr. Shadow Y/N! It's been so long!"

Shadow Y/N: "Yeah I suppose it has been. I heard Y/N's here."

Jack: "He's... sorta here."

Shadow Y/N: *Walks in* "What do you mean 'Sorta here'-" *Sees the Younger Y/N* "I rest my case."

Young Y/N: *Sees Shadow Y/N* "Uwaa! Who's this guy!? A Shadow the Hedgehog Cosplayer!?"

Shadow Y/N: "I'm you, idiot! A Shadow version of you at least. Eggman and Bowser thought it would be a good idea to make a stronger clone of you for their own gain. Unfortunately, they failed to realize that I have my own will but my quest is to find out who I really am.. So I just show up whenever I need to."

Young Y/N: "So kinda like that red lightning guy we met."

Shadow Y/N: "Yes. Seeing as you're not the Y/N I'm looking for, I'll see someone else."

Jack: "What are you going on about?"

Shadow Y/N: "Vortex was taken by Kronika when he went to the Dragon Grotto. They're making plans to copy him and either brainwash him or feed him to this Mileena person when it's done. We need to find him before anything bad can happen to him."

Young Y/N: "They did what?!"

Jack: "If you saw this happen, why didn't you stop them?!"

Shadow Y/N: "Even a strong clone like me knows when to avoid a fight and create a strategy. Going up against them alone is a suicide mission."

Jack: *Mutters* "You fucking useless..." *Says aloud* "Alright, fine. Let's round up the rest of the Y/N Heroes and make a plan."

Shadow Y/N: "Right. We don't know where he is but Liu Kang and Kung Lao assume they're going to her lair. Know anyone that could take you there?"

Jack: "... Maybe. C'mon let's find him."

Young Y/N: "Wait, guys lemme go with you! I know I can beat their butts!"

Shadow Y/N: "It will be risky, kid. Can you watch him, Tohru?"

Tohru: "Of course!"

Young Y/N: "Oh to heck with that noise! I'm going with you! Plus I can't stand eating her tail!"

Tohru: *Tick mark appears and mutters* "Jack was right about you being a brat!"

Young Y/N: "I heard that!"

Shadow Y/N: "Are you the immortal Y/N we know?"

Young Y/N: "I'm not but I'm stronger than anyone here!"

Shadow Y/N: "Hmph. Then prove it... One mission and that's it. Tohru will babysit you as you fight."

Young Y/N: "Alright then! You're on! I'll be the best leader of my future team as I can!"

Jack: "Come on. We don't have a lot of time."

The four ran to find the rest of the members as they found them in the main room.

Back at the Timekeep...

Vortex felt that his head was a little sore and he saw blurriness but saw a figure in front of him, scanning him, and noticed he was awake.

Infinite: "Good morning, Sakamoto. Sleep well?"

Vortex: *Saw Infinite & gasped* 'Shit! That's Infinite! Y/N told me he's from Sonic Forces! What's he doing here!?' "What the hell are you doing?!"

Infinite: "Just making sure your ID is copied properly. Once it is, Sektor, Bison or Mileena and her little friend will make use of you. Skarlet might find your blood good too."

Vortex: "...You bastard!"

Infinite: "You won't have to worry for long. You'll make a fine addition to the Cyber Lin Kuei. You'll get food after this too."

Infinite copied Vortex's ID and his data as he created a Phantom Copy of the fighter who smiled at the real deal. Vortex struggled in his chains but couldn't free himself.

Infinite: "Pathetic. I'm sure this clone will actually have a clear head. I've told this once to a blue reat and this foolish brat of a gamer, friends are nothing but a waste of space. You have no one to rely on but yourself. IF you live long enough, I'll give you their heads before Bison snaps your neck. Goodbye for now."

Infinite left as Vortex was just sitting in there with his own guilt and sadness.

Vortex: 'Damn it. He's right... If I was more calm, I could have done better... Guys if you're out there... Please help me.'

He was alone with his thoughts and tried out a clearer mind. Little did he know he had a special power waiting inside.

Meanwhile... With the Y/N Heroes...

Y/N Heroes (Excluding Jack, Tohru, Young Y/N & Shadow Y/N): "WHAT?!?!?!!?"

Liu Kang: "We apologize for our incompetence, Y/N Heroes." *Bows*

Kaleb: "Don't blame yourselves for this. Blame it on Kronika!"

Raiden: "Kaleb is right. You are not at fault here. We will find him and help him before they do anything."

Wong: "Where do you think he is?"

Kaleb: "If my mind serves me, Vortex might be at Kronika's Keep which is where the hourglass is too."

Wong: "Then that's where we're going."

Wong tried to make a portal to it but no sparks were made. Tohru tried to make a portal but it just opened a portal to a random part of the Netherrealm.

Maurice: "I don't think that's the keep."

Tohru: *Closes the portal* "It's not."

Nick: "I think we have to go get him in person."

Wong: "With the amount of people we have here, a frontal assault won't be successful."

Shadow Y/N: "I have a bag of the three variants of the 7 Chaos Emeralds. I'm sure we can get the strongest people here to use the other two."

Kung Lao: "Even with the powers of the jewels, could we stand a chance?"

Shadow Y/N: "If and only the power of them aren't cancelled out at Kronika's keep like how it's canceling out the portals Wong and Tohru tried to make."

Wong: "Seems like portal based powers count but we'll need more people just to be safe."

Young Y/N: "Wait! How did you get those?! Are they real!? Also, I've just remembered I have the bag of the portal rings in the Sonic 2020 movie!" *Digs through his pockets and finds a ring* "Oh my gosh! I got one!"

D. Raiden: "How do we know it'll work?"

Young Y/N: "That's true... Fine, this will be plan B. I had more at my place but those were in the past. I doubt I have any where I live now."

Jack: "Y/N. For once, can you at least leave this to the adults?"

Young Y/N: "Hey! Shadow Y/N said I could help and that's what I'm doing. If we wanna go to the keep, we're gonna have to stock up on supplies. So..."

Young Y/N tossed the ring and imagined where he was living at now which made the ring grow bigger and bigger until it became a full blown portal, the other side being the entrance to Y/N's Mansion in the present. The others, excluding Jack & Shadow Y/N, were amazed.

Gabriel n' Gabe: "He actually did it!!"

Young Y/N: "No. Way!!! I have a mansion?! C'mon! I've gotta check it out!"

Young Y/N jumped through the portal as Tohru followed him.

Tohru: "Wait, Mr. Y/N!"

Jack: "He's out of line and I hate to admit it but he's right. We need everyone and everything to help us here."

Nick: "I'm sure I'll get enough help from the DC Heroes like the Justice League and people from Toonville to help!"

Kaleb: "The Avengers, Spiderlings, Sinister Six, Deadpool, Gwenpoole, Saitama, Genos and Elma sound good. Oh! My Symbiote subjects could help if I get the right hosts!"

Maurice: "Just incase of any aerial assaults, I'll gather my dragon brethren to help me. I know a few lizards that can aid us too."

EJ: (I'll go with Y/N and make sure he's safe. The Creepypastas will want to help out too when I tell them.)

Gabe n' Gabriel: "We'll get the Smash Bros roster and Crazy Dave's plants on our side!"

Shadow Y/N: "I'll send word to Sonic, Kirby and their friends and see if they'll help us."

Jack: "That leaves me. Hm... I'll see if Snake and anyone from the Metal Gear games could help. I'll stay here and make sure things don't go out of control."

Maurice: "Let's do this."

Shadow Y/N: "Wait, we need to see if Y/N even has the rings, meaning that he'll be our only means of transportation from the real world to the videogame world. And if the younger version of Y/N is capable of fighting, he'll need a lot of training."

Kaleb: "Divide and Conquer, Edgelord!" *Jumps into the portal with EJ, Nick and Maurice*

Shadow Y/N: "Tch. Prick." 'Looks like teaching my organic twin's young self is gonna be a task for me.'

D. Raiden: "I will aid you for the protection of Earthrealm."

Shadow Y/N: "Thanks. Maybe you can help the Bonneter and the plant penguin and I'll have Wong work with me in finding Sonic's friends."

Wong: "It shall be done then."

Wong made a portal to where Sonic's Universe would be and D. Raiden grabbed Jack and Gabriel as he used his lightning to teleport them to the Smash Bros. Mansion. With that, Raiden talked with Cassie Cage.

Raiden: "What has Kronika's time merger done to affect Earthrealm?"

Cassie: "Well it's a good thing you asked that. Turns out we're getting a lot of time anomalies on Earthrealm. Pictures are still fuzzy but we've prioritized info that correlates attacks with the Netherrealm with time anomalies."

Johnny: *Talks with Sonya* "Our kid's something isn't she?"

P. Sonya: "Uh.. Cage? I'm not your Sonya."

"Sonya Blade!" (Commander of the Special Forces and Formerly Deceased!)

Johnny: *Nervously chuckled* "Sorry... Too easy to forget."

Raiden: *Talking with Cassie* "Helpful. But we have more to worry about than the Netherrealm."

Cassie: "Yeah we do. Grandmaster Sub-Zero reports heavy losses to his Lin Kuei clan. The time merge resurrected his old enemy, Sektor."

She pulled up Sektor's hologram on the table as it moved around.

Raiden: "Sektor? Was he not the Grandmaster who years ago enslaved the Lin Kuei?"

Cassie: "That's him. Reactivating and upgrading the same factory he built to convert the Lin Kuei into cyber killing machines. Undoubtedly to construct a new and more powerful Cyber Lin Kuei. Kronika may seek to co-opt them."

Raiden: "What of Sub-Zero?"

Cassie: "Already on his way to the factory. Kenshi's meeting with him along with Grandmaster Hazashi and Takashi."

Raiden: "Grandmaster Hazashi? Hanzo Hasashi?"

Near the Cyber Lin Kuei Factory...

Sub-Zero and Kenshi were standing by the rocks as Sub-Zero looked around with his telescope.

Kenshi: "I can sense at least a couple of people as the main workers. If we take them out, we might stand a chance."

Sub-Zero: "A frontal assault won't help our case. There must be a way in there..."

"Sub-Zero!" (Leader of the Lin Kuei and also known as Kuai Liang!)

He soon found one but little did he know that someone was slowly making his way behind him with a blade. Kenshi sensed it and used his sword to stop him with Sub-Zero turning around.

Scorpion: "Your hearing is failing, Sub-Zero."

"Scorpion!" (Leader of the Shirai Ryu and also Known as Hanzo Hasashi!)

Sub-Zero: "I recognized your footsteps, Hanzo."

Takeda: "You can let go of him now, Dad."

"Takashi Tekeda!" (Member of the Shirai Ryu and Son of Kenshi!)

Kenshi: "Just making sure here." *Let's go his powers*

Scorpion: "Where's Sektor? I will not let him threaten my clan again!"

Sub-Zero: "The old Cyber Lin Kuei factory defunct, buried beneath this quarry until the disruption of Time. Now, Sektor's returned and reactivated it. He's building an army by processing Lin Kuei warriors kidnapped from my temple!!"

Scorpion: "I can see why you need me."

Kenshi: "Is there a reason you brought my son here?"

Takeda: "More hands make light work."

Kenshi: "I suppose you're right. You seem strong enough. Just be careful."

Takeda: "Don't worry, I will. Now how do we get in?"

Sub-Zero: "We could try a frontal assault but that would be..."

Scorpion: "Bloody..."

Sub-Zero: "Needlessly complicated. All four of us couldn't handle them by the thousands." *Hands Scorpion the telescope and aims it at the right direction* There's an entrance with one guard. We can sneak in there."

Kenshi: "Agreed."

The four snuck their way down as the robot guard was just standing there, keeping guard. That was until the guard was grabbed by telekinesis and brought forward by Kenshi where it was then let go and grabbed by Scorpion. Once that happened, Tekeda used his chains to slice the arms and legs off and was stabbed multiple times by Scorpion and Sub-Zero. Once they dealt the last stab, Kenshi sliced its head off and the four walked into the factory with no issue. They kept walking until they made it to the production room and saw the many skinned bodies of Lin Kuei members. Sub-Zero grabbed one of the medallions of a fallen member and felt guilt over the losses.

Scorpion: *Puts his hand on his shoulder* "We'll avenge your clan."

Kenshi: *Feels people coming* "I sense a bunch of people arriving. We need to hide."

The four ran off and hid as five silhouettes patrolled the area and let the other three work on the production of the Cyber Lin Kuei. The five patrolling the area were known as the Hard Boiled Heavies and the other three were Cyrax, N. Gin and a cloaked figure. The heroes hid deeper to avoid the scanners and were almost caught but made it out safely.

"Hard Boiled Heavies!" (Heavy Gunner, Heavy Shinobi, Heavy Magician, Heavy Rider & Heavy King!) (Phantomly Advanced Egg Robos!)

N. Gin: "No intruders detected, Master Cyrax. We still have an opportunity."

Cyrax: "Good. We can begin production with the army, Dr. N. Gin."

"Cyrax!" (Former Assassin and now forced member of the Cyber Lin Kuei!)

The cloaked figure put a vial of Jinsei in the control panel as unconscious members of the Lin Kuei were being chopped up and their brains and spines being kept for their new bodies. The Heroes watched as they had to divide and conquer. Unaware that they're being watched by a steel blue plated faker.

Scorpion: "Cyrax was your inside man."

Sub-Zero: "He was converted against his will. If we disable the behavior inhibitors that control him..."

Scorpion: "He will turn on Sektor."

Sub-Zero: "All Cyber Lin Kuei are limited to a common network. Cyrax can shut them down from within."

Takeda: "Any idea on who the woman is?"

Sub-Zero: "I don't know. Focus on Cyrax. He's the key."

Kenshi: "We won't get far with those other robots near them. Takeda and I will handle them, Sub-Zero."

Cyrax: "We require additional candidates for cyberization. Kronika has offered one of the members of the Y/N Heroes to be the first one of the next batch of Cyberized Lin Kuei."

????: "Once delivered, how long before the next generation is ready?-"

The cloaked lady was interrupted by Sub-Zero's freeze attack and the robots looked to see Sub-Zero sliding in.

N. Gin: "No! Intruders!!"

Cyrax: "You said there were no intruders! Useless!"

https://youtu.be/8uK6uFp7x_4

Music Insert: "Hi-Spec Robo Go!" (Composed by Tee Lopes!) (Hard Boiled Heavy Havoc!)

Heavy King: *Looks at Heavy Gunner as he noticed his leader was only looking at him and Heavy Gunner responds with a salute*

Cyrax was about to attack but Scorpion teleported and put him in a headlock. The lady broke free from the ice and was revealed to be Frost!

Sub-Zero: "Frost!"

Heavy King: *Eyes widen as he signaled at Heavy Gunner*

Heavy Gunner nodded and aimed his blaster at Sub-Zero as Frost used her own ice beam and made Cyrax and Scorpion separate. Heavy Gunner was about to shoot but he couldn't fire as his gun was yanked by Kenshi's telekinesis and then sliced in half. Heavy Gunner was shocked but Tekeda used his chains and heavily damaged the robotic gunner where he dealt the final blow by kicking the head at the Heavy King.

Heavy King: *Catches it and looks at his fallen member's head and then glares at the duo as he sends his team to deal with them*

While the Hard Boiled Heavies were going against the telepathic father and son, Sub-Zero was confronting his old student.

Sub-Zero: "I gave you a home. I was your mentor. Yet you ally with Sektor? He corrupted the Lin Kuei!"

Frost: "YOU corrupted the Lin Kuei when you made peace with these Shirai Ryu filth! With Kronika's help, I will restore the Lin Kuei's honor!" *Looks at N. Gin* "Get your mech suit, Doctor!"

N. Gin: "But mistress! It's not ready!-"

Frost: "Do it!!"

N. Gin started to run for his mech suit from Crash 2 but was frozen by Sub-Zero as Kenshi brought him to a safer area for interrogation!

Scorpion: "Help Cyrax and the others. I'll discipline your former pupil."

Sub-Zero nodded as he walked off to help fix Cyrax but he turned on a bunch of robots and they came to help the fight.

Frost: "I should have killed you the day Sub-Zero invited you to our temple."

Scorpion: "You tried and yet, you failed."

Frost: "Not this time. Now you die!"

The fight was on as Frost struck first as she gave Scorpion the Cold Punch and the Article Strike. Scorpion resisted as he teleported behind Frost and gave a kick to her back. Frost felt the pain but she's not backing down. The ice cold fighter gave Scorpion a Frosted Uppercut but little did she know that the masked opponent caught her with his spear!

Scorpion: "GET OVER HERE!!!"

Scorpion gave Frost three Kombo Attacks. First, The Torment, next, The Dark Soul and last, Eternal Vengeance. Frost was growing angry and impatient as she gave Scorpion her own Kombo Attack by freezing him a bit and threw him across the battlefield.

Frost: "You're very strong, but the Lin Kuei are stronger than you are!"

Frost was grabbed by Kenshi's telekinesis and flung at Heavy Magician, making the two fall back! Fortunately for the Hard Boiled Heavy, she got back up, and shapeshifted herself into her disguise of Scorpion! The neutral fighter was caught off guard by that surprise!

Scorpion: "What the hell?!?!"

The Fake Scorpion tackled the real deal with his own Hinge Kick. The two started to go at it as Sub-Zero froze most of the fake Scorpion and Takeda wrapped his whip around the faker's neck.

Takeda: "Nice try, Robo Houdini!"

Tekeda made the blades of his whip come out and they were trapped inside the fake Scorpion's neck. Tekeda yanked the whip but the hand that was holding the whip was stabbed by a ninja star-like Astreon! Takeda held his hand as Heavy Shinobi threw more Astreons but Kenshi stopped them and threw them at the fake Scorpion and threw them everywhere!

Kenshi: "Are you OK, Takashi?!"

Takeda: *Hisses in pain as he held his hand* "I'll be fine. Just finish the job for the fake Scorpion."

Kenshi nodded and he continued to fight the Heavy Magician but Heavy Shinobi got in his way before Kenshi could slice his head off with his sword. That's when Scorpion finished the job for Kenshi and aided him against the Heavy Shinobi. Sub-Zero was working on the robots that were attacking as he froze them solid but Heavy King approached him and grabbed him, tossing him back and into the middle of the battle field.

Sub-Zero: *Got up & groaned in pain* "Damn... I don't know what you robots are but you will not stop us in defeating this corrupted way of life!"

The four got in fighting positions as the remaining robots were glaring at them. The Heavy King signaled them to attack as they complied and ran towards them! The Motobug, Jimmy, charged fiercely as Heavy Rider spun her mace as she slammed it down but was dodged just in time and frozen by Sub-Zero and the chain was sliced by Kenshi as he held the Rider at bay while Takashi got her good arm ready and his whip sliced the arms of the Heavy Rider.

Kenshi: *Struggling* "Hurry... I can't... Hold it much longer!!"

Takashi was kicked by the Heavy Shinobi but Scorpion threw his blade at the ninja which pierced its chest!

Scorpion: "GET OVER HERE!!!"

Heavy Shinobi was occupied and Takeda whipped the Rider's body but she took many slashes while the Heavy King used his scepter to fire a barrage of bullets at the heroes. The bullets were blocked by Sub-Zero's ice wall as he shot out a bunch of small Ice spikes at Heavy Rider, making Jimmy's wheel go flat and Heavy Rider completely useless.

Takeda: "Alright that just leaves the leader!"

Scorpion: "Disable the chip, Sub-Zero. The leader is useless against the three of us."

Sub-Zero started to slide away with his ice and Heavy King noticed this, firing at him but the bullets were held and then shot back at Heavy King by Kenshi. The Heavy King's scepter was destroyed by the bullets but little did the heroes know that their true leader appeared...

Infinite: "Well... Someone forgot to invite me to this fight."

Scorpion: *Sees Infinite* "Who... the hell... are you?"

Infinite: "You may call me, Infinite. I see you met the Hard Boiled Heaves of the Eggman Empire."

Scorpion: "Eggman Empire?"

Infinite: "Correct. It's just a little place that these hard working robots helped create. That's not important though. I think they need some repairs. Better ones after seeing how bad the first batch is. Right, Heavy King?"

Heavy King: *Nods yes*

Infinite: I'll be on my way. Not before Sub-Zero can say hi to his old friends though. A word of warning. Tell the young brat, Y/N L/N, that we'll be on our way to collect him."

The jackal then used the Phantom Ruby to teleport himself and the HBH out of the heroes' sight.

Sub-Zero: "Y/N L/N...? What do they want with him?"

Takeda: "No idea but I feel two people coming!"

????: "He is correct, old friend."

The doors were opened as the four looked to see Smoke as a Revenant and Noob Saibot!

"Smoke!" (Sub-Zero's old friend and also known as Tomas Vrbada!)

"Noob Saibot!" (Sub-Zero's big brother and also known as Bi-Han!)

Sub-Zero: "Smoke?"

Smoke: "Correct. Long time no see, Kuai Liang."

Smoke turned into a puff of smoke and started to attack Sub-Zero when he got close enough, being shoulder tackled to the ground by Scorpion who was then tackled away by Noob's shadow clone!

Takeda: "Guys! *Walks but then grabs his hand in pain* "Damnit..."

Kenshi: "Son, you need to stand out of this one. Go and help Cyrax and see if the small scientist can be of any use. Now, while they're still unconscious!"

Tekada nodded and walked off, letting Kenshi aid Sub-Zero and Scorpion.

Noob: "Recognize me, Little Brother?"

Sub-Zero: "Bi-Han?"

Noob: "Yes, it is I."

Scorpion: "You were killed, swallowed in a storm of souls. Smoke was killed by Sindel's hand!"

Smoke: "Quan Chi's creations don't die so easily. Kronika offers us a new clan to lead. Ones that will make other realms quiver. That is if Noob puts on a good performance."

Kenshi: "That's what this is to you? A game to see who gets the bigger prize?"

Noob: "Yes. I will be the one to win Kronika's appreciation much more!"

Smoke: "We shall see, won't we?"

Noob: "Not before getting Dr. N. Gin back."

N. Gin: Noob! Protect me!!"

Noob nodded as he made a clone that he portalled toward N. Gin and guarded him as he kicked Takeda in the face to grab N. Gin and Cyrax, getting his hand cut and dropping Cyrax but getting away with N. Gin. The two undead soldiers got into fighting poses as the neutral trio nodded.

Sub-Zero: "Leave Smoke to me."

Noob: "That leaves my job of killing Hanzo much easier. Our shadows will darken the realms in the new era."

Smoke and Noob, now cloned, charged towards their opponents as the fight was focused on Sub-Zero and Smoke!

Sub-Zero: "We were old friends, Tomas!"

Smoke: "That was until you led me to my death! Fighting for the pathetic realm that deserves to die! My smoke will overwhelm your brother's shadows!!"

N. Gin started to thaw as Smoke attacked back at Sub-Zero with a Front Punch and initiated his Kombo Attack, The Smoldering. The mechanical mad man was doing everything he could to thaw himself out. Sub-Zero was running out of time and decided to speed up by attacking Smoke with a Straight Chop, a Double Ax Slam, and a Roundhouse Kick. Smoke took massive damage but just before Sub-Zero could finish him, a laser beam hit nearby the sub zero fighter but he rolled out of the way just in time.

Smoke: "?!"

Smoke turned to see N. Gin in his operated mech suit, with a few bugs here or there!

N. Gin: "Mr. Smoke! Retreat to the secret lair! I'll stall these fools to meet their DOOM!!"

Smoke: "Sub-Zero is mine to kill! Get rid of the boy and keep him from fixing Cyrax-" *Gets frozen in place*

Sub-Zero: *Turns to N. Gin* "You're next, torpedo man!"

N. Gin: "No! Stay away! You may have destroyed my army of mechanical marvels but there's just one thing missing!" *Activates the mech belly button laser and starts firing a long beam at Sub-Zero while laughing maniacally*

Sub-Zero dodged and slid as fast as he could but one of Noob's clones and Smoke tackled him to the ground and held him down. Sub-Zero struggled and froze their feet as he broke them and punched Smoke while the clone was stabbed through the stomach by Scorpion's kitana.

Sub-Zero: "I owe you one."

Scorpion: "Consider it even."

Scorpion kicked Smoke in the face, knocking him out as Noob portalled behind Scorpion and stabbed him with his Scythe.

Noob: "Look at me and let life leave your eyes. The way you did for me."

Kenshi used his sword and pulled him back, throwing him far from the battlefield and using most of his mental powers to yank one of the arms of N. Gin's robot off.

N. Gin: "Gah!! My first beautiful creation!! Now you'll pay the price more!!!" *Starts to use all the weapons he has as a little laser pointed at Sub-Zero* "Taste the might of my wrath of Doom!!!"

N. Gin revved up the laser hands as Sub-Zero froze it while it charged up and Scorpion threw his blade at the robot's belly button laser, disabling it and making his belly button laser useless. N. Gin tried to fire the other missiles and lasers but sparks came out a bit and the other arm fell off.

N. Gin: "AUGH!!! Nooooo!!! My first beautiful creation of my collection!!"

Takeda threw the whip into the small hatch and yanked N. Gin out of the mech suit. While Sub-Zero helped heal the wound for Scorpion, Kenshi put the blade of his sword to N. Gin's face and had enough of the chaos.

Kenshi: "Alright. Enough with the games, Doctor. Talk and help us dismantle the behavior chip. It seems to be password protected."

N. Gin: "Leave me alone! I'm too pretty to be killed! I'm with the winner, Kronika! She may have banished Dr. Cortex, but I swore to her to make an army of cybernetic super soldiers that looked like our mortal enemy!"

Kenshi: "With all due respect, that's not gonna happen."

Takeda: "There's only one try on this thing. You might as well tell us."

N. Gin: "Of course not, you disgusting filthy heroes! I hate them with cheese like those annoying bandicoots!" *Talks to himself* "They made it here. So now they'll deal with these pests nicely and help us save Dr. Cortex. You idiot! We will never snitch on Lady Kronika! She told us we're smarter than Dr. Cortex! But he is our friend. You don't have any friends!" *Keeps on arguing with himself*

Sub-Zero: *Walks over to Cyrax* "Takeda. Let me try something."

Takeda nodded and moved over as Sub-Zero started to freeze the small dome in Cyrax's back and ripped it off. That's when Cyrax started to reboot.

Cyrax: *Windows noises* "Rebooting... 47% complete..."

N. Gin: *Gasps and saw Cyrax as he struggled* "No!!! NO!!! Unhand me now!"

Cyrax woke up and stood up, grabbing Sub-Zero's hand and shaking his head. He saw his hand and was in shock, seeing the rest of his body robotized.

Cyrax: "No... No! Sektor took me... Made me a machine!"

Sub-Zero: "Your soul is still intact, Cyrax. Trust me. I speak from experience."

Cyrax: "Kuai Liang...? You look so old... *Looks at Scorpion* And Scorpion...?"

Sub-Zero: "We'll explain later. Right now we need to defeat Sektor and destroy this factory."

Cyrax: "The only one who could unlock the doors here for me to find the weakest wires and shut the connection down is..." *Looked at N. Gin struggling* "You..." *Charges at him and activates his sawblade* "YOU!!!"

N. Gin: *Screams like a girl*

https://youtu.be/io4d9hnOWuw

Takeda: *Blocks him from advancing* "Wait! You said we need him to unlock the room here right?"

Cyrax: *Took a deep breath and exhales* "Yeah... I did..."

Takeda: "Let's keep him alive for that moment and then you can do whatever you want."

Cyrax: "Perhaps I could... Seeing how you all are battle damaged and most of the robot army is destroyed... I'll kill him before I dismantle the wires so that I can die with restored honor."

Sub-Zero: "We will bring you back, Cyrax."

Cyrax: "Please, Kuai Liang. Don't bring me back a machine."

Sub-Zero: "I promise you, Cyrax."

N. Gin: *Sarcastic* "Aww that's so sweet. You wanna answer to my bosses however!"

Missiles were fired at the heroes but Cyrax used his net and caught them, absorbing the damage and Sektor entered the room.

Kenshi: "Great. More of them."

Sektor: "Frost warned me that you two had become allies. I did not think you're capable of such dishonor, Sub-Zero."

Kenshi: "You guys can go. I'll keep him busy this time."

The group left as Kenshi got his sword ready and Sektor got in a fighting position.

Kenshi: "Lemme guess... Kronika offered you a clan to lead?"

Sektor: "Correct. The Cyber Lin Kuei will rule all realms."

Kenshi: "Yeah that's what she's saying to everyone now."

With the rest of the team...

Cyrax smashed N. Gin's head on the wall a few times and aimed the saw blade at his throat, holding him by the keypad.

Cyrax: "Open the door!"

N. Gin: *In fear* "I'LL BE GOOD!!! I PROMISE!!! JUST LEAVE ME ALONE!!! I'LL OPEN THE DOOR AND LET ME LIVE!!!"

Cyrax: "OPEN IT NOW!!"

The scared doctor did what Cyrax told him to do as the heroes soon ran and headed for the main breaker room, only freezing or destroying any Cyber Lin Kuei robots that blocked their path. They eventually found a room, one that could only be opened by Sektor, Frost or N. Gin.

Cyrax: "Open this door and you may udder your final words."

N. Gin: *Gulped and opened the door for Cyrax*

As the door opened, a few guards saw them and tried to bring them down but failed after Scorpion and Sub-Zero got through to them.

Back with Kenshi and Sektor...

The two were battling against each other as their hands were caught by each other as they pushed against each other.

Sektor: "Give it up. You have no chance against me! The Cyber Lin Kuei will rule all!"

Kenshi: "Not a chance! I will stop you even if it will cost me my own life!"

Sektor: "Very well then!"

Sektor used his strong uppercut which made Kenshi flinch and the enemy kicked him in the stomach as the blindfolded swordsman recovers from the surprise attack. Kenshi delivered his opponent a very painful Straight Kick, then a High Chop, next a Snap Kick and finally a Roundhouse Kick! Sektor was flinched by the attack and launched back off from the battlefield. The enemy got up but was still recovering from the pain.

Sektor: *Growing impatience* "Fool! You don't know what you're up against!"

Kenshi: "Neither are you!"

Kenshi charged forward with Sektor launching a barrage of missiles for Kenshi to dodge but one hit the sword and broke it. Kenshi was surprised but got in a defensive position as Sektor and the two traded blows. Kenshi stumbled back and was grabbed by Sektor's shoulder pincers and tossed behind the red robot, where he was kicked in the face.

Sektor: "Now you're just a blind old man. Perhaps you will be given new eyes when you become a part of our clan."

Sektor used teleportation to knee Kenshi in the back and activated his flame thrower, firing it at Kenshi for a few seconds. Kenshi suffered burns but it didn't last long when Sektor deactivated the flamethrower and fell to the ground. Sektor was deactivated as the alarm blared, flashing red and Noob Saibot, Smoke and Frost grabbed Sektor as they were taken back to Kronika's timekeep. Kenshi was panting and smiled a bit as he was burnt and laid there. The rest of the heroes beside Cyrax returned to see Kenshi with burns and on the floor.

Takeda: "Father!"

Takeda went over and held his father as he held him up and helped him out of the factory.

Scorpion: "I'm sorry, Takeda. We shall avenge your father."

Takeda: "I know we will.... They're gonna pay for this!"

Scorpion: "First we speak to Raiden."

They made their exit, unaware that a certain metal menace stared at them and watched them.

In Vortex's cell...

Vortex was clearing his mind as he waited for when he was fed, realizing that he needed to be kept alive for future plans. Meal time came and the Kremling General and his troops brought a tray of food, unlocking the cell door.

???? #1: "Dinner time, soldier! Eat up! I'm sure you'll enjoy your aspic this time!"

???? #2: "Why are we feeding him, General Klump?"

"Krusha!" (King K. Rool's Bodyguard & All-Brawns!) (Art by Bowsaremyfriends from Deviantart!)

???? #1: "The King and M. Bison told us to keep the prisoner alive, Krusha. He needs him for any possible reason. We could use a better hostage though. One that doesn't act like a stubborn baboon."

"General Klump!" (King K. Rool's Second-Command & Military General Kremling!) (Art by Bowsaremyfriends from Deviantart!)

Krusha: "Should we tell the King about the evil gorilla?"

G. Klump: "Depends on if Lady Kronika hasn't told him yet. It's ironic we have to work with a Gorilla and his own army. It's not even a good army. Just a bunch of dumb apes with guns."

Krusha: "Sounds uh.... Stupid...?"

G. Klump: "Never mind, soldier! Hold down the prisoner while I feed him!"

Krusha unlocked Vortex's chains but was surprised when Vortex started to disappear into small white particles that fell to the floor.

G. Klump: "No!! The prisoner!! We needed him alive!"

Krusha: "What do we do, General Klump?!"

G. Klump: I think... I think we gotta face the music, Krusha. Let's hope they go easy on us."

Krusha nodded and the two made their way to find K. Rool or Geras but that's when the ground shook a little.

G. Klump: "Did you feel that?"

Krusha: "What could it mean?"

Unknown to them, the answer would come in a big surprise.

With Geras, Past Kano and Past Erron Black...

The three were walking to where Sektor was being kept after the Cyber Lin Kuei Factory was destroyed.

P. Kano: "Our Lady Kronika shall get all the service she needs. But I can't quote a fee until I know the job."

Geras: "You will see."

The three kept walking but felt the ground shake but it wasn't as strong due to the prison being on the other side of where they were.

P. Kano: "That usually happens here?"

Geras: "Strangely not. It's odd. General Klump will look over it."

The three entered the room where Sektor was laying on a table, deactivated, to see Mother Brain using small robotic claws to take some defunct parts of Sektor out.

M. Brain: "You three are late but better than never. I managed to fix a few bugs in Sektor's circuits but there's too much that's missing for me to put into him."

P. Kano: "Let me take a look."

P. Kano started scanning the comatose Cyber Lin Kuei Leader as a couple of things were marked on the screen.

P. Kano: "There's some frame damage, circuitry looks good. But looks like someone did a software wipe, Fixing that won't come cheap."

Geras: "Once he is repaired, can he be replicated? Hundreds of times? Thousands?"

M. Brain: "Seeing as how N. Gin was killed, what would you say about giving me a better suit for me to walk in? One that could break any hard material and also not be broken by little pellets or succumb to frost?"

P. Erron came a bit closer to P. Kano for a discussion...

P. Erron: "That's a tall order. Hell, this batch of robots couldn't take down four people and now they want us to make an unstoppable mech suit."

P. Kano: "Then we upgrade them and give the gross creature the suit. Anything's possible. With the right price."

Geras: "Serve Kronika and she will provide."

????: "Take the deal! Trust me!"

A two figures approached the three, one with a red glowing eye and glowing chest and the other wearing a beak mask. The shadows revealed them as Kano from the future and Kai Chisaki otherwise known as Overhaul!

Kano: "Otherwise... Who can you trust?"

"Kano!" (Leader of the Black Dragon and Sonya Blade's Mortal Enemy!)

P. Kano walked over in shock and checked his future self out.

Kano: "You weren't kidding. It's like a mirror. Reflecting on the past."

P. Kano: "How about that? Over fifty and still a-" *Punches Kano's shoulder* "Ripper!"

Overhaul: "And if you're looking for power, I think I have a few ideas on who we can find."

"Overhaul!" (Leader of the Yakuza and also known as Kai Chisaki!)

P. Erron: "Ahem. There's still a matter of our fee."

Kano: "We get paid in the New Era. The Black Dragon will not only dominate the Black Market but every market."

Overhaul: "For the Yakuza, we get to make sure heroes and those with powers no longer exist, making it easier for the Yakuza to be what it always was. Greatness."

Kano: "As long as you stick to your side."

Overhaul: "Likewise. I'm surprised you guys considered the Yakuza instead of the League of Villains or the Monster Association."

Geras: "Some members of the League of Villains weren't fond of serving Kronika. All for One is currently serving the same fate as N.M.E. We only have a few that agreed to do so. That said, the Nomu that have already begun production are going well as we speak. Monster King Orochi and Psykos, however, agreed to it. They are smarter than to attack Kronika for power and will give us enough monsters to keep them out."

Overhaul: "Guess we have our work cut out for us."

P. Kano: "Alright then. Let's get to work."

Overhaul: "What do you boys know about Stark Industries?"

Before anyone could answer, the ground shook more as the source of the earthquake blew up a big hole in the TimeKeep as Mother Brain fell to the floor, glass breaking, and flopped around a bit. Geras rewinded her back to normal but the others left the room to investigate.

Geras: "The prisoner must have escaped!"

Geras was right as Krusha was sent through the wall, beaten to a bloody pulp along with other Kremlings as a few Apes came by with their AK-47s and shot at the figure walking in the dust. The Apes were knocked down and locked in cages as the floating figure stared down at the other villains. Geras recognized the prisoner's new form and he activated his giant fist gauntlet

Geras: "I have heard of this form before. He has achieved Ultra Instinct."

Overhaul: *Calmly* "Seems like a little brat, just like Eri."

Overhaul took off his gloves and placed his hands on the ground, causing the ground to shake and spikes came out. The spikes were dodged by Vortex at blinding speed, shocking Overhaul.

Overhaul: "What?!"

Overhaul was kicked in the stomach and sent flying into a wall as the two Kanos fired their lasers which were dodged quickly and the two were knocked down. Geras was ready to fight Vortex as the new Ultra Instinct user vanished and appeared in front of Geras quickly, punching him through the chest and came out the other end with his heart in his hand. Vortex squished it but was then frozen in time by Geras, who used the last of his strength to back out of his arm. He was panting but felt better once he regenerated.

Geras: "Lady Kronika will be displeased to hear this!"

Kronika: "Agreed, Geras!"

The Keep was being rebuilt after the explosion as Kronika looked at Vortex, upset at the damage that was made.

Kronika: "I felt my keep being destroyed when you achieved your new form. I see you are not the smartest member of the Y/N Heroes."

Vortex: "Fuck you!" *Spits at her face*

Kronika used her telekinesis and made the air leave Vortex's lungs. She stared him down and a blade came out of her arm as she slashed Vortex's head off but then used her powers to revive him. Despite the shock, Kronika used her powers to perform her fatality, ripping Vortex in half! It seemed like it was the end but he was reattached and brought back to life which didn't last long as he was skinned alive and then reattached. He had died more than four deaths after the resurrection and was then dropped to the ground as Vortex was panting and threw up, shocked and feeling horrible from the amount of deaths he faced.

Kano and P. Kano: "That was fucking diabolical!"

Vortex: *Shudders* "W-what the fuck...?"

Kronika: "I used my time abilities to revive you. I am the Keeper of Time. Kronika. I am intrigued by your new form but that will not be needed for your task."

Kano: "Well Lady Kronika.... Looks like we found ourselves the first soldier of the Cyber Lin Kuei."

Vortex's eyes widened as he was frozen in time by Geras and the villains got to work, Kronika leaving the scene to get someone else to use as a pawn.

Back at the Secret Base...

Jacqui Briggs was using her phone to try and call her Dad.

Jacqui: "C'mon, pick up already..."

"Jacqui Briggs!" (Daughter of Jackson Briggs and Tough Soldier!)

The call wasn't picked up as she sighed and tried again.

Takeda: "Still trying to call your old man?"

Jacqui: "He still hasn't picked up. I can't believe how lonely it must be on the farm. He must be climbing the walls right now."

Takeda: "Don't worry. I'm sure he's got his ways of keeping himself company. You'll get through to him soon enough."

Jacqui: "The sooner the better... It's crazy seeing a younger version of my dad here. How's your dad holding up?"

Takeda: "3rd degree burns on various parts of his body. Medic is healing him but they said he won't be able to fight for a while."

Jacqui: "I know he'll pull through, Takashi."

Takeda: "I know he will. Crazy to see your old man but younger, right?"

Jacqui: "Right? Can this get any more Bizarre?"

At the Briggs farm....

In the quiet farm, the present Jax Briggs was looking all over the house to find the ringing phone. He looked everywhere in a hurry and found it under a stack of papers. The ringing had ended so he tried to call Jacqui back.

Jax: "The one place I left my phone." *Tries dialing* "C'mon pick up... Pick up! *The call doesn't go through* "Ugh! Damnit!!" *Throws his phone at the wall and sits on the couch, defeated*

"Jax Briggs!" (Father of Jacqui Briggs and Robotic Armed Powerhouse!)

Jax had nothing else to do so he decided to spend the whole day like he usually does, watching TV and drinking beer. It was nighttime as he was sleeping on the couch with the TV playing nothing but static. His bottle of beer started to slip out of his hands and fall but before it hit the ground, it was frozen in place. That's when the Keeper of TIme herself appeared!

Kronika: *In a clam tone* "Jackson Briggs."

Jax started to wake up to see Kronika right in his living room

Kronika: "Do not fear. I have come to offer you a new life. A better life."

Jax: "That's awfully generous, seeing as we've never met."

Kronika: "We have not met, but I know you. How valiantly you have served. How horribly you have suffered. That was not my plan for you, was it?"

Jax: "Your plan?"

Kronika: "Precisely. You were to retire distinguished, not in disgrace. Years from now, General Jackson Briggs. More importantly, your daughter was not meant to serve, nor endure the same tragedies you have. Your home should be flooded with Grandchildren. Help me and it will."

Jax gave her an uncertain look. The decision was not clear as we now looked to see what Jade, Kotal and Raiden had planned while all of this was happening.

On Outworld...

Jade, Raiden and Kotal were discussing their next course of action.

Kotal: "The tarkatans, long extinct, have also returned thanks to Ermac's returned allegiance. We received information that they allied themselves with another race of crocodiles called the Kremlings and a group called 'The Society'."

Raiden: "No doubt Shao Kahn has seeked all three of those groups out. He relies on their power and reliability."

Jade: "Kotal's scouts tracked a Tarkatan and Kremling war party to the Kyrinn's Lost Hive. D'vorah's ancestral home. Her hand in Shao Kahn's escape makes that our starting point."

Raiden: "Please advise me on what you learn. I must consult with the Elder Gods."

With that, Raiden disappeared and Kitana had arrived.

Kitana: "When do we leave?"

Kotal: "Your duty lies elsewhere, princess. I need you to enlist Queen Sheeva. Her support is critical, against both Kronika and Shao Kahn."

Kitana: "One of Shao Kahn's partners? Surely you can-"

Kotal: "Queen Sheeva does not trust me. No Shokan has trusted me ever since my bloody battle with Goro."

Jade: "I don't believe she would ally with Shao Kahn after his death. She's always respected your opinion more than anyone's. When she hears you support Kotal, she'll join us."

Kitana: "If that is my duty, so be it."

Kotal: "Thank you, Princess."

Kotal walked off as it was just Kitana and Jade now.

Kitana: "Are you my friend or his consort?"

Jade: "It was my idea, Kitana. It's in your best interest. Succeed with Sheeva, and Kotal will pledge his loyalty to you. There's no bond more sacred to an Osh-Tekk like him."

Kitana: "The sooner we claim victory in the war the better."

Jade: "Agreed."

The two nodded and went their separate ways.

In the Outskirts of Outworld...

Kotal, Jade, the Osh-Tekk army and Kotal's allies were on horseback, looking for the Hive.

Jade: "I remember when we could ride like this alone."

Kotal: "My life has changed as Outworld's Kahn. Thankfully, you have not."

Jade: "You haven't changed much either, despite the years. You're still the same noble warrior I met in Shao Kahn's court. And now you're Kahn. I'm surprised no woman has claimed your bed and become your queen."

Kotal: "Many have tried."

Jade: "Yet they failed? Why?"

Kotal: "None of them were you."

The army kept riding as they soon saw how close they were to the Hive.

Reptile: "We have arrived, your highness."

Jade: "No doubt these fresh footprints lead into the Hive. If Shao Kahn's in there, he'll be difficult to find. The tunnels are endless."

Erron: "Then let's smoke this place out."

Kotal: "Erron is correct. If he's hidden, he'll be smoked out."

Jade: "Kotal, we don't know who else is in there."

The ground started to shake, scaring the horses, as large bugs emerged from the ground and started attacking. As the heroes fought and killed the creatures, one of the bugs grabbed Jade and dragged her down.

Kotal: "Jade!"

Kotal kept fighting since they blocked his way but Jade was dragged too deep and into the middle of the Hive, seeing a figure drop down and walk towards her.

R. Jade: "Hold her!"

R. Jade walked over and slammed her staff down on her past self but it didn't work as she dodged her head and the staff killed the bug instead.

Jade: "By the Gods it's true... Is this what I become?"

R. Jade: "Blame your Loyalty to Kitana. She led you directly to your death."

Jade: "Then so be it. I would not trade Kitana's friendship for anything."

R. Jade: "It is pitiful you choose servitude."

Jade: "She and I fight side-by-side, against Shao Kahn!"

The two got into fighting stances and charged at each other. Jade struck first by attacking her revenant doppelganger with a Razor-Rang and a Straight Kick. R. Jade was affected by the attack and returned her an Edenian Palm and a Staff Slam. The real Jade stepped after she took damage and grabbed her R. Jade initiated her Towarding Throw and R. Jade was launched towards a wall.

R. Jade: *Gets up* "Rgh... Not bad. I see you were strong back then."

Jade: "You've grown quite a lot in this time, but my loyalty and bond will never be broken apart."

R. Jade: "Hmph. Say that all you want but it will your downfall."

Jade: "Don't count on it."

Jade continued fighting with a Stiletto Strike and a Krushing Blow towards her Revenant counterpart as she returned a Heavens Heel attack and committed Staff Slam at Jade. The heroine resisted and continued with the two having a sword-like duel with their own staffs. Having more experience, R. Jade was able to deal some more damage to Jade's limbs but in the past Jade hit her in the stomach, hitting her in the face multiple times with the staff and kicking her down, knocking her out.

Jade: "When called for a higher purpose, we ser-."

???: "Ack-Na! Kot-tek-hah!"

Jade moved out of the way as Kotal and D'Vorah fell to the ground. Kotal landed on his back but D'Vorah landed on her feet. Kotal tried to stab her foot but D'Vorah jumped out of the way and Kotal got back up.

Kotal: "You will bleed for your betrayal, D'vorah."

D'Vorah: "This one acts for the Hive's survival."

D'Vorah's pincers came out and she charged towards him, trying to stab him but they were blocked by Kotal's scythe's. Kotal tried to stab her with his blades but he missed and tried again, this time getting stabbed in the shoulder by one of D'Vorah's pincers. Kotal fell on his knees and the bug queen forced his mouth open, spitting out small maggots into his mouth. Kotal tried to break free but couldn't due to the venom being a temporary paralysis poison that made him unable to break free. The horrid torture came to an end when she dodged a boomerang that came her way. Jade caught her boomerang and walked towards her.

Jade: "You'd best flee, D'Vorah. Kotal is mine."

Jade charged at D'Vorah fiercely with her staff and jabbed her in the stomach but D'Vorah grabbed Jade's staff and jabbed the heroine back and performed a Brood Slam right on top of her. Jade can feel the pain but she's not letting up. She gave D'Vorah a few Quick Slaps and a Straight Palm. Moving on, Jade gave D'Vorah a Edenian Drill and a Warrior's Heel but D'Vorah resisted and returned with a Killer Strike and a Close Ground Swarm on Jade. The two fighters were growing impatient as they continued fighting. The bug queen gave Jade a Spinning Web attack and a Beetle Kick but Jade avoided the first attack but didn't dodge the second attack. Then, Jade got back up on with her Glaiver Saver Getup Attack. D'Vorah attempted with her Pupa Poke and attacked from above with her Bot Fly Kombo Attack. Jade was taking damage as D'Vorah watched her struggle.

D'Vorah: "This one will enjoy feeding you to the hive."

Jade: *Groaned in pain* "I doubt it."

D'Vorah: "Your enthusiasm is useless."

The hive queen initiated her next Kombo Attack, the Siafu. As Jade recovered, she gave D'Vorah a Heavens Heel and her Kombo Attack, The Simple Seduction. D'vorah's attack was cut off and dodged as Jade landed those two attacks and knocked her down. She then threw her sharp boomerang on D'Vorah's hand which stuck her down. Jade used her staff and put it up to her throat.

Jade: "Tell us where to find Shao Kahn." *Adds pressure* "Now."

D'Vorah snarled and sighed, agreeing to it as she would spill what she knew.

D'Vorah: "You'll find them south of here, where the Tarkatans once roamed."

Jade glared at her as she took her staff and boomerang off. She forced her up and performed one of her fatalities, 'Bow Before Me', where D'Vorah's limbs were cut off, stunting her growth and making her scream in pain. Jade stopped the screaming by chopping off her head and then stabbing her through the mouth.

Jade: "Good riddance."

Jade swung the head and smashed it against the wall. She then made her way to Kotal as he was barfing the maggots out.

Jade: "Are you OK?"

Kotal: *Coughs* "I am for now that D'vorah has been killed. We must hurry to the Tarkatan's keep."

Jade: "And we will once you get better."

Kotal nodded and they made way for their troops.

Timeskip... With time working differently in the Outworld...

Kotal Kahn's forces were now at the peak of the Tarkatan's base where they also noticed some green beings walking around but put that aside.

Kotal: "Ghosts of my past. D'Vorah spoke the truth. We are outnumbered even without the Kremlings on their side."

Jade: "Give me your best soldiers. We'll infiltrate the camp and search for Shao Kahn unseen."

Kotal: "What you propose is dangerous."

Jade: "Of course it is."

In the Tarkatan base...

Jade, Reptile, Erron and a few other soldiers snuck around, avoiding the Tarkatans that were nearby. They almost bumped into a horde of Kremlings and Blood-Thirsty Klaptraps walking around but they hid around the corner. Once the coast was clear, they moved but failed to notice the female Tarkatan that was around the corner, startling her.

Female Tarkatan: "Toh ha na? Taka ha na aki Tarkata? Nay... Nay.. Trakka ti!"

The female Tarkatan was backing away, scared for her life as Erron got his pistol ready. Jade signaled him to stand down.

Jade: "Don't." *Looks at the female with a calm face* "We won't hurt you. We just need to know where Shao Kahn is. In return, we'll do any favor you ask."

Female Tarkatan: "Shao Kahn? Pakta ray Shao Kahn?"

Jade: "Please..."

Jade kept trying to calm the Tarkatan down but she ended up backing up into a guard post, alerting the guard to blow the horn. Pretty soon, Kremlings and Tarkatans were charging towards the group.

Jade: "Run!!!"

The group ran as Erron got his pistols ready and headshot multiple Kremlings and Tarkatans. He then retreated and split up with the others. Back at the top of the mountain, Kotal Kahn heard everything and got his soldiers on horseback.

Kotal and his forces raced down as Jade was running from a swarm of the Tarkatans and Kremlings. She found a small area with skinned people as she used her Bo staff to take down a few enemies that were close. She hit every part of their body, kicked them down and then ran through the skinned bodies, using them to block one of the Kremlings. Jade then swung from hook to hook as she stabbed one of the soldiers with a hook, beheading it in the process. Some Kritters fired their Kalp Blasters at Jade but made it out alright. Klaptraps were trying to bite her face off but she swung them off and stomped on them. She was then cornered after escaping as the Kollector was in front of her and chuckled.

Jade: "All these years and you still exploit others to rise above your station."

Kollector: "I have risen to my station, Jade."

The Tarkatans and Kremlings saw Kotal and his forces and tried to swarm him but the Kahn managed to slice any and all enemies that came his way. He grabbed a Kremling by the neck with one hand as he stabbed and kicked away other soldiers, snapping the Kremlings neck when he was finished. He then tossed the body and stabbed a Tarkatan through his stomach.

????: "KOTAL KAHN!!"

Kotal was shocked to recognize the voice of a Shokan that he killed years ago. The Tarkatans moved away to let Goro walk through. The four armed rebels glared at Kotal as he ripped the head off of one of his Osh Tekk soldiers.

Kotal: "Goro!"

"Goro!" (Four-Armed Shokan Soldier and one of Shao Kahn's subordinates!)

Goro: "I've been expecting you..."

Kotal: "I thought I finished you long ago."

Goro: "I heard about it from Kronika. She told me that you killed me after I refused to help you. I will rip your arms off and kill you!!!"

Goro ran towards Kotal as he charged too and they engaged in battle!

Kollector: "Before Shao Kahn raised me up. Outworlders despised the Naknada. Now they fear us! Tell me that is not progress."

The Kollector equipped his daggers with all four of his arms and Jade summoned her Bo staff.

Kollecter: "Shall we?"

Jade: "Let's shall."

The two fighters charged fiercely as Jade attacked first with her basic attacks, The Quick Slap & The Pierce Attack while Kollecter initiated his basic attacks, His Claw Swipe & the Slickle Slice. Both fighters damaged each other but resisted their other attacks. Jade continued by attacking Kollector with her Knee Breaker. He took damage but he got back up, caught Jade off guard with his Flailing Mace attack and grabbed her with hesitation. He then initiated his Forward Throw attack and threw Jade away from him. Feeling undaunted, the Edenian Heroine charged straight towards Kollector again and used her hop attack, The Krushing Blow at Kollector and attacked him again with a Blazing Nitro Kick. Then, with no hesitation, she tackled down her opponent, initiated her own throw move, The Krushing Throw and threw Kollector as far as possible. Kollector began to grow impatient and attacked Jade with his Demonic Mace but Jade avoided the attack and began her Kombo Attack on Kollecter as he got close she started to use her Kombo Attack, The Fatal Attraction just before Kollector could use his own Kombo Attack. With Kollector in daze, this was Jade's chance to use her Finishing move on him. She approached Kollector and gave him the Deadly Dance, her Brutal Finishing Move. Jade had finally won.

Jade: "Fear and Respect are not equals."

When Jade's battle was over, Kotal's army had overcome the Kremling and Tarkatan army with Goro and Kotal continuing their battle.

Goro: "You're upset at how I killed your father, Kotal."

Kotal: "You betrayed Outworld and my forces! I will ruin your family name again!!"

Goro launched fireballs from his arms but Kotal blocked them and used one of his moves to call down the sun's rays and burnt Goro. Goro tanked the burns as he launched and tried to stomp Kotal but Kotal dodged and used his blades to cut Goro's arms and back. Goro grabbed Kotal by the neck with one hand and used two more of his hands to punch Kotal in the face multiple times. Kotal stabbed the arms and punched him in the gut. He then started to cut the bottom arms and chop it off, making Goro scream in pain. Kotal was about to chop the rest of his arm off and then did the other arm. Kotal kicked him to the ground and backed away. He then charged towards Goro and turned into a jaguar, trying to pounce on Goro to mual him to death but a cannon ball hit him and made him launch far. The user of this Blunderbuss was the Kremlings ruler, King K. Rool!

K. Rool: "I came as soon as I heard. How dare you kill my minions?!"

Kotal roared at K. Rool and Jade caught up to him.

Jade: "Are you OK, Kotal?"

Kotal nodded as Jade got her Bo staff ready.

Jade: "I'll handle the Kremling King. Finish off Goro while you can."

Kotal complied as Goro got back up to fight him while K. Rool threw his crown at Jade as a boomerang.

K. Rool: "I'll teach you to mess with my Kremling subjects! Time to duel with me! King K. Rool!"

Jade didn't believe so as she gave the king a few slams and hits from her staff. K. Rool didn't take it kindly as he fired a barrage of Kannonballs from his Blunderbuss at the female Edenian. Jade evaded the barrage and attacked K. Rool with her Special Attack, The Deadly Butterfly. K. Rool didn't take it kindly. He grabbed Jade, pummeled her a couple times, and Piledrived her into the ground. As Jade struggled to get back up above ground, K. Rool pulled out his boxing glove and gave her hsi Forward side smash, The Dynamite Punch, and punched her straight into a wall. The Kremling King Smirk devilishly at her.

Jade: "You will fail your mission, K. Rool."

K. Rool: "Well, lady. I can be a reasonable reptile. What will it take for you and your allies to surrender?"

Jade: "Save your breath. I'm not interested in surrendering."

K. Rool: "Lady Kronika and I are losing our patience and you don't want us to lose our patience."

G. Klump: *Arrives with bandages and a broken arm* "King K. Rool! Your majesty! Bad news!!"

K. Rool: "What now, Klump?"

G. Klump: "W-well, sir, Vortex escaped our prison cell b-but! Kronika managed to kill him multiple times and things are going well for the Cyber Lin Kuei!"

K. Rool: "What?!"

Jade roundhouse kicked K. Rool in the face, breaking his snout and knocking him out with some sort of brain damage as General Klump gulped and backed away nervously but held his Orange Grenade Launcher at Jade.

G. Klump: "Stand down, lady! I'm armed with my own weapon! I ain't afraid to use it!!"

Unfortunately, Jade clogged the grenade launcher with her staff and it backfired on Klump as his weapon exploded and the general was knocked out easily.

Jade: "Pathetic."

Meanwhile, the Tarkatans and Kremlings were lined up as Goro ran away to heal from the bloody and panting Kahn. Kotal surveyed the scared prisoners of war and made his final call.

Kotal: "Line them up! Execute them all!"

The Tarkatans and Kremlings were frightened and trying to resist as Jade watched, seeing how even the children would be slaughtered. They were knelt to the ground and the Osh-Tekk army lined their blades to behead them, waiting for Kotal's signal. He raised his arm and almost swung it down before Jade interrupted her.

Jade: "Kotal, this is cruel. Many of them didn't fight. There are children."

Kotal: "You forget, in my time, they joined Mileena to rebel against me!"

Jade: "These are not the same Tarkatans, Kotal. A better Khan would offer them a warm hand, not cold steel."

Erron Black, Reptile, Ferra and Torr were about to intervene and help Kotal but he made them stand down.

Kotal: "I apologize in advance, Jade."

Jade: "I apologize in advance too."

Jade used her Heel kick move but it knocked Kotal back a tiny bit. He grabbed her leg and tossed her away, transforming into his Jaguar form once again and pouncing onto Jade to bite her. Jade moved out the way and hit him multiple times with the Bo staff and kicked him away. Kotal was back to normal as the two traded blows and he grabbed her by the neck. He tossed her on the ground and then kicked her away as he then put his foot to her back.

Kotal: "For your own benefit, I suggest you yield."

Jade: "Never!"

Kotal: "Jade... Please."

Jade stabbed Kotal's foot with her blade, making him grit his teeth in pain and back away. He took the dagger out and punched her to knock Jade out. Kotal felt bad as he sat on the ground.

Kotal: "Ferra, Torr! Take her back to the palace. Let her rest in my bed."

Ferra: *Nods* "Yes! Bring the green lady home!!"

Torr growled slowly and walked over to her and grabbed her with both hands.

"Ferra & Torr!" (Hulking beast and Small Child to be the Perfect Duo!)

As they walked, they heard someone walking from behind and saw Shao Kahn and R. Kitana were there to greet them. They looked at Jade's unconscious body and then at Kotal holding his foot. Shao Kahn stared intensely as their fates were sealed.

At the Heavens...

Past Raiden had arrived to consult with the Elder Gods yet again but all he saw were the Elder Gods' thrones destroyed. It was empty and it seemed like all hope was lost.

Raiden: "It's too late..."

Cetrion: *Comes down* "Blame yourself for their deaths, Raiden. Your actions have irrevocably altered Kronika's golden balance of light and dark. Shinnok's decapitation was the capstone."

Raiden: "You are a paragon of virtue. You should wish evil vanquished!"

Cetrion: "I abide by my mother's will."

Raiden: "You were begotten by Kronika."

Cetrion: "As was my brother, Shinnok. The darkness to my light. Nature demands equilibrium. Balance is perfection." *Puts his hand on his shoulder* "You have stepped out of your role, made that balance impossible. That's why the New Era has no place for you or Y/N L/N."

Raiden: "What does he have to do with all this?"

Cetrion: "His arrogance has led the timeline to split in more ways than one, making it pass the threshold and the TVA on high alert for him. Seeing the defeat of other embodiments of evil by his hand, balance was made impossible by him too. He even threatens to fall down the same path as your future counterpart."

Raiden: "Him too?"

Cetrion: "Yes. That is why the timeline must be reset. To prevent arrogance to threaten the balance."

Raiden: "You will not succeed."

Cetrion: "Kotal Kahn has been captured, Raiden. Y/N L/N has been weakened by the time merger, allies will fall as we speak. The combined might of Outworld, Netherrealm and real world will keep your forces-" *Starts to walk away* "-at bay while my mother finishes her work."

Raiden: "Do not underestimate Earthrealm's warriors!"

Cetrion: "You were right to be fond of them, Raiden. They were good souls."

Raiden watched her leave as he went back to the Special Forces base.

Earlier... At Kronika's Keep...

During the incident with Kotal and Jade, Mother Brain and the two Kanos were working on their latest Cyber Lin Kuei member. Mother Brain was using her robot claws to manually rip out Vortex's brain and spinal cord as P. Kano put the finishing touches on the robot body.

P. Kano: "Just a few more touches and we'll be all set. He won't be as advanced as what Overhaul was going for but this next batch of Cyber Lin Kuei, Space pirates, what have you, will be good fodder."

Kano: "Yeah you said it. No doubt he's doing good work and getting along with his new friends."

M. Brain: "Open the hatch, quick!"

Kano laid the body on the table as Mother Brain placed the Brain and Spinal Cord into the Cyborg body, fitting perfectly and the inhibitor chip being tighter and harder to remove.

M. Brain: "This time it'll be harder to remove that inhibitor chip."

P. Kano: "We'd love to see how your moment of truth goes but I got a little date with an old friend."

M. Brain: "That's fine. Make sure Sektor and Erron Black are there. Kronika must have brought Gorilla Grodd and his army here by now."

Kano and P. Kano walked off to meet with Sektor as Mother Brain closed the Cyborg body and turned it on.

M. Brain: "Yes. Arise future heir of the Space Pirates."

Cyber Vortex's eyes glowed blue as he sat up and saluted. Mother Brain started to chuckle as her plan had started. What will become of the REAL Vortex Sakamoto?!

To be continued...