Disclaimer: I do not own any of the MK Characters I use. I just write about them.

Any comments or anything at all will be welcomed.

Part 1: Sonya meets Jax

After weeks of training the new unit was ready. They had been training for 6 months after their original army course. These were the new recruits for the US Special Forces. Among them were Sonya Blade and her twin brother Daniel. Lance Wexler and Jackson Briggs. Sonya and Daniel were already skilled fighters as they had joined the army when they were sixteen. They were outstanding new recruits. They exceeded in every physical and mental test. The only problem there seemed to be was Sonya sheer lack of trust of anyone especially her superiors. This was to be over looked due her excellent academic record. That and the fact that her mother and father, Major Herman and Erica Blade had been in the forces all their lives. Jackson Briggs was a big black man who looked like he ate bricks for breakfast. Sonya thought he might be a body builder. Jackson saw a blond girl repeatedly stare at him. What’s a matter never seen a black guy in the forces he thought to himself? He’d suffered racial prejudices before, but he’d overcome them all and we here today. The blond was talking to a guy who looked very similar. He wondered if they were related. The blond girl decided to do something very out of character, she went to speak to the big black man. She didn’t know why just had a gut feeling; she always acted on her feelings. She walked straight towards him and thrust out her hand. “The names Sonya Blade and over there’s my twin brother Daniel. And you are?” Jackson considered for a second He didn’t want these people as enemies and he had no friends anyway. Besides he kinda liked the blond girl. “Jackson Briggs but my friends call me Jax.”

“Well” Said Sonya “I think I’d like you as a friend so I’ll call you Jax.”

With that she left and Jax shock his head. What a weird day this had been after six long months he had finally achieved a goal. He was in the Special Forces and he’d made his first friend wouldn’t momma be proud. Remembering of which I’d better phone her he thought.

Part 2:

“Daniel, I know you’re my big brother by only 4 minutes I may add, but if you don’t stop trying to control me I’m gonna kill you.” Said Sonya heatedly.

“I’m worried about that’s all.”

“Why? I’m just as capable as you of looking after myself.” She argued.

“I see the ways those guys look at you and I really don’t like it.” Daniel’s eyes flashed Sonya knew she was getting into dangerous water but couldn’t help but argue.

“What so when that brunette slapper looks at you I should be worried for your wellbeing. Don’t give me that double standard crap. We’re not in high school anymore and you can’t tell me who I can and cannot see.” Sonya face grew red she was getting really angry

“You just won’t listen to sense will you?”

“Fuck you Daniel I’m away down the Gym.” With that she stormed out of her dorm and wished she hadn’t given him a key. On route to the gym she caught sight of Jax.

“Hey Jax wait up!” she shouted. He stopped and turned round and smiled. The blond girl Sonya again.

Back in Daniel’s dorm. He and his partner Lance Wexler were talking.

“Hey man was up with you? You look like you been sucking on a lemon.” Questioned Lance.

“Any ideas on how to talk sense to my little sister? I’m supposed to keep an eye on her but how can I do that when she never tells me where she goes? It drives me to distraction it really does.”

“I really don’t think you got worry about that one Dan. I’ve seen her fight.”

“I know. I just worry.”

“Hey I know that, but.”

“I should apologise right?”

“Yeah you should. You don’t need any stress before your first mission.”

“Oh shit. They announce that tonight don’t they?”

“I remember my first mission.” Lance said. He was a lieutenant already and had been in the forces two years longer than Daniel.

Back at the gym Sonya was sparring with Jax. It looked like Sonya was losing. She was on the ground but Jax went for the final hit Sonya leapt up and put him and arm locked hooked his legs and put on the floor. She held him for ten seconds and let him go.

“Guess I win.” She said triumphantly

“Yeah again” replied Jax.

“You know I get the feeling your not try Mr Briggs” Sonya said slyly

“Uh-Uh Sonya Blade I am not fighting you again. I don’t have the energy. Sonya turn round here comes trouble.” Sonya turned round and seen Daniel approaching.

“Is everything O.K Sonya. You know I don’t like Him.” Said Jax

“He is my brother Jax.”

“Girl you gotta admit he sure got it in for me.” Jax raised his eyebrow at her. Your not the only one thought Sonya. Daniel marched up to them.

“My first mission is tomorrow and I wanted to clear the air before then.” He looked at her with big brown eyes

“O.K I forgive you big brother but you have to stop worrying about me. Am I in your unit?”

“No your were assigned else where but I know that he is in your unit and quite possibly your partner.” He pointed at Jax who was almost growling.

“He has a name. When are you leaving?”

“Tonight and we are all going out for dinner. Will you come?”

“Yeah but I’m bringing Jax.”

“Now wait a minute.” They both said at the same time.

“I’ve made my mind up I’m coming and so is Jax and that is that.” Jax and Daniel looked at each other. When Sonya made her mind up then nothing on heaven or earth would change it.

After dinner that night went with no trouble. Sonya and Daniel where alone.

“So what does this mission involve then?” Sonya was questioning her brother.

“They’re a little bit shady before briefing but all I know is that it involves a group called the Black Dragon.”

“Daniel I have a real bad feeling about all this. I’ve heard that name before. Aren’t we too wet behind the ears for going after crime syndicates.”

“That’s what I thought but Lance has been here for well over two years.”

“I’ll miss you even if you are an asshole.”

“I’m not the only one you’ll be off roaming the country too.”

“Promise you’ll write home.”

“As long as you do too.”

“I will.”

Part 3: Kano and the Black Dragon

A year later Sonya and Jax are raiding a warehouse suspected of smuggling. They weren’t told who was behind the raids. Sonya clicked the safety off her gun. It made her feel safer and more prepared. Little did she know that Jax had already been disabled round at the other entrance. She found a small window and entered the warehouse. She had been given orders to kill. She had killed only 10 men before that night in her life but killing was part of the job. She saw man in a strange uniform holding some sort of gun. She couldn’t quite make out what kind of gun it was. She crept behind him and noticed several other guards. She put her hand over his mouth, dragged him round the back of the creates she had hid behind. She broke the guards’ neck. His head lolled about and he fell. His head was hardly noticed for the spine jutted out under it. There was a little blood that steadily dripped on the floor. She looked round and all the guards where gone and so where the creates. In the space where they had been only a few short minutes ago lay 10 bodies all of them bearing Special Forces uniform. Have to stay calm she thought to herself can’t let the fear get the better of me. She scurried around the creates there seemed to be no one left. She stepped out to examine the bodies. She was almost sick. A thought then came to her What if one of them is Jax. All the bodies had their throats slashed. She looks around spotting no other movement She checks it was her whole unit except Jax. Where is he she thought? Everybody was dead. How could this have happened? She heard footsteps and looked up. A man wearing trouser and an oriental style waist coat with no buttons. His most startling feature had to be a metal plate on the left side of his face featuring a red eye where his normal eye should be. Sonya wasn’t scared she’d never been scared in her life. This man was unarmed make no threatening body language. He had a playful twinkle in his eye but apart from that he could be harmless. She knew this was untrue.

“Hello baby we meet at last. I’ve heard so much about you.” His voiced oozed and had an accent she couldn’t quite place. She drew her gun and aimed it at his head.

“Lieutenant Sonya Blade US Special Force. State your business here.” She barked her voice steady. He replied only with a snigger.

“Raise your hand above your head and be prepared to be searched.” Sonya walked over to the man who had raised his hands and proceeded to search him.

“I could get use to this sweetheart.” He winked.

“Asshole.” He then got look in his eye that warned Sonya.

“5” he said enjoying the letters come out his mouth. Sonya stood her ground.

“4, 3, 2, 1, 0” Sonya fell to the ground a roaring pain shot threw her body she couldn’t even stand. Two men appeared from no where. They held her up as the man advanced towards her.

“No.” she said nearly whimpering. She could hardly breath and she was on fire every pore was screaming with pain. She was almost grateful for the two men holding her up. The man with the eye patch just stood there. He was enjoying this, getting of on it almost. Why was this happening she thought? It was then she knew that something awful had happened. The man with the eye patch held her face. He whispered in her ear

“You and me darlin’ we’re connected. I’m Kano. I could kill you right now but you have to wait. Something for you to remember me by.” He held her face tight and kissed her brutally hard. It was the most violent thing she had ever experienced. She bit his lip. He slapped her. The two men let her drop. She was weak and could hardly move.

“I even let Jax live and that’s how you repay me. I’m going for him now and his blood’ll be on your hands.” Kano taunted. She heard cars speeding towards them.

“See you soon baby” The three men vanished and for the first time in her life Sonya passed out.

Part 4: The loss of heart.

“Sonya! Sonya!” someone was shaking her.

“Mr Briggs if you don’t stop that I’ll ask you to leave.” Said a voice she didn’t recognise.

“Please Jackson settle down.” That was her mum. Jax shook her one last time.

“Piss off Jax’s or I’ll have to hurt you.” She said groggily. She opened her eyes. She was in the back of a van. She wondered why her parents were there. She started to remember what had happened. She grabbed Jax. His leg was wrapped in a bandage he looked like he’d been shot.

“What happened?” she asked. She knew something was wrong. There is a very strong bond between identical twins. Hers and Daniel’s was especially strong. She couldn’t feel anything. She then clicked what had happened.

“Mom, Dad where’s Daniel?” she asked. The looks on their faces confirmed everything.

“DANIEL NOOO!” Sonya screamed with pain. Right then and there she swore that whoever had killed her twin would pay, and pay dearly.

As she watched the coffin lowered into the ground a part of her died. A very important part. Something in her snapped and from that day on Sonya was a vicious fighter with little mercy for anyone who dared get on her bad side. People noticed the change. Hers and Jaxs friendship remained intact despite Sonyas’ violent mood swings.

“Hey Sonya!” bellowed Jax “Slow down and wait up.”

“Morning Jax. Tell me again how you very conveniently managed to get a house in the same street as me.” Sonya said in a teasing voice.

“You know fine well I chose it on purpose to spy on you. Anyhow bad news we’re being re-assigned. The worst thing is we’ve been given new partners.”

“When did you find this out?”

“I just got the phone call two minutes ago.”

“Hell. Are we at least in the same unit?”

“ I think we are yes but wait till you hear who your partner is.”

“Its not that bitch Irvina is it?”

“No it’s Lance Wexler.”

“You’re kidding, as in the only survivor from my brothers unit. As in my DEAD BROTHERS PARTNER.” Sonyas’ face had a look of horror to it.

“Yes seemingly word is he requested you as a partner.”

“Do you think he’ll have access to the files on Daniel and the Black Dragon.” Sonya’s voice sounded interested. Those were confidential files that were available only to higher-ranking members.

“You will too because we’re being assigned to that case.”

“Good” said Sonya smiling evilly.

Part 5: Military Corruption

“At ease lieutenant Blade.” Said the General. Sonya stood at ease.

“You wanted to speak to me sir.” Asked Sonya standing at ease.

“Yes as you know when your brother, Lieutenant Daniel Blade was killed on the trail of The Black Dragon. They are currently public enemy number 1 and the biggest threat to us. We are assigning you to capture their leaders. From your report of your last encounter with the Black Dragon Kano knew you. We have to find out how. As you know Lance Wexler has requested you as a partner. Due to your 94.3% success rate. It has been decided that you are perfect to take up this mission.”

“Permission to speak freely sir.”

“Permission granted Lieutenant.”

“Do I have complete access to the Black Dragon files? And if not why not?”

“Yes you will have.” Sonya sighed with relief.

“Is it known who was responsible for my brothers death. I know it was a member of the Black Dragon but which one?”

“That is unknown at current time. Dismissed.” Said her General. She saluted and left.

The General turned round and faced a tall oriental looking man known only as Shang Tsung.

“Master Tsung. It is an honour to receive your presence.” Said the General.

“Enough of your snivelling when will the girl be ready?” Tsung questioned the terrified General.

“When is the tournament to be held Master?”

“In little under a year and she had better be ready.”

“May I ask why? She is one of our best and she is a deadly fighter but also extraordinarily beautiful women. It would be sad to lose her.” Said the general scared he may induce Tsung wrath as his predecessor had done.

“She is exquisite but the Elders want her to compete as she is her countries greatest fighter especially after her military training. I have other fighters to draw in. I expect her to be ready.”

“She will be.”

“If she isn’t she will belong to Outworld, it as simple as that.” With that he disappeared as he always did. The general could breath again. Tsung always got what he wanted and it usually hurt his people. He hated himself for doing this he couldn’t hate Tsung. He was to terrified too. He got out his magnum and put it in his mouth.

Sonya was meeting Lance for the first time. She knew he and Daniel had been close. He was nervous. He should be because of what he had heard about her mood swings. Her brother had told him many tails of when they were kids and Sonya heard a guy, a football player take this piss out of him and she broke his nose. She was known was her viciousness when on a mission. He went round to the gym to find her sparring on large beams with the black guy Jax. He stood and watches as she came again and again at Jax. They stopped and came over to speak to him.

“I’m Sonya this was my partner Jax.” She said coolly. The big man was very unsure of him.

“Lance Wexler.” He replied.

“Jax has put in for a transferral to our unit. Will that be possible?” Sonya looked like a cat ready to pounce.

“It won’t be necessary since I’m leader of this unit I’ve put Jax down partnered with Mikka Stone.” Jax smiled and Sonya relaxed slightly.

“You and Daniel were close? I saw you at the funeral.” Sonya asked him relieved that Jax would be there. Only once had they ever been on separate mission. Sonya had saved Jax’s life more than once. They as far as teams went were one of the best. Trent Matheson went past. Sonya rejected him last year and ever since he had a downer on her.

“Hey Blade I hear you’re on your brothers mission. He fucked up bad and everyone knows you’ll fail too.”

“WHAT!” Sonya leapt for him and he kicked her in the mid section. She jumped up only to receive an uppercut. Then Sonya pulled off the leg grab and brought Trent crashing down to the ground on his head. She straddled him and started punching his head over and over again. Jax and Lance pulled her off. Officers were starting to arrive. I’m getting court martial this time for sure. She thought. Dumb blond.

Due to the suicide of the General, that and the fact those men higher up were also under Tsung control. She was let of with a warning. Trent Matheson put in for an immediate transfer.

Part 6: Gaining a lover

After six months of working together Sonya and Lance started sleeping together. They kept it secret from everyone. They were called up to a base that had been found in the dessert. It was a two-person operation. The orders were get in find out what it’s used for. Take out the leaders, rescue hostages and get out. Sonya and Lance arrived for the briefing.

“At ease Lieutenant and Major.” Said the General. Sonya and her partner Lance were at ease. If it was known they were lovers they would never have gotten the mission together. Sonya hadn’t even told Jax

“This mission requires up most secrecy and skill. You two are the best-suited officers for this task. We now know that three officers presumed dead are being held there also. So with regard to your orders you must also rescue these three captive officers. Is that understood?” The new General asked well aware of what faced the two standing before him.

“Yes sir understood sir.” Lance and Sonya barked the customary reply at the same time.

“There is a stealth helicopter waiting at the base you’re to go and everything you need will be in the helicopter. Dismissed.” They saluted and left for the base.

“I don’t like this Lance. There’s something not quite right about all this.”

“It’s a rescue mission. It’s your first so of course it feels strange.” The helicopter was taking off so they had to sit in silence. They were dropped off fifteen miles from the base they had been left camouflage motor bikes that could be used until one mile from the site. Then they would have to walk.

“Be careful Lance I don’t want to lose you.” This he realised was when she actually vulnerable. Though in five minute she would divert her total concentration to completing the mission.

“Bye and take care.” She said somewhat sadly. She kissed him.

“Rendezvous back here in twelve hours.” He said

“Keep in touch by radio COM.” She replied and was gone. From the satellite pictures most of the base was under the ground. There was one exit, which seemed not to be too heavily guarded. She could see the distinctive dress code from here. She brought out her trusty semiautomatic and added the silencer and took out the three guards and approached. From nowhere a large man appeared. He was wearing Japanese Ninja grab, which she recognised from her Sensei when she studied Nin-jitsu. He looked like an experienced fighter. She took a defensive stance and prepared to defend her self. She didn’t like the look of the huge samurai sword he possessed. He slash at her once, twice she blocked with her shoe. She somersaulted backwards to avoid the sword once more. She flipped over his head and kicked him in the back. She spun around and caught his jaw with a spinning back fist. He dropped the sword. He punched her in the stomach and she doubled over with pain. He uppercut her and she fell over. She was on the ground. This was her speciality recovering from attacks. She fly kicked him in the head. He dropped to his knees. She axe kicked his shoulder. He held up his hand and removed his mask.

“Please let me die with honour.” He pleaded with her. She knew his customs from her training days. She picked up the sword and he got to his knees. She swung the sword and cut his head clean off. She was surprised a man with honour with in the Black Dragon such a thing was rare. The entrance appeared to have no more guards.

“Retinal scan identification required.” Said a synthesised voice from a little camera a square lens came down. Sonya picked up the head of the dead Ninja and pressed its’ eye onto the lens.

“Identification confirmed.” Said the synthesised voice again. She was in. Her pulse was racing. She endured this feeling often. It was the adralin that had often saved her life kicking in. Inside were steel pillar and no doubt some form of security device. She heard voices and crouched behind a pillar as the guards grew closer and walked level with her she grabbed his legs and pulled him back.

“Who’s in charge here?” she whispered hard in his ears. He looked at her and only smiled. She shook him harder. Still no reply. She shattered his temple. The other two guards were coming. She leapt out and smashed their head together and shot them in the head while they were unconscious. She wanted to kill every last one of them for the death of her brother. Up ahead she could see a door. After a through check for cameras and guards she put her head to the door. She could hear nothing. She slowly opened the door. There was a giant court filled with dead plants. This puzzled Sonya more than a little. She was ducking behind a tree. When again out of nowhere literally two people grabbed her.

“Oh I don’t think so.” She said coyly to the guards. They had her one at each side. She jumped and split kicked them while in mid air. She used the tree to flip over their head. She grabbed the first persons neck and kicked them in the back, shattering their spine. The other one, the woman was running towards her. She pulled out the semiautomatic and tripped the woman and spoke to her.

“Where are the captives held?” there was no reply from her not that Sonya had expected one but it was only polite to ask. She shot the women right under the chin. The cleaners gonna have a hard job tonight. Sonya ducked. The knife hit the tree above her.

“O.K now I’m angry.” She spat out. She turned round and saw a whole in the wall close. That was nothing what she saw next chilled her right to her soul. Kano, Jarek and Rojack (Jarek and Rojack she recognised from the Black Dragon files back at base.) were all in front of her and Kano had Lance.

“Hello again baby remember me?” Kano was laughing at her. The tall man with the bandanna, tight trousers and bomber jacket known as Rojack stepped forward.

“Now” said Kano “The fun really begin.” He whistled and the three captives were brought out. It wasn’t officers she knew but that didn’t matter they all fought for the same thing.

“Firstly,” Kano started speaking to her again. “I kill one of them right off because you bit me and I had to get stitches. Then since I’m such a nice guy I’ll let you fight your brothers’ killer. I’ll have your gun now or prisoner two gets it.” He pulled out a knife from his boot and from five meters away hit the first prisoners between the eyes. She pulled out her gun and tossed it on the floor she tried not too looked at the body. She was filled with rage and sadness. She looked over at Lance who was struggling with his captor. Kano caught the look.

“This your partner Sonya or more than that huh?” the look on their faces would told a blind man just that.

“Well then this should be interesting. This is Rojack and he killed your brother on my orders of course.”

Sonya was possibly going to die this day and knew it but all that mattered to her was her brothers’ killer.

“I will kill you even if it means dying myself. You bastard I’ll rip your fucking head off for killing Daniel.” She said directly to Rojack.

“Well maybe if he could fight he would still be alive.” Rojack said to her.

“O.K children fight.” Kano shouted. Rojack made the first move and Sonya ducked. He leg swept and she jumped over it. She roundhouse kicked him missing him as he stepped back. She avoided a spinning back fist. He pulled out a gun. She growled. He shrugged his shoulders.

“Nobody said I had to play fair.” He said matter of fancy.

“Asshole” she muttered. The first three shots he took missed. The fourth skimmed past her arm ripping her sleeves and piercing the skin. She grimaced in pain. It was a six-cylinder gun, which meant he had two bullets left. She was quite close to him. She ducked from the fifth bullet he was down to one bullet, which meant he would need to reload. She was close enough to strike him but she wasn’t expecting the punch in the face she received. She fell on the ground and could see Rojacks shadow above her. She saw the foot coming toward her and mustered up strength to move out the way. She moved as the foot crashed down where her head had been. She stood up and looked at Lance he looked deathly white. She swung for Rojack and pushed him back with an onslaught of fierce punches and kicks. She grabbed his shoulders and flipped him to the ground and brought her foot down to his head. He grabbed her foot and pulled her down. She was to fast for him, she stole the gun for his holster and shot him in the stomach. He gurgled and choked and yelped in pain. She looked up to face Kano. Blood dripping from her mouth and if looks could kill. The whole court had filled with Black Dragon. No one had yet made a move to restrain her. She looked to Kano. What was going on she couldn’t help notice how suspicious this whole thing was. Why ain’t I dead yet she wondered? They’re all here but no ones trying to hold me back. I don’t like this.

“Now for the main attraction.” He said. With two flicks of his wrist the other two captives had been dismembered and their intestine were hanging out. They were all new recruits you could tell because they didn’t have their own personalised uniform yet. He looked at her as four members grabbed her as she went for him. Jarek then handed him a large club. She looked at it as he came toward her.

“Don’t worry baby I wouldn’t a women.” He said once seeing her face.

“I’ve read your file Kano and you’ve done a lot worse to women.” She replied.

“Well this isn’t for you.” He smiled wickedly. Her own life was never worth much and dying wasn’t something she feared. She knew terror when Lance was brought forward in chains. Jarek shoved lance down to his knees. She heard a snap as Jarek kicked Lance. Lance could barley keep from screaming in pain. Sonya struggled with her captors but to no avail. Kano brought down the club on Lance’s body and legs over and over again. Lance looked right into her eyes. He was suffering.

“You ready baby.” Kano said

“Leave her be “murmured Lance. There was no mistaking it he was dying. Kano dragged him in front of Sonya. He touched Sonya face and was about to speak when Kano slit his throat. The blood spurted on her face and Lance fell to the ground.

“NOOOOOO!” cried Sonya. She let out a scream of pure anguish. The hurt was almost unbearable. She screamed for the loss of her brother, for her lover and partner and the loss of the only people she had ever trusted. She could see red all she thought about was killing Kano. Wave after wave of Black Dragon stood protecting him. She was destroying them every time they came at her. She was almost at Kano. For the first time the beautiful blond lieutenant scared him. He could see the hate burn those around her. He had only ever seen Sonya as a plaything, Something to amuse him with but what if she were actually a threat. She was taking on the whole camp and winning. The only though in her head was to kill Kano. There were only three people between them now. Sonya had never feared him he knew that. He decided to leave

“Jarek.” He barked “we’re leaving. Set the auto distruct.” He could she her clearly now. He blew a kiss at her then left. Sonya heard the part about auto distruct and seen Kano and Jarek leave by helicopter. She ran for her life. As she left and kept running, she felt the heat of the explosion. It was a thousand clawed hands scraping at her back and burning as hot as the fires of hell. She crawled back to the bike. She could hardly move. She finally made it back to the bike and radioed for help.

Part 7: Hunting Kano

Sonya teemed up with Jax; he seemed to be the only person she didn’t try to kill every time he spoke to her. Sonya became bitter and resentful. Many thought she had lost touch with reality. She was still perfectly sane but burning with rage and hunger for revenge which only Kanos’ death would satisfy. Jax watched his friend and tried to protect her from others at the base. She was her own worst enemy. Many now view her as a loose cannon that couldn’t be controlled. The people beaten to a pulp by her wanted her dissmissed. Fearing Sonya would quit the army, her superiors gave her the assignment of tracking down Kano. She kept her good looks, which often fooled men into letting their guard down. The only person Sonya even cared about was Jax and in her own way she showed it. They believed they had tracked Kano down to a nightclub that was run by shady characters but there was no evidence of any wrong doing yet.

Shang Tsung visited that night Kano. As usual Tsung just appeared.

“The tournament commence in a week. Sonya Blade must be at the tournament. All you have to do is get on the boat.” Tsungs voice was a command. Kano didn’t like being given orders by anyone.”

“Are you sure she gonna follow me?” Kano asked sullenly.

“You killed her partner didn’t you. She’ll follow you into hell.” Kano looked at Tsung with a twinkle in his eye.

“Maybe you could arranged it so me ‘n’ Sonya could share a cabin you know. Have our own little honeymoon cruise.” Said Kano. Tsung looked angry.

“If you so much as touch her Kano, I will kill you myself.” Kano instinctively looked away. They were above the dance flour in a friend nightclub. The friend often sold some weapons for them and “cleaned” money too.

Down below Sonya and a team of five men stormed the nightclub. There was Jax, Anderson, Cody, Mellours and Kennel. They followed Sonya in. The floor was crammed with dancer all trying to block their passage. They were separated but Sonya did not care Kano was here she could feel it in her bones. She spied the office at the end of the dance floor. She could make out figures in the office. A man walked round the front of the frosted glass windows. He had no specific uniform so Sonya couldn’t tell whose side he was on. Her instinct told her to fire and she did just as he pulled out a handgun. The explosion from her rifle was normally deafening but didn’t even sound because of the booming of the live band. They were quite good Sonya thought before marching forward and vaulting on to the platform that the office was on. The man had been thrown through the windows of the office and lay bleeding on a table. He had worn a bullet proof jacket but that had not saved him from the hundreds of splinters of glass which flew passed him or were sticking into his body. He had lost a lot of blood and must be in great pain. She marched up to him and grabbed him round the throat. His face screwed up in pure agony as she lifted him so he was looking right in to her eyes.

“Where’s Kano!” She shouted at the man her voice demanding.

“I.” He gurgled and spluttered and he had trouble pronouncing the words. Sonya pulled him tighter as she noticed the cover for the drain up lifted hoping only that her men covered the sewers.

“Where is he.” She pronounced the words slowly and deliberately so he knew she was for real.

“He and the other man are gone.” He was having trouble breathing.

“Where have they gone?” she asked.

“To Hong Kong to catch a boat.” The man was clearly dying.

“Where you idiot, which pier are they at you complete fuck up!” Sonya was losing her temper and fast.

“Pier 40 tomorrow. That is all I know.” The man uttered at last.

“Good.” Said Sonya. She threw him on the desk and radioed a frantic Jax.

“Sonya where the hell have you been girl?” Jax sounded relieved as he always did when Sonya turned up safe.

“That doesn’t matter I have a guard in here dying. Send someone in to get him to hospital and arrange to flights to Hong Kong tonight.” Said Sonya.

“Are you gonna tell me what happened or what?”

“No Jax just do what I asked. Meet my out front in twenty minutes I expect everything to be read by then. Lieutenant Blade out.” Sonyas voice echoing through the silence. Jax knew how badly Sonya wanted Kano. On this mission Sonya had superiority even though they were both lieutenants. In little under a month they would both become Majors. The only reason Sonya was unit leader was due to the fact she had only ever failed three missions and all three of them where death traps which from no one should’ve escaped. Jax sighed and phoned back to base making the arrangements Sonya had wanted.

She came out and explained to Jax what happened. They were picked up in an army car and driven to the airport told they would get everything they needed once in Hong Kong. They arrived in Hong Kong seven hours later and were taken to one of the army bases there. Sonya changed to her green uniform. She took only one gun her favourite semiautomatic handgun with her. Jax chose a simple black garment. He eyed Sonya suspiciously. She was wearing the tightest costume he had ever seen. She turned round and smiled coyly.

“Sonya what exactly are you planning?” Jax asked his friend.

“Nothing just getting ready to kill Kano that’s all.” She answered. Jax looked up at her sadly.

“Bring him to justice is just as bad you know.” He replied.

“Jax, I want Kano’s blood because he killed Wexler and ordered my brother killed. Seeing him dead is all I want. Can’t you understand that?” Sonyas’ voice had taken a cold hard edge to it.

“Mind you,” said Jax trying to lighten the conversation “I do like the costume.” She smiled at her friend.

Part 8: Joining a new team.

They arrived at the pier just as the sun was setting. They took refuge behind some old creates and wired nets around the creates so they couldn’t easily be seen. After an hour of watching Jax finally stated his worries.

“Sonya you know Kano could be a million miles from here right now we have no guarantee that that guy was telling the truth.” Sonya merely replied with one of her I’m right and we both know it looks. She picked up the night vision goggles and scanned the area no sign of Kano or any of his men. Jax nudged her as a limo pulled up and a man stepped out.

“That’s Johnny Cage my favourite actor.” Jax stated in amazement.

“Whatever.” Was Sonyas reply. She was still scanning. Jaxs' radio went off.

“Lieutenant Briggs here.” Said Jax answering the radio. Sonya stood up.

“Lieutenant Briggs you must not let lieutenant Blade get on that boat.” Said Mikkas voice urgently.

“That’s him” screamed Sonya and jumped and ran for the boat.

“Sonya!” screamed Jax “Don’t get on that thing! Hey Sonya come back.”

“Mikka she’s already gone.” Jax said wearily into the radio.

“Jax I’m sorry. We just found out. That guy he was Black Dragon and if he told Sonya where to find Kano then she’s most certainly going to get killed. You’ve to return to base. 10 4 out.” Jax put his head in his hands in sheer despair Sonya had always been there for him and saved his life and he was willing to do anything to get her back.

A few minutes earlier Kano rubbed his hands together and smiled at Kabal and Jarek. They were to reach him at the island at a later date. He nodded to his men and stepped out of the shadows.

“That’s it baby come to papa.” He smiled and boarded the boat. Kabal spoke to Jarek.

“What’s he got for the blond lieutenant?”

“I have no idea. Do you think he’ll kill her?” asked Jarek.

“No but I bet you would.” Was Kabals answer.

“Damn right I’d love to slit the bitches throat right open.” Jarek smiled at the thought.

“Kano’s so cold I’d think she’d be dead by now. I mean he killed his own step mum for fun. Did you see him gut that girl last night? Yet the lieutenant isn’t dead yet.”

“Yeah I was wondering why too. He has his reasons.”

“Maybe he’s gone soft, maybe he’s finally lost the plot.” Jarek caught the underlying message in Kabal’s voice.

“Listen Kabal if you want to try and overthrow Kano your on your own but he’s been leader of the clan since he was twenty years old. That’s fifteen years and if notice what happened to the last guy who tried.”

Kabal answered only with silence. Jarek would remember to inform Kano of Kabal faltering loyalty.

Sonya boarded the boat just in time as it was leaving port. She scanned the top deck for any sign of Kano. She then realised that Jax wasn’t behind her. She looked for him. Oh well she thought to her self at least I’m on my own now. She set of in a determined stride. She banged smack bang into some one.

“Alright tough guy you wanna get.” He looked down at Sonya as she thrust her semiautomatic under his chin. “Rough.” Said his faltering voice. He regained his compositor.

“Hi I’m Johnny Cage and you are?” he asked her. Sonya recalled Jax saying something about Johnny Cage earlier. Maybe he knew where Kano was.

“Where’s Kano?” she demanded shoving the gun up harder against him to emphasise her point.

“I don’t know who you talking about but I’m sure I could help you find him.” He smiled at her and started to push the gun away. She showed him on his ass.

“Outta my way.” And continued to search for Kano.

She noticed a small door on the ground and opened it. There was a ladder leading down. There appeared to be no one there. She descended down the ladder. There were chains suspended from the ceiling. She checked her corners. First rule always check your corners. There was a beam with railings on either side of it. She proceeded forward slowly and out of the shadow stepped a man. Sonya nearly gasped but held herself in check. It was like he’d just appeared. He was tall and definitely oriental. Chinese she guessed. He had just below shoulder length black hair, very glossy. His eyes were brown and slanted but contained something she just couldn’t quite read. He spoke to her.

“It’s an honour to finally meet you Sonya. Shang Tsung at your service.” He bowed his head. She was still deeply suspicious.

“Are you the captain of this ship?” She asked. He nodded in reply. She lowered her gun, which up until this point had been aimed at the man heart and Sonya very rarely missed especially at this distance.

“I’m looking for a murderer, he boarded this ship.” Sonya wasn’t sure about this guy at all.

“Well this is my boat and if you’d like a tour I’d love to give it to you myself.” He answered. Is he hitting on me? She wondered not really caring about the answer. She was about to tell him where to go when a voice sounded behind her.

“Be nice to the lady she’s just doing her job.” She recognised the voice from earlier. She hated that, really hated it when people assumed she couldn’t look after herself. She turned to him and growled.

“When I want backup I’ll radio for it.” She could hear a door opening and the man from earlier looked at her.

“Got that radio handy?” Was his reply as two men in Ninja garb came out of the door. One was dressed in yellow and black and the other in an identical costume except it was blue and black. Opposing clan Sonya noted to herself. They stood one on each side of Shang Tsung. He introduced the two Ninjas.

“Scorpion.” He pointed the one opposite to Johnny Cage the man she ran in to earlier. Then he pointed to the one in front of Sonya “Sub-Zero. Deadliest of enemies but slaves under my power.” He smiled at Sonya who was getting royally pissed off.

“Stand aside.” She ordered pointing her gun at Sub-Zero. He reached out and grabbed the barrel of the gun and froze it and broke the end of the gun off. Now Sonya was really mad she was ready to kill Sub- zero that was her favourite gun. Then two bolts of lightening appeared one blue and the other yellow hit Scorpion and Sub-Zero. A flash of lightening hit the ground a man appeared. He was very tall with white hair and long white robes on; the one thing she did notice was he had no eyes! He spoke directly to Shang Tsung.

“Enough!” His voice boomed and Sonya momentarily forgot her hate of Sub-Zero and stared at awe of the man. Who was this guy? He didn’t seem human

“Lord Raiden how good of you to grace us with your presence.” Said Shang Tsung his eye’s clashing with the white pools where Raidens should’ve been.

“Your side-show freaks attacked my fighters! That is strictly forbidden before the tournament begins. As your.” He sneered at the word. “Emperor well knows.” Wait a minute Sonya thought he refers to me as one of his fighter and what the hell is this tournament!

“My sincerest apologies Lord Raiden it will not happen again.” Said Tsung his voice edged with sarcasm.

“I shall see to that.” Raiden replied his voice laced with anger.

“Of course until we reach the island where you have no dominion.” Replied Tsung.

“My dominion are well known to me thank you sorcerer.” Said Raiden his voice light but dangerous. Ok now I’m really confused. Am I the only one who is totally fucking clueless as to what the hell is going on?

“Okay.” Said Sonya speaking up at last “What the hell are you talking about and what tournament?” She asked angrily. Nobody was sure what to say. Shang Tsung finally spoke.

“You’ve chosen Sonya much to my delight.” She didn’t like the way he said that. The other guy who had came down with Johnny looked at Raiden.

“You really are Lord Raiden.” His voice slightly humbling.

“Come with me.” Said Raiden. With that he turned into a bolt of lightening and shot above deck. Sonyas’ eyes nearly popped out of her head and Johnny’s’ did the same. The other guy put forward his hand.

“I’m Liu Kang.” He said in a warm voice. She smiled.

“Sonya Blade. I don’t shake.” She said with a shrug. He didn’t take that offensively.

“We should follow Raiden.” With that Liu Kang climbed up the ladder. Sonya followed and a shocked Johnny came last.

When they were above deck Johnny recovered the use of his voice. Unfortunately Sonya said to herself.

“Ok we got a guy who freezes stuff we got another guy with things coming outta his hand. Then theirs a guy who as far as I can tell is made out of electricity. I mean what is going on here who is this guy?” Johnny finished out of breath. Sonya understood how he felt she was a little freaked herself. She put a hand on his shoulder.

“Lets just stay calm okay? If we just think this through there is a rational explanation for all this.” He smiled at Sonya and she smiled back. Kinda cute she noticed then checked herself. He’s nice till he opens his mouth she remembered.

“He’s Raiden god of thunder and lightening and protector of the realm of earth.” Replied Liu calmly and seriously.

“Oh great.” Sonya nearly laughed at him when Johnny piped up.

“Well there’s your rational explanation!” She nearly hit him. She turned round to Liu.

“Listen to me. What you three are about to experience is vastly more important than your ego.” That must be Johnny she nearly laughed. “Your enemy.” That reminded her she’d look for that scumbag Kano later. So that means he was talking about me she thought to herself. “Or your quest for revenge.” Which meant Liu was out to get someone. Is he out for my blood she wondered? That’s all I need another enemy on this blasted tub. It’ll all be worth it though to get my hands on that rat Kano. She drifted back to the conversation. Something was said about Tsung. Oh so that’s Liu’s target then. She had missed most of that.

“To enter the realm of earth the demon sorcerer Shang Tsung and his best fighters must win ten straight Mortal Kombat tournaments in a row. They have won nine. This will be the tenth tournament.” Said Raiden very seriously.

“Great a handful of people on a leaky boat will save the world.” Sonya said very sarcastically.

“Exactly. The essence of Mortal Kombat is not about death but life. Mortal men and women.” He acknowledged Sonya “Fighting for their realm.” Now he had Sonya’s curiosity.

“Why are you telling this to us what about the others?” she asked adding Kano mentally to herself.

“I have looked into their souls and your one of you three will decide the outcome of the tournament. The fate of billions will depend upon you. Heh, heh, heh. Sorry” Was Raiden reply.

“What about Shang Tsung?” Liu questioned the god. Raiden lost his humour.

“Still concerned only with vengeance if you challenge Shang Tsung now you will lose your life and soul.”

“He is going to pay for the death of my brother.” Liu informed the God whom only snorted.

“You are not ready.” Liu was about to reply. When Raiden spoke again.

“Look it has begun.” Said Raiden pointing to the sky. Shang Tsung was standing arms raised with a look of pure ecstasy on his face. He managed to speak.

“It has begun.” He uttered as weird shapes swirled around him. Flaming skulls laughing and bursting in the sky. Sonya looked into the sky. What the hell have I got myself into this time? Sonya asked herself. Johnny touched her arm. She looked over at him and smiled weakly and realised he’s scared and then thought maybe I should be too. Raiden had disappeared and she was left standing with Liu and Johnny. She looked at Liu.

“Do you know where exactly we’ve to go now?” Sonya asked Liu hoping he’d know the answer.

“There are cabin down below I’d imagine we’ll be in them.” Liu stated looking around for something.

“I want just to shower and sleep.” Said Sonya although she wasn’t sure if she could do either. She hadn’t seen any other women on board.

“I don’t think I’ll be able to sleep tonight after that little display of lunacy.” Johnny said. They headed for the cabins. The wandered looking for any sign they were in the right place. Toward the rear of the ship the found three cabin with each of their names on it. Sonya opened the one bearing her name. She checked for anyone waiting inside. There was no one. It had a shower and two sets of clothes both her size. She wouldn’t ask how and didn’t ask questions. She locked the door and shoved a chair under the door handle. Once showered and in fresh clothes she decided to explore the ship as there was no way she was sleeping with Kano or that mad man on board. She went to open the door and out side it was covered in purple lines that hissed and spat like electricity. Sonya stood back and threw a near by chair at the field. The chair was gone. She banged on the wall to the cabin next door.

“Liu Kang.” She shouted over and over again. Liu heard Sonya shouting on him and Johnny just heard Sonya shouting. Both came to their doors to discover the same purple beams covering their rickety doors.

“Hey what gives?” Yelled Johnny.

“I don’t know.” Was Liu Kangs reply.

“It’s covering my door too and when I threw a chair at it, the chair disappeared.” Said Sonya to the two disembodied voices.

“I think there to stop us causing trouble tonight.” Answered Liu wisely. Sonya wondered about him.

“How did you discover them anyway.” Asked Johnny his voice laced with curiosity.

“I was gonna search the ship for Kano.” Sonya told him trying to keep her voice even. Johnny hoped she wasn’t seeing this guy he really liked Sonya.

“So Tsung probably figured that or that I’d go looking for him.” Liu sounded angry.

“What happened between you two to make you hate him so bad.” Sonya questioned him.

“He killed my brother and stole his soul and it’s all my fault.” Liu answered his voice full of grief. Sonya was speechless although her motives for wanting Kanos head were similar.

“What about you then Sonya? Who exactly is this Kano you keep talking about?” Johnny tried to keep his voice casual and uninterested. Sonya considered answering after all Liu had told her but she was still unsure of who these people were. She told them a little.

“A criminal who needs to be brought to justice.” Was her answer. Johnny was relieved, so it wasn’t her boyfriend after all.

“So what about you Johnny why you here risking your life?” Liu finally asked Johnny trying to make up for Sonyas silence.

“Well mainly because of.”

“His ego.” Sonya butted in. “Aren’t you a film star or something?” she asked.

“The best actually.” Was Johnny’s’ response.

“What did I tell you his ego.” Sonya said her voice mildly amused.

“That’s enough I’m going to try and sleep now.” Sonya said over her shoulder as she went back into her cabin.

“G’night.” Was the last thing she said and she thought she got a reply but wasn’t sure. She used the remaining chair to barricade the door she didn’t have her gun, which made her slightly nervous. She actually put her head on the pillow and slept.

When she woke up she found a clean set of clothes on a small chest of drawers next to her bed. Also on a tray was a glass of mango juice and a wheat bagel with tuna. Although it was her favourite meal she didn’t eat, as she had no idea where it had came from. The chair still barricaded the door so no one had been in. This was starting to turn seriously weird. She opened the door and the purple stuff was gone. Johnny and Liu were outside waiting for her. She took the remainder of her stuff that included a radio; a compass and watch, two special bracelets that were a top-secret weapon designed for the Special Forces but her specially, a homing beacon (for emergencies only). She had a few knifes as well but she thought I have a feeling that if something here attacks me then these would only slow me down. She went out to the two guys waiting there. Johnny as always was wearing sunglasses even in this dark and dingy hull he had his sunglasses on. She merely threw him a dirty look. She spoke to Liu.

“What’s going on?” I think this boat can’t get right into the island so we’ll have to go out in smaller boats. They went atop deck to find Liu was right. One boat was ready to leave but it had only two places. Liu gestured to Sonya and Johnny.

“You two go and I’ll get the next one out.” And he left to get another boat. Sonya groaned inadvertently Johnny was however a gentle man and tried to help her get on the boat. It was a nice gesture despite how very much it was displaced. She grabbed the side of the boat and swung her legs over landing with a very quiet thud in the boat. Johnny stepped into the boat and someone hauled in his cases. They took the two seats at the front of the boat.

“Oh shit.” Sonya said out loud realising that she hadn’t contacted Jax and he hadn’t seen her since last night! Shit!

“Blackhawk to cardinal, blackhawk calling cardinal. Is anybody monitoring? Jax this is Sonya do you copy?” Sonya spoke into the radio. There was a loud hissing and then she could hear a quiet voice.

“Sonya is that you.” It was Jax’s voice.

“Jax it’s me and I alive.” She informed him.

“Good god Sonya I nearly died worrying where are you?” his voice was full of worry and relief.

“I’m not sure I.” She started to reply but the radio went static and Jax and her connection was severed.

“Jax are you still there JAX?” she shouted but to no avail. He was gone but at least he knew she was still alive. That’s the worst thing about the forces when someone goes missing and you don’t know whether or not they’re dead or alive. Johnny interrupted her thoughts.

“While you’re at it why don’t you call my agent.” He had a cheeky voice and a wide grin but she was in no mood for jokes.

“Do I look like your secretary?” she snapped back at him. That shut him up. The boat journey lasted around twenty minute with Johnny in a huff with her and the quizzing looks of the other people on board, she was glad when the boat came close to shore. She jumped over the side wadding to shore. When she stepped onto the dry sand, she was wet up to her knees. She watched in amusement as Johnny tried to get his cases out of the boat and fell in face first. She quietly laughed to herself. Liu Kang came up behind her shoulder as she tried to get her compass to hold still.

“Where the hell are we.” She hissed in frustration. Johnny approached the two just in time to hear that comment.

“Do I look like your travel agent?” Was the snide remark Johnny made. Sonya glared at him.

“Fine!” Sonya snapped and stormed off. She walked up until she gazed on a few hundred flights of stairs. While she was staring Liu and Johnny caught up. Half up the stairs Sonya was short of breathe and Johnny fell backwards losing another three cases leaving his total down to two cases. Sonya sniggered as he regained his balance.

“Do you need help with those?” Liu asked a struggling Johnny. He replied only with a look. Only three hundred more steps to go thought Sonya unhappily.

Part 9 On the island

After what seemed like hours they finally reached the top. Sonya stared at her new surrounding in awe. What evil lives here she wondered. This is how she had pictured hell. The only light since darkness fell was coming from torches whose flames flickered and danced in the small draft. It was inhumanly cold. There where great statues every where their eyes all pleading for release from some unseen torturer. Everything was made of stone. There were several tunnel weaving into a cave and several doors surrounding them. Sonya took a step back bumping into Liu and Johnny who both put a hand up on Sonya shoulder. Johnny’s hand lingered and Sonya turned around and looked into his eyes that were full of concern for her. He is rather cute she thought before scolding herself. They carried on until they reached a great hall where all the other warriors there. A guard dressed in a long robe with strange patterns and a black and white mask on spoke to the masses.

“Each one of you will be escorted to your chambers for your stay here then, when the great gong sounds you will all assemble back here. That is all.” And he left via a small door behind a large thrown like seat. Better keep that in mind Sonya thought taking a mental note. Another man in similar attire had a huge list of names and everyone once their name had been read out was escorted be three guards to their to there chambers. Finally only Sonya, Johnny and Liu were left. Sonya’s name was then read out. Five guards moved forward and grabbed her and when she put up resistance she was shoved forward. She roundhouses the first guard who hit his head on the wall and fell to the ground out cold. The guard attempted to kick her in the face so she ducked and let lose an uppercut to his chin. It connected and he fell to the ground. The other guards backed off a little.

“Any of you want to try any of that with me again? No takers to rough house the women?” Sonya was livid not only had she had more escorts than anyone else she was also given grief that no one else had received. Johnny and Liu were still in a fighting stance. They slowly started to relax. More guards had entered the hall. One of the guards spoke.

“Come with us Ms Blade.” His voice was unplaceable and strangely inhuman.

“Okay I’m coming but you try anything and I’ll tear you apart understand?” Sonya turned to Johnny and Liu. Her tone softened slightly she could tell by their faces they were concerned.

“Don’t worry I can take care of myself.” She said as she exited with the guards. She didn’t really have time to examine her surroundings as the guards were hurrying her. She noticed that there where no other rooms here. She must be the only female on the whole island. That would explain why her room wasn’t with the others. She was a little glad for the privacy. The door opened and as she stepped in the guards outside locked the door.

She was locked in. Damn those bastards. She tried to open the door a few times but it was definitely securely locked. She turned round to her room. It really was a beautiful room. There was a large window with a breath taking view. She must be on the cliff face for she had a view right out to sea. The moon shone brightly and danced delicately on the waves, it was breath taking. The room itself was also dazzling. The bed was huge and fitted with white fur softer than any animal she had ever touched. There were green and white silk cushions over the bed. The walls were decorated with pictures of beautiful and almost majestic plants. There was a huge wardrobe that had carvings of animals she had never seen before. She instinctively checked inside the wardrobe searching for anyone. She checked on top of the wardrobe and under the bed but found nothing. Then she checked the bathroom and yet again nothing. She went back to the wardrobe and found many outfit that again were her size. After a change into a tank top and lace shirt she decided to try to contact Jax again. She still had the emergency distress device but she didn’t feel she needed it just yet. She tried the radio and not one frequency seemed to work. She lay on the bed and tried to think about the strange day she had had. Kano was still on the loose somewhere on this island and she intended to gut him like a fish. When of course he got his courage up to face her. She made up her mind to slip out after she had eaten and find that son of a bitch herself. She wondered wear Johnny and Liu, her two new I suppose you could call them friends were. She liked Johnny and if it wasn’t for his ego and the fact she was here on work she might consider him. What about the two ninjas? Where did they fit in? And most important who in hell was Shang Tsung and was he hitting on her? The answers she decided would probably be revealed in time. She heard a storm brewing. This made the sea go violent and she realised that Raiden must be close by. There were so many questions she wanted to ask him. Then the almighty gong sounded. Firstly Sonya went to try the door and found it unlocked. This place is bloody weird she thought to herself. She grabbed the wristbands from the pocket of her combats. She slid them on. All she had to do was put her left arm out straight and then put her right wrist under her left one and a bolt of energy would shoot out. If she put her left wrist under her right one then she could shot across and fly for a few seconds. Very nasty if you were on the receiving end. She smiled and left the room.

When she entered the great hall it was now filled with row up on row of tables all with people eating. She was clearly late, the guard growled at her and most people stopped to stare. She noticed no other women and felt clearly alienated. Johnny and Liu spotted her and Johnny stood up and waved her over. She made her way threw the masses to the table which seated Liu, Johnny, three guys she didn’t know and a space left next to Johnny. She sat down and noticed Raiden behind the door as the guards shut it. She looked at the men and Liu introduced them.

“This is Art Lean. He like Johnny is an actor.” The man Kinda looked like Jax except not as muscular and he had a shaved head and brown eyes. He smiled at her and extended his hand. She faltered for a second and then shook his hand. Then he pointed to the man across from Art.

“This is Fo Sha Misibi. He like myself is a member of The Orders of Light.” Sonya looked at this man. He was very tall and skinny. Not oriental but there was a hint of it there. His eyes were the brightest green and almost glowed with something. Sonya then spoke.

“I know a little of your Order because the Black Dragon were once seen to be attacking it although I wasn’t part of the unit which was sent in, I have read the file.” Fo looked at Sonya before saying.

“My father was Chinese but my mother was British. I take after my mother.” Sonya looked at him angrily she wasn’t warned he was a mind reader so she only glared. She was angrier with herself as she had let her guard down. Her Sensei had warned her about mind readers. He raised his hands apologetically.

“I’m sorry I didn’t mean to offend you Ms Blade.” He said regretfully.

“It’s not you I’m mad with.” She offered. Liu then pointed to the man next to him. This guy was facing Johnny; Liu was across from her.

“This is Neil Denver. He has travelled all around the world. We met when he visited my temple.” Now this guy was gorgeous. He had shoulder length light brown hair. His broad shoulders and massive arms impressed Sonya a lot. He had a strong jaw line and appeared to have no faults. Yet his eye portrayed something she didn’t like. She put out her hand that he took and kissed.

“Honoured Ms Blade although I’ve heard numerous description from your friends none of them do you justice.” He smiled. Sonya looked to Johnny who was seething about something. She raised her eyebrows to him and he sorta smiled back. She wasn’t sure about this Neil guy at all. She looked to Fo who she had let read her mind and he nodded in reply. His thoughts were the same. She would inform the other two later. She had just started to eat when Shang Tsung appeared with the Blue and Yellow Ninjas Sub-Zero and Scorpion if she remembered correctly. Behind each of them was around thirty of the ninjas that escorted them to their rooms earlier. They aligned themselves. Sub-Zero and his ninjas on one side and Scorpion and his ninjas on the other. Shang Tsung then appeared in front of the giant throne that was situated at the back of the hall. He turned round to face the whole hall.

“Welcome to my island. I am Shang Tsung and you are here to compete in Mortal Kombat. You are here to witness one of the greatest turning points in the history of your planet treasure these moments as if they were your last.” The sorcerer smiled evilly “and now for a taste of things to come.” He nodded to the two rows of ninjas scattered into the hall. They started to throw up the tables and scatter food everywhere. Once shoved Sonya so hard she nearly fell over. Luckily she fell into Liu who was standing behind her. Once the hall was cleared of tables the ninjas aligned themselves down the hall. Sub-Zero and another ninja dressed like the followers of Sub-Zero and Scorpion stood forward. Sonya was curious and watched as the Sub-zero and the other ninja prepared for battle. The ninja was showing off an amazing display of flexibility. Sub-Zero merely watches almost sniggering at this ninjas display. Shang Tsung nodded, to start the fight Sonya presumed. The ninja soared forward in a flying kick as he was doing this Sub-Zero summoned a giant ball of ice which; he threw at the ninja who froze in mid air. The ninjas momentum carried him to Sub-Zero who flipped to the side. The ninja hit the step before Shang Tsung and shattered into millions of tiny pieces. Sonya looked on in approval now that was something she thought. Tsung then spoke again.

“Flawless victory.” He said and left via the little door behind the throne.

Sonya seen Johnny, Liu and Art standing by the door. Art was a little shaken up by all this.

“Did you see where Tsung went Sonya?” Liu looked at her.

“You can’t go after him after what Raiden told you.” Was thrown in by Johnny

“Yeah well he didn’t say anything to me Shang Tsung knows where Kano is hiding.” With that the Lieutenant ran for the little door behind the thrown. Johnny looked thoughtful.

“You know you gotta admire her when she sets her mind on something.” He said almost philosophically

Liu came back with “It’s not her mind you’re admiring.” And then he too took off for the little door.

“It’s true.” He said to himself before following Liu.

Sonya could see Shang Tsung heading over some stairs. She was following him silently. Not making a sound. She could hear footsteps quite far behind her. Tsung heard them also and turned round Sonya managed to keep out of sight. When she looked back up he was gone. She spun round furiously to see who was following her. She might have known Liu Kang and Johnny Cage.

“Why the hell are you following me I already told you I work alone!”

“We can’t help it it’s a guy thing.” Johnny said seriously.

“I nearly found out where Kano is.” Sonya said angrily.

“Shang Tsung is mine!” Liu said his voice filled with venom.

“Well the reason I lost him was your fault!” Sonya was losing her temper.

“Eh why don’t we just forget about Shang Tsung.” Said Johnny trying to keep the other two from killing each other.

“What do you mean forget about him didn’t you see what happened back their I for one am going to get to the bottom of this!” Sonya was getting really annoyed. She didn’t realise how far they had actually gone until they reach another flight of stairs. Once they were halfway up Sonya heard voices. They stopped to listen.

“So when do I get paid?”

“After you’ve fought the girl, remember she has not to be harmed only humiliated I have plans for my beautiful Sonya.” That was Shang Tsungs voice! The other one was Kano!

“I have a few plans for her myself.” The other voice leered.

“That’s Kano!” screeched Sonya and made a dash. Liu and Johnny tried to restrain her. She broke loose and found her self above a room with a large table in the centre. The table was covered in food. Kano was at one end a huge four-armed creature was at the other. Shang Tsung and Kano were still talking.

“Kano you motherfucking rat when I get down there you are fucking dead!” Sonya hollered at the top of her voice causing Kano, Tsung and the four-armed thing to look up. Normally Sonya would’ve waited but her hate for Kano was clouding her judgement. Sonya followed a long tunnel in the hope of getting to Kano. She heard footsteps running for her. She took a fighting stance. It was only Liu and Johnny again.

“Are you crazy?” Johnny shouted at her. She only glared at him.

“I’m trying to find Kano. The other two don’t matter to me.” Was her reply.

“I think we should try to find a way out of these catacombs.” Said Liu. He knew how Sonya felt she must’ve lost someone too. Sonya smiled at Liu for changing the subject.

“I didn’t really notice the way I came in.” Sonya said sheepishly.

“We were to busy trying to stop you killing someone.” Johnny said gently.

“But I think I can smell food, Steak. So I imagine if we follow it we’ll be far away from that little hall.” Johnny said hopefully.

“Okay.” Sonya replied. She and Liu followed Johnny for at least half an hour. The silence was deafening.

“Johnny are you sure you know where you’re going?” Liu finally asked.

“Trust me I can smell New York stripped steak anywhere.” Johnny boasted. Sonya raised her eyebrows at Liu who only shrugged and kept following Johnny. They were tearing threw cobwebs which Sonya hated. They finally reached the end only to find they were in the place where Kano had been.

“Yeah I smell something bullshit!” Sonya sneered. Johnny pulled a face behind her back. The three dusted the cobwebs from their clothes. Ninjas started to appear from everywhere. There were around nine.

“We got company you guys.” Johnny said to the other two. Three ran for Sonya. One kicked and Sonya ducked and sweeped him. He fell and she uppercut the second. The third did a spinning roundhouse while the first was heading towards her in a fly kick. She grabbed his leg and threw him into the third guy. Then the second guy was back with a staff with a serrated blade on top of it. He lunged at her and she side stepped and he swung at her again. She blocked with her foot. Then into a handstand for her infamous leg grab. She pivoted him to the ground on top of the first guy breaking the second ninjas neck and at least two of the first ninjas ribs. The third ninja was a little more intelligent than the other two. They exchanged kicks. First he would and then she would match it until finally Sonya gave him a powerful kick to the head and he stumbled backwards. He regained his balance and punched Sonya in the head. She ducked and grabbed his arm and kicked him in the ribs and smashed him into the wall.

“Heads up Sonya.” Johnny had thrown a ninja in her direction. She held her arm out and the ninja smacked into it and spun round her arm and crashed onto the floor.

They walked to the big table once all the ninjas had been dealt with.

“Piece of cake.” Johnny commented leaning on a Bo staff.

“Piece of cake huh?” Liu looked doubtful.

“Well it was easy for me.” Johnny boasted.

“Oh get over yourself.” Sonya told the actors’ ego.

“What is it with you guys we’re standing there not what more do you want?” He asked. They heard clapping and looked toward the stairs opposite from then. Raiden was seated there.

“Brilliant absolutely brilliant.” His voice dripping with sarcasm. “Now why don’t you show me what you plan to do about them?” He continued pointing behind them. They turned round to find at least fifty ninjas, dressed the same as the last lot. This time they all had weapons made from steel which looked rather dangerous. Sonya looked to the thunder God and prepared to fight.

“Ah-Ah-Ah I don’t think so.” Said Raiden laughing at the ninjas as his eyes and hands sparked with electricity. Sonya knew it would take a long time for her to adapt to Raidens strange brand of humour.

He lead the through the ninjas.

“You guys are lucky he stopped us.” Said Johnny throwing him the Bo staff he had acquired. Sonya grabbed his arm.

“Come on!” she hissed. He reluctantly followed. Raiden lead them back outside to a place filled with those absolutely grotesque statues.

“So now you’ve seen who you’ll be facing in the tournament.”

“Who was that big four armed thing that I saw with Tsung and” Sonya looked disgusted “Kano.”

“That thing was Goro. General of the armies of Outworld and prince of the subterranean realm of Kuatan, 4^th Astral plane of Shokan. He has ruled Mortal Kombat under Tsung of course for the past five hundred years. He is very dangerous but not to bright.”

“Will Shang Tsung fight in the tournament?” Liu asked impatiently.

“If he choose to as a former champion he has the right to do so. And he is far more dangerous then Goro remember that. Now I suggest that you all go to bed and sleep because you’ll need all the rest you can get.” The other two started to leave but Sonya lingered.

“What is it Sonya?” Raiden was curious.

“I don’t want to fight in any tournament. I just want to string Kano up by his balls from some tree and watch a group of animals tear him apart.” Sonya stated.

“Graphic! But Sonya think why you joined the army.” Raiden was almost being nice.

“To protect my country and the people in it.” Was the real answer but she had never told anyone that.

“Then do your job Sonya because if you three lose then it’s not only your country that’s fucked, but the whole world.” Replied Raiden.

“What about this Shang Tsung?” that was another main query.

“He has something for you which is rather unusual. You are one of only a very select few women ever to compete in Mortal Kombat. Which means you’ll be constantly discriminated against. Use this to your advantage. Now I want to leave so go with your friend for they have a lot more worry than you.”

“Okay I get the message he with far too much power.” replied Sonya her doubts for the moment quashed. Raiden rubbed his temples he could tell these ones were going to be a handful.

Sonya caught up with Johnny and Liu who were waiting just round the corner.

“What was that about?” Johnny asked suspiciously

“About tying men up by their balls to trees.” Sonya answered looking evilly at Johnny. Who gulped.

“Is everything okay Sonya.” Liu questioned her.

“I think so yeah.” She replied.

“Where are you two staying.” She asked them.

“In the dungeon.” Johnny said absolutely seriously.

“You are kidding.” Sonya didn’t believe Johnny who just looked at her.

“You’re not kidding are you?” Oh my god she thought I’m in like the palace.

“It’s not that bad really.” Offered Liu.

“Where are you then Sonya?” Johnny asked innocently.

“You want to see?” Both the guys nodded. “Follow me then.” With that they took off towards Sonyas room.

When they finally got there after about an hour due once again to Johnny insisting that they follow him as he knew where he was going they arrived. Sonya went in first checking in the four corners, behind the door, under and on top of the wardrobe, under the bed and finally in the bathroom. Satisfied that no one was waiting in the room, she invited in Liu and Johnny. They like she had been were gob-smacked at the beauty of the room.

“I think I’ll complain to the management ‘cause I sure as hell am not going back to that cell after seeing this place.” Johnny said sitting on the sofa like thing.

“Maybe we should stay here. You could keep the bed, Johnny could have that sofa thing and I’ll sleep on the floor.” Liu spoke up.

“Wait a minute I would like a fractional amount of privacy.” Sonya protested.

“Come on Sonya we only want to sleep here!” Johnny raised his hands in the air.

“Okay then but it’s mine during the day.”

“Done.” Johnny agreed. They all decided to sleep in their clothes.

“G’night Sonya.” Johnny whispered softly. His voice almost sounded like Daniel’s. I will avenge you Daniel I’ll kill every last one of The Black Dragon. Sonya had every intention of keeping her promise.

Part 10 The Kombat begins

Liu woke up as soon as the sun came up. When he moved he woke up Sonya. Johnny however was dead to the world.

“I’m going to my room for fresh clothes then I’m going to meditate. Remember and train and get Johnny up soon because combat starts today.”

“How could I forget.” Said Sonya dryly.

“When the first gong sound that means breakfast has started. Let’s meet up outside the hall.”

“See ya later Liu.”

“Bye.” He said already half way out the door. Sonya went into the huge wardrobe and selected a green and white top and black jeans. She went for a shower and changed. When she came out Johnny was still sound asleep. He looked so vulnerable and sweet. She moved his hair from over his eyes and he moved slightly. Sonya found herself warming to the actor. She opened the window and a gentle breeze filtered through the room. Time to wake him up. She tapped him gently.

“Johnny, Johnny you have to get up.” She shook him a little harder. Johnny awoke to see an angel. “Sonya?” he asked puzzled.

“Liu has already left. It’s time to eat soon. Come on get up.”

“I need a shower.”

“You can use mine and I’ll go get you clothes as long as you bloody well get up right now.”

“It’s a deal.” Said Johnny grinning. Sonya left and looked for a dungeon. She saw Art. He waved.

“Hey Art do you know where Johnny’s room is?”

“Yeah first left, straight ahead until you see a large misshapen thing and then the second right after that.” Art smiled.

“Thanks Art. Are you fighting today?”

“I’m not sure, you don’t actually know until after breakfast. I think?”

“See you later.”

“Bye.” They headed in different directions. Sonya was extremely cautious after all how well did she know Art. She finally reached the room that supposedly was Johnny’s. She kicked the door open. As always checked the corners. She saw the two cases and knew she had the right room. No wonder Johnny didn’t want to stay here. Sonya had been in dodge motels when on surveillance. Those were cleaner than this place. The bed had a wire frame and a stained disgusting mattress. She opened the suitcases that were lying on the floor. He already had sunglasses but there was at least twelve other pair here. She chose a pair of black trousers designer label she was sure and a green shirt also made by some weird Italian designer. Calvin Klein boxers. Whatever Sonya thought. She left the room. There was a group of guys at the end of the corridor. She hoped they wouldn’t make any trouble but if they did. She smiled. As she approached them. They all turned to look at her. Most of them sniggering. She guessed that there was about five of them. She had fought bigger odds before. Her and Jaxs took out twenty Black Dragons once. They tried to close her exit.

“Are you little boys going to get the hell outta my way or do I have to remove you myself.” She said it hoping she would get the chance to move them herself.

“Well sweetheart you can move me anytime.” He laughed out loud his friends joining in. That was all it took for Sonya’s very thin temper to snap. She grabbed the one with the big mouth and kneed him in the mid-section. Then when his head shot up she rammed it into the head of the second guy. The third and fourth guys came running at her. She dropped and leaped into the air and split kicked both of them. Four of the five guys were now on the ground. The fifth stood three feet away from her.

“The Black Dragon will make you bleed for this bitch.”

“What would you know of the Black Dragon?” her tone sarcastic.

“That it looks after its own, four of which you have KO’d!”

“ Lieutenant Sonya Blade.” She said smiling wickedly. She would bet he knew who she was. His eye went wide and he turned and ran. He had heard the story when she took out a whole camp trying to kill Kano. She picked up a rock, which she threw at him. It hit him in the back of the head. I’ll leave him there she thought let the other vulture’s sort him out. She made her way back to her room.

When she got back when she entered Johnny jumped up.

“What happened to you? Why were you gone so long? Did someone attack you?” Johnny fired questions at her. She threw his clothes at him.

“I’m fine a few guys played all hard I sorted them out. As I repeatedly tell you I can look after myself.”

“How many of them were there?” he looked really worried.

“Only four or five.” She told him and before he could say anything else. “Now go for a shower and get dressed or we’ll miss breakfast! And I for one are starving.”

“Okay.” He agreed with her and she left.

“Wait a minute where are you going now?” he was filled with queries. He reminded her of Jax but with a huge ego.

“Down the stairs and then turn left. There’s a little gym and I want to train for a little while. Is that okay with you?” She said with hands on hips. He nodded and she left. The weather here was beautiful. Later that day Sonya was going to find Kano and make him suffer. She knew he was still in hiding. She would find him tonight after she fought if indeed she was fighting today at all. If she wasn’t she would maybe stay and watch Johnny or Liu. Or possibly find a suitable tree to hang Kano by the balls from. Her thoughts nearly never left Kano except once to think about Johnny. His ego seemed to be shrinking. Now isn’t the time to fall for anyone she reminded herself. She may die here but only if she got Kano first she decided. She entered the gym. She scanned for Black Dragon uniform or colour. Then she scanned for Kano. No sign of the weasel. She noticed Neil. He had seen her.

“Hi Sonya you are looking very beautiful this morning.” He told her.

“Whatever. Do you fancy sparing?” She needed a partner and since Neil was so like Jax. He was a size she was used to.

“I could not hit a lady.”

“Well I hate to tell you but I used to be a man.” She tried to keep a straight face.

“WHAT?” he looked rather shocked and she nearly laughed.

“Of course I’m not but think of me that way if it means you’ll spar with me.”

“You had me confused for a little while there.” He looked like he’d just been told he didn’t have cancer. Just as they were getting ready to fight Johnny walked in. He was as always wearing sunglasses. He spotted Sonya with that Neil guy. Johnny didn’t like him one bit. He came strutting in and went straight up to Sonya and Neil.

“Hi Sonya and Ned isn’t it?”

“Neil.” The other man stated. He disliked Johnny Cage and everyone knew his movies were fake. He would get killed here that was for sure.

“Sorry Neil.” He turned and addressed Sonya. “I left my clothes in your bathroom I hope you don’t mind the mess.” He said craftily

“No that’s fine I don’t mind mess, never have had an urge to tide. Ever.” The mighty gong sounded.

“We’re away to wait for Liu Kang but we’ll probably see you in there.” Neil nodded in reply. Sonya and Johnny made their way to the main hall and waited for Liu Kang who had finally shown up. He had a very troubled look on his face. They entered the hall and sat next to two guys that Johnny had appeared in films with him and some other guy. Last night it was monks this morning it’s film stars. I really am beginning to doubt the seriousness of this tournament. Well it doesn’t matter if it serious or not as long as I get at Kano she said inside her head. She sat in between Liu and Johnny. Johnny started to introduce his “Friends”. He started with the man opposite from him and worked his way along.

“This is Justin Wright. We stared together in Iron Fist two.” He put forward his hand and tried to squeeze her hand tight, which she done back and he almost yelped. She smiled.

“Lieutenant Sonya Blade US Special Forces.” She said in a very authoritative voice. His face went rather red and Sonya resisted the urge to smirk at him. Johnny then pointed to the guy sitting across from Sonya.

“This guy is the biggest in the business apart from yours truly of course. We trained under the same Sensei. He’s like my best friend forever.”

“Except when my films make more than his of course.” The man said jokingly.

“Anyway this is Leisen Pak. Or Brian if you prefer.” Sonya raised her eyebrows.

“Don’t even ask it was the concoction of his sick mind.” He pointed at Johnny accusingly. Who smiled and raised his hand in a mock defence. Leisen and Justin were stark opposites. Lesin was obviously Japanese where as Justin couldn’t possibly have any oriental blood in him at all. Leisen had dark hair and dark eyes. Justin had blonde hair and blue eyes. Leisen must only be about 5’9”, which was small compared with the six-foot men that surrounded him. Johnny pointed to the third unknown man at the table.

“And I have idea who he is.” Johnny said almost rudely. The man gave a rueful smile. He was quite creepy. He has a scar across his throat that suggested that someone had tried to slit it. His eyes glowed red. Must be contacts she thought. His hair was fine and straight but quite long. He must be at least forty. She imagined but masking her thoughts just in case. He raised a glass to the thin wire like mouth without the use of his hands.

“You are skilled in psychokenesis.” Sonya observed.

“Yes. I am Knoxs. I come from Germany. I worked with Justin.” Was his answer to Johnny’s statement.

“I have never seen a women in the tournament before.” Liu looked confused.

“How old are you? How many tournament have you participate in.”

“I have never participated in any tournaments although I might this time. I am around two hundred of your earth years.”

“That isn’t possible.” Sonya said outraged “Humans cannot live for that long.”

“You my dear are making the assumption that I am human.” He took a tone that suggested that he was superior.

“You know I think the place should be made in to a movie and quick.” Johnny would be thinking something like that wouldn’t he. This man was clearly delusional but she’d seen so many strange things that she didn’t think possible until she’d gotten on that boat. Her thoughts as always drifted to Kano. Would he be fighting? She hoped so. It would be nice to see him suffer. They made casual conversation and the mood was very good for people who could be killed that day. When breakfast was finished everyone was told who he or she would be fighting that day. Sonya scanned the list for Kano but there was no sign of him. She was to be fighting some guy. She wasn’t worried. Liu was also fighting that day but Johnny wasn’t. Liu was fighting in the morning but she wasn’t fighting until that night. They went to watch Liu. He was escorted with Johnny and Sonya following close behind. It was a gravel circle filled with white stones. Shang Tsung was seated regally at the far end of the circle his seat with covered in big peacock feather, which fanned out to make an impressive plumage. He looked over at Sonya and Johnny and smiled. Johnny in his typical humour blew him a kiss and Sonya had to put her hand to cover her mouth to avoid bursting into giggles. At least he had a sense of humour. Tsung looked puzzled and then angry. Liu stepped into the ring. A man wearing only trousers, black and yellow in colour stepped into the ring with Liu. He looked sleek and feline almost like a cat. His onyx eyes narrowed into thin slits. He had dread locks making him look possibly Caribbean in origin. His dark skin suited his feline features. He was definitely a leopard Sonya decided. Shang Tsung stood up.

“Liu Kang you will be first. Let Mortal Kombat begin.” His voiced boomed and raged through the whole island.

The two men circled each other. The Caribbean leopard let out a growl at Liu. The men reached for the two bamboo canes and drew then out of the ground fast as lightening. Sonya watched the leopard slovenly hit again and again at Liu. Liu was obviously the better of the two; his speed was so fast that it was almost blurred. He caused the leopard to drop his stick. Liu defended well but the leopard jumped and brought down his foot snapping Liu’s cane in two. Then he managed to kick Liu in the ribs but if it hurt, Liu showed no sign of it. Liu punched the leopard in the temple, then followed up with a three hit combo and knocked the leopard to his knees. The leopard ran at Liu who performed a kicked which involved using both feet. The leopard lay unconscious. Liu looked to Shang Tsung.

“Finish Him!” Tsung bellowed. When Liu made no move to do this. Tsung rises from his throne and moved towards the fallen leopard and put his hand just over the leopard six-pac, which glistened and shone with sweat

“Your soul is mine.” He mumbled.

“What’s he doing?” Johnny for a change was serious.

“I don’t know? LOOK!” Sonya whispered loudly.

Tsung hand was sucking what appeared to be the leopard soul! The body glowed and turned to dust, as a cry of NO filled with terror erupted from the green energy emitting from leopards chest, was oozing up into Tsungs out stretched palm.

“Fatality.” Tsung said his voice full of malice and pleasure. He looked at Liu and left. The crowds had obviously had their pound of flesh and started to leave. Sonya had seen so many corpses in her life, many of their lives had been ended by her, but this, this was barbaric. Liu looked up in despair.

“That was.” Johnny’s voice trailed off.

“That is evil. Pure and simple. That man is evil; he’s a monster. I bet he’s a candidate for the Black Dragon.” Sonya could see a look of agony on Lius face.

“He did that to my brother. He was the only family I had left.” Liu voice was riddled with anguish and Sonya could see the pain he was in. Sonya dropped her attitude for once. She put her arm round Lius shoulder.

“Kano killed my twin, my lover and my partner. He didn’t do that to them but he slaughtered them and I’ll kill him for it.” Sonya was now as upset as Liu.

“Am I the only one who came here to prove myself?”

“Yes Johnny not all of us have your super egos.”

“At least I’ll always be in good company.” Johnny was trying to cheer them up at least.

“Do you want to be alone Liu?” Sonya looked him in the eyes.

“Yes I need to find answers.”

“Okay. Come on Johnny.” Sonya dragged Johnny away. He punched Liu on the shoulder as they went past. They ran into Neil.

“Hi, where you heading?” Sonya asked Neil.

“Not sure. Trying to find a place to pray for forgiveness. I killed a good friend of mine about an hour ago. It was that or let that bastard Tsung take his soul. He knew that.”

“I would never kill a friend.” Sneered Johnny and stormed off.

“Hey where are you going?”

“Away from him!”

“Fine be like that!” Sonya said storming in the other direction leaving Neil staring after them. Sonya wasn’t quite sure why she was so bothered by Johnnys mood swings or why she had stormed off.

Sonya explored the island finding a beautiful and secluded beach. For a place so filled with evil it had a rare beauty to parts of it. The water was a pure blue colour but so clear you could see the crystal white sand below it. Sonya wished she had brought her new armbands with her to try out, then again she didn’t want to spoil this beautiful spot. She crouched down on the sand and leapt up in to a forward drill flip kick. She landed on her feat somersaulted backwards and did three rabbit punches before jumping in the air, flipping over and landing on her feet. She done a cartwheel forward and landed in the splits and twisting round her upper body put her hands down managed to privet herself into a handstand. Then putting both feet down she stood up. She could feel some one watching her. She turned round seeing no one. Then in the shadows a figure stood noticing that it had been seen it started to run. Sonya gave chase and ran after it. It ducked and ran faster around sharp corners and under tight spaces, but Sonya had been in the army since she was sixteen and easily kept up and started to gain on the thing. In a finally burst of speed Sonya grabbed the cloak it was wearing to reveal a ninja wearing black and orange/red uniform similar to Scorpions and Sub-Zeros. His eyes glowed of nothingness. He ripped his top from her grasp took a step back and fired a huge green energy ball at her. She ducked to the ground as the fireball hit the ground to the left of her. He used a smoke bomb, when it cleared he was gone.

“Shit!” She swore out loud. It didn’t appear that he was aiming for her or she was sure he would’ve fired again. She had to get back to the site.

After roughly an hour Sonya returned to the hall. She hadn’t had a chance to change. She entered the hall to find a crowd of people waiting. Shang Tsung was seated in the large throne. There was already one fighter in the ring. She spotted Liu and Johnny. OH I’m the other fighter she remembered. Tsung stood up.

“When you are ready Ms Blade.” His voice dripping with sarcasm. She had been running for at least two hours and was dripping with sweat.

“Can I have a towel first?” She enquired. Tsung nodded to a guard who brought one and handed it to her. The crowed were getting quite restless. Sonya threw down the towel and stepped into the arena. Men wolf whistled and comments were made. It was nothing she didn’t expect. She sized up her opponent. Average build, short brown hair, dark eyes and a full set of white teeth. He looked and dressed Italian. His voice confirmed that.

“Little girls shouldn’t be where the big boys play.” He smirked.

“And little boys shouldn’t think cause they got a three hundred dollar suit that they can play with the big boys.” That wiped the smile off his pretty boy-face.

“BEGIN!” as always Tsungs voice echoed through out the whole island. He was walking around her so she thought may as well play along. She circled with him. He launched an attack at Sonya’s head. She neatly stepped aside. He was a street fighter, only they used these tactics. She dropped and leg swept him. He jumped up and kicked her in the face. She flipped backwards and landed in the splits. From there she blocked his foot coming down toward her face. She stood up and he let down his guard to hook her. She attacked by a quick jab to his face causing his nose to burst open. He attacked her and shoulder dashed her. She stopped him dead in his tracks and kicked him in the head. He brought out a shrunken and threw at her. She twisted to the side. The shrunken went zipping past her but caught her side only mildly tearing the flesh. Up until this point she had been totally unaware of the huge crowd, but then she heard Johnnys voice booming up shouting something about being disqualified. He rose to him feet and lunged at Sonya. She threw him over her and he landed on his back. She moved over to him and waited for him to get up. He rises slowly and obviously in pain. She waited as he fell to the ground unconscious. Tsung moved over to the body.

“Finish Him!” Tsung hissed. Sonya looked to the skies. Tsung stepped towards the body.

“Your soul is mine.” The ecstasy showing in his face as the soul shot up into his hand. This time there was no noise. The soul left the body almost willingly. Sonya looked at the sorcerer with hate in her eyes. He stepped towards her and she stood her ground. Liu and Johnny were at her sides in an instance. Tsung then gave her that look again before leaving. They exited the hall. Johnny did not look happy.

“Where were you Sonya? I searched the whole island and I couldn’t find you. I was really worried.”

“Don’t be so torn up Johnny I’m a big girl. If you hadn’t stormed off earlier then maybe.” Sonya’s voice trailed off

“Maybe what?” Johnny voice had a hint of worry and suspicion.

“Nothing forget it.” Sonya suddenly went secretive

“Sonya tell me what’s.”

“Are you two about finished.” Raiden interrupted the bickering pair. Raiden continued “If the happy couple are finished could we get on to the part were we save the world.”

“Oh fuck off.” Sonya said

“You” said Raiden pointing at Sonya “are already in trouble. When you wandered off Tsungs assassins could’ve got you or anything. Then you nearly attack Tsung. What are you playing at?” Raidens voice was getting angry.

“Look I didn’t come here to fight in your tournament. I came here to kill Kano and then leave.”

“Sonya whether you like it or not you are competing in the tournament. Tsung soft spot for you means you will probably get a piece of Kano, but if you don’t then tough.” The thunder good was getting annoyed.

“Humph.” Muttered Sonya huffily.

“This mornings fights were only mucking around. Tomorrow you face real fighters. You three have to understand you are the earth realms only hope.” Raidens eyes were almost begging.

“ We are having troubles of our own Lord Raiden.” Liu spoke quietly.

“I know that Liu but come tomorrow you must all be prepared.” Raidens voiced drifted off as a bolt of lightening hit the ground.

“I could use a nice stiff drink about now.” Johnny commented.

“I am going for a walk to try to understand this.” Liu was obviously distressed.

“Sonya I was wondering what happened today? I mean when you left.”

“I found a beach and trained. Then something was watching me so I chased it.” Johnny interrupted.

“Did it hurt you?” To her surprise his voice was filled with anger.

“No it was another ninja thing. It threw a fireball and made its escape.” Johnny interrupted again.

“But he didn’t hurt you?”

“No, he just escaped.”

“Sonya will you join me in a walk around the island.” Johnny voice was nervous. Sonya was really beginning to like the actor. She kept her voice aloof.

”I suppose so.” His face brightened. “ ’Cause I ain’t got anything better to do.” He started off towards the rocks at the beach. She walked in stride with him. The scenery was beautiful. They came to another beach, this one also beautiful but in a darker more sinister way. This one had flagpoles every 100 meters or so. Sonya couldn’t read Chinese so she couldn’t translate what the writing on them. They walked along the beach in silence. Until the reached a rock formation. Sonya climbed and sat on top of it. Johnny followed and sat next to her. They looked out to sea.

“Tell me about yourself Sonya.” Johnny was curious.

“Not much to tell. I’m twenty-one a lieutenant in the US Special Forces. I had a twin but he’s dead now.” Sonya’s voice was so thick with pain it cut up Johnny. He was in love with Sonya he was sure of it. Despite having only know her for two days and he couldn’t stop her hurting. He put his hand on hers. She looked up sharply.

“I’m sorry. What happened to him?” Johnny squeezed her hand. She stood up ripping her hand from his. “It’s none of your business.” He also stood up.

“Sonya I.” She hooked him square in the mouth.

“Leave me alone! If you want to survive Johnny Cage stay well away from me.” She ran off. She had already lost too much. She wasn’t about to get attached to some else. Johnny stood up and looked after her. He decided to follow at a safe distance. His jaw hurt like hell. He felt sorry for anyone who Sonya was fighting against. Despite what had just happened he couldn't bring himself to feel hate for Sonya.

Sonya kept running. She felt really guilty for hitting Johnny. She knew her feelings for Johnny were growing but she wasn’t going to allow anybody for Kano to take away from her. The surrounding she was in appeared to be a garden. It was filled with breath-taking, beautiful plants and exotic flowers. Sonya wasn’t in any mood to enjoy them. She shouldn’t of hit Johnny. He would probably never talk to her again. That would be a shame she really liked him. She was wandering further into the garden. She was sure she heard something. She dropped to the ground and looked round for any sign of anything. She crouched for another five minutes. Almost assured that nothing was their Sonya cautiously continued. She felt an arm go over her throat trapping one arm. Her other arm wouldn’t move. Damn why wouldn’t it move?! She felt someone breathing on her ear. She felt her other arm being twisted around her back.

“Who are you?” Sonya had a little trouble not swearing and cursing. The person was moving her forward to a clearing. It looked like a balcony with glass doors. The person then turned her round to face them. Sonya’s eyes bulged.

“Shang Tsung! Let me go now.” Sonya’s voice demanded.

“Very well.” He released her. She stumbled backwards and landed on her ass. She growled. She went to stand up but Tsung raised a hand and she was paralysed.

“What are you doing let me up! What the hell do you want?”

“I think Ms Blade it is time you and I had a chat.”

“I don’t wanna speak to you. NOW LET ME UP.” Sonya was getting seriously pissed off.

“You are in no position to demand anything my pretty one.” Tsung was leering.

“What are you doing to me? Let me up.” Well that’s really working nice one Sonya thought. Tsung walked over to her and crouched down next to her. He reached over and moved a stray piece of hair from her face. Sonya glared at him her eyes full of malice. He moved closer to her. She tried to move she tried to move with her whole strength but to no avail. He whispered in her ear.

“You are so beautiful no wonder Mr Cage is so in love with you. You really are worth dying for.” He put his hand on her face and ran over her cheek. She spat in his face. He raised his hand and she stood involuntarily.

“You leave Johnny the hell alone.” She said as his hand came cruising across her jaw. The pain was intense. He took her chin. Her heart lurched. She was beginning to get nervous.

“Get your hands off her you asshole.” Johnny voice was filled with rage. He looked to Sonya. Liu came up behind Johnny. Then lightening struck the ground and Raiden was there.

“How dare you Tsung this is not in the rules. I will not have you harass Sonya again UNLESS IN BATTLE.” Raiden was in a fury.

“Lord Raiden she was trespassing near my home. What was I supposed to do?” The sorcerer answered craftily. This didn’t appear to calm the god.

“Tsung release her this instant. You had better be careful Shang Tsung. Never touch Sonya again or you will be punished.” Tsung smirked. He moved his hands and Sonya fell to the ground.

“I have plans for the beautiful lieutenant and when we win this tournament you will not be able to order us what to do. Then you.” He looked at Sonya and smiled wickedly. “Are ours.” He turned his back on them and glided through the door. Johnny ran over to Sonya and put his arms around her.

“It’s OK I’m fine” Sonya offered a weak protest. Liu also came over and kneeled down beside Sonya and Johnny. Sonya was obviously shaken but trying to regain control of her emotions.

“Really Johnny I’m fine you can let go of me now.” Her voice didn’t have its usual forcefulness to it. Raiden was standing over the three mortals. He looked concerned.

“Are you OK Sonya? That was a close call. You have to learn to be more cautious around him.” Sonya looked at Raiden, her eyes still slightly wide.

“What was that thing he did to me? I totally couldn’t move. It was horrible I had no control over anything except my face.” Sonya put her head down.

“One of Tsungs many talents I’m afraid. Although he isn’t allowed to use it in direct battle, He couldn’t anyway, as it would drain him.” Raidens head shot up and he fired a bolt of lightening at seemingly nothing. It hit something and a green ninja appeared. It ran and the God teleported in front of it and grabbed it. He spoke to the ninja.

“Always a pleasure to have you in my grasp Reptile.” The god sense of humour was intact as always.

“Pleasssse not hurt Reptile. I isss only watching that isss all I isss doing.” The ninja was hissing like a snake. Raiden gave it an electric shock, which made it yelp with pain.

“You will leave my warriors alone is that clear? You aren’t part of the tournament, which means I can kill you. You best remember that. Now go!” Raiden dropped the creature and it turned invisible before their very eyes. Every one except Liu was gapping.

“Where did the lizard boy go?” Johnny asked. Raiden went to answer but Liu Kang got there first.

“He’s not human. He’s a Raptor from Outworld.” Liu told his confused friends. Raiden smiled.

“So the monks did teach you something after all.” Raiden gave Liu an almost approving glance.

“I did pay attention for eighteen years. Besides I’ve meditated a lot.”

“Johnny you must go to the warrior shrine it is time for your battle.” Raiden told the actor who was hovering around the lieutenant like he was scared Tsung was going to come back.

“Battle? Didn’t even know I had one.” Johnny put his arm around Sonya who tried to get away but then didn’t have the energy. Raiden disappeared.

“Come Johnny I’ll show you to the warrior shrine. I found it when I went walking earlier. Liu led the way and Johnny pulled Sonya tight to him and she kept struggling. She didn’t know how much earlier had scared him.

When the arrived at the shrine. Sonya shoved her way to the ringside as she had spotted Art Lean. Johnny spoke to hushed tones to Liu.

“Watch out for her for me Liu.” Johnny voice was full of concern.

“You love her don’t you? I never thought you could love anyone except yourself.” Liu lost his serious look.

“And you never told me you had a sense of humour and yes I do love her.” Johnny headed for the ring while Liu headed for Sonya. When he reached her she was talking to Art Lean. Art Lean was half way through a sentence of which Liu caught the second half.

“And Johnny is an amazing fighter. I’ve only every seen him twice and he is amazing.” Liu was amused Johnny biggest fan was here apart from Johnny Cage of course. Shang Tsung entered the arena and stared at Sonya who grew angrier by the second and then to Johnny. He smirked at Johnny.

“Your opponent Neil Denver.” Stung headed for his throne. Neil stepped out. Sonya and Liu were shocked.

“Is Neil a good fighter Liu?” Sonya was looking a bit pale.

“Yeah but I think Johnny can handle him.” Liu sounded confident. Sonya had never liked Neil he was too smooth. He didn’t seem to get along with Johnny. She hopped Johnny wouldn’t get hurt.

“FIGHT!” Tsungs voice bellowed. Neil bowed and Johnny didn’t. Neil lifted up his sleeves and three fireball shot out at Johnny. He dodged the first two but the third hit him. He was knocked back and fell over. He flipped to his feet as Neil charged him and performed an eight hit combo. The last two hit a kick and a roundhouse connected with Johnny’s jaw, which was already damaged due to Sonya’s hit earlier. He was in pain. Neil grabbed Johnny and threw him over his head and Johnny landed on his back. He kicked Johnny in the ribs and put him in a strangle hold. He bent down and whispered in Cage’s ear.

“When Shang has Sonya as a plaything I think I’ll borrow her.” He chuckled.

“Never happen mate. Sonyas her own women and if you think Tsung’ll dominate her then your sadly deluded. And what makes you think you’ll survive this fight?” Cage sneered at him. He grabbed Neil’s head with his one free hand and brought him crashing down to the turf. Neil and Johnny were both on their feet. Johnny faked a fly kick and then used the shadow kick to knock Neil to the ground. Neil tried to kick Johnny but he ducked and countered with an uppercut. Neil pushed himself up off of the ground. He fired a fireball at Johnny that hit and killed a by-stander. Sonya had her fingers crossed for the superstar. His jaw was broken. That was her fault. She turned her attentions back to the fight when she heard Tsungs call of

“FINISH HIM” Johnny stared at the half-dazed Neil. He took a deep breath and delivered a move known as the deadly uppercut. It took Neil’s head off which landed on Tsungs. Tsung stood up and walked towards Neil’s body.

“FATALITY. Your soul.” Tsung never got a chance to finish. Johnny interrupted.

“His soul isn’t yours it’s mine. I defeated him and I performed a fatality therefore you have no claims to Neil’s soul.” Cage finished looking very smug since it was obvious that Tsung had been out smarted. Sonya sighed invertidly. She was relieved that he hadn’t killed out of maliciousness as she had done before. Tsung walked past Sonya and looked at her. She wanted to wipe that smile off his face. Liu put a hand on her shoulder to restrain her. Johnny came towards them. Sonya walked up to him.

“How’s your jaw.” Sonya asked.

“Doesn’t matter if you won’t pull away.” He slid his arm around her shoulder. She went a little frigid and then loosened up. Johnny beamed.

“My jaw feels better already.” Sonya heard thunder. The three friends made their way to the room, which the three of them shared. Raiden was waiting for them. He surprised that Sonya was letting Johnny near her but he had seen her soul she was hurt but she did have emotions. Liu was getting stronger by the day. He must be the chosen one hoped Raiden. He spoke to them.

“What took you so long? I’ve been to China and back.”

“Some of us have to walk you know.” Sonya remarked snidely. Raiden shrugged.

“I don’t. Anyway good fight Johnny. I’m afraid now you have Tsungs back up even farther. You two are almost more trouble than you are worth. Look at Liu, has caused no trouble. Well except may be going after Tsung.” Liu just sort of went funny. Raiden sensed he was lonely.

“Walk with me Liu Kang.” Said the god. Liu followed leaving Johnny and Sonya behind. Sonya sat on the big bed. Johnny sat next to her. Sonya took a deep breath.

“Look Johnny I’m sorry I hit you earlier. It just.” Her voice trailed off. Johnny was staring at her. She moved away from him.

“Sonya let me hold you if for my sake and not yours. I’m tired and lonely. I need you.” He looked so disturbed and unnerved she almost gave in.

“Not until Kano is dead Johnny. I can’t think about you while I’ve still got a job to do.” She looked into his brilliant blue eyes. They really did suck you in.

“We had better get some sleep Johnny we’ve got an even tougher day tomorrow.” He nodded sadly and climbed into the couch.

“G’night Johnny.” She said to the darkness. He waited till he could hear the soft rhythmic breathing which told him Sonya was asleep.

“I love you Sonya.” He told her knowing she couldn’t hear him. He heard the door opening. It was Liu.

“Hey Liu keep it down Sonyas asleep.” Johnny whispered.

“Sorry.” Liu said apologetically.

“What did Raiden tell you.” Johnny asked inquisitively.

“Who you and Sonya and indeed who I myself must face.” Liu told him as he lowered himself onto the straw mattress he slept on.

“Who?” Johnny asked his voice full of surprise.

“All will be revealed tomorrow.” Liu said mysteriously.

“Just tell me.” Liu cut him off.

“Good night Johnny.” Liu obviously didn’t want Johnny to pursue the matter any further so Johnny let it drop. He decided he’d better sleep. Tomorrow was going to be a tough day.

Sonya was first awake. She showered and changed into black denim shorts and a black leotard. She had managed not to wake the boys up. She opened the door and found a huge basket of various foods. There was also a note stuck to the door by some kind a knives. She torn it down. It read

“Well done you have made it to the second round of Mortal Kombat. From now on you will be escorted to your fights by a guard. You will not be able to leave your rooms until this time. After you have fought you are allowed to do as you please. Sonya Blade and Johnny Cage are fighting today. Liu Kang may leave when the first one of you leaves. Shang Tsung.”

Sonya was furious. She brought the food into the house and the door slammed shut. Liu and Johnny woke up with a start.

“What’s all the banging I was in the middle of the most wonderful dream.” Sonya knew where this was heading. She rolled her eyes.

“Spare me! Anyway seems our good buddy Tsung has placed us under house arrest.” Liu obviously wasn’t amused he probably didn’t relish the idea either.

“Hey my jaw doesn’t hurt!” Johnny said happily.

“Oh I forgot to tell you about that. Since it wasn’t a Kombat related injury Raiden could heal it for you.” Liu told the bemused actor.

“I’m going for a shower. If I’m not back within two hours send the lieutenant in for me.” Johnny said smiling at Sonya. She threw him a dirty look. He gave her a mock salute and went in to the bathroom.

Liu went out and opened the window and stepped out to the balcony. He sat crossed legged and was probably meditating. Sonya was alone with her thoughts, well except for Johnny singing in the bathroom. She knew Jax would be overcome with worry and what about her parents they had lost one child, she knew that she was all they had left. They must be frantic. She thought about Johnny. She smiled involuntarily and then scolded herself. She had a job to do. She would get Kano soon enough because after this mornings fight she was going to find him. She thought about Shang Tsung and shivered. She hated him, he knew where Kano was and was deliberately keeping from her. I’ll find you Kano. Just like the Canadian Mounties I always get my man. Johnny came out of the shower. He hadn’t yet put his shirt on. Not bad thought Sonya and then scolded herself again. He smiled at her.

“Where’s all that food gone?” Johnny said ravenously “ I am totally starving.”

“Over there at the bottom of my bed.” She pointed to the basket. He picked out something and started to eat.

“So” Johnny looked at Sonya slyly “Since we’re house bound how do you plan to keep yourself” He paused for a moment “Amused?”

“What about I game of I-spy?” Sonya retorted.

“Ok I spy with my little eye a.” Yet again he paused “A beautiful blond lieutenant.” Sonya tried to change the subject.

“Is there any candy bars in there?” Sonya could use some sugar.

“Yeah I’ll trade ya.”

“Never deprive a women of her chocolate Johnny.” Sonya said deadly serious. He reached in and pulled out some chocolate.

“Come and get it then.” He teased her. God he was cute.

“Okay but if you get hurt then don’t moan at me.” Sonya’s eyes narrowed to slits. Quick as a flash, in out. She grabbed the bar before Johnny even knew she had moved.

“Hey not fair.” He stepped forward she couldn’t help but let her eyes drift. Nice body. He loomed in front of her. She remembered what he had said last night.

“You’d better get dressed we’ll be getting summoned soon.” Sonya said averting her eyes.

“I am.” Johnny told her snobbishly.

“What black shorts and a red sash. Oh sorry not forgetting the sunglasses.”

“Hey guys like to tan as well.” Sonya heard footsteps. She turned round to see Liu behind her. He looked refreshed.

“Can I come and watch you fight today Sonya?”

“Sure if you want. It’ll probably be boring though. Did you enjoy your meditation?” Sonya enquired.

“You should try it sometime Sonya, it cleanses the soul.” Liu told her confidently.

“Killing Kano would cleanse my soul.” Sonya said darkly. Sonya’s face turned sour. She remembered the look on Lances face as he died. She remembered the brother who tried to protect her and who died because of something she had done to Kano. She hated that man for everything he had done. He would pay.

“You Okay Sonya?” Oh Johnny and Liu were staring. Her eyes had turned as cold and hard as stone.

“Fine.” Short and sweet. She didn’t look at Johnny for fear of liking him, for fear of loving him. A knock on the door. Sonya practically ran for it. She opened it to see at least ten guards.

“Sonya Blade.” One of them barked “You are to come with us.” Johnny ran forward. He embraced Sonya. She was too shocked to move. He held her and looked into her cold eyes.

“Please Sonya don’t get hurt.” His voice and eyes showed his concern. She haltered for a second and kissed his cheek.

“Nor you.” Their eyes locked. The guard grabbed Sonya and her eyes once again turned to stone. She slapped his hand off.

“Don’t touch what you can’t afford.” She was growling. Liu stepped out and so did Johnny.

“You heard what they lady said.” Johnny voice had an icy undertone to it. The guards split. Five leading Sonya and Liu the other five lead Johnny the other way. He turned and watched Sonya go and touch the skin where her lips had been. He would kill Kano for what he’d done if it wasn’t for the fact that Sonya would probably make him suffer more.

They lead Sonya to the same arena where Liu had fought the Leopard. Tsung was already sitting there. He looked straight at Sonya. He made her feel dirty. She filled her eyes with hate for this pompous man/sorcerer whatever. She looked at Liu who said

“Good Luck.” She smiled and stepped into the ring. Since there was no opponent Sonya started to warm up. She could feel Tsungs eyes burning into her back. Eventually he spoke to her.

“Sonya Blade!” She turned round. “I have something for you my dear.”

“I don’t want anything from you.” Sonya voice was full of disgust and her eyes as unfeeling as those of a corpse in the morgue were. Tsung was still very confident.

“Oh I have something you want very much. You can thank me later.” He turned and pointed to a little door. His face went serious. Sonya turned around. She could hear the shouts of the crowd. It was dark in the little hut. She adjusted her eyes. She could see a red eye. Then the figure stepped out into daylight. It was Kano!

“Hallo baby did you miss me?” He asked and then sniggered while making his way to the ring. Sonya smiled barbarically. Kano was going to die at last. He made his way into the ring. He jumped in cockily. He stood only a few feet away from her. He reached out into his belt and pulled out a raptor knife.

“Ohh now look at this. This brings back memories now doesn’t it baby.” Sonya remembered Lances face as he died. She was filled with rage.

“What did you use it to knife your mother in the back? Oh whoops you don’t have a mother do you? Didn’t she just leave you on a door step?” Sonya knew she had cut Kano. He had been an orphan most of his life.

“Naw but it put a smile on your partner though.” He ran the knife from one side of his throat to the other. “Ear to ear.” Sonya hated him sniggering. He lunged forward with the blade. She caught his hand and tried to punch him but he caught her hand. A stalemate.

“Give it up baby I’ve studied you. I know all your moves.” He was smiling at her. Oh he though so didn’t he.

“Yeah? Well study this!” Sonya yelled at him as she brought her boot up and kicked him so hard in the stomach he stumbled backward. She did a roundhouse to his face and then uppercut him. He fell on his back. She stood back as she got up. She punched him in the face. She grabbed his shoulder and kneed him in the mid section but at the same he threw her on the ground. As she rolled over to get up, he kicked her hard in the stomach. Liu looked over, what was going on here Sonya could easily beat Kano. He looked on as Kano kicked her in the gut. Kano spat on the ground. He backhanded her.

“Does it hurt baby?” He looked like he was having fun. He brought his foot down in an axe kick to Sonya’s head. She flipped to the side. He took a step towards her but that was as far as he got. Sonya put her hand on the ground and rapped her legs round Kanos neck. Instead of throwing him over her head she shoved him to the ground while managing to keep her legs round his throat. They were both on the ground. Sonya slowly increased the pressure on Kanos windpipe.

“No Sonya don’t.” Kano’s rasped. She could hear Tsung in the background.

“Finish Him.” Kano looked in to her eyes pleading.

“Please Sonya baby give me a break!” Sonya looked in to his eye and smiled evilly.

“Ok.” She said sweetly. Twisting her legs. The loud snap of Kano neck was heard. She removed her legs and Kano head fell at an awkward angle. She could see the top of the spine jutting out of his neck. She went over to Liu.

“Are you Okay?” Liu was concerned.

“Yeah I feel better now I’ve killed him. At last I can feel like Lance and Daniel can rest in peace.” Sonya felt a huge weight lifting off her chest. She could see Tsung coming towards them. Sonya spoke first.

“What the hell do you want?” Sonya asked her voice full of malice.

“Only two? Where is your other friend? Not dead is he?” Tsung smiled evilly. Terror struck Sonya, which was replaced with blinding rage. Sonya grabbed Tsung.

“Where is Johnny you son of a bitch? If you’ve hurt him I swear to go I rip you goddamn throat out!” Liu grabbed Sonya and brought her back.

“Let me go Liu. You motherfucker where the hell is Johnny.” Liu could see the agony in Sonya eyes as Tsung left.

“Sonya I hate Tsung probably more than you but if you are to stay alive in Mortal Kombat then you must never show your emotions. Keep your temper.” Sonya hung her head. He touches her elbow.

“Come lets go look for Johnny.” She nodded her head. They set of in search of Johnny.

In some place which could possibly be hell. Scorpion had just taken off his facemask to reveal a rotting skull. What the hell? Thought Johnny. He looked around for something to defend himself with. A large shield was still in the skeletal hand of a long dead warrior. He ripped it out the hand. Scorpions’ eyes filled with all the fires of hell. He opened his mouth and spewed out fire at Johnny. He held the shield with his foot so as not burn the skin off of his hands. When Scorpion was finished Johnny grabbed a long spear and threw it at the dead warrior. Something seeped out of his arm. The Johnny ran forward with the shield and sliced half of Scorpions head off. The ninja let out a scream as his arm exploded. Oh shit Johnny started to ran and jumped behind a large pile of bones. Parts of Scorpion where everywhere and the smell of burning flesh lingered in the air. Now how to get out of here. Johnny looked grimly at his surrounding. They melted away and he was once again in the forest. Better find Sonya he thinks before noting how the trees were in straight lines.

“Where else could he be Liu?” Liu was beginning to get a little worried himself. Sonya was an expert tracker but she could find no sign of Johnny.

“Lets head back to the room, maybe he’ll be there.” Liu tried to coax Sonya back. They had been searching for hours.

“Okay but if he isn’t there I’m going back out to look for him with or without you.” They headed in the direction of the room. Sonya heart was nearly jumping out of her mouth. She felt big arms around her waist and a voice in her ear.

“I see you won. Are you hurt?” Sonya whirled round.

“Johnny your okay!” Sonya grabbed him and hugged him tight. He returned it. Liu turned round.

“Who were you fighting Johnny?” It took Johnny a minute to recover from Sonya display of affection. He looked into her eyes. She was really worried he realised. Sonya dropped her arms from Johnny.

“Scorpion.” Answered Johnny at last. He focused his attentions on Sonya.

“Sonya are you hurt.” She looked at him.

“I’m fine Johnny. Kanos dead at last.” He looked and seen the huge boat mark on her stomach and the bruise on her jaw.

“Is there anywhere we can go to get something for that.” He pointed at Sonya’s jaw.

“I’m fine really.” Johnny was about to protest when Raiden appeared.

“I see we both survived our fights today. I have some good news for you.”

“What?” Sonya asked Raiden.

“From tomorrow, everyone will be fighting Goro.”

“How the hell is that good news Sparky?” Raiden looked at Sonya. He was shocked Sparky? Johnny and Liu looked at each other confused. Sonya had made a very disrespectful remark. Her mood was slowly deteriorating.

“I want to leave now. I came here to kill Kano, which I have done and now I want to leave.” He could see the fear in Sonya soul. Fear of trusting him, Liu or Johnny. Fear of falling in love and fear that she may need help in this island. He looked at her sadly.

“Sonya you must face your fears if you are to conquer them.” Raiden told her. Johnny rushed to her defence.

“So who says we’re afraid.” Johnny challenged the god. He started with Johnny.

“You Johnny are afraid you’re a fake so you rush into any fight just to prove your not. You fight bravely enough, but foolishly, carelessly and you’ll be beaten.” He turned round on his heel and pointed at Sonya.

“You Sonya are afraid to admit that even you sometimes need help.” He moved close to her and whispered in her ear “If you are afraid to trust you will lose.” Sonya took a look of sheer annoyance and indignity at what Raiden had just told her. Johnny looked at her and she lowered her eyes. Raiden walked away as if to leave when Liu ran up to him and grabbed Raidens shoulder.

“Wait! What about me.” Lius voice was full of pain.

“Oh You. You fear your own destiny. You already fled it once when you went to America. It has brought you guilt over the death of your brother.”

“I am responsible for Chows deaths.” Liu told the god his voice plagued with anguish.

“NO!” Raiden told Liu angrily “Every mortal chooses his or her own path. Chow believed this. Why can’t you?” Raidens tone had softened.

“I’ve tried.” Before Liu could continue Raiden began to speak again.

“Despair is the most dangerous fear of all. I know this and so does Shang Tsung.” The thunder crack and Raiden disappeared. Johnny put his hand on Lius shoulder.

“Come on buddy we should go and get some rest.” Liu nodded wearily. They headed for the room.

Half way there they came across a dazed Art Lean.

“Hey man what’s up.” Johnny spoke to Art.

“Have any of you had to fight Goro yet?” Art asked his voice trembling slightly.

“No but I heard he comes out of his lair tomorrow.” Johnny answered.

“I could tell you that because you see I’m fighting him tomorrow.” Art looked nervous.

“We’ll come and cheer you on if you want.” Sonya offered.

“I’d like that.”

“So where you heading now?” Liu asked.

“Back to my room. I suppose I’ll need lots of rest.”

“We’ll see you in the morning Art.” Sonya voice had taken on a soft tone.

“I might walk you round Art, I could use the fresh air.” Art nodded.

“We’ll see you later Liu Okay.” Liu and Art headed in the opposite way.

“Do you want to go for a walk?” Johnny asked Sonya.

“Yeah why not.” He put his arm around Sonya’s shoulder. She didn’t pull away but didn’t encourage him either. Her emotions were clashing. He obviously liked her and she him but… She didn’t know how to handle all this. In the middle of a battlefield is no place to fall in love. Shit why did she keep thinking about that word? She had to admit that she was nearly killed with the thought of him being dead. They walked in silence. She was aware of how close he was.

“Sonya? You all right? You were a million miles away.” Johnny looked at her eyes full of tenderness. She smiled.

“I’m fine I just thinking.”

“What about?”

“Oh everything. That weirdo Tsung, Kano, Lance, Daniel, and Sparky.” She said slyly.

“I can’t believe you said that to him.” Johnny said laughing.

“Well.” Sonya put her head down. “Tsung told me you were dead. We looked for you for ages but we could find you. I thought I’d lost you.” She hung her head scared of her emotions. He lifted her head up till they were looking into each other’s eyes.

“I would never leave you Sonya.” Johnny voice was soft and sincere. Sonya was confused her life was in danger. This is no time to fall in love. His eyes were so soft though. Then WHAM he bent down and kissed her. She was pulling away and then was returning it. Finally Sonya pulled away flustered.

“Johnny.” Sonya said quietly

“Yeah.” Johnny voice was quietly calming almost hypnotic.

“There’s someone watching us.”

“What?” Now he was surprised.

“Up there I can see the glint of their belt buckle.” She pointed at the looming figure. The now dying sun making a flare over on to Johnnys head.

“Wait here I’m away to see what it is wait here!” Sonya stood up and dashed off.

“Sonya wait!” Johnny got up and started after her.

The figure seen Sonya run towards it and started to run itself. Determination flashed in Sonya’s eyes as she pushed to catch up with the figure. It speeds up and so does she. It was very fast but Sonya kept after it, waiting for it to tire-out or trip. They ran for another few minutes and then it made a mistake it tripped. Sonya ran and straddled it while it was still down. She pulled its arms over its head and twisted them behind its back.

“Well done Sonya you have once again caught Ermac.” Sonya looked up.

“You again. What do you want?” Sonya glared at Tsung while trying to concentrate on holding the orange ninja.

“The earth realm, much more power and you.”

“Look pal, I don’t know what your problem is but if you don’t mind I’d like to interrogate your little friend.” Sonya smiled wolfishly at the ninja. Johnny ran over. He was panting.

“Sonya!” His eyes narrowed when he seen Tsung. Sonya turned to see Johnny and let her attention drift from Ermac only for a second. That was all he needed. Sonya found herself on the ground.

“Shit!” She scanned for him but could see no sign of him. Johnny walked over to Sonya and put his hand on her shoulder.

“What does he want?” He pointed distastefully at Tsung.

“How about the soul of your friend? Art Lean isn’t it.” Johnny took a step forward. Sonya stuck her arm out.

“Then how about your beautiful girlfriend.” He looked hungrily at Sonya.

“What do you think I’m just a piece of meat or realm which you can just take? I hope your soul if you’ve got one that is, rots in the deepest darkest hell imageble.” Sonya sneered him. “I would rather spend eternity with Johnny than one more second with you. Come on we’re leaving.” Tsung stood in their path.

“And what makes you think you can leave? You still have a dept to me for the fight against Kano.”

Sonya grabbed Johnny’s hand and pulled him away leaving Tsung behind them. She could hear Tsung shouting her name.

“Bite me.” She threw over her shoulder, as she pulled Johnny away. Once they were back on the beach they slowed down.

“I’d like to kill that bastard Tsung.” He put his arm protectively around Sonya. “Did you mean what you said back there.” She looked at him.

“Yeah I suppose so.” Her eyes twinkled. He smiled. She turned serious.

“We’d better find Liu, He may know something about Ermac.” Johnny pouted.

“And I thought you would stay and wrestle in the sand with me.” She laughed at him. Maybe thing would be better from now on. Tsungs threats echoed in the back of her head. Was he serious or just trying to unnerve Johnny? She didn’t like that man one little bit. Johnny looked at Sonya. She was pouting but still cute as ever. He pulled her closer.

“Come on we need to find Liu.” She dragged him away. They went back to the room first. Liu was there. He was out on the balcony and meditating. His eyes opened and he made a noise like someone had surprised him. His body was drenched in sweat, his eyes bulged and his breathing was laboured.

“Liu what is it?”

“Can I find peace nowhere?” Liu said fatigue in his eyes and pain in his words.

“What happened Liu?” Sonya asked softly for fear of him biting her head off.

“I was meditating and I seen Chow die. I can’t escape this place even when I leave my body.” Liu said sorrowfully.

“Liu do you know anything about a ninja called Ermac?” Liu shot up and looked at them eyes wide.

“Ermac!” He was almost shouting “Where did you hear of him?” asked Liu regaining his composure.

“We just had a run in with him, and he was spying on me before.” Sonya answered.

“I always believed he wasn’t real.” Liu looked shocked.

“Why who is he?” Sonya and Johnny asked in unison.

“Error Macro. He is a warrior made up from three souls of fallen warriors. The three warriors being Eremite, Orassaki and Macronus. They were three of Edineas greatest warriors. The lasted many Mortal Kombat tournaments. Eremite was husband of Orassaki. She once defeated Khan herself but fell to him in the next tournament. Her husband died along with her, he couldn’t stand the loss. Macronus was said to be Edineas Chosen One, but Khan challenged him when he had had no guidance and Khan killed him also. Ermac as he is known is the souls of these warriors but is controlled by Khan. I never believe he existed.”

Sonya looked surprised and Johnny had decided he had gone mad.

“You know this is a little bizarre. I mean three dead people sharing a body that is controlled by Khan even when in life they hated him? I mean this is pretty fucked up right here.”

“Well Ermac obviously does exist. I never imagined that he did I believed him only to be a myth.” Liu said shaking his head. Now Sonya had something to say.

“Okay so you believed in an alternative realm, gods and stealing peoples souls but not Ermac?”

“I didn’t believe in it until I seen it with my own eyes. I thought the monks were slightly mad.” Liu said sorrowfully. Sonya changed her voice to a sympathetic tone.

“No wonder Liu I would’ve had them locked up. I mean this place.” Sonya gestured around. “Is pretty unbelievable.”

“Hey I’m here and I still can’t believe it!” Johnny added. Self-doubt flickered in Lius eyes. Sonya threw a pillow at Liu.

“Look Liu I’m supposed to be the one with no confidence and Johnny here as more than enough ego for both of us.” Sonya said her tone light.

“Yeah!” Johnny nodded “Hey wait a minute!” Johnny caught on. She smiled at him. Did he really find her attractive? She hoped he wasn’t just stringing her along. Could he really like her? She realised the other two were starring.

“What?” Staring was beginning to make her self-conscious.

“You were in another world.” Liu told her “Wish I was.”

“Yeah Liu so do I.” Johnny grinned “A world where there is only me and a beautiful blond Lieutenant.” Johnny said laughter ringing in his voice and eyes.

“Spare as the details.” Sonya said dryly. “But Johnny where would you find a willing blond Lieutenant?”

“You forgot beautiful.”

“Then you obviously haven’t gotten someone here.”

“If you would come with me then I promise that I’ll get Liu to stop whining!” Liu looked up indignantly.

“Excuse me?” Liu asked. Johnny was trying to lighten the whole mood. Sonya threw pillows at them.

“You two stop it.” They laughed and threw two back at her. Haven’t done this in years. Not since I was about fifteen. It’s remarkable what a good mood we’re in considering what happens tomorrow, Sonya almost enjoyed herself.

“Wakey, Wakey rise and shine!” Sonya looked up groggily.

“What the?” Sonya was a little confused. She managed to open her eyes. She could see a person standing over her.

“Who are you?”

“It’s Johnny!” The voice sounded a little hurt. She opened her eyes fully. There was Johnny standing with a tray. He had made her breakfast in bed. She rubbed her eyes. He planted a kiss on her forehead.

“Johnny what’s that for?” Sonya asked suspiciously.

“For being beautiful.”

“That isn’t all there is to a person you know!” She said taking the tray off of him.

“I know and I love you for that too but It would be weird me saying I love you because your as stubborn as an ass.” She smiled.

“Okay point taken for now.” She noticed the flower. It was the most gorgeous blossom she had ever seen. It looked so fragile yet so strong. The petals were unreal shades of blue and purple. They glistened and sparkled in the early morning sunshine.

“Oh Johnny where did you get this flower it’s beautiful.” Johnny smiled sheepishly.

“From Tsungs garden” He was still smiling.

“You didn’t!” Johnny replied with grinning “Johnny what if he caught you. You’ve been killed.” Sonya was almost angry. What if he’d been hurt? She looked at the blossom, it was exquisite.

“Do you like it though?”

“Of course I do but.”

“Well then it was worth my life.”

“I like you much more though.” She smiled at him. “Where’s Liu? No wait out meditating?” Johnny nodded. “How did he get out?” Sonya asked curiously.

“Well we have no fights today, so they can’t really keep us in.”

“Oh I see. You want some of this?” Sonya offered some of the fruit to him.

“Naw I already ate. It’s nearly mid-day you know.”

“Is it? Why did you let me sleep that long?”

“Because you looked so peaceful and I didn’t want to wake you.” Johnny bent down to kiss her. She had pretty much gotten use to the idea that her and Johnny were a couple. It was a long hard deep kiss. It’s been too many years since I had a man. The last one got killed she remembered unhappily.

“I’d better get dressed. I’m going for a shower.” She told him when they eventually broke up.

“Can I soap your back?” Johnny asked mischievously.

“Maybe once this tournaments over.” She threw a wink over her shoulder as she ducked into the bathroom.

When she came out Johnny was sitting on the bed.

“Art Lean will be fighting soon. I want to go and see him before he fights. You want to come?”

“Yeah sure.” Sonya had chosen black leggings and a green long sleeved top. She had put the wristbands on under the top so they couldn’t be seen.

“Who else is fighting today?” Sonya asked.

“That blue ninja dude Sub-Zero is fighting.”

“Might check that out if you want to.” She looked at him.

“Yeah we’ll go and watch.” Johnny was smitten Sonya didn’t know why. This was probably some cruel joke by Jax. She wondered how Jax was doing. He was probably trying with no luck to control the unit. She laughed at that. He couldn’t control his laundry never mind her unit.

“What you laughing at?” Johnny asked confused.

“Sorry the image of Jax trying to do laundry.” She nearly had tears in her eyes from laughing so hard. Maybe things would be okay after this. Maybe she could allow herself a little hope that things would be okay. Maybe she and Johnny? No it would never happen.

"Come on princess you ready."

"Yeah I suppose so." He's trying so hard. He held out his arm. She took it. He gives her a dazzling smile.

"Where exactly is the ninja fighting" Sonya asks remembering her broken gun.

"The courtyard, which is only a few minutes away from here."

"Lead the way"

"Right." He says grinning. Eventually they get there after Johnny once again insists he knows where he is going. They get there to see the fight has already started. Tsung is sitting on a large throne as usual. He nods at Sonya. She takes no notice and turns her head to the fight. Johnny is pale.

"What's wrong Johnny?" She whispers into his ear.

"I. I. I killed that other ninja yesterday." Johnny said almost frightendly.

"Johnny that’s impossible." She considers for a moment. "Wait check that, it's probably possible Johnny or maybe it a different ninja from the same clan. Okay?" He nods and she tunes back into the fight. Sub-Zero is making mincemeat of Scorpion. He slides along the ground knocking Scorpion off of his feet. He brings an axe kick to Scorpions chest. Scorpion reels up in pain. Sub-Zero roundhouses him just as he is getting up. Sub-Zero hauls the ninja to his knees. Tsung stands up.

"Finish Him!" Tsung says. Sub-Zero says.

"Remember this?" to the startled ninja. He is going for the final blow, when Scorpion teleports behind him and shouts.

"Get over here!" and that thing (For use of a better word) shoots out of his hand and goes clean through Sub-Zeros stomach. The blood is everywhere; parts of Sub-Zeros are hanging out and on the ground. Scorpion drags him over to kneel in front of him.

"Now Sub-Zero my soul can finally rest." He removes his facemask to reveal a foul rotting skull that stank of decay and death. His eyes literally filled with flames. Sonya was fixed. Fire erupted from Scorpions mouth.

The flames engulfed Sub-Zero. A faint scream can be heard. A charred skeleton is lying on the ground at Scorpions feet. Tsung smiles and nods at Scorpion.

"Well done Scorpion you can finally rest eh!” Scorpion bowed at Tsung and then disappeared. Tsung heads towards them.

“Come on Johnny before Mister Sunshine himself arrives.” Johnny then noticed Tsung walking towards them.

“Yeah he has a face that just dying to be hit.”

“With a frying pan.” Sonya adds on.

“What?!*” Johnny asked quite confused.

“Never mind I’ll tell you later.” They laugh and leave very quickly because neither of them really wants another brush with the sorcerer. Johnny looks at Sonya as they head for the hall where they ate when they first arrived. He thinks about how Sonya is starting to warm to him. Maybe it’s because Kano is finally out of the way or because she’s fallen for me. He could almost hear her say {Oh get over yourself.} His lips curve up in a smile. They see Liu up ahead.

“Hey Liu wait up!” Liu turns round and waits for the two.

“You two joined at the waist?” He says jokingly.

“I wish!” Johnny murmurs and Sonya hits him in the ribs a little too hard.

“Oh sorry!” She says when Johnny finally catches his breath.

“Have you heard?” Liu asks.

“Heard what?” Sonya looks slightly confused.

“Goro today has had ten fights. One straight after the other. There are now ten less fighters. One of them was Fo.” Liu looked unhappy. No wonder Sonya thought, he just lost a very good friend.

“Arts fighting him soon we should be there.” Johnny was clearly disturbed.

“Yeah, Let see if we can talk to him before his bout starts.”

They arrive at the hall before anyone except Art. He is in a ring, which has probably been constructed only that day. Art looks like he’s holding up. He’s practising punches and kicks. Very impressive Sonya notes. Maybe he does have a hope after all.

“Hi Art.” Sonya says almost sadly. If he couldn’t pull it off she would miss him although not as much as Johnny.

“Man your gonna do well if you fight as well as your practising now!”

“Thanks Johnny.” The two fighters grinned at each other. Liu spoke in Sonya’s ear so that only she could hear.

“I don’t think he’ll do it. He’ll lose heart when he sees Goro.”

“It’ll crush Johnny. Arts like his little brother. I wouldn’t give up hope quite yet Liu, he’s a good fighter.”

Liu shrugged and Shang Tsung walked through the little door behind the throne and sat down. He smiled maliciously at the four friends. Then looked at Sonya a smile full of ice. He clicks his fingers and fighters flood in. People fill the hall and are packed around the ring. Justin and Leisen came over to them.

“Sonya who’s fighting?” Justin asked.

“Art Lean and Goro.” Just then Tsung let his hand drop and the huge door opened. Everyone turned round except Tsung who looked rather uninterested. Art Lean gapped like a fish out of water. Goro raised his arms and roared. It sounded like a train thundering past. Goro indeed is a scary sight. His brown/orange skin and long black ponytail. The six spikes on top his head jutted out like mountains. His little red eyes gleamed like polished stones. Of course the fact he was 8’2” tall and had four arms added to his presence. Sonya heard Art Lean gulp. Leisen spoke to her.

“Do we all face him?” Leisen sounded quite worried.

“Until one of us beats him yeah.”

“Oh shit.” Leisen was more scarred than Art was. Goro stepped into the ring and flung his cloak off. Art took a mental pause and straightened himself up. Tsung nodded signalling they should begin. Art punched the monster in the stomach and the monster retaliated but Art ducked behind it. He kicked the monster and again ducked the monster hit.

“That’s it Art!” Sonya shouted at him.

“In and Out!” Shouted Johnny. Art landed three more successful hits but then got cocky and took his stance. He fly kicked Goro. Goro stumbled back wards. Art went right in to punch but Goro caught his hand and then the other hand. Goro punched Art repeatedly with his upper two fists.

“GET OUT!” yells Johnny “GET OUT!” Goro drops Art who is slightly dazed and doesn’t even realise what is about to happen.

“Finish Him!” Tsung says rather impatiently. Goro sort of groans.

“Hmm Time to die.” He tells Art as he lifts him up with his lower arms. He lifts his upper right fist. Tsung stands up.

“FINISH HIM!” Goro hits Art square on the top of his head. This causes Arts neck to brake. Goro drops him like a piece of meat. Sonya knows what’s next.

“NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!” She screams at that body of Art. He was doing so well.

“Your soul is mine!” Sonya, Liu and Johnny watch as Arts very soul is sucked into Tsungs eye. Johnny finally snaps.

“NOOOOOOOOOOO!” He screams, as his friend is gone. Lost and forever a slave to Tsungs black magic.

Johnny looks like his heart is breaking. He scans the room for the sorcerer but he is gone. Liu and Sonya put an arm each on Johnny shoulder. Sonya and Liu both knew exactly how he felt. Sonya grasped his hand and he attempted to smile but failed miserably.

“I’m going to kill Goro.” He looked to his two friends. “He’ll suffer for what he’s done.”

“One of us will make him pay Johnny. One way or the other Art will be avenged. This I promise you.” Lius voice was full of conviction.

“Come on we could all use a little fresh air. I wouldn’t mind getting a hold of Goro myself.” Sonya said voice full of venom.

They leave the great hall, all of their eyes trying to avoid looking at Arts dead body. Raiden is waiting for them outside.

“I am sorry Mortals but you know there is nothing I can do. Interference would’ve cost us this tournament.”

“We know Raiden.” Liu said.

“But it doesn’t soften the blow any.” Sonya added. Everyone was surprised when Johnny spoke.

“He knew the risks. We all do.” Johnny voice sounded strong.

“I do not know what you are planning Johnny but clear your head of these thoughts.” Lord Raidens eyes narrowed slightly. He looked very suspicious. God these ones were trouble. Raidens words caused Sonya to look at Johnny. Let her prise it out of him thought Raiden with a smirk.

“Liu Kang come walk with me.” Liu nodded and began to walk away with Raiden.

“That leaves just you and me!” Johnny said with a fake leer.

“Then you’d better be careful or it’ll just be me.” She retorted.

“Fancy a walk on the beach?”

“Okay.” Sonya sighed “But once we’re there you can tell me what you’re thinking about which worried Raiden.”

“And I thought I’d gotten of the hook.”

“Then you obviously don’t know me very well.”

“I should’ve known better.” Johnnys only thoughts were she isn’t gonna like this one bit.

Their walk went wonderfully. They made small talk and found out a bit more about each other. I’m so lucky Johnny thought and then thought grimly she’s gonna kill me. They got to a huge rock formation. You could see all the way out. It was stunning.

“Okay now we’re here are you gonna tell me what Raiden was on about?”

“I’m going to challenge Goro.”

“Your what?!” Sonya didn’t believe her ears. He wasn’t serious she looked at his face. OH boy he was serious.

“You are joking aren’t you?”

“Deadly serious!”

“Johnny.”

“Sonya I can’t let what happened to Art happen to you, not to you.” His eyes filled with pleading.

“OH don’t you dare do this to protect me Johnny Cage.”

“Trust me Sonya.” Those two words again. Always his ego. Have to protect the girl. Can’t let her fight for herself. He was walking a tight rope.

“OH I cannot believe this you are the most egotistical self deluded person I have ever met.” She was shouting. Johnny threw a smile over his shoulder and tossed in.

“Well you forgot good looking.” Oh he was so bloody impossible! She folded her arms and sighed loudly. Anger filled her as she left to search for something to destroy.

Johnny hunted Shang Tsung for what seemed like hours.

“You are searching for me Johnny Cage?” A voice behind him said.

“Yes I was.” Tsung smirked at him. Tsung looked into his soul aha.

“I want to challenge Goro.”

“Really?” Tsung let the word roll off his tongue in a slow fashion.

“When I beat him he can’t hurt anyone else.” Tsung let out a laugh.

“Do you honestly expect to win?” The amusement in Tsungs voice wasn’t concealed.

“I’ll finish Goro alright.” Cages confidant only amused the sorcerer more.

“Once you are gone I will have Sonya Mister Cage.” Cage looked angry.

“I’m sure she’d have something to say about that.” Now Cage was amused, as the Tsung looked slightly angry. “Anyway will you allow me to fight Goro tomorrow or not.”

“Okay but I reserve the right to challenging the winner myself, or another of my choosing in a place designated by me for the final battle of the tournament.”

“You got it pal!” Thunder cracked and Raiden appeared and looked at Johnny.

“I don’t think so.”

“Too late Lord Raiden. The rules are quite clear.” He looked at Johnny maliciously and smiled evilly. “It’s how do you say a deals a deal.” Tsung turned round and smirked to himself as he left.

“What have you done?” Raiden looked full of despair.

“This is our tournament remember Mortal Kombat we fight it.” Johnny said as he left. Raiden beamed.

“At last!” He said to no one in particular. “One of them has understood.”

Sonya was walking on her own. Her eyes full of despair. She would have to watch another person senselessly butchered, like Art Lean. Not being able to save him. The sorrow almost engulfed her senses. She hadn’t being able to save him just like Daniel and Lance. A tear formed in her eye. She shook her head. Not until her mission was over. She just tries to get away from her feeling. She wanted to just run and run to go forever. Her heart was in two. How could she convince Johnny not to go ahead with it? If Goro killed Johnny then she would take him herself. She clenched her fist. She could believe that she’d actually gotten to care for him. She cursed herself. She felt eyes on her back and turned round. Couldn’t see anyone. That’s strange I’m never usually wrong with these things.

It was too bad she didn’t have a cats eyesight because from the distance Tsung was away from her human eyes simply could not see. He was reading her mind. Such hate and despair but yet a heart of gold. He would have her, trying to tame her would be the best part.

Sonya had weird thought tame who? Her thoughts were making no sense at all. If Johnny died she would challenge Goro. Kano was dead so at least she could die knowing the world was slightly safer unless Tsung won. It was people like him that made her join the army; she would love to kill the bastard herself. She wondered how Jax was. She smiled thinking about him. Everyone was probably falling apart. Again she felt someone watching her. She hated that feeling. She looked around and realised she had no idea where she was. Shit! She wondered if that creepy Ermac was about anywhere. Whenever she felt someone watching her he was there. She scanned the area looking for anything unusual. Well even more so than the rest of this blasted island. A monk materialised out of nowhere. She took a fighting stance and he raised his hands but she didn’t lower her guard. The monk walked and signalled Sonya to follow him. She kept her guard up and cautiously followed the monk. She could hear fighting up ahead and realised she was at the bottom of the pit! She could see Liu fighting something. It was invisible and Sonya figured it must be Reptile. A huge ball of green goo appeared from no where and Liu ducked in the nick of time as the green stuff hissed over his head and partially melted a part of the wall behind Liu. Reptile could spit acid. Oh dear thought Sonya. Reptiles’ roundhouse connected with Liu chin sending him dangerously close to the spikes. Before Liu could get up Reptile jumped up bring his foot crashing on Liu right leg. Sonya noticed other people arriving but tried to concentrate on her friends’ battle. Liu head went back and a noise like a roar emitted from his throat. He was in pain as Reptile went in for an uppercut. Liu sidestepped and grabbed the ninjas arm. He pulled the arm back until it snapped. Now it was Reptile who screamed out in pain. Liu kicked him in the back of his knee and punched him in the upper torso. Reptile kicked Liu in the stomach but to almost little or no affect. Sonya breathed again it seemed that Liu was gaining the upper hand. He brought Reptile face crashing down to the concrete below them. Liu delivered a spinning roundhouse to Reptiles head and Reptile fell to the ground dazed.

“FINISH HIM.” Tsungs voice bellowed. Where the hell did he come from? Sonya hadn’t seen him here.

Liu looked at Reptile before picking him up and throwing his body down to the spikes. Reptile didn’t even scream as he hit the spikes. Sonya found that quite strange but ran towards Liu. His leg was definitely hurt. Sonya walked up to him and put his arm round her shoulder and he gratefully accepted.

“What the hell happened Liu. I’m sure you weren’t supposed to fight that!” Sonya told him indicating Reptile by gesturing her head towards his body.

“I wasn’t. I was fighting another man. I won with a flawless victory then I killed him and Tsung started laughing and I ended up here fighting.” He looked towards Reptile but Reptiles body was gone.

“Sonya.” Liu voice was a whisper. “Look!” Sonya turned round to see what was distressing Liu. Reptiles’ body was gone.

“Come on Liu lets get as far away from here as possible.” Sonya could see Tsung ahead. Oh fuck just what we need here him. Tsung had Reptiles body in his arms. Tsung spoke.

“Lieutenant Blade a pleasure as always.” Sonya just kept walking helping Liu along. Tsung put out a hand to stop them moving and spoke directly to Liu.

“You will pay dearly for the death of my servant.”

“Oh get bent.” Sonya told her making Liu move a little bit faster until they were well out of Tsungs way.

Tsung looked at the body of Reptile sadly. Reptile had been his servant for hundreds of years. Reptile was almost a friend. He carried the body to the portal and put it through, Shao Kahn would take care of the rest.

Sonya managed to get a very sore Liu to the room they all shared. She called Raiden.

“Raiden will you get here?” Sonya voice started to get angry after the fifth or sixth unsuccessful call. She feels a touch on her shoulder and spins around.

“You rang?”

“What the hell took you so long?” Before Raiden could answer spoke again. “Liu knees broke I’ve bandaged it up but you’ll need to heal it.”

“What makes you think I can?” Raiden raised his eyebrows at her.

“Well for starters you’re a God and you’ve done it before.”

“But.”

“No buts it was unscheduled fight, if Tsung doesn’t like it then he should warn warriors about falling into secret compartments and fighting people who spit battery acid!” Sonya did have a ledgimite argument. This was clearly winding her up while Liu sat trying not to show how much pain he was in.

“Okay Sonya I guess you do have a point.” He gestured at Lius leg, which instantly felt better. Liu looked relieved.

“Has anyone seen our dear friend Mister Cage.” Sonya eyes darkened at the mention of his name. Raiden almost told Liu about the last time he spoke to Johnny was when he was challenging Shang Tsung but from the look on Sonya’s face he decided no to bother.

“Yeah I seen him this morning.” Sonya did not seem too happy. Oh dear this was going to be trouble.

“Do you know what he’s planning Liu?”

“What he’s done.” Raiden corrected her.

“WHAT?!*” Sonya said furiously.

“I tried to stop him but was too late. He had already made the deal.” Sonya looked like she was going to kill someone and Raiden hoped it wasn’t Johnny.

“Could you kindly explain to me what Johnny has done.” A very confused Liu asked.

“I’ll tell you what he’s done.” Sonya’s voice was filled with something they couldn’t quite place. “He is challenging Goro. That’s what. Just to satisfy his ego. He’s going to get killed.” Sonya turned his back on them. Then she continued. “If that bastard Goro hurts Johnny I swear that I’ll kill him myself.” Liu and Raiden didn’t doubt it for a minute. Raiden tried to read into Sonya. She thought everything was going to be better now but she was going to lose Johnny. She turned round and glared at the thunder god.

“Would you be so kind as not to read my mind please?” Sonya asked voice dripping with sarcasm. Raiden smiled.

“Why? Shang Tsung will and I figure I should know when you are gonna go AWOL.” Sonya had a look of outrage and shock.

“I would never go AWOL!”

“Then how did you manage to get here then?” Raiden asked. Sonya was confused but not as much as Liu. Then Johnny walked through the door. Oh dear thought Raiden. He walked up and put his arm around Sonya. If looks could kill Johnny would be dead. He noticed the icy stare he was getting.

“What’ve I done now?” Johnny asked looking quite confused.

“I cannot believe that you went ahead and challenged Goro!” The hurt in Sonya’s voice was evident.

“Look I know where I’m fighting him and it gives me a major advantage.” Johnny said trying to explain himself.

“Yeah and he has four arms, eight feet of pure muscle which I’m afraid my dear John gives him the advantage.” Sonya threw back.

“Can’t you give me the benefit of the doubt?”

“What and get my hopes up and watch another person I care about get ripped apart by that thing.”

“Shokan.” Raiden put in. Sonya turned her stare on him.

“And you why didn’t you stop him? Or at least try to talk sense through his ego!” Johnny grabbed her arm.

“Hey I am not doing this to prove something!” Johnny said angrily. Sonyas look turned cold.

“Get your hands off me right now Johnny Cage!” Johnny quickly dropped her arm. He’d forgotten that he was holding it. Raiden put a hand between them.

“Sonya, Johnny.” He nodded to each one of them in turn. “This is getting us nowhere. Sonya you cannot change what Johnny has done.”

“Raiden is right Sonya. We can only help Johnny and get him ready. You can’t undo the past.” Liu told her. She sighed and glared at Johnny.

“Okay but I’m still not happy with you.” Sonya emphasised her point once again. Johnny turned round and faced Liu and Raiden.

“ Let the record show that Sonya Blade is not happy with my judgement.” He grinned at her like a small child.

“I can’t believe how lightly your taking this!”

“What would you rather I do? Cry? Or run away from the island?”

“Johnny I don’t want to have to watch another person die who I can’t save!” Johnny tried to put his arms around her. Then pretended to blush. He put on an accent of an embarrassed schoolboy.

“Why Sonya and I thought you didn’t care!” She almost smiled.

“I didn’t but Jax is a fan of yours and I hate seeing him upset.”

“That was cruel Sonya! Anyway do you want to meditate with me Johnny it may help calm your nerves and prepare yourself mentally.”

“Eh no thanks Liu I think I’ll just go and put my head in a vat of boiling oil.” Johnny said trying not to laugh.

“Suit yourself Johnny. Raiden will you join me?” Liu turned to the god.

“Yes Liu for a short time. Even gods get tired.” The pair of them exited. Sonya looked into Johnny’s eyes.

“Is Liu Raidens wife or something?” Johnny inquired with a smile on his face.

“Why did you have to do that Johnny? “Sonya couldn’t let the subject go.

“Sonya if your right and this is my last night with you then can we enjoy it.” Sonya was genuinely upset for a few seconds and then gained her composure.

“Okay then what do you want to do?” Johnny smiled and Sonya threw him a dirty look.

“What about we try and find something to eat? All that stuff from the bowl is gone.” Sonya looked at him.

“I didn’t eat it all! I did have other things in mind but I’d settle for a walk on the beach. I mean it really is beautiful.” Johnny looked almost content. Sonya was about to ask how he could be so calm when she decided to give him a little peace for the moment. He held out his arm. Sonya took it. Then he pulled her towards him and for the longest time ever. She tugged at him a little.

“What about that walk?”

“I would rather stay here.” Johnny said pouting like a schoolboy. She hit him lightly and pretended to glare.

“Okay let go then.”

After leaving the hut, Sonya took Johnny to the beach where she had first seen Ermac. Johnny gazed in awe. This place was stunning. Its beauty was breath taking. Sonya sat down in the warm sand. Johnny followed suit and sat down also.

“This place is amazing! How did you find it?” Johnny was almost speechless. Almost.

“When you stormed off.”

“I did not!” Johnny argued.

“You did so! When we seen Neil you went berserk at him and stormed off.”

“I didn’t like that guy Sonya there was something about him, something not quite right.” Johnny said suspiciously

“I know what you mean. There was something about him. Liu said he knew him but sometimes we only get the impressions that people want to give us.”

“Like you.” Johnny yawned and placed his head on her lap.

“What do you mean?” Sonya asked puzzled.

“You put up this big tough front but underneath it all you’re a loving caring person.” He said tiredly, the last few words drifting off as sleep claimed him. He looked so innocent, well looks are deceiving. What was he talking about? She knew that her inside reflected her outside at least most of the time anyway. Lance and Daniel were avenged but she missed them like hell. Her brother was always there, always ready, very rarely ever losing his temper with her. Lance had cared for both of them. Daniel had done well under Lance. The memory of his funeral came back. His ex-wife had screamed at her saying it was her fault that Lance was dead. Sonya still believed it in a way. She looked down at Johnny and smiled. Then a tear ran down her cheek tomorrow she would lose him too. She stroked his hair as he slept. Lance used to do that. Johnny must’ve been tired. She found herself growing very fond of him but she didn’t want to lose anyone else, she didn’t think she could take it. Then Shang Tsung walked over to them. He looked slightly startled.

“Ah Sonya how pleasant to see you here. I didn’t think anyone but I knew about this part of the beach.” Johnny started to stir. She stroked his hair.

“It’s nothing Johnny go back to sleep.” She told him in a soothing voice. He would need all the rest he could get. She looked up at Tsung.

“Keep your voice down.” Tsung again looked startled.

“You have no right to order me around Lieutenant.”

“And you have no right to steal other peoples souls for your own selfish gain but it never stopped you.” Sonya retorted.

“When Shao Kahn takes your world then you will be under our command.”

“Yeah and then back on the real world.”

“Why must you fight the inevitable my Sonya. Earth realm will be ours. And tomorrow his soul will be mine.” That chilled Sonya right to her bones.

“If you take Johnnys soul I will not rest until your dead sorcerer.” Johnny woke up.

“What the hell’s he doing here!”

“Preparing my prize to be claimed.”

“Oh do you believe this Johnny?” Sonya was very rapidly losing her temper. “I can’t wait till one of us kills you.”

“When the tournament is over it will be my pleasure to own you.” Tsung told Sonya. Johnny looked at him fire in his eyes and retorted.

“Sorry to break your heart sorcerer but I love Sonya and besides my door doesn’t swing in that direction.” Sonya laughed. Tsung didn’t find it funny.

“I was taking to her you imbecile.” Johnny pretended to be hurt.

“Why Tsung you cut me to the quick!” Sonya turned her back on him and pulled Johnny away.

“Sonya soon enough you’ll not be able to turn your back on me.” Tsung was livid.

As soon as they were out of ear shot. Sonya burst into giggles. Johnny pretended to look hurt.

“Tsung rejects me and you laugh. I can’t go on! I don’t want to live if he doesn’t want me!” This set Sonya off laughing even harder. She collapsed and laughed hard and Johnny joined in. Passers by looked confused. Most were sure the man was to face Goro tomorrow, yet he was laughing and in a very good mood. There were only around eight of earth’s fighters left. Most were just waiting for their fight with Goro hoping the person before them would defeat the monster.

Liu and Raiden had parted company. Raiden was deep in thought. Shang Tsung had something planned and he wasn’t sure what it was. The other thing that had Raiden worried was Tsung obsession with Sonya. Maybe it was because he was still a mortal or maybe it was because he was closer to victory than ever before. Rayden remembered the other mortal girl who just disappeared a few months ago and was taken to Outworld. She was a favourite of one of the gods. All the heavens shook when he couldn’t find her. It was a terrible loss. That girl was definitely a future fighter. Any back to the matter at hand. He was sure Liu was almost ready but he knew of the doubt that lingered in his soul. If only there was someway to make Liu see that it wasn’t his fault. Maybe Sonya could help. She went through the same thing and she only went after her enemy harder. Raiden rubbed his temples, sheesh this was hard work.

Back at their room. Sonya, Johnny and Liu were trying to relax. This turned out to be nearly impossible. Sonya was rubbing Johnny shoulders and Liu was trying to give him some advice. Liu was giving Johnny a headache.

“Try to remember Goro expects to win. That is his weakness. Also remember that he isn’t very smart you could out think him.” Liu was more wound up than he was. Sonya was silent. She just concentrated on the rubbing. Back and forth, back and forth. Oh Johnny she thought why do you have to do this. If I survive this whole thing I can’t wait to tell Jax. Liu and Johnny were staring at her. Oh she had to stop day dreaming. They knew what she thinking so they didn’t even ask.

“Come on we’d better call it a night. We need all the rest we can get.” Sonya told the two guys. Assume the commanding role.

“Oh mum!” Johnny said cheekily “Do we have to.”

“Yes you especially or do I get to inquiry into your reasons for suicide?” Sonya said a little too sharply.

“I would like a fresh start in the morning.” Liu was trying to stop an argument in the making. He turned off the lights.

Johnny stayed on Sonya bed and lay down. He cuddled into her and in an amazing display of affection she stroked his cheek. With Johnny arms around her Sonya was asleep in minutes. All Johnny could think was I don’t what to die tomorrow.

In the morning Johnny was first up. He showered and changed into black trousers, his favourite green shirt and of course his sunglasses. They were his favourite pair and very expensive too. When Liu woke up, He disappeared into the bathroom. Okay then be antisocial then thought Johnny. He opened the door and stepped out. He needed some fresh air. When he came back in after about five minute. Sonya had Liu in a very nasty looking hold. His feet weren’t on the ground. She loosened it slightly. Johnny looked horrified and Liu was definitely shocked.

“I know this may seem like a really pointless question but Sonya what the hell were you doing to Liu.”

“Oh my god Liu I’m so sorry. I thought that.” Sonya now looked very confused and a hint of fear was in her eyes. “I thought he’d let you go to fight Goro without waking me.” Sonya hung her head before raising her eyes to Liu’s “I’m so sorry.” Liu put his hand on Sonya shoulder.

“It’s okay Sonya although I must admit you surprised me more than a little.” Liu eyes were showing that he forgave her.

“Now Sonya there is a very good reason why I won’t die today and that is who would protect Liu? I mean he’s very vulnerable being left here with you.”

“Funny.” Sonya didn’t appear to amused with the teasing. It was quite funny though to see little five foot eight inches Sonya lifting six foot two inches Liu off of the ground.

“I’ve gotta get changed.” Sonya told no one in particular. She went to the huge wardrobe. She selected black jeans and a green top. She also took two armbands that were almost hidden at the back of the wardrobe. Little known to Liu and Johnny these were high -tech weaponry. Sonya slinked into the bathroom and emerged washed, changed and fresh.

“When do you fight Johnny?”

“In about half an hour.”

“Really? That soon?” Sonya was slightly distressed.

“I know but it means that the final battle can be held tonight if there is one.” Liu explained.

“Thanks for that vote of confidence there Liu.”

“Anyway there something I need to do, so I’ll catch you guys there okay?” Johnny was acting very suspiciously. Johnny left and Sonya looked at Liu.

“Listen Liu I’m really sorry it just that.” She held her hand up in frustration. “I wish I had a gun with me.”

“Sonya it’s okay we all deal with this in our own way, even Johnny. We all have our demons.” Liu voice had turned dark.

“At least your demon can be killed and mine is already dead, Johnny can’t even see his.” Sonya answered. “What exactly is he up too?” Liu wasn’t even sure that Johnny would lose.

“I have no idea only that he’s got some idea.”

“I don’t want him to die Liu.” Sonya spoke softly.

“Neither do I.” Liu meant it he’d never had friends like Sonya and Johnny.

“Promise me one thing.” Sonya had stopped. Oh dear thought Liu I’m definitely not going to like this.

“If Johnny loses then I get to challenge Goro.” Sonya was obviously preparing for the worst.

“Would I be able to stop you?”

“No.” Sonya didn’t even need to think about it. She wanted Tsung dead as well. “Who will fight the final battle?”

“Hopefully I will fight Tsung, Johnny can kill Goro but I want Tsung dead.” Sonya grinned at his words. “What?” He asked puzzled by the fact she was grinning.

“That’s exactly what I was thinking.”

They reached the site where Johnny was going to fight. As usual they were the first there. It was a really small place. It looked it was possibly made from clay which was a stark red/orange colour. They were in an enclosed arena, which had a sharp slope leading to a little passage. The smell of the few randomly scattered vines that grew up the wall hung gently in the air. It was almost pleasant if it wasn’t for the fact that Johnny would be fighting here soon. The air around her had changed. She spun round and found Johnny standing there. He as usual was grinning from ear to ear.

“Come here often.” She scowled at this.

“Where did you come from?” She asked still scowling.

“Rumour has it the stork brought me.” She scowled harder but Liu started to speak.

“Do you have some sort of plan?”

“Of course.” Johnny said over his shoulder.

“Are you going to enlighten us on it?” Even Liu was more than a little confused.

“No.” He then pulled Sonya close to him. She looked in to his eyes.

“You be careful, don’t you dare leave me Johnny Cage.” She was upset even though her exterior remained calm.

“As if you’d get of that easy.” He was grinning again. People started to enter. The only area that wasn’t covered was a roughly chalked out square. Shang Tsung entered and Johnny glared at him. He felt Sonya pull his head down as she kissed him long deep and hard. He looked up stunned. She looked at him coyly.

“What’s a matter Johnny? I thought you like aggressive women?” She pulled him closer and whispered in his ear. “I’ll wait for you. No matter what you must come back.” He touched her head and stepped forward. Goro had just entered the arena. Cage stepped forward and took off his sunglasses. Goro reached out and grabbed Johnny’s hand with his lower left hand and with his upper left hand smashed the sunglasses into a crunched up ball of metal and jagged splinter of broken glass. He sniggered at what he’d just done. Johnny’s eyes lit up with indignity. Shang Tsung stood forward and smirked at Johnny and then looked briefly at Sonya. Then he focused his attention on Goro.

“Finish him quickly, pay me my tribute.” Tsung voice cam out like silk but hung around like a cloud of toxic gas.

“This puny mortal will be no problem. I’ll crush him in one blow.” Sonya was ready to kill that arrogant bastard herself. Johnny had clearly had enough.

“Alright, Let’s dance.” Goro raised and let out a mighty roar but before he could finish Johnny slipped into the splits and with every ounce of strength he had punch Goro right in the groin. Goro’s eyes went wide as Johnny scurried up the cliff. Goro was screaming in pain. Sonya heard a shout of YES. She turned round to see Rayden punching some poor guard with a huge grin on his face, which faded a little as he apologised. Goro was still howling. Tsung grabbed his face.

“Follow him Finish Him!” Goro straightened up. He raised his mighty arms in the air and roared. The fighting was going to a different place where Sonya couldn’t see what was going on. Johnny I hope you know what you’re doing.

Johnny heard Goro roaring behind him. He’d of loved to have turned round and laughed at him but he didn’t have time. He ran through the long rock corridor to the mouth of it. This was going to be tricky the platform on which he stood was only about two meters long and six meters across. He climbed up to a ledge, which would bring him just above Goros head. He could hear Goro running towards him. Goro came out of the mouth of the tunnel and looked around. Johnny smiled.

“Those were five hundred dollar sunglasses asshole.” Goro spun round, no sooner than a noise of surprise had left Goro foot did he feel Cages powerful heal come crashing into his temple. Cage jumped down and continued his assault on the Shokan. He roundhoused Goro. Goro landed next to the edge and felt Cages foot under his chin as he fell over the edge. He managed to grip onto a ledge with one of his three fingered hands. Johnny stood watch as Goros eye pleaded with him. Johnny felt no pity.

“This is where you fall down.” Johnny wasn’t going to help Arts killer. Goro eye filled with terror as he finally realised he was going to die. His fingers could not hold on any longer his grip loosed and he fell. Johnny could hear him screaming. He ran his hands through his hair and set back to see Sonya.

Liu couldn’t see Sonya anywhere. They had been separated about five minutes ago, also Rayden had disappeared. Tsung had also gone. Then of course there was the fact Johnny hadn’t came back, but then neither had Goro. No wait he could see Johnny emerge just as he heard Sonya scream.

Sonya had lost Liu ages ago but Johnny hadn’t come back. What was taking him so long? She was concentrating so hard on Johnny she didn’t even notice the hand slipping round her throat and another one grabbing around her waist. Shit she thought. Her neck was viciously pulled back. Whoever’s got me better hope for their sake I don’t get outta this. She felt the breath on her neck again and recognised Tsung instantly. She screamed then as the hold got tighter and he was dragging her to god knows where. She was going to pass out soon, in a desperate attempt she shoved her elbow back hard. It hit Tsung in the ribs. He yelped and loosened his grip, which was all she needed. She threw him over her head and kicked him in the face. He stood up.

“Sonya come with me now willingly or you will suffer the consequences later. One way or the other you will be mine. I will have you in Outworld.” Tsung was panting slightly.

“Tsung was your father your uncle as well or something? Or are you just naturally dense? I do not belong to anyone especially you!” Sonya voice was angry.

“Do not force me to hurt you.” He sounded so superior.

“What you gonna take home a pile of bones?”

“You only need to be immobilised for a short time.”

“Shove it Sorcerer.”

“Very well.” He answered calmly. He hurled three flaming skulls at her. She clicked the bracelets into the second position that sent her flying into the air. It took her only a few seconds to adjust herself so she landed behind a very shocked Tsung. He wasn’t expecting anything like this. It meant it took him several seconds to adjust and by that time he could already feel Sonya’s powerful left hook strike his head. He sprawled to the ground. As soon as he got up, Sonya clicked the bracelets into the second position and shoot out three circles of pure raw pink energy. Tsung landed on the ground.

Johnny heard Sonya scream and seen her being dragged away by Tsung. Every pore in his body was screaming out. His mind was in absolute terror. He could see Liu from the place where he stood. He climbed down the place where he had climbed up to lure Goro. He grabbed Liu.

“What happened?” Johnny voice was high pitched and full of terror.

“I don’t know. We got separated and then all I could hear was Sonya screaming. Then you came.”

“Come on we have to get her!” Johnny hadn’t even finished speaking when he darted after Sonya. They ran in the direction in which Johnny had seen Tsung drag Sonya. They ran to a vast courtyard. There they could see Tsung fly forward as three pink circles shot out from Sonyas hand and hit him in the back. He lay on the ground.

“Sonya!” Johnny called out to her. She turned her attention. Sonya’s eyes went wide, Tsung forgotten for now. She ran and hugged him. “I didn’t think you’d made it. Oh Johnny, your alive.” Sonya was almost in tears.

“You know what they say the bigger they are the harder they fall.” Johnny smiled.

“Hey guys I hate to spoil the happy reunion but Shang is gone.”

“What?!” Sonya and Johnny spoke at the same time.

“Look Shang is gone.” They looked at where Tsungs body had been and there was only space now. Then they could hear a voice coming it seemed from everywhere. It came in the wind through the walls, from the ground. It had them surrounded.

“Mortal I can be found in Goro Lair I will be awaiting your arrival. Who will I challenge decisions, decisions, decisions.”

“All of us could beat you Tsung.” Sonya shouted at the air. The voice let out a deep chuckle.

“And men do me a favour and leave the Lieutenant at home. That way I know where to finder when I have defeated whichever one of you thinks he can win.”

“Maybe I’ll fight you myself you bastard!” Sonya was now very, very angry and practically screaming. Johnny put a hand on her arm.

“Don’t let him get to you. He wants you to react.” Liu told her sounding wise, as always. Then he spoke to the sorcerer. “We will find you, then you will be defeated.” Then Tsung just laughed and laughed and laughed until his voice faded away.

“Great so where are the signs on the side of the road?” Johnny said sarcastically. He was really annoyed that now he couldn’t relax now. The thunder in the sky cracked and it started to rain. Sonya almost laughed at this.

“Liu can’t you call Rayden or something?”

“No need I am already here.” Rayden said and the three jumped and turned round.

“What are you doing here?” Johnny asked.

“Well this is most unanticipated. I do not think Tsung expect any resistance from you Sonya.”

“Yeah well I ain’t no Barbie doll.” Sonya answered stiffly.

“Anyway how are we supposed to find Shang before he cause any more hassle?”

“Easy find Goro’s lair.”

“Thank Rayden. We can’t thank you for telling us so much, to save a world which you are supposed to protect.” Sonya threw back at him.

“This isn’t getting us anywhere. So if we could cease the sarcasm for just a little.” Liu asked.

“Where did you first see Goro?” Rayden asked them. They all put their heads down and tried to think. Johnny raised his head and shouted out.

“I know at that place where he was eating! Wait where’s Rayden gone.” The other two scanned the area.

“I don’t know but if we’re to start looking, it may as well be there.” Sonya said.

“I think that may be what Rayden was hinting at.” Liu thought out loud.

“Okay lets go then.” Johnny headed off.

“What’s wrong with Johnny, Sonya?” Lius voice was concerned.

“I don’t know but he’s acting strange again. Maybe it over who fights Tsung.”

“Perhaps. We’d better catch him up.”

“Come on then.” Sonya and Liu caught up with Johnny.

They walked around the island to the spot where they had first seen Goro. Sonya remembered it. She had bawled at Kano not caring who else was there. Kano was dead now, one less demon to deal with. She wondered which one of them would fight Tsung. Probably Liu, after all he was probably the best fighter out of them and he also had lost a brother to him. She looked over at Johnny and could tell he was about to speak. When he raised his eyes, she smiled and he returned it but thinly.

“Okay.” He started. “I think before we go any further we should decide which one of us will be fighting Tsung.” Sonya and Liu looked at each other uncomfortably.

“I would love to but I think as Liu is a blood enemy, he should.” Sonya nodded at Liu.

“I agree.” Johnny said simply. Sonya let out a breath of air; she thought there might have been trouble. Johnny had changed so much. Liu looked humbled.

“Thank you my friends.” The monk bowed to show them respect. Johnny put a hand on his shoulder. And spoke for both himself and Sonya when he said.

“No need for that.” Liu smiled.

“Come on we’d better find him before we decide who get to kick his ass all the way back to Outworld.” Sonya said. “Should we split up?” She asked the other two.

“I don’t think so.” Johnny said a little too quickly.

“I agree. I don’t think anyone should be alone.” Liu added.

“Okay then I suggest that path there.” Sonya pointed to the only passage they had never been in. The one to the right of the large stair case where Rayden had stood and laughed at them.

“Well.” Johnny seemed reluctant.

“It’s the only on we haven’t been in yet. I think that would make it logical to take it.”

“Something doesn’t seem right about it.” Liu added.

“Then that is definitely the one we want.” Sonya told them.

“How do you work that one out?” Johnny asked confused.

“Well if it’s where Tsung is then it shouldn’t feel right should it? I mean this guy sucks souls out of bodies and if we lose then that will happen to every person on earth. I don’t now about you two but that feels pretty wrong to me.” Liu and Johnny looked at each other. Liu spoke.

“Okay we’ll go this way then.” Sonya nodded as Johnny fell into step with her and took her hand. She didn’t resist and squeezed his hand a little. Liu was walking only a little behind them. When one minute they were holding hands in a narrow corridor and the next they were in a wide space being held by several guards. They tried to take the whole place in. It was like a huge arena but underground. The only light came from torches around the place. Their flames flickered violently and threatened to go out at any time. There were huge arches every where. On every wall hung a skeleton, it wrists chained to the wall with the rest of their body hanging there. The worst thing was the smell. Johnny almost gagged, as did Sonya. The only difference was Sonya recognised the smell. It was the stench of dead bodies, of decay matter. At least we know we’re in the right place. She could see Johnny being held about a meter away to her left but she couldn’t see Liu at all. She could see the shadow of where Tsung was standing. Johnny was struggling with his guards.

“Sonya!” He shouted out. “Are you okay? Are you hurt? If those.”

“It’s okay Johnny I’m fine.” She said as kicked over her shoulder and kicked the guard behind her. She could see Liu come into the place, which had to be Goro’s lair. He could see his friends struggling with their captors. A group of guards made their way over to Liu. They ran and that was their first mistake. Liu pounded them in the stomach as he ducked their flying assault. The third guard came forward and received a roundhouse under his chin. The second guard fired something at Liu, which he sidestepped. Then the guard punched Liu in the face Liu twisted supply as a snake and was behind the guard. He kicked him in the back of the knee, which sent him down. Liu axe kicked his shoulder leaving the man paralysed. If he was actually a man. The first and third man started to circle Liu. One high kicked while the other performed a leg sweep. Liu flipped back and then jumped in the air and kicked both of them in the head. He kicked the third guard three time and then uppercut him. He landed on the floor with a thud as his neck snapped. The first guard was now incredibly cautious. After sizing up Liu, he timed and just missed Liu with a front flip kick before performing a reverse flip kick that hit Liu. It wasn’t hard enough to make Liu flinch but his chin split open and blood splattered over the two men. Liu caught the mans foot as he tried to kick Liu in the ribs. Liu then threw the first guard over his head onto the stone floor. Liu then executed a perfect fly kick as the first guard got up. The guard hit the ground again.

“LIU!” Sonya shouted as she obviously had managed to defeat her guards too. “Where’ve Johnny and Tsung gone?” Liu scanned the dark room. Again the laughing.

“Shit, this just isn’t my day.” Sonya cursed. She was ready to explode and at the same time could only focus on finding.

“Well done Liu Kang. Now for your next opponent.” That was all he said as Sonya felt the arm go around her neck. Not this again. You know I’m getting more than a little sick of this. I should’ve seen it coming. She thought to herself. She panicked a little. Where the hell is. She took in a huge rush of breath and nearly choked. The look of shock on Liu face was also apparent. The two of them stared open mouthed. Liu was stuttering.

“I can’t fight you.” Liu said stricken. Johnny laughed at him.

“Why not monk boy scared you’ll lose? Which by the way you will.” Johnny laughed.

“Johnny what are you doing.” Sonya screamed at him. He smiled and walked towards her. His eyes lost a little of their hardness. He walked right up to her. He kissed her gently. Then stroked the side of her face. Something didn’t feel right about this.

“Johnny, Why?” The hurt in her voice was evident.

“Don’t worry Sonya once this is all finished it’ll be fine. Okay?” She turned away looked away from him for a moment and then looked back at him. Her eyes had turned to steel.

“First chance I get I’ll kill you. Traitors don’t deserve to live.” She said melovently.

“I’m not a traitor I’ve been working for Tsung the whole time.” He said quietly. She spat in his face. His eye flashed a little.

“Once this is gone it’ll just be me and you again okay?” He was repeating himself like he thought he could convince her. She turned her head away from him. Partly because she didn’t want him to see the tears in her eyes. Johnny then spoke directly to the guard.

“Keep a close eye on her, she’s resourceful. Be extra careful.” He then tried to pull her head to face him. She resisted with all her strength. He sighed and turned round to face Liu.

Liu was having a hard time dealing with this. His friend had turned on them; in fact he’d just been a paw to lure them. Liu could feel that Sonya didn’t believe it. After Johnny had spoken to her. She shook her head at him, which confirmed this. Johnny smiled cockily at Liu and swaggered over to him. Johnny eyes contained an evil look. Something he couldn’t believe that he hadn’t noticed before.

“So Liu I never got round to asking you this before but how does it feel to know that it’s your fault your own brothers soul was stolen. That is you’d been there then he’d still be alive.” Liu eyes narrowed into slits and he clenched his fists. He could hear Sonya shouting at him in the background.

“Johnny Cage how dare you! You second rate actor, you fake. As soon as I’m away from this.” Sonya shouts of abuse were cut off. As the guard put his hand over her mouth, which was exactly what she wanted him to do.

“Come on then Liu lets get this over with so I can walk away with the girl.” Johnny told him getting into a fighting stance.

“Okay Johnny but only because there is no other way.” Liu told him wearily. Johnny smiled and launched into his partnered shadow kick. It hit Liu square in the chest. He was knocked backwards. Then Liu seen Johnny hit the floor as Sonya jumped on him and knocks him to the ground. She held his wrists down with one hand. It was amazing how strong Sonya actually was. She punched Johnny in the face and deliberately let her grip slacken. She could see Liu was dazed, she would need to buy some time. As she loosened her grip, she felt Johnny roll over and pin her under him. He thumped her one. She looked him right in the eyes. Before shouting.

“Liu that.” Johnny was kissing her stopping her from calling out. Ok this definitely is not Johnny. She smiled a little as she brought her knee up hard. How dare he the bastard! She hated feeling like this. Being pinned only increased the rage that she was feeling The cry that emitted wasn’t Johnny’s but Shang Tsung.

“I knew you weren’t Johnny. He would never hit me.” Sonya said almost smugly. Liu had regained himself. Sonya was lying under Tsung.

“Shang Tsung I challenge you to Mortal Kombat!” Tsung slowly rose.

“I accept.” The sorcerer sneered at Lius challenge but let Sonya up. She glared at him.

“Liu I have to find Johnny.” Her eyes pleaded with him. He under stood and nodded to her. This time Shang Tsung he thought.

Sonya ran out of the huge dome. Tsung had to have Johnny near by unless he had. No she would not believe that. He wouldn’t have had enough time. If Tsung had killed him she would? What jump in the fight? Ask Liu to budge up so she could get a few hits in? Risk her whole world? She didn’t want to be in a world without Johnny. She was sure she could see something up ahead.

“Johnny! Johnny!” She shouted desperately. There that was movement again. She could see two figures up ahead fighting. One was Johnny but he was tied to a wall. The other thing was invisible. All she could see was Johnny reeling in pain from blows from an invisible attacker. Okay it hadn’t heard her shouting luckily. She was going to sneak up behind it. She had done this sort of thing for so long. She was right behind the thing and Johnnys eyes widened when he seen Sonya. The thing noticed something was up but too late. Sonya slipped her arms round it neck and sharply pulled it’s head to the right. The body fell to the ground. It now materialised. Johnny was really weakened he’d been badly beaten. She touched his face.

“Moved your head to the side I’m going to kick the locks.” She told him. He did as she asked. She smashed her foot into the steel chain shattering them into pieces. Johnny smiled weakly.

“I always had fantasies about being a damsel in distress.” He told Sonya his voice quivering slightly.

“Well here’s your knight in shining armour.” He pulled her really close and she attained an almost vice like grip on him.

“Don’t you ever scare me again.” She told him as he kissed her. She pulled away reluctantly.

“We’d better go and see how Lius doing. He’s fighting Tsung. We should be giving him support.” She told him.

“I couldn’t agree with you more on that. I hope he splits that bastard right open.” Johnny said viciously.

“Yeah me too.” Sonya said quietly remembering earlier. Now she thought if I can remember where I came from. She took Johnnys hand. At least if we die Johnny thought we die together.

Liu bowed to Tsung, as was the tradition from his temple. Tsung sneered. He raised his arms and a giant flaming skull hurtled towards Liu. Liu flipped to the side but it grazed his arm. Liu flipped forward and tried to punch the sorcerer in the face. Tsung blocked and uppercut Liu. Liu went flying backwards. He picked himself up and ran forward but stopped a fraction before he came within striking distance and swung a flying elbow that crashed into Tsung’s forehead. If it hurt him he showed no sigh of it. He kicked Liu three times each on of them in exactly the same place he then moved forward and punched Liu in the face. Liu then faked a jumping kick but then smashes Tsung under the chin with his other foot. Liu jumped into a bicycle kick. Tsung was caught of guard since to his knowledge no mortal could do a vertical bicycle kick. Liu powered himself forward and then flipped back and landed on his feet. Tsung recovered quite quickly. He and Liu then exchanged blows. Liu kicked and Tsung would block. The moves were lighting fast. If there were any on-lookers all they would see would be a blur of limbs flying. Neither man managing to get a direct hit. Eventually Liu landed a roundhouse. Tsung staggered backwards. Liu brought down an axe kick to his shoulder and followed with a spinning roundhouse. Tsung feel on the ground. Liu was about to deliver the final blow. When Sonya and Johnny ran into the arena. They took a stand at the side seeing Liu was winning. Liu only turned away for a second but when he looked back Tsung was no longer there. Instead there was his younger brother Chow quivering at his feet. The little boy looked up at him with accusing eyes.

“Liu.” the small boy wailed. “Why won’t you help me?” It was heart breaking and Liu stood watching in horror. “ I don’t like it here Liu it’s dark and it hurts Liu it hurts.” The little boy was crying into his hands.

“Liu that’s not Chow.” Sonya screamed at him. Liu put his hand forward. “Liu!” Sonya tried again. “That’s no more Chow than it was Johnny earlier.” Sonya shouted and she seen Liu’s eye changing. Lius temper finally snapped as He picked Chow/Tsung up.

“How dare you do this Tsung show your true self.” Liu demanded.

“You let me die!” The little boy screamed at him. Liu dropped him.

“No I did not deliver a blow to you once. You chose your own path just as I chose mine. Shang Tsung killed you I did not.” Liu aid realisation dawning into his own voice. Tsung then changed back to his own form.

“Very good Liu Kang but that was not the end.” Tsung then launched his fist into Liu’s face. Liu staggered backward and then fell to the floor as Tsung kicked the back of his right knee. Tsung pulled Lius face off the ground by his hair and smashed Liu’s face off of the ground three times. Lius face was bleeding now. Tsung then laughed and whispered into Lius ear.

“Some chosen one.” Then laughed. Sonya and Johnny watched on worried thing didn’t look good for Liu or earth realm. Then Liu stood up.

“I am the chosen one.” That is all he said as he ploughed into Tsung. Hit after hit landed on a confused Tsung. He didn’t even have enough time to block Liu furious hit. He kicked Tsung who landed several feet away.

“Give it up sorcerer. It’s over.”

“Never!” Tsung screamed as he charged at Liu. Liu stopped him in his tracks with a kick right to his stomach. Liu punched Tsung over and over. Then something really strange happened. His hands started to glow. As he pushed them forward a huge spark of energy shot forward. It hit Tsung directly in the chest. He started to scream

“Noooooooo!” He then turned into a skeleton as a huge beam of light shot out of his chest. Sonya and Johnny looked on in amazement. Johnny merely raised an eyebrow at Sonya who shrugged her shoulders. Liu was mesmerised at this, especially at all the figures that made their way up the beam just floating. A face floated towards him and a hand stuck out of the beam of light and he grasped it. A featureless face stuck out.

“Liu. I’m glad you don’t not blame yourself.” The voice had a sound much like that of a fire burning.

“Chow, I miss you.” Liu said tenderly.

“And I miss you but I live on in your heart. A part of me will always live on that way. Go in peace my brother.” Liu had tears in his eyes.

“Goodbye my brother.” Liu watched as the beam disappeared. He walked over to his two friends and embraced them. The next thing he knew they were above ground on the docks with the huge ship they came on there. Rayden was standing leaning on the side of a wall.

“Well done Liu Kang. I am very proud of you all.” Rayden told them.

“Didn’t you know this is how it would turn out?” Sonya asked curiously.

“Did not have a clue.” The thunder god answered. Johnny came up behind Sonya and put his arms around her waist. She turned round and kissed him briefly. They were both grinning like Cheshire cats. Liu and Rayden smiled at each other.

“Liu where are you going now? You have to promise that you’ll see us again soon.”

“I don’t know. I will probably go back to The Temple of the Order of Light. I have so much more to learn from them but I would lose you two for anything in any world.

“Ditto.” Johnny said. Sonya pulled him towards the ship.

“Come on we’ve got things to discuss. Besides I’m sure Liu and Sparky have things to discuss too. See you two later.” Sonya added before Johnny followed her into the ship. Liu and Rayden smiled. Rayden put a hand on his shoulder.

“I am really proud of you, all of you. I know your parents would be too.”

“Thank you Rayden.”

“Just remember Liu I am always here if you need me. Those two are your family now. Do not lose contact with them or be afraid to tell them anything. You must rely on them and them on you.”

“I won’t forget that Rayden or anything you’ve done for me.”

“I know that.” Rayden said as he bowed and disappeared. Liu boarded the ship.

Inside Johnny and Sonya were talking.

“So what will you do when we get home?” Johnny asked Sonya.

“I’ll have to report to base. I’ll have a lot of explaining to do.”

“Will you come and live with me?” Johnny said. Sonya was a bit stunned. She pulled him closer to him.

“I’d love too.” She wasn’t going to risk ever losing him ever again. The same went for him.

They smiled as Liu boarded and they headed home.