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After your nice conversation with Mileena (now THERE'S a sentence you'd never thought you'd hear yourself say...) you wander across the palace gardens and find Kung Lao and Li Mei preparing for tonight's tournament. The young woman is excited for getting a chance to test her skills against the edenian elite; Kung Lao is trying to give her advice but her head is in the clouds.

Nearby, Bo' Rai Cho watches and drinks (does he ever not?) and waves you over. "Johnny! I haven't had a chance to speak with you since you were brought back. What news do you bring from the next plane?"

"The Grim Reaper is a real upstanding kind of guy," you tell him as you sit. "By the way... Did you guys catch that weird tarkatan freak that did me in?"

Kung Lao catches one of Li Mei's kicks. "No, I'm afraid. He escaped in the forest."

"Something wasn't right with him..." you say. "He wasn't like the other tarkatans. He was quick, vicious, had strange powers..."

"We also called the OWEA with your radio while you were dead," Kung Lao tells you. "They're coming here, to Edenia, when their mission is complete."

Bo' Rai Cho hands you a drink of edenian wine. As you look at it, you think about Sonya. Will you get a chance to see her tonight? What will you say to her, after what you've experienced?

>A) Drink the edenian liquor
>B) Join Kung Lao and Li Mei for a pre-tournament sparring match
>C) Ask them if they know anything about Tanya
>D) Part from them; explore elsewhere in the palace
>E) Wait until sundown for the tournament

>>42350731
>B) Join Kung Lao and Li Mei for a pre-tournament sparring match
We should probably make sure all of our faculties are working as intended. Would really suck to get into a fight during the tournament and find out our shadow powers don't work anymore, or we can't move our arm correctly.

Also, mention Rain's determination to win. Just make sure we're all on guard.

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>>42350787

You stretch your limbs a bit. You're still not sure what to make of Quan Chi resurrecting you. Sure, he was forced to, and he's a prisoner of the edenian royal family--but he's also deceptive by nature and a demon of the Netherrealm. How do you know you're not a puppet right now? That you're in full control?

Perhaps a sparring sessions will test out your faculties. You set the drink aside and stand up, moving to them both. Kung Lao looks at you. "Are you sure you want to do this?" he asks.

"Yeah, I need to give myself a test run," you say, rubbing your scarred neck. "I might have a little bit of a scratchier voice but I need to see if my shadow powers are still working."

You look around. "And that Rain guy is really looking forward to winning tonight... Be on your guard if you go up against him. He might not be as interested in friendly competition as he is in winning."

Li Mei tightens her purple headband. "I'll fight you, Johnny! I want to test myself!"

You crack a smile at the spunky young outworlder. Kung Lao nods and heads back to sit next to Master Bo'.

"Remember to watch the feet!" Bo' tells her. She nods and moves to the center of the gardens. Nearby, a group of edenian women lounge beneath floral-pattern fabric umbrellas as they watch your match.

Prepare to be amazed, ladies.

You take off your shades and breathe on them, wiping them on your arm wrappings. "You ready for this, kid?"

She nods and prepares herself.

>1d100 and an action!

>>42350731
>C+B

Rolled 79 (1d100)

>>42351009
Test her defenses and footwork

Rolled 11 (1d100)

>>42351009
Let's start with a simple scissor kick

>>42351071
Well the Edenian ladies are going to impressed, just not by our skills.

Rolled 10 (1d100)

>>42351009
Throw a shadow ball. Dealing with projectiles is quite important.

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>>42351029

You open up with a series of punches and kicks. Her defense is fairly solid, blocking each one initially, but when you start to mix it up, she trips and falls. You wait for her to get back up and then attack again, knocking her down. You actually feel a little bit bad for her. When she gets back up, you open up with a scissor kick.

>>42351071

Which she catches, using your momentum to flip you overhead and throw you across the garden! You hit the ground rolling, caught completely off guard by her sudden skill. She smiles as you get back up; nearby, the edenian women giggle. You dust yourself off.

"Alright, not bad kid, not bad. Let's try something a little more flashy."

>>42351139

You quickly throw a shadow ball at her; looks like your shadow powers are still working. To your surprise, she dodges it and throws a projectile of her own, lobbing a purple blast of energy at you! It hits you in the chest and you take a few steps back.

Bo' Rai Cho laughs uproariously, and Kung Lao has a small smile on his face.

Li Mei smiles and gets ready for the next round, fixing you with a cocky smile.

>1d100 and an action!

Rolled 6 (1d100)

>>42351559
Whatever, Shadow Kick. Everybody loves the Shadow Kick.

Rolled 70 (1d100)

>>42351559
Shadow kick

Rolled 20 (1d100)

>>42351559
Rising Shadow

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>>42351587
>>42351641

You return with a shadow kick, but she blocks it. She flips back and launches another blast at you, but you dodge it by rolling to the side.

>>42351794

You charge at her and try to hit her with a rolling shadow, but she suddenly performs a surprise cartwheel kick that knocks you back. You roll back up onto your feet and shake your head.

The hell is wrong with you? Either she's much better than you thought, or you're more rusty than you initially believed since your resurrection. You grit your teeth and prepare to attack her again.

Her smile, however, disarms you. You're Johnny Cage! You shouldn't take this so seriously. It's just a sparring match, after all. She's having fun with it, so should you.

You flash her a smile back, putting on the old Johnny Cage charm and get ready for the next round.

>1d100 and an action!

Rolled 55 (1d100)

>>42352131
Punch combo to a jumping round house kick

Rolled 41 (1d100)

>>42352131
spinning kick

Rolled 24 (1d100)

>>42352131
Wave her towards you (think like a kind of "come on" taunt). When she approaches and attacks, counter arm-bar.

Expertly done, by the way.

Rolled 55 (1d100)

>>42352131
Sliding kick

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>>42352192

With your attitude adjusted, you go in with a strong combo, keen on testing her skills. You push her back with your punches and kicks before hitting her with a jumping roundhouse. Like a champ, she takes the hit and gets back up, rubbing her arm but ready to keep going.

>>42352194
>>42352394

She charges in, but a spinning kick from you trips her and causes her to land in the soft grass again. She gets back up, but you hit her with a sliding kick, again knocking her down. With a great amount of determination and cheering from Master Bo', she gets back up and readies herself for another go.

>>42352199

You smile and waver her on towards you, giving her a playful taunt of, "Come on, I'm not getting any younger!" She approaches and feigns attacking from the front to come in from the side. You were going to counter with an arm-bar, but she swings a leg up and hooks it around your arm, pulling you down to the ground. She manages to get you in a leg-lock and grapples you, pulling on your arm, countering your counter!

>1d100 and an action to finish the fight!

Rolled 23 (1d100)

>>42352424
Wonder what would happen if we tried Rising Shadow right now.

Rolled 48 (1d100)

>>42352424
Force ball with the other arm. Swing it right around and into her pretty little face. Teach her that just because she's got a hold on him doesn't make an opponent defenseless.

Rolled 73 (1d100)

>>42352424
Hit the back of her head to daze her

>>42352477
It may be a bit brutal, but this is a spar, not a lesson. If she leaves herself open, she'll get punished for it.

Rolled 13 (1d100)

>>42352424
Pull out the showman.
Summon some shadow balls, start to juggle them, then throw it in rapid succession like dodgeball

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>>42352453

It doesn't work, apparently.

>>42352477

Using your free arm, you throw a shadow ball into her face. She lets go, allowing you to roll away. She gets back up but you dash forwards and hit her in the back of her head, dazing her slightly. She begins to fall but you catch her and help her back up to her feet. She shakes her head and looks back up at you.

"I thought I had you there," she pouts.

"Hey, you taught me a few things too," you tell her. "You're good, Li. Better than I took you for, initially."

Bo' Rai Cho nods as he stands up. "Yes! She's one of the most promising students I have had since my time at the Wu Shi Academy."

"How'd you do that pink blast?" you ask her.

"It's just something I can do," she says with a shrug.

Kung Lao rises. "Master Bo' believes that if she hones her gift, she could be a great defender of Outworld. You still have much training to do before that, Li Mei. Remember that this was a sparring match, and not a real battle.

>>42352544

Nearby, the edenian women applaud the battle. You turn and look at them, deciding to show off a bit. You create two shadow balls and attempt to juggle them, but in your desire to show off to them, you don't notice Li Mei sneak up and perform a sweeping kick, which trips you. One of the shadow balls explodes harmlessly along the ground, but another hits the water and causes a minor eruption of liquid that showers one of the edenian women. She stands up, very frustrated and embarrassed, as the other women laugh. She storms off to change her now-soaked clothing.

Li Mei laughs quietly to herself. "Okay, kid, very funny," you tell her as you get up.

>A) Stay with them until the tournament begins
>B) Head off and search for Liu Kang
>C) Wander some more around the palace grounds
>D) Search the inside of the edenian palace
>E) Explore one of the nearby edenian towns before sundown

Rolled 28 (1d100)

Johnny Cage really needs to get some luck with these rolls. It's a wonder he's survived this long

>>42352424
Try a shadow clone to help finish it

>>42352611
C

>>42352611
>A) Stay with them until the tournament begins
Might as well chill until the tournament. Talk to them about Death. Brag that he watches my movies.

https://youtu.be/DnzaQ4DtHLQ?t=10s

>>42352611
>C) Wander some more

>>42352611
>>E) Explore one of the nearby edenian towns before sundown

>>42352611
>C)

>>42352613
Two reason.

1) His split punch makes 'em cry
2) The shadow kick, which we all admire, is strong

>>42352611
>C) Wander some more around the palace grounds
Maybe we could look around, see if we find some nice flowers to Sonya. Preferably somewhere it isn't part of some well-groomed garden.
Or that's not something Johnny would do?

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>>42352660
>>42352707
>>42353052

Wandering some more throughout the edenian courtyards, you come to another side of the palace you did not venture to before. Here, Asgaarth, the white-feathered eagle-man who helped Kitana and Kaito bring about a reborn Edenia, is training some of his kind. Birdmen of various sizes, colors and styles can be seen, fighting with each other. Nearby, a column of the elite Edenian Knights, a task force founded by Queen Sindel herself, are training with their polearms, led by the captain of the guard, a strong man who you have not met before.

>A) Approach Asgaarth and speak to him
>B) Approach the captain of the Edenian Knights and speak to him
>C) Do not interrupt their training; continue exploring the courtyards

>>42353534
>>A) Approach Asgaarth and speak to him

>>42353534
>C) Do not interrupt their training; continue exploring the courtyards
Maybe wave at the two groups, but I doubt they'd be too happy with us interrupting them.

>>42353534
C.
Would like to say Hi, but don't want to use up a whole interaction for it

That's some pretty fucking cool looking birdpeople though. When do we get one of those in the game?

>>42353534
>>A) Approach Asgaarth and speak to him
Hey, birdman!

>>42353534

C

>>42353534
>C) Do not interrupt their training; continue exploring the courtyards
Nah, I'm sure there are other things to do than making an ass out of ourselves in fronto of the Edenian Royal Guard

>>42353534
>>C) Do not interrupt their training; continue exploring the courtyards

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>>42353679
>>42353717
>>42354047
>>42354076
>>42354210

Deciding not to interrupt the training of the guard, you continue on your way.

Further along, you reach what must be the back of the palace. Here, it overlooks a massive waterfall that tumbles down into a river that seems very, very far below the palace itself. The roar of the waterfall is strangely soothing in the background, and the trees and nearby rock formations and statues make this area very peaceful and natural. You have to admit, you're really starting to like this place. Not a movie set or mini mall in sight... This place would be good for vacations, but you're not sure if you could stomach living in a place like this forever. Still, you bet the sunsets are gorgeous.

"Enjoying your time here?" a sudden voice from behind asks.

You turn around to find Queen Sindel there, with two guards not far away. They stand a respectable distance away, but not far away enough to not be able to rush in and protect her, should the need arise.

"Yes, your highness," you tell her, "it's very lovely here."

"For thousands of years this land was dead... Something you and I share in common."

As she walks by, you follow her and think about her words. That's true... she was dead. Resurrected by Quan Chi and mind-controlled by Shao Kahn to be his bride once more, willingly.

"If you don't mind my saying so, your majesty, I wasn't quite sure what to make of it when I was told that Quan Chi brought me back."

"I can understand your worry. But rest assured, Quan Chi is our prisoner now. Nowhere near as dignified a position he formerly served as Shinnok's arch-sorcerer, but his powers are being put to good use." She smiles as she looks at you. "You know, there's really no greater torture for an evil demon than to force him to perform good deeds."

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>>42354310

You smile back at her. "Well, I certainly appreciate it, your worshipfulness..." You change the subject to her earlier point. "You and I have both died, but you were dead for much longer. What happened to you when you crossed the river?"

She gives you a quizzical look. "The river?"

"Didn't you meet the Grim Reaper and he took you on his boat?"

She suddenly understands, catching on. "Oh, I see. Everyone experiences death differently. The realm beyond life is so difficult for mortals to understand that they comprehend it in different ways; everyone sees and understands it in accordance with who they are."

"So... My version of death was somewhat traditional, at least for my world," you say. Suddenly, it makes sense how he knew your movies. "Weird... But I guess it makes sense. Maybe an Egyptian back in the day would have seen Anubis or something."

"But even though we all experience it differently, there are similarities. Did you pass onto the afterlife?"

"I didn't," you say. "I spoke to the reaper for a while. Had a nice chat with him. But if he was tailored for me and me only, maybe he was just telling me what I really wanted to hear for myself, from myself..."

"What was that?"

"He told me to make the most out of life, because I'll never know when it might get cut short again. To truly live, you know?"

She places a hand on your shoulder. "That is an admirable goal, Johnny Cage. I myself have been given a second chance at life... and with my realm restored and my husband and daughter returned to me, I intend to make the most of it as well."

>A) Ask her how she feels about Ermac/Jerrod's return
>B) Test the waters and see how she feels about Kitana possibly finding love
>C) Ask how she feels about Mileena
>D) Inquire more about her wisdom of death and life
>E) Ask her to give you a greater idea of Edenian royalty and the current politics of the realm
>F) Flirt with the queen

>>42354331
B+E

>>42354331
E
Then B
Segue to Mileena and C

>>42354331
Most importantly
>A) Ask her how she feels about Ermac/Jerrod's return
>C) Ask how she feels about Mileena

I'd ask about Kitana too, but let's not go that far yet.

>>42354331
>D) Inquire more about her wisdom of death and life
>A) Ask her how she feels about Ermac/Jerrod's return
>B) Test the waters and see how she feels about Kitana possibly finding love

Fuck it, do all of them. Yeah, even the flirting. Fuck it, it's Cage time.

>>42354331
>>42354385
This this this

>>42354443
I don't know, we've been a little less flirtious with people, since Johnny is trying to get settled with Sonya.
Especially since his death

>>42354460
Still gotta do it. And besides, it's just a little innocent flirting. I'm not saying we seduce and sleep with Sindel (which would be hilarious), but I see no harm.

>>42354331
>>A) Ask her how she feels about Ermac/Jerrod's return
>>B) Test the waters and see how she feels about Kitana possibly finding love
>>C) Ask how she feels about Mileena

>>42354497
It sounds rather Kaito-ic, but I guess a few innocent compliments wouldn't hurt.

>>42354460
Let me paint you a picture. Kitana and Liu are all happily married or whatever, when they get a visit from Sindel. She happily tells them that their new father in law is none other than the man himself, Johnny Cage. Cue Sindel putting on a pair of shades.

It's brilliant. I deserve an award for this shit.

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>>42354531

>>42354531
Well maybe we stopped Jax's arms from being torn off, but apparrently someone else is going to get mutilated

>>42354497
Yeah, it's just a bit of friendly flirting. Not in a charity kind of way, but some banter would make things more relaxed

>>42354531
That sounds like the plot to that horrible comedy Johnny starred in a few years ago.

>>42354331
>C, D, and F

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>>42354558
>>42354564
>>42354573
What's with all the dissenters? You can't tell me you don't see that being awesome. One big happy family.

Sitcom style, oh yeah.

>>42354596
I feel like Kenshi's eyeballs aren't the only kind of balls that will be squished in telepathic pressure

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>>42354596
>>42354531

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>>42354627
>>42354629
It'll be fine.

>>42354573
Two and a Half Realms?
27 Edenian Festive Garments?

>>42354331
I wish we would be here as Kaito for these questions. I love Johnny, but you know.

>>42354596
Would liu have to call him dad?

>>42354989
Of course.

>I'm so proud of you, son. The 'Protector of Earthrealm'. You have done me proud.
>Fuck off, Johnny.

Great, we are going to die again, this time by assisted suicide.

>>42355011
That would be the most uncomfortable thing ever. The second-hand embarrassment could level cities...

Print it.

>>42355058
If it makes you feel any better, I won't actually try to bang Sindel.

That'll just be my next movie.

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Time to test the waters. "So, your grace, now that your family is back together again, do you think it will grow even further?"

She cocks an eyebrow. "Whatever do you mean by that, Mr. Cage?"

You lean on the railing overlooking the waterfall. "Well, your daughter is very beautiful. She must have many suitors, yes? I mean, surely you'd look forward to being not only a mother, but a grandmother?"

Her lips curl into a coy smile. "Do I look old enough to be a grandmother?"

"You don't look a day over five-thousand," you say with a smile.

"Flattering," she replies. "You must understand that things do not move as quickly for edenians as they do for you humans, who are lucky to reach a century of age. The briefest of courtship rituals for us lasts years, and traditional courtship takes decades. It is considered improper for an edenian lady to partake in a relationship without knowing someone for the better part of a century."

You whistle. "Wow. I don't know how your people do it."

"Much the same way as yours," she replies with a wink. You suddenly understand her meaning and laugh; you have to admit, you didn't expect Kitana's mom to be this casual and relaxed.

"Since things move so slow for your people, what are your politics like? If you don't mind me asking."

"Not at all. The royal edenian family is the head of the realm. We manage all of the grand-scale matters that demand our attention. We also have other edenian royal families; with the realm restored, many of them were resurrected or came out of hiding. All of the lords and ladies, nobles of various bloodlines, swear fealty to the royal family."

"So where does Rain fit into all of that?"

"Rain is the only son of his family to have survived. We know not his true parentage, but his power and his nobility are undeniable. He was raised as a prince of edenia, and a prince he remains."

"What about gods, like Raiden?"

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>>42355302

"It is said that the edenian people are descended from gods. This explains our grace, longevity, beauty and power. But, we once had gods who protected us as well... Argus was a great, wise protector of our realm. He married a woman of great power, a mortal named Delia. She had visions of the future that were as clear as memories of the past, and together they had two sons."

"Where are they now?" you ask.

"Argus and Delia were both killed. We do not know by whom. Their sons vanished without a trace. A great shame, as they were both strong warriors, noble and driven, much like their father. We also had another god, a woman who shaped Edenia and gave it beauty and breathed life into its nature, but she was sundered by a great battle, and torn into five fragments of herself."

"What, like five different people?"

"Yes. Her true name is lost to history, and even I cannot recall it. But her shattered essence took five forms: one of Air, Fire, Water, Earth and all that was dark within her became Decay. Each of them not quite gods, but not quite mortal."

"Interesting legend," you say to her. "But, if you don't mind my asking, going back to my earlier point about your family growing... how do you feel about its newest addition?"

"You refer to Mileena," she wisely notes. "On one hand, my daughter's blood, and therefore my blood, flows through her veins. On another hand, she was created to be Shao Kahn's daughter, to kill my daughter. She was born of sorcery, of dark magic... But she turned on Shao Kahn and helped destroy him. For this she is to be applauded, and Jerrod believes she deserves another chance. I do as well, but like I told you before, Edenians are long-lived and slow to change... and it will take time for me to adapt to her presence."

"And how is the old king doing? I mean, you know, trapped in a body that isn't his own and all must have disadvantages."

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>>42355328

She nods. "I am overjoyed at his return... But the body of Ermac is home to a thousand souls. Jerrod is strong-willed, and manages to keep them in line... But there are moments when he cannot. When he sleeps, sometimes others speak. He has told me that occasionally he feels torn and pulled in different directions as the multitudes within him try to influence his actions; they whisper in his ear, distracting him. He cannot quiet them down completely, you understand, and sometimes it is difficult to hold a conversation with him. Sometimes when he speaks, it is not his voice."

That must be horrible to have to deal with; you couldn't imagine having a thousand people screaming their thoughts at you.

Well, then again, there is the internet.

"Can't he be brought back in his old body?" you ask. "I mean, I'm no voodoo doctor of soul magic, but we can't pluck him out?"

"If we could without destroying the body of Ermac, we could, but his soul is bound within it and destroying it may have unintended side effects. The accursed conqueror, Shao Kahn, created the soul construct himself and bound it with his magic. He was one of the most powerful dark sorcerers in existence. The souls within cannot escape, and if we destroy the vessel they are bound to... it may destroy them as well."

"Better to be safe and have him control the body of Ermac, then?" you ask. She nods. "I'm sorry to hear that."

Sindel looks off into the distance. "Yes... I am glad to have Jerrod back, and we will search for ways to undo the magic that binds him. But the body of Ermac is little more than a mummified corpse. It contains the soul of the man I love, but it is not his body. But an edenian is blessed with the patience of gods, and together we will make it work."

You smile, happy to hear that she is willing to help her husband through this difficult time.

>A) Excuse yourself from her; prepare for the tournament
>B) Spend more time with the queen
>C) Try and find Liu Kang and Kitana

>>42355377
>C. Try and find Lie Kang and Kitana

>>42355377
>A) Excuse yourself from her; prepare for the tournament
Assuming, of course, there's nothing she'd like to ask me about first. I did just take up a good portion of her time asking questions, so if she's got any, go ahead and shoot. If not, head back to Kung Lao, Bo', and Li Mei.

>>42355377
>>C) Try and find Liu Kang and Kitana
Wow Alito freed a part of their God now all he needs to do is free the other parts

>>42355443
>Alito
Kaito I hate auto correct

>>42355328

>But her shattered essence took five forms: one of Air, Fire, Water, Earth and all that was dark within her became Decay.

IT COMES BACK

THE DEEPEST LORE

No but for real, I actually really like where this is all going.

>>42355377
>A

>>42355377
Hold up! I swear Turana said she can unmake Ermac!

>>42355497
I love it too

>>42355539
>>42355377
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/41290114/#p41291544
There. I'm absolutley sure Johnny wouldn't know it, but it's there

>>42355377
C

>>42355328
>Water Goddess/Decay
We should tell Sub-Zero

>>42355539
>>42355583
This is important for when we come back as disguised Kaito

>>42355377
>>C) Try and find Liu Kang and Kitana
Let's see if the Cage magic has worked

Not so sure it's a good idea to interrupt. Seems like something a bad wingman would do.

Still, tournament's soon. Might wanna wake loverboy up and make sure he's primed and ready.

>>42355736
Well based on what Sindel said, the process will probably take multiple occasions. Might as well score some good points with the parents, and set Liu loose on the tournament

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>>42355411
>>42355443
>>42355591
>>42355697

"It was nice speaking to you, your highness, but I really should be going. I need to prepare for the contest tonight; I don't know if you give out awards for acting, but I hope you give out trophies for winning your contests."

She smiles and nods, turning back to look over the waterfalls of her homeland once more. You move past her guards and head back into the palace.

Time to check on our boy Liu-Liu.

Let's see... if you were a shaolin warrior and a ten-thousand-year-old princess and you wanted to be alone, where would you go? Kitana's bedchamber? Nah, Liu wouldn't go for it on the first date... right?

Perhaps they're in the gardens somewhere. There is a rather large section you did not explore with large hedges and rows of beautiful flowers. Maybe they're hiding in there?

Perhaps they left the palace grounds entirely, and went for a walk alongside one of the nearby mountain paths? You could see Liu being a mountain man.

>A) Search the palace
>B) Search the gardens
>C) Search along the mountain trails

>>42355825
A

>>42355825
>>B) Search the gardens

>>42355825
>Garden

>>42355825
>B) Search the gardens
That would be my first guess. We haven't seen all of the gardens yet, and going to the mountains sounds like a bit of a pain. Not to mention, unsafe.

>>42355825
>B

>Search the palace
if this is the same palace Kitana grew up in she might know of some secret doors. If there are any
>Search the gardens
It's more possible that there is a hidden little medow, or a secret sancuary under a waterfall.
>Search along the mountain trails
I can imagine Liu taking Kitana to a little climbing for the first date

>>42355825
>B
Mountain trail could take all day, and I imagine if the palace has secret rooms, they are probably for serious business

>>42355825
>>B) Search the gardens

>>42355825
>B)
Both romantic, pretty, and probably has a few spots where two people can go to not be interrupted for awhile.

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Heading into the gardens, you find yourself wandering amongst rows and rows of beautiful floral arrangements and hedges. These flowers are all exotic and strange, but alluring and they smell amazing.

Would Sonya like these, you wonder? Is she a flowers kind of girl, or would she just find that stupid? You pause for a moment. You've been thinking a lot about her lately... Especially since that dream you had.

You sigh and shake your head. What does it all mean? You like her, obviously--more than any girl you've ever met before. She means something more than all the other girls who threw themselves at you because of your fame.

In fact, now that you think about it, she's the first woman to not be impressed by you. By your films, your money, your career, your five cars, personal jet, bodyguard, expensive wine collection, black belts, overseas bank accou--You're losing focus. Liu. Kitana. Worry about Sonya later.

Looking throughout the gardens, you come upon a gazebo obscured by thick plants that grow up its supports and create a shroud around it. As you creep closer, you hear Kitana and Liu speaking to each other.

"Well, I don't have a daughter to the best of my knowledge," she says. He must have just brought up the strange woman you encountered in China.

"It was so strange... she looked much like you. Are you certain...?"

"Yes, I am quite certain," she playfully replies. "I think I would know."

He chuckles. "Yes, of course. But then who could she be?"

"Were you worried?"

"Hm?"

"About the possibility of me having children? I remember the look in your eyes when I told you that I was once engaged to Rain."

"Well, that's..."

She softly laughs a bit. "The stoic shaolin," she teases him. "You don't need to worry. I'm not hiding anything from you."

Come on, Liu, get in there...

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>>42356980

"Kitana... I am conflicted. I have sworn to uphold the traditions of the shaolin, to forgo all material holdings and pledge myself to the protection of Earthrealm. I am the champion of Mortal Kombat."

"But?"

"But for a time, I was not with the shaolin, and I lived the life of a normal man. It takes strength to leave such a life behind, but I still feel its pull. Not for a normal life, but when I see you, I..."

She shushes him. "I know, Liu. Ever since I saw you at the tournament and helped you go on to defeat Shang Tsung, I knew there was something different about you. I have met many warriors in my life, but you are truly special among them."

There's a moment of silence. You wish you could stick your head up and see, but they'd see you. Kitana speaks up again. "But you always have a choice, Liu. You could stay in Earthrealm, or..."

There's another moment of silence. "I... I cannot, Kitana," he says. Damnit, Liu. "I want to. But we are of different realms. If we married..."

"The merging of realms through marriage is not required," she says. "Shao Kahn used it as a means to conquer realms, but you could stay here, with me..."

"Your family? Your people?"

"I am heir to the throne. I can choose who I spend my time with. I am long-lived, you are ageless as a champion... You could be my king, Liu. And I, your queen."

Come on Liu, come on!

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>>42357022

There's a silence, when suddenly a voice calls out. "Kitana? Are you in the gardens?"

Rain.

He shouts out again, "The contest is upon us and we are gathering in the great hall."

When there is no response, he moves on, searching for her.

"He is gone," Kitana says. "Come, let us--"

Liu takes advantage of the opportunity and stands up. "We don't want to keep them waiting."

"No. I suppose not." She sounds somewhat disappointed.

You hide as they both leave and walk towards the palace.

Damnit, so close...

You need to beat feet over there before you miss the opening of the contest. And along the way, you need to think of a way to get Rain out of Kitana and Liu's hair.

Maybe you can even take him down in the tournament...

>>42357050

Alright, I need to get some sleep.

When I wake back up, we'll have the tournament.

I'll see you guys when I get back.

>>42357050
Dammit, Rain, son of a bitch! Kitana was going to seal the deal and everything!

>>42357050
>Maybe you can even take him down in the tournament...
I've never laughed harder in my life. Thanks for that, Damashi.

>>42357050
Damn, so close. The Wingman must strike again!

>>42357050
Johnny Cage, Actor, Martial Artist and wingman extraordinaire.

Wait, being a champion of kombat gives you immortality? Now Liu's default skin in X makes even less sense.

>>42357615
It makes you immortal, not invincible.

>>42357615
He dead. Can't be champ if you dead.

>>42357668
>>42357884
The concept behind the revenant characters' non-canon primaries is supposed to be "what if they hadn't died?"

Liu's has gray hair.

>>42358115
I think it's more like "what if they were res'd like everyone else."

>>42358315
The concept art in the krypt, for Kung Lao, literally says "what if Kung Lao survived MK"

The pre-fight quotes go with that too, like Old Man Liu isn't mad at Raiden for being a fuckup the way Revenant Liu is, because Old Man Liu presumably is from a timeline where Raiden wasn't a fuckup.

Also note all the mirror match dialogues go with one of three themes: "alternate reality versions of the characters meeting each other" (Scorpion as Champion of the Elder Gods, Sonya as an OIA agent, Raiden as defender of Chaosrealm), clones made by Shang Tsung, or Shang himself in shapeshifter disguise.

>>42358512
Then why is he so bitter at everyone in his intros (minus kitana)? Its like the writers have a grudge against him.

>>42358990
Which intros? Most of Human Liu's that I can think of are peaceful or middle-of-the-road "we must fight now for generic reasons" statements.

>>42358512
Best guess in that case is... you continue to age but only enough to give you and aging master look and thats cool. I dunno about you but I think old Liu looks cooler then his other designs in MKX.

>>42359336
Great Kung Lao was 70 years old when Goro killed him, but they always depict the scene with him as a fresh-faced bald guy with no wrinkles or facial hair. (though there is ONE time, in an MK2 or 3 ending where he was an old guy with a gray fu manchu.)

So I guess the point here is they're inconsistent with their lore and Liu's primary is bullshit too.

In fact, in the Krypt concept art for that costume, it doesn't even have gray hair, it was drawn to be young.

>>42357615
They made an old skin like they did for Kung Lao because he was always going to be young in his tournament costume

>>42360051
Yeah but lore-wise, there should be no such thing as a Liu who gets old and gray...

More importantly, it's his ugliest outfit because the hair looks dumb. So the fact that it shouldn't have existed makes it even more disappointing.

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>>42360358
I like that outfit, different strokes mate.

Reminder that the elder gods are bullshit.
they also fucked yer mum

bump

>>42357615

It's from an older time in the lore. Being champion does not make you immortal or invulnerable, but it does make you ageless. This is so that you can keep your title for the next tournament in fifty years. So long as Liu keeps winning, he remains the same age. This was most prominently featured in Defenders of the Realm.

>>42358115
>>42358512

Well, that's just the thing: their primaries are non-canon. They wanted an old Liu Kang, they made one.

>>42359753

>So I guess the point here is they're inconsistent with their lore and Liu's primary is bullshit too.

Yes, there you go.

Anyway, writing the next part now.

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Making your way through a different portion of the gardens, you walk back into the palace and arrive in the grand hall. It is a large, circular room, featuring two thrones, upon which sit Jerrod and Sindel. There is a large gathering of edenian citizens and nobles who line the walls and balconies of the room.

Looks like things are about to get good.

Jerrod rises and calls them all to silence. "Friends, loyal subjects, guests of our realm, I welcome you to our first contest to celebrate Edenia's new independence."

There is an applause; he waits for it to die down. "I would like to thank our guests from Earthrealm and Outworld, who helped bring about a new edenia. As we move into a brave, new future, I hope to keep them as friends and allies for all time. Let us forge new bonds of friendship through competition and..." his voice trails off.

Everyone looks as he touches his hand to his head; Ermac's head. He sits back down and Sindel quickly rises. "Let us commence the festivities. Our first match will be...

>Roll 1d16 twice to see who fights first!

Rolled 10, 3 = 13 (2d16)

>>42368816

Rolled 8 (1d16)

>>42368816

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>>42368885

The first match is Liu Kang against Tanya's younger sister Isis. The lithe woman fights with a pair of sickles at the ends of chains, which she whips around and slices at the air with. She does a good job of keeping Liu at bay, but his superior speed and reflexes and fire powers allow him to close the gap, deflect and dodge the strikes of the sickles and take her down. She puts up a good fight, but it is clear that she is more preoccupied with wielding her exotic weapons than hand-to-hand combat, which Liu specializes in. After a few minutes, he beats her into submission.

She is clearly upset at her loss; she seems a bit uptight and clearly didn't enjoy getting knocked down a peg. You can't help but smile as your boy Liu bows to his opponent, then the king and queen.

>2d14 for the next matchup!

Rolled 13, 8 = 21 (2d14)

>>42368816

Rolled 1, 8 = 9 (2d14)

>>42369016

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>>42369058

"Johnny Cage," Queen Sindel calls out.

Oh baby. Time to shine.

You step out and bow to the edenian crowd, playing it up big.

"Lady Nerusheri," she then calls out.

Wait, who?

A beautiful, bronze-skinned woman emerges from the crowd. She resembles an older Tanya, because you now recognize her from the meal earlier: she is Tanya's mother.

She hooks you with a sly smile as she takes out two sickles, much like her daughter Isis', but she is probably much more experienced with them. The way she approaches you is almost sultry in nature, gently swaying her hips and looking at you with half-lidded eyes.

"Are you prepared, little man?"

"Lady, I'm a big guy for you," you reply with a cocky smile, holding up your hands.

With a command word, she lights the sickles on fire with a magic spell. She's clearly got some knowledge of magic as well, making her even more dangerous. The crowd is wowed, but you're more worried.

Sindel lowers her hand, signifying the battle to begin.

>1d100 and an action!

Rolled 51 (1d100)

>>42369178
Let's open with a quick Shadow Kick and see how she reacts.

Rolled 41 (1d100)

>>42369178

Rolled 45 (1d100)

>>42369178
>Shadow Ball with a Shadow Kick chaser

>>42369209
Fuck meant to say launch energy balls

>>42369178
Combo into a round house kick

Rolled 62 (1d100)

>>42369178
Wait for her to open up presumably with the sickle then try to grab it by the chain and break it.

Rolled 32 (1d100)

>>42369178
Forgot my dice>>42369244

File: 38 Johnny Cage.png (73 KB, 200x200)

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>>42369207

You make the first move with a shadow kick. You surge forwards faster than she can react and you kick her in the chest, right below her ample cleavage, causing her to be knocked back down to the floor. There is some applause from the edenians around you.

She spins her legs and sweeps herself back up onto her feet, using the momentum to throw a chain in your direction. You can hear the flaming blade cutting through the air as it nears you.

>>42369209
>>42369241

You dodge it by stepping back and follow up with a few shadowballs, but she brings up one of her sickles and slashes them out of the air. Like her daughter, she's got good zoning and defense.

>>42369234

However, you think you see an opening. You throw another shadow ball, causing her to attack it, and you follow up with another shadow kick. You phase through her defensive line and kick her again, knocking her to the floor once more.

This time, she attacks from below, swinging her chain at your feet to get you to back off so she can get back up. She gazes at you, determined to put you in your place.

>>42369244
>>42369275

She uses a bit of magic to teleport behind you, getting in close. She holds her weapons in her hands now and uses quick, rapid strikes to attack you. She forces you to back up with the ferocity of her attacks, but it is a controlled ferocity that does not leave her open to attack.

>>42369272

She then throws a sickle your way, which you catch. You charge up a fistful of shadow energy and smash it through the chain, breaking it. She discards the broken chain and focuses only on using one weapon now; the other hand lights up with fire.

>1d100 and an action!

Rolled 28 (1d100)

>>42369429
Shadow ball to her face then kick combo

Rolled 72 (1d100)

>>42369429
>GET OVER HERE! with her own weapon
>shadow kick into scissor kick into sweep the leg

Rolled 14 (1d100)

>>42369429
Grapple and throw

Rolled 27 (1d100)

>>42369429
Let her get in close then while dodging,make a one liner before doing a flip kick

>>42369537
>>42369499
>>42369620
>All these rolls
Wow this is going terribly

>>42369633
Some anon rolled away our good rolls after Johnny's death

>>42369633
72 should help out. These really just help with the flow of combat.

>>42369633
Well my 28 does have dub 33 gives it a bonuse

>>42369691
Perhaps, but my grapple is bound to end badly. Damn me for trying to play nice.

>>42369720
Ya never try an play grab hands with some one who can light their hands on fire

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>>42369499

You lob a shadow ball at her, but she vanishes once more and appears behind you, kicking you in the back of the head. When you turn around, she throws a fireball which you block, but it burns your arms slightly. She does not relent from there, throwing her chain in your direction.

>>42369533

You catch her chain! Taking inspiration from a certain undead ninja spectre, you pull her towards you and shadow kick her again, using the chain to pull her back up! You don't let up either, scissor kicking her before sweeping her leg and breaking the chain as you did the first.

>>42369537

She hooks a leg under you and trips you, allowing her to roll away and get some distance. Now both hands alight with fire and she blasts two fireballs at you; one of which hits your backside. It burns, but does not char your flesh. It wouldn't be very sporting of her to try to kill you... you hope.

>>42369620

You get up on your feet and try to get in close, but now she's playing the teleport game and keeping her distance, focusing on throwing fireballs. You make a point to counter each, but the wily and unpredictable nature of this strategy means that a few hit you.

You need a better plan...

>1d100 and an action for the final round!

>>42369769
Shadow punches and kicks

Rolled 100 (1d100)

>>42369769
>Shadow clone combo

Rolled 2 (1d100)

>>42369794
Again forgot my dice

>>42369809
Say hi to the Red Shadow!

Rolled 84 (1d100)

>>42369769
release a flurry of punches and end it with one giant punch

Rolled 35 (1d100)

>>42369769
Finish her with a Punch and do Cage one liner.

>>42369819
I quit rolling

Rolled 3 (1d100)

>>42369769
"The King and his men took the queen from his bed and bound her in her bones"
With her own chains!

>>42369809
>>42369819
Easy come, easy go.

>>42369845
>>42369849
I think I'l do the same

>>42369819
>>42369849
>>42369839
We are so lucky we got a 100 and 83

>>42369849
100 should win it for us.

>>42369873
Welcome to the club we're getting jackets soon..

File: 1418187563755.jpg (43 KB, 750x672)

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>Meanwhile

And now back to our story.

>>42369887

Yeah, we are.

>>42369845
>>42369873
>>42369916

Aw, come on guys, don't feel bad. It happens.

>>42369809

If she's going to play that game... you need to be in more places than one.

You focus your power and unlock the same technique you discovered while sparring with Liu Kang; shadow clones.

You create two mirror copies of yourself and send them off in two different directions, then you surge forward with a shadow kick, using your honed instincts to know where she is. By forcing her away from other prospective locations with your shadowy projections, you took a gambit and guessed where she would be--and you were right.

Johnny Cage style, baby.

She appears and is immediately knocked to the floor for a final time. She holds up a hand and surrenders; the edenians all applaud this amazing display of skill and power. You bow to them and help the lady up to her feet.

"You are very skilled... for an earthrealmer," she says with a smile.

"In more ways than one," you say with a wink as you put your sunglasses back on. She smiles slyly at your comment as she returns to her family in the crowd; some of her daughters shoot you angry looks for having defeated their mother. You return to Liu and Bo' Rai Cho, who clasps you on the back and congratulates you.

After the uproar dies down, Sindel calls out the next match.

>2d12 for the next matchup!

Rolled 7, 12 = 19 (2d12)

>>42370206
Damnit Damashi quit reminding about Kaito's sad kitty.

Rolled 3, 12 = 15 (2d12)

>>42370206

File: Nadia.png (4.12 MB, 868x1244)

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The queen calls for Li Mei, and Nadia. You don't know who Nadia is, so you ask a nearby edenian woman; she is the daughter of Natasha, youngest child of the Lady Nerusheri. So that would make Nadia the niece of Tanya.

Li Mei and Nadia both bow to each other and fight when given the signal. The outworlder and the edenian actually seem fairly evenly matched; both seem to possess similar skill and prowess. The young edenian fights with the ferocity of a tiger, and Li Mei counters with the determination of someone incapable of giving up. Their kicks, punches, counters, grapples and acrobatic displays make for a good match.

In the end, however, it is Li Mei who comes out on top. She manages to get Nadia into a powerful grapple from which she cannot escape, and the young edenian is forced into submission. They both bow to each other and actually seem to have grown rather friendly through their match, perhaps forging a friendship that will last for some time.

Nadia is not looked upon favorably by her family, however. Tanya's family has yet to win a match, and against the young Outworlder, Nadia should have been more than enough to win. Her mother scolds her.

Sindel calls the next match.

>2d10 for the next fight!

Rolled 7, 7 = 14 (2d10)

>>42370560

Rolled 2, 9 = 11 (2d10)

>>42370560

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>>42370745
>>42370591

The next matchup is Kung Lao vs. the captain of the guard, a man named Auro. As the head of the Edenian Knights, he is a very skilled opponent, but ultimately the shaolin triumphs with his superior skill, reflexes and mystical abilities. Both warriors fight honorably and respectfully, and there is no bad blood between them.

The next match, however, is a different story. Queen Sindel calls up Jade and Tanya.

Right from the get-go, you can see these two have a problem with each other. You don't know how far back this goes, but there is a rivalry as clear as day just from the way they look at each other. Tanya prepares herself as Jade extends her magical staff and they both leap at each other.

Both of them are highly trained assassins and warriors, acrobatic and beautiful to behold in motion, and they strike with deadly intent. They may not be fighting to the death, but it certainly seems like it with the emotion they put into each punch and kick.

You're particularly fascinated by Jade's use of powers that seem similar to your own... She possesses a similar shadow kick, as well as the ability to cloak herself in green energy to allow harmful attacks and projectiles to pass through her. You should talk with her later about this apparent similarity you share.

The battle is fierce and long, but ultimately, in a surprise move, Tanya is the one to emerge victorious. She puts Jade down with a flexible back kick that catches her off guard before the yellow-clad woman grabs her and throws her to the ground, getting her in a choke hold. She whispers something into Jade's ear, perhaps a taunt, before Queen Sindel calls the match in Tanya's favor.

The eldest daughter of her family rises, leaving Jade to wallow in her loss as she returns to her seat. The emerald-clad edenian maintains her dignity as she rises and returns to hers as well.

>2d6 for the next matchup!

Rolled 5, 5 = 10 (2d6)

>>42370991
rolling

Rolled 5, 2 = 7 (2d6)

>>42370991
>The only win that Tanya's family has is against another Edenian.
This seems mildly painful from the outside.

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>>42371041
>>42371021

The next battle is between Asgaarth and Natasha, Nadia's mother. The birdman is a bit too strong, unfortunately, resulting in Tanya being the only member of her family to advance to the next round. It's not too surprising to you; Asgaarth is a powerful warrior who even you wouldn't want to come up against.

The second-to-final match is between Rain and a red-clad woman named Ruby. She fights well, but Rain has his eyes on ultimate victory, and doesn't hold back. She is defeated.

The final match of the first round is between Master Bo' Rai Cho and Kitana. She wins, but something tells you that he was holding back. Perhaps he was just being polite? It's hard to tell. He laughs as she claims victory and bows to her, thanking her for the fun match. He's a curious old drunken master.

It's time to advance to the next round.

>2d8 for the first match of Round 2!

Rolled 6, 1 = 7 (2d8)

>>42371296
rolling

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>>42371324

"Kitana and Johnny Cage."

The edenian princess walks out and waits for you.

Uh oh. You weren't hoping to fight her. Not because you don't think you can win, but because you were hoping to fight and eliminate other competitors for Liu Kang to get a chance to impress Kitana.

But does he really need to? Either way, you need to make a choice. What should you, an honorable and handsome wingman, do in this situation?

>A) Fight her with all of your strength; do not hold back
>B) Hold back and throw the match, allow her to advance
>C) Respectfully decline the match and bow out of the tournament

>>42371395
>>A) Fight her with all of your strength; do not hold back
Johnny Cage never surrenders

>>42371395
>>A) Fight her with all of your strength; do not hold back
Difficult choice here but I kinda want to fight and talk with her at the same time.

>>42371395
>A
Can't even start to disrespect an opponent like that. Wingman or not. If she wins, she wins.

>>42371395
is rain stronger than liu and kitana?
then we need to win in order to prevent him having a shitty wish fulfilled.

Also, we could always wish the royal family to visit earth and deepen the both realms friendship and alliance.

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>>42371493
>>42371505
>>42371519

You smile at her and step out onto the arena floor. "Sorry, princess, but I won't be holding back just because we're friends."

"We're friends? This is startling news to me," she teases. She brings out her steel fans and winks over one of them.

Johnny Cage doesn't back down; victory or loss, you'll fight with all you got.

"Let's dance."

>1d100 and an action!

Rolled 33 (1d100)

>>42371656
Let's summon a shadow clone or two and send them at her.

Rolled 64 (1d100)

>>42371656
Kick combo into an upper cut

Rolled 42 (1d100)

>>42371656
shadow clone shadow kick

Rolled 90 (1d100)

>>42371656
>End a combo with a shadow kick

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>>42371687

You prepare to summon a shadow clone, but Kitana strikes first! She throws a fan at you, cutting your arm slightly as you block it. She then performs a leaping kick that knocks you back; you flip onto your feet but she's on you in a heartbeat, kicking and punching.

>>42371698

You see an opening and kick her back, one, twice, three times! You then turn, duck under a kick of hers, and uppercut her off the ground. She soars up but uses her power over wind to soar across the room, landing on her feet. She throws another fan your way, but you block it.

>>42371731

You throw a shadow clone at her that performs a kick, but she blocks it, twirling around to summon a gust of wind that knocks you off your feet. She tries to kick down at you from above, but you roll aside and manage to get distance from her.

>>42371745

You charge in, testing her defense with a long string of kicks and punches, rapid-firing them off until you have her overwhelmed. She is knocked back by your close-range shadow kick, but she isn't out of the fight yet.

These edenains are tough customers, alright.

>1d100 and an action!

Rolled 6 (1d100)

>>42371887
Wait for an opening, let her get close. Then throw out a rising shadow followed by a flipkick.

Rolled 28 (1d100)

>>42371887
>old school footwork and combos into a throw.
You can't throw shadows at every problem.

Rolled 34 (1d100)

>>42371887
When all else fails throw shadow balls

Rolled 5 (1d100)

>>42371887
Counter an dodge then attack

This goddamn quest and its rolls.

>>42372034
It's pretty shitty, mostly because it's up to the luck of the draw on whether or not we end up looking like most pathetic kharacter in MK-verse.

But whatever. At least the writing is good.

>>42372034
Good news everybody those jackets I talked about for the club have come in

>>42372034
Look, this isn't even a bad time for it. That just means we gotta count on our boy Liu to win.
And Liu's not awful

>>42372034
And hey, at least it's Kitana we're jobbing to.

>>42372067
Thank the Elder Gods. I needed a new jacket.

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>>42371911
>>42371948
>>42371977
>>42372018

I'm not going to mince words, Johnny, this didn't go so well this time. You try a rising shadow, she counters and kicks you in the chest. You lapse into your old-school training, but she's got a few thousand years worth of experience in hand-to-hand. When all that failed, you threw shadow balls; she countered or dodged each one. She then dived in and you tried to counter and dodge, but you failed, and she took you down with a dropkick that would make her mother proud, and likely did.

She helps you to your feet as the match is called in her favor. You're a little sore, but you can't fault her for fighting as well as she did. She's very skilled and powerful in her own right, so you can't feel too badly about losing to her. And maybe next time, if there is a next time, you'll do a bit better.

"Good fight," you compliment her. "But next time, I won't hold back."

"Ever with your ego," she says. "But you fought well too, make no mistake. It was an honor." You two bow to each other.

>A) Stick around to watch the remainder of the tournament
>B) Sneak off and find something else to do
>C) Try calling the OWEA with your radio to see if they've arrived in Edenia yet

>>42372124
A + C

>>42372124
>C) Try calling the OWEA with your radio to see if they've arrived in Edenia yet
Just a quick call, then we're back to the tournament. Can't miss out on our boy's next match, now can we?

>>42372124
>A and C
Wouldn't want to miss our boy Liu kick some ass

>>42372124
>>A) Stick around to watch the remainder of the tournament
>>C)Try calling the OWEA with your radio to see if they've arrived in Edenia yet

>>42372124
>A

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>>42372131
>>42372135
>>42372144

Heading back to your things, you pick up your radio and prepare to call the OWEA.

"OWEA, this is Johnny Cage. Do you copy that and read me, over?"

After a moment of static, a voice comes on. "Johnny? We heard you were hurt. Over." It's your good friend, Major Jackson Briggs.

"Yeah, I got better. Did you guys just arrive in Edenia? Uh, over."

"We're outside the main palace on the Nethership. We expected a welcoming party. Over."

"Yeah, there's a tournament going on in the main hall right now. You should come in and join us, over."

"Copy that. Jax out."

Well, that's good. You'll get a chance to see Sonya.

>Roll 3d6 for the next match (since we've been rolling the same number for the last few times and this will minimize the chances of that happening)

Rolled 3, 1, 4 = 8 (3d6)

>>42372250

Rolled 5, 2, 5 = 12 (3d6)

>>42372250

>>42372063
We can roll multiple times, it's not that bad.
I think different choices have different DC's like when we fought with Goro, and he didn't eat the same thing thrice, even on a roll of 85.
Or when we had battle damage after the fight with Sheeva and Goro, and we couldn't take on Noob Saibot afterwards.

Rolled 5, 5, 1 = 11 (3d6)

>>42372250
Now we must remember what kaito told us about Sonya when we talked to her

>>42372276
What might that be?

>>42372276
My memory is hazy in that part, what was it?

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I don't mean to keep bringing her back up, but I just downloaded a huge folder of sphinx pictures, so I don't have to keep using the same three/four images for Turana, which is nice. This one is fitting. It would have been good to use around the time she was studying Shang Tsung's magic and was happy

>>42372271

Yes, these are things I take into consideration. I have something of a set "difficulty rating" for each character, which can be higher or lower based on the circumstances of the story. How strong the protagonist is also factors in. I also take the post number and the roll into consideration, as well as the overall narrative and the current context of the fight. A simple sparring match like this was very simple, narrative and context-wise, without any outside factors so to speak, so it really just came down to the low rolls.

>>42372288
>>42372289
He said that she dosnt have time for handsome an charming movie stars

>>42372308
We're more than just a handsome and charming movie star. We're a defender of earthrealm.

And besides, we killed a dragon, died, came back to life, and almost got our boy laid. The good looks and wit are only part of what makes Johnny Cage Johnny Cage.

>>42372308
Oh that, I felt like that was more of an excuse. But it might really be a hint that Johnny needs to make himself useful first.

>>42372305
You are twisting my aorta on purpose aren't you?

>>42372343
Don't forget beating up remnants of Shao Khan's invasion force in the streets and working closely with the OWEA.
>>42372305
Look, we'll get there when we get there.
I mean is this the sort of thing Johnny would know about or be able to fix at all?
or are you just trying to dig for non-Johnny feels? Because I'm sure we could work up a popular demand return for Kaito Quest.

>>42372305
Keep bringing her up, best OC by far and one of the best characters in general, makes me feel le feels though.

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>>42372408

No, no, not at all. I'm sorry; I'll stop and keep it Johnny-focused.

>>42372265

"Liu Kang and Asgaarth."

You put away the radio and look to the arena. This should be a good fight.

The shaolin and the birdman approach each other and bow. Sindel signals for them to fight, and they take off, immediately attacking each other with powerful blows. Punches, kicks and throws are exchanged. Asgaarth is tall and powerful, but Liu Kang has the speed and power fitting of a shaolin elite. The eagle is anything but slow, however, and so the matchup is actually quite evenly matched. It is also clear that both opponents have a healthy respect for each other, as they allow each of the other time to get back up each time they fall.

Liu performs a flying kick, which Asgaarth blocks, but then he suddenly performs a bicycle kick, getting through the birdman's defenses and kicking him across the room. Man, you love that move, you wish he could show you how he does it.

Asgaarth turns and tries a backswipe, but Liu ducks underneath it and trips him. He falls to the ground and when he gets back up, Liu performs a diving punch that puts him out of the fight.

As he helps Asgaarth up to his feet, both warriors clasp hands. "You are truly a champion worthy of the honor bestowed upon your name," the regal eagle tells him. "It was an honor to face you."

"And you as well," Liu bows before him. After they both bow to the queen, he heads back towards you.

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>>42372462

Suddenly, a minor commotion from the edenians around you draws your attention. Flanked by two guards, the OWEA strolls through the crowd. "Your majesty," one of the Edenian Knights calls out, "A delegation party from Earthrealm, the Outer World Exploration Agency."

Sonya, Jax, Kenshi, Cyrax and a few others are among their number. Queen Sindel addresses them personally and welcomes them to her court. Liu Kang and Kung Lao make their way over to greet them; as do you.

"Nice to see you guys," you say, shooting Sonya a look. She notes your presence, but doesn't say anything.

Sindel invites them to watch the remaining rounds of the tournament.

>3d4 for the next matchup!

Rolled 4, 2, 3 = 9 (3d4)

>>42372477

>>42372462
I was just messing with you man, but I can only hold so many feels at once.

Rolled 2, 2, 1 = 5 (3d4)

>>42372477
Aw, Sonya doesn't want to talk? Lame.

Oh well, let's see who's up next.

Rolled 4, 1, 2 = 7 (3d4)

>>42372477
Rain better not win this thing

Rolled 6, 3, 6 = 15 (3d6)

>>42372477

>>42372505
My nigga, these Turana feels

>>42372572
honestly not my first choice to wind up with Kaito, but my first choice seems to be out of the running and has for a while. I really like Taruna as a character though.
It only stings anon, I'm fine, really.

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"Kung Lao and Tanya," Sindel calls out.

The shaolin with the razor hat steps out, as does the edenian warrior. You watch, and then out of the corner of your eye you catch the sight of Mileena, up on one of the more well-hidden balconies in the large room, alone, watching the proceedings.

The crowd is silent as they both prepare to do battle. The queen gives the signal and they both go at it; Tanya gets the first hit in with a low kick that Kung Lao does not dodge, but he manages to get ahold of her and unleash a torrent of quick punches. She escapes from his hold and flips away before tripping him and performing a falling leaf kick upon his chest. Almost like a circus performer, she balances herself on one hand and kicks him in the face as she deftly twirls around and waits for him to get back up.

Kung Lao teleports behind her and grabs her, but she kicks backwards. He catches her foot and throws her aside; she rolls and is back on her feet in an instant. Both are experienced fighters, and now with a broader idea of how well the other fights, they slowly circle around each other and wait for another to make the first move.

Tanya dashes in, below Kung Lao's thrown hat. Before it curves around the room and flies back to his hand, she punches his jaw and knocks him to the floor. The hat comes at her backside, but she takes out a strange-looking dagger that was strapped to her thigh and deflects it.

The hat vanishes and reappears nearby on the ground; Kung Lao vanishes into thin air and pops up underneath it, putting it back on his head as he does so.

Though both are skilled, ultimately it is Tanya who takes the win. She lures the shaolin in with a feint and then suddenly performs a complicated takedown maneuver, wrapping her exceptionally athletic limbs around his and forcing him to yield by holding her knife up to his neck. The edenians, especially her family, applaud.

As she stands up, you see her wink upwards at Mileena, who shows no reaction.

>cont'd

>>42372630
S'all good, she'll meet back up with notKaito to help him with the time deal. She'll be unknowingly helping him get his body back, then we can decide waifus

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>>42372666
>tfw mileena
All these goddamn feels

I honestly want to talk to jade since the only time we ever interacted with her was when she was not her self

And I have a weakness for dark skinned beauties who can work a shaft

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>>42372666

The final match is Rain against Li Mei. The young outworlder bows to him, and he to her, but as soon as Sindel commences the match, he systematically destroys her defense and takes her down with minimal hesitation and perhaps a bit too much brute force. The less-experienced warrior ears a hard beating, primarily from her refusal to back down. Admirable, but against someone who is both determined and more skilled, she stood very little chance.

He knocks her out and finishes the match, wordlessly bowing to his queen. Some of the edenians applaud his skill, but others whisper amongst themselves about his apparent refusal to hold back and whether or not it was justified.

Personally, you think that prick needs to be taken down a few pegs. Your friends definitely seem to share the sentiment. You look to Sonya for a reaction, but she's professional and doesn't know Li Mei; she doesn't have a stake in the fight.

That leaves Liu, Kitana, Tanya and Rain for the finals.

>3d4 for the first matchup!

Rolled 2, 3, 3 = 8 (3d4)

>>42372723
Liu vs Kitana, pls.

Rolled 1, 2, 1 = 4 (3d4)

>>42372723

>>42372718
I know anon, I know.

Rolled 3, 6, 5 = 14 (3d6)

>>42372723

Show does Mileena look like how she did in MK9 or how she looked like in MKX? Or is it something different?

>>42372795
9

>>42372795
>>42372807
Theoretically I suppose she -could- swap appearances for reasons arguably. And art of both have been used by Damashi, but yeah it's pretty much 9.

>>42372630
I share this opinion

>>42372408
Well I do have a large demand for the return of the Kaito Quest since day one, but so far Johnny Cage quest is shaping up much better than I imagined

>>42372807
>>42372851
Damn,in 10 she isn't at hard to look at while in 9 her teeth are so obvious and ugly.

>>42372887
Well Tanya seems to not care.

>>42372887
I think it makes her more authentic. First, if she was supposed to be a mix between Kitana and a tarkatan, then it makes sense for her to look like one.
I also like to think that it is on purpose, so she would hate herself and Kitana even more, building up the desire to destroy and replace her. I mean a little magical plastic surgery wouldn't be outside of Shang Tsung's skill would it?

>>42372904
I thought Tanya doesn't care about Mileena in general.

>>42372936
We didn't fully explore if Tanya does or doesn't care about mileena but from what we saw was she kissed mileena's shoulder after hugging her

>>42372887
Kaito didn't seem particularly bothered by it. Then again one of his closest friends is a tarkatan, so he probably acclimated prior to meeting her.
>not waifuing the woman that turned on her creator specifically to save you life just because her teeth are a little messed up

>>42372971
I don't like her
She is crazy an easy prone to suffer mental breakdowns

>>42372971
>Not waifuing the woman who you saved from several hundred years of imprisonment, who then became one of our closest friends.

Quick break for dinner.

>>42372795

Right now, face-wise, she looks like she did in MK9. In time, the genes in her body will change her appearance in much the way any body changes as it grows--developmentally, her body is infantile in nature (but not stature, you understand--I refer to its age)

And will eventually lose her small baby teeth, grow lips and look more normal. She'll always have monstrous teeth, but in time, she will resemble older interpretations of her face from old canons.

That's how I am choosing to interpret her change from MK9 to MKX, though I recognize that it may not be entirely correct.

>>42372968
Well true, she might be genuine.
But let's not forget her family is on the side in the matter of inheritance. It wouldn't be unimaginable that she is trying to gain power by manipulating the emotionally vulerable member of the main line.

Also her rivalry with Jade could really undermine the happy family everyone was trying to recreate.

>>42373038
Even if that's not the case, I'm sure that Outworld has a dozen magical stuff that could help her.
And we let's not get started on the other skilled magic users out there.

>>42373046
It could at that but whether as Kaito or Johnny, we've never said more than 3 words to the girl.

>>42373010
I don't even disagree, but if we waifu everything we free from several centuries+ of slavery to megalomaniac sorcerers we have to add Sheeva, Tanya, Tanya's mom, the rest of Outworld, all of Edenia and our Dad as confirmed waifus.
My point being that Kaito's case that's not much of a criteria.
Oh, and Sareena and Tortek.
do you -want- to waifu Sareena, anon?

>>42373258
Sareena is too bro tier to waifu, Turana pulls on my heart strings you know? Been there

>>42373283
Yeah, I get that. So we'll squabble later.
I've seen plenty of folks in roughly Mileena's situation though. That shit just hurts. But nah, I like the sphinx.
if he wound up with either it'd be a good match for different reasons. Whichever wins out is cool in my book

>>42373365
Not the one you are repilying to, but I share your opinion. Call me Krazy, but I felt like we had something going on with Sheeva as well.

>>42372679
The more I think about this, the more plausible it becomes.
She is a shpinx, so even if we get thrown far into the future or the past, she is still alive and able.
Unless the timeline is severy different she will still be chained at the mausoleum, so we know where we should look for her.

My only concern is that we might alter the timeline too much by freeing her there.

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Sindel waits for the room to be silent before she holds up her hand and calls the next match. "Kitana and Tanya."

The edenian women walk out to the arena and bow to their queen (and mother, in Kitana's case), then to each other. Their fight is one of the most spectacular so far, but in the end, Kitana triumphs. She defeats Tanya with superior strategy and skill, using her powers to trick her opponent into slipping or getting caught in her cyclones, allowing Kitana to subdue her. From the sidelines, Tanya's family is disappointed, but Jade cheers for her best friend's victory. Tanya says nothing as she walks back to her family, but does not stop; she leaves the room.

The last two remaining are called. "Liu Kang and Rain."

A hush falls over the crowd as the shaolin champion and the edenian prince rise to walk to the arena. Rain takes off his mask and tosses it aside, and Liu does the same for his headband.

They square off with each other as Sindel drops her hand, and then it's on.

Liu Kang starts of strong, with a powerful spinning backfast that Rain manages to block. The shaolin does not let up on the pressure as they get in very close, raining punches down on the purple ninja. Rain plays defensively, managing to block each one, but unable to get any of his own hits in. Liu steps on his knee and runs up his chest, flipping off his opponent to spin in the air and kick him back before landing on his feet.

With distance between them, Rain launches a blast of water Liu's way. The shaolin dodges it but to everyone's amazement, Rain turns into water himself and joins the spray that Liu just dodged, bursting out of it to take him by surprise in a stunning display of creative application of his hydromancy. He punches Liu in the face and knocks him back before performing a devastating roundhouse kick and knocks the shaolin across the room.

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>>42373462

Not to be outdone, Liu Kang gets up on his feet and begins to move one more. He bounces on his toes, keeping light on his feet as his hands start to burn with his inner fire--flame against water.

He charges at Rain but fakes him out, only to dash to the side and kick him rapidly three times in the ribs. When Rain backlashes with a roundhouse, Liu merely turns his head to avoid the kick, staying close to deliver four quick punches to Rain's upper body and head. The prince stumbles back as Liu brings his hands together and blasts him with a fireball, and immediately follows up with a flying kick. As the fire hits Rain's chest and explodes, Liu soars through the flames and plants his boot on the same spot, knocking Rain backwards.

Rain hits the ground and becomes a pool of water, reforming standing on his feet. He kicks high and grits his teeth, ready to charge back at Liu, who dares him on with his fingers.

Rain blasts at Liu with another font of water, but this time, Liu counters it with a pillar of flames from his palms, turning it to steam and heating up the room. As the room fogs up, you have to take your sunglasses off to keep up with the action.

Both warriors charge at each other but Liu punches Rain to the ground before turning and slamming his foot upon his chest. Rain again vanishes into a puddle of water, only this time he appears behind Liu and tries to attack him from there. The shaolin turns and slams his elbow into Rain's head and knocks him backwards.

Before Rain can recover, Liu turns and shouts as he slams both palms against his chest, forcing the air out of his lungs. Rain coughs as he hits the ground. Liu stands over him with a curled fist, warning Rain not to get back up.

Furious, the edenian prince does just that--only to get knocked back down. He doesn't get back up, but moans in pain.

>>42373462
Come on, Liu, don't let the pretty boy throw you around like a ragdoll!

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>>42373478

"Mother, if I may," she says. Sindel nods. "I do not wish to battle Liu Kang."

He and the rest of the assembled look at her. She continues, "I instead offer to share with him the victory; he, the representative of his realm, and I ours, united in friendship."

Sindel looks at Jerrod, who does not seem to have anything to say. "You do not wish to see who would win?"

"I would rather our realms be equal, than for one to stand above the other." She smiles at Liu. At that, the crowd mutters amongst themselves, mostly speaking in agreement of her decision. After a moment of consideration, Sindel concedes. "Very well. In the interest of our realms, Edenia and Earthrealm, being united by the bonds of allegiance and friendship, I declare you both the victors. To all who fought, you were brave and true. You bring great honor to yourselves and these halls through your kombat. We shall now feast in celebration; I invite all of our allies from Earthrealm and Outworld to join us."

The assembly applauds as Kitana holds Liu's hand. You smile to yourself; she's playing an interesting angle. Maybe she's just waiting to get a chance to sneak off with him to finish their earlier conversation...

Looking up, you notice the balcony with Mileena on it. Tanya has joined her, standing by her side. They both turn to leave; there is a third figure with them. Rain.

What might that mean, you can only wonder? As the crowd begins to disperse, you consider what to do next.

>A) Head to the feast; sit next to someone important
>B) Try and get Sonya alone to talk with her
>C) Attempt to make an opening for Liu Kang and Kitana to sneak off

>>42373458
Pretty sure we aren't entering another timeline, I think we're borrowing a body from one and entering our time line to search for the anomaly. Which is why I suggested seeking out Turana as she would be very well suited to helping us out with that whole problem.

>>42373488
>>B) Try and get Sonya alone to talk with her
Here we go boys

>>42373488
>B) Try and get Sonya alone to talk with her
Now I know what you're thinking. "Oh Johnny, you're gonna smooth talk her. You're gonna try and get into her pants tonight."

Nah. I want to tell her what happened over the last few days. The dragon, the two women afterwards, my... death. I want to express an interest in becoming a little more serious when it comes to the OWEA.

After that, I wanna hit on her.

>>42373478
Come on Kang you're the King. After the Star of course.

>>42373520
I'm seconding this, good strategy.

>>42373458
Sheevawas my personal favorite as a counter balance for Kaito as a waifu. I don't dislike Turana, Khameleon or Mileena either though. Of the three, I'm not sure which I prefer.
That said I felt like the whole "life-debt" thing might get in the way.

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>>42373518
>>42373520

As the crowd disperses, you approach Sonya and try to talk to her.

"Hey, Sonya, have you got a minute?"

She looks at you and says, "If it's alright with you, Cage, I need to speak to Queen Sindel. The US Government wants us to open up diplomatic ties with the Edenian royalty and this is as good a chance as any; I need to take advantage of it."

"Yeah, that makes sense, but..."

She turns and moves off to speak to the queen. She approaches Sindel and bows customarily before speaking to her alongside Jerrod and Jax.

Damnit. Doesn't she know that you died and came back? What can you do to get her to talk to you?

>A) Try to sit next to her at dinner
>B) Try leading her out into the gardens
>C) Try talking to Kenshi and seeing if he can help

>>42373599
>C) Try talking to Kenshi and seeing if he can help
Kenshi. Kenshiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii, my man.

Surely you can help a brother out, right?

>>42373599
>>B) Try leading her out into the gardens
This is some heavy shit, we need to be smooth.

>>42373591
Dude you're preaching to the choir, this quest has some of the most difficult waifu choices of all time. Also Sheeva is Bae

>>42373599
>C
>A
>Something
Man I could use some Raiden advice.

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>>42373610
>>42373629
>>42373647

You approach Kenshi, who stands off to the side. He's wearing a black outfit with a red and white sash, and a sword is strapped to his back. He still wears a red headband over his non-existent eyes.

He speaks to you before you even get near him. "Johnny, it's good to see you."

"Hey pal! I--Wait, was that a pun?"

"I get a lot of weird looks out of it."

You blink a few times. "How the hell would you know?"

He smiles. "I wouldn't. You need some help, right?"

"How did you know?"

He points to his head. "I can hear your thoughts."

"Oh, right, I forgot you could do that."

He holds up a hand. "So... you died. What a curious experience..."

"Hey, get out of my head!"

"And, faced with your own mortality and the startling lack of a legacy you would leave behind, you realized the folly of your lifestyle, as no amount of fame or fortune will follow you into the next life."

"Seriously, stop tha--"

"And faced with the crippling fear brought about by the fact that you had left this world with nobody to love and nobody loving you, you've come to realize that you want to change your life with the second chance you've been given."

"Kenshi, I swear to god--"

"Yes, I will help you," he says with a smile. "But we need to get you and her alone, and Sonya is currently speaking with Sindel and that... monster."

You follow his blind gaze to King Jerrod. Oh... Right. Ermac blew up his eyes. He's probably still a bit sour about that. "He isn't going to be a problem, is he?" you ask him.

"I can sense King Jerrod's soul quelling the others within him... but that doesn't mean I trust him. I can sense them battling each other for control. Their voices cry out all at once, like a cacophony of a thousand pained prisoners... It is hard to even be in the same room as him."

>A) Ask him what his plan is to get Sonya alone
>B) Say, where'd you get that neat sword, Kenshi?
>C) Have Kenshi sit next to you and Sonya at the feast

>>42373721
>A) Ask him what his plan is to get Sonya alone
It's good to see you, Kenshi. And thanks. If we've got time after putting the plan into action, we should talk. Swap some stories.

>>42373721
>A
>B
>C if needed
I'll trust his intuition on this

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>>42373737
>>42373739

"So, what's your plan?"

"After Captain Blade is done talking to Queen Sindel, I will lead her out into the gardens and excuse myself. You can take it from there."

You smile and slap him on the shoulder. "Thank you, Kenshi. You don't know how much this means to me, buddy."

"Actually, I do." He points at his head again. "Now go out there and get ready. And Johnny--Be honest with her. Don't play around. I'm not going to tell you what I've read in her head, but she's thought about you too. She'll never admit it, though."

"I owe you a drink and free lasic eye surgery when this is over," you say as you run off.

"Thanks," he deadpans.

You run out into the gardens and use your sunglasses to check your hair out. Should you pick flowers? Should you even wear your sunglasses?

Damn, are you actually nervous? Come on! You're Johnny Cage! Any woman would be lucky to have--

You stop that train of thought. She's not just any woman, and she's not going to be impressed by what you are. You need to follow Kenshi's advice and be honest.

>A) Pick flowers
>B) Don't pick flowers
>C) Wait for her out in the open
>D) Pop out and surprise her

>>42373795
>B) Don't pick flowers
>C) Wait for her out in the open
Kenshi said to be honest. Flowers are cheap, silly, and all that would do is irritate her. Besides, that's not really Johnny Cage. Not when he's actually interested in someone, anyway. So just sit out there in the open, no tricks, no lavishness, just John Carlton.

>>42373809
>Besides, that's not really Johnny Cage.
Rather, that's too much Johnny Cage. We don't want the fake us. We want the real us. John Carlton.

>>42373795
>B
>C
>>42373819
You know, compared to this, death isn't so scary.
Ah well, get it together Carlton. Breathe.

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>>42373809
>>42373850

BE the Carlton. KNOW the Carlton. LIVE the Carlton.

>>42373795
C, wait for her. Remove sunglasses just before talking. It'll be symbolic of us tearing done the fake Johnny for her.

Then if it doesn't work out, we try hitting up Mileena. Sorry Sonya, but we can't keep chasing something for our entire lives. At some point we'll realize we've spent all our time longing for someone we can never have and that's just as bad as living our whole life for ourselves, they both end with us alone and unloved.

Gotta let it go sometimes. Move on with our lives. We can't keep chasing you Sonya.

>>42373859
Should we do the dance?

>>42373795
>C) Wait for her out in the open
I feel like pooping up would just earn us a reflex punch.
Should we take off the Glasses to show our dedication, or that would be just pretentious?

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>>42373865

But

But Cassie

Anon, we NEED to bring Cassie into existence

It's our damned duty

>>42373865
Totally. Kenshi said she thinks about us, but she also puts up walls and doesn't seem too interested in talking. So, if it's a flat rejection, might as well let it go. Shame, though.

>>42373867
It's night time, isn't it?

>>42373865
I say Li Mei would be a better mach, but let's not go that far yet.

>>42373859
We should call our half-brother about those Zaxby's commercials

>>42373875
It is, but that alone doesn't make a difference for Johnny.

>>42373875
>>42373885

I bet Johnny is unironically a huge fan of Corey Hart.

>>42373865
Anon, Jade exists

Death's advice was good. We should shoot for Sonya, and try as hard as we can.

>>42373885
I think the glasses would look kinda silly. We ain't Neo, son.

>>42373899
We're better. We're Johnny Cage.

>>42373873
We already have alternate time lines, Cassie can exist without this Johnny and this Sonya hooking up.

I know it hurts, it'll hurt for a while. But you've gotta know when to let things go.

We should talk to Jade about our powers. Focus on training and growing. Clear our head and worry about love later.

Also, double date (Jade/Johnny and Kitana/Liu), gotta help our bro out.

>>42373913
I love the chocolate goddess as much as the next guy, but Johnny IS predisposed to Sonya. Yeah, if it doesn't work out, we'll let it go, but not putting our all behind this is just as silly. Can't go in all wishy-washy about this.

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>>42373913

I prefer Smoke and Jade, myself.

Why must we turn this into the shipping game

>>42373923
It was gonna get to this point eventually. Might as well do it now.

>>42373912
Anon, that's not who we need to be right now.
You remember being that punk from the middle of nowhere with a stack of kungfu magazines, taking boxing classes at the Y and swearing we'd make it big? That we'd never be a lumber man like dad?
Remember?
That's who we need.

>>42373944
Maybe have a little bit of Johnny behind John. That cocky bit is a part of us too.

>>42373958
Well yeah, obviously, but not up to 11 like we do for fans.
I'm thinking a 2.

>>42373923
Kaito will get back to babies falling out from everywhere.
His services are needed once more as babysitter.

>>42373920
Not saying we forget about Sonya now, we have to give it our all. But if we get a flat rejection then maybe it's time to step back and reevaluate.

Then again, Sonya knows exactly what we'll want to talk about. Straight up telling her we're moving on and apologizing for pestering her in the past would come as a shock. Maybe give her a wakeup call.

>>42373994
Little manipulative, though. You're right, it might work, but it would also be a dick move.

I trust Kenshi on this one. Dude can see inside everyone's head.