Grandmaster‘s daughter

by Kremci

Summary:

Once a warrior of ice, Bi-Han fell into darkness and became the wraith known as Noob Saibot. On Liu Kang’s orders, he was sent to the Temple of the Elements in a futile attempt to reclaim his lost humanity.
While he lingered in shadow, his wife, Chyou, carried their child—a child Bi-Han believed would be the son to continue his legacy. But fate had other plans.

Six years later, Bi-Han escapes the temple to find his wife in a coma and his child hidden from him. And when he learns that his firstborn is a daughter, his fury ignites.
Now, the fallen warrior hunts across realms to Los Angeles, where his daughter Yue lives in peace—unaware that her father, the shadow himself, is coming for her.
Now, father and daughter are destined to meet for the first time… and fate itself will tremble.

Notes:

• For sareena_x.

Chapter 1: Chapter 1

It was an arranged marriage… a union neither of them truly wanted. The cold-hearted Sub-Zero was displeased to marry what he saw as a weak woman—someone who could barely fight. Instead, she healed others with her aquakinetic powers.

Her name was Chyou of Hailin. She had earned that title by using her powers to heal the people of her hometown, curing sickness and tending injuries. She protected her people from many dangers. But to the future Grandmaster, she appeared weak—the complete opposite of himself.

Chyou was kindhearted, loving, gentle, a sensitive woman who often cried when she was sad. This disgusted the Grandmaster deeply. In his eyes, women with such emotions had no place in the Lin Kuei—not as heirs, and certainly not as Grandmistresses. Yet, to become Grandmaster, he was required to take a wife.

In truth, he had hoped for Sektor instead; she shared his vision. Even though she was a woman, she did not act fragile or emotional like his future wife. But his father had other plans, and Bi-Han was forced to follow tradition.

He despised his father for it. He believed his father had led the Lin Kuei into mediocrity. Bi-Han swore that when he became Grandmaster he would change everything—he would make sure the Lin Kuei ruled over Earthrealm instead of merely protecting it.

On the day of the marriage, Bi-Han became Grandmaster of the Lin Kuei. He and Chyou were wed. For Bi-Han, the marriage brought no happiness; for Chyou it was the saddest day of her life—the man she had fallen in love with did not return her love.

He ignored her every day and night. They did not consummate the marriage: they never kissed, never touched. He hated his wife whenever he saw her.

“You are the biggest mistake in my life, woman,” he told her emotionlessly in his deep voice before leaving for a mission. Chyou, trembling, waited for Bi-Han to leave their chambers and then started to cry. Bi-Han made her sad every day. Her dream had always been to marry a man who would show the world how much he loved his wife, but that wasn’t Bi-Han. He hated her instead of loving her. That went on until Chyou could no longer bear the stress.

One night her heart grew weak. Her breath quickened; she barely had time to draw air. In that moment Bi-Han returned and saw his wife in bad condition.

“What is it, wife?” Bi-Han asked, his voice calm but a little worried. Suddenly his eyes widened in alarm when he saw blood trickling from her nose. She fainted. She did not respond; she was unconscious. Before she fell, Bi-Han caught her and carried her in his arms. In that instant something shifted inside him. He was worried for his wife.

“Stay with me, Chyou! Please!” he shouted, shaking her and trying to wake her, but she did not stir. Panicked, he ran with her to the medicine room, where doctors and nurses met him.

“My wife is in bad condition. I need help, please!” Nurses and doctors rushed to the Grandmaster and took Chyou from his arms. They carried her into a room to treat her, to see what had happened. Bi-Han, the most arrogant Grandmaster, did not leave. He stayed all night awake in the medicine room, waiting for his wife to wake and come to him, to cry on his arms because of sadness. Yes, she had been sad. She had cried a lot, and he had had no intention of comforting her—his hatred had been greater than any love.

Now he regretted everything. He regretted his behavior toward her. Deep down he had loved her from the first moment he saw her, but he had been too proud. Showing weakness in the Lin Kuei was out of the question. He was Grandmaster after all. Emotions had no place for him; they could weaken him. His wife had already weakened him. Even on missions, his thoughts kept returning to her.

To avoid thinking of her, to try to erase his feelings, he had threatened her severely—not knowing that his cruelty had infected him as well. Now he prayed to the elder gods that his wife would not die and vowed that he would love, care for, and protect her with all the cost of his life. He would do everything for her. Finally, the waiting was over. A doctor returned to the cold Grandmaster.

“Grandmaster, your wife had broken-heart syndrome. A lot of stress and emotional sorrow caused this. If you had not arrived when you did, she would have died. You may go see her.”

Relief and shock struck him. Relief that she had survived. Shock that he was the reason she had become so sick. He was furious with himself. He went outside, furious, created an ice block, and beat it with his bare hands. Angry, furious, sad—it all mixed inside Bi-Han. He roared and struck the ice harder and faster until blood came from his knuckles. When the ice finally broke he breathed heavily, his eyes wide with the realization of what he had done. He had a wife—beautiful and stunning, perfect in his eyes. Emotional, yet she fit his cold nature. Even when he did bad things, she always stood by his side. Now it was time for the Grandmaster to show how much he cared for his wife.

He returned to the medicine room. She was awake, sad, lying on the bed. When she saw him, she widened her eyes—as if she could not believe he was there. He usually did not care for her. He approached and took her hand.

“Bi-Han… I thought you were the last person who would come to me,” she said, her voice still weak from her fainting.

“I understand why you would think that, my love.” Her eyes widened at his words: “my love.” Her heart beat in a kinder rhythm.

“Bi-Han, I’m sorry that I—” she began, but Bi-Han placed a finger to her lips to hush her.

“Shh. It’s all right. It’s I who owe you an apology. It’s I who threatened you and put you in this condition. I was blind to what I almost lost—an angel. I don’t want to lose you, Chyou. Hurt me, accuse me, do whatever you must, but please don’t leave me. I would—”

“…love you,” was the only sentence his wife managed.

“Wife…” She took his hand and placed it on her cheek.

“Love me, husband,” she whispered, smiling. The Grandmaster finally smiled a little in return.

“I did from the first time I saw you, but my ambition blinded me.” He cupped her cheeks, leaned down, and at last husband and wife kissed. It was their first intimate contact. They promised each other they would never be apart again.

Months passed and Bi-Han and his wife did many things together. Their love grew. In their free time they visited Madam Bo in Fengjian to eat together and spent hours alone in the Lin Kuei gardens. One night in the garden Bi-Han saw his wife smiling.

“This place is so beautiful,” she said happily.

“It wasn’t beautiful until you arrived,” he replied.

“Stop flattering me, Bi-Han,” she laughed, but he took her waist and kissed her neck. Chyou, enjoying his kisses, moaned softly, much to his surprise. Then it hit him—his manhood. Neither of them had much experience with intimacy. But on that night under the full moon, that would change.

“I want you badly, my love. Tonight I will claim you,” Bi-Han said, vulnerable. His wife moaned as he kissed her neck.

“Give me everything you have and don’t hold back,” she said.

 

That night husband and wife consummated their marriage. They lay together, clothes discarded, kissing with growing passion. He explored her with reverence, and she responded in kind. Their intimacy was tender and urgent. When they joined, it was at first painful for her, then slowly turned to pleasure. Pleasure built within her until she cried out; for him, it was a heaven he had never known. He quickened the rhythm to hear her more clearly. She grew louder and louder; both of them lost themselves in the moment, hoping for release yet wanting the feeling to last.

“Bi-Han, please…” his beloved begged as she neared her climax. He already understood her. She wanted his seed inside to fill her womb, she wanted his child from him. He could not have been happier.

“I will not leave you empty, my love. I will give you everything,” he promised. With a final thrust they both came, moaning as they reached their climax. He filled her with his seed, and then they cuddled in each other’s arms until they drifted to sleep. They had sealed their love.

And in that moment, a new life began.

Six months later Chyou’s belly began to swell. She was pregnant. Bi-Han stroked her and was the happiest Grandmaster alive. They did not yet know the child’s sex.

“My son will be the one who leads the Lin Kuei to greatness,” Bi-Han declared.

Chyou’s smile faded. “But it could be a daughter. What if we have a daughter?”

“Then I will give her up,” he said in a cold, flat voice.

“What do you mean, give her up, Bi-Han? This is our first child!”

“I know. But a daughter would bring nothing to the Lin Kuei—only weakness. I will kill her and try again until we have a son.” Chyou’s face drained of color at the shock. She stared at him in disbelief. Her heart pounded so fast she felt faint. She could not believe what he had said. He breathed quickly.

“Don’t worry, love. It will be a son. I have a good feeling. Everything will be all right,” he added, taking her in his arms. Chyou hugged him back but remained shaken. She tried to ignore his words and believed everything would be fine.

Fate had other plans.

On a mission to break up a brother’s marriage, Bi-Han found himself in the Netherrealm, where Titan Havik transformed him into the wraith Noob Saibot. Liu Kang guided him later to the Temple of the Elements to restore his old self; it would take years to undo the damage. Months passed, and Chyou gave birth under the full moon—to a healthy daughter. She named her Yue.

Overjoyed at her daughter’s birth, Chyou was nonetheless heartbroken that Bi-Han was not there to see his child. She heard what had happened to him and cried every night. The stress became too much; once again she collapsed, unconscious. The baby’s crying echoed through the room. Liu Kang and Geras arrived and took Chyou and the baby to safety.

“She needs to restore her health, Geras. We must put her into a long sleep,” Liu Kang said.

“What about the child, Liu Kang?”

“She will be under my care until I find the best place for her to live.” Liu Kang held the baby girl and watched her sleep.

“But why not freeze her father out so he can take care of his child?” Geras asked.

“Too dangerous. He threatened his wife—if the baby were a girl, he would kill her. He must never know he has a daughter. This will escalate quickly. Bi-Han is blended with darkness and a hunger for power. We need a quick solution for the child. If Bi-Han ever wakes and finds out about his daughter, she will be in deadly danger.”

“Then let us find the best way to protect the child, Lord Liu Kang.”

“Yes, and we must involve Raiden and Kung Lao. There should be Earthrealm champions who know of Yue’s existence in case anything happens. I fear her safety will not last and that madness will return soon, Geras.”

Chapter 2

Summary:

Once a warrior of ice, Bi-Han fell into darkness and became the wraith known as Noob Saibot. On Liu Kang’s orders, he was sent to the Temple of the Elements in a futile attempt to reclaim his lost humanity.
While he lingered in shadow, his wife, Chyou, carried their child—a child Bi-Han believed would be the son to continue his legacy. But fate had other plans.

Six years later, Bi-Han escapes the temple to find his wife in a coma and his child hidden from him. And when he learns that his firstborn is a daughter, his fury ignites.
Now, the fallen warrior hunts across realms to Los Angeles, where his daughter Yue lives in peace—unaware that her father, the shadow himself, is coming for her.
Now, father and daughter are destined to meet for the first time… and fate itself will tremble.

Six years later

The air within the Temple of the Elements was heavy with stillness — that ancient, eerie quiet that lingered like frost on the soul. The temple had always been sacred ground, where the forces of fire, earth, water, and air were in balance. But now, the balance trembled.

The monks of Liu Kang’s order arrived as dawn’s light crept across the icy peaks. They came to fulfill their duty — to watch over Bi Han, the Grandmaster of the Lin Kuei, who lay trapped within a deep coma. He had been sealed within a containment pod, encased in crystal glass and divine energy, meant to restore what once was pure — the man who had fallen into darkness.

As they entered the hall, the monks’ robes whispered against the stone floor. They bowed before the pod, eyes filled with reverence and caution. Bi Han’s body lay perfectly still, unchanged, untouched by time. His face was calm — but the peace was deceptive. Behind those closed eyes lay a storm.

“Still the same,” one monk whispered, his voice echoing faintly.
“Nothing changed,” another answered, his tone heavy with disappointment.

The eldest of them sighed. “Then our task is complete. Inform Lord Liu Kang — the Grandmaster remains dormant. Close the temple for now.”

The others nodded. Their footsteps turned toward the exit. But fate had other plans.

A sudden crack echoed through the silence. Then another. The monks froze.
Their heads turned in unison toward the pod.

The glass — it was fracturing.

Lines of light shot across the surface like lightning bolts, and the sacred container began to tremble. A deafening shatter tore through the chamber as shards of glass burst outward, scattering like frozen rain.

The monks recoiled, shielding their faces. When the storm of glass settled, they saw him — Bi Han, crumpled on the ground, gasping for air like a man torn from death itself. His breath was ragged, heavy. The faint mist of his frost-touched aura began to stir around him.

Slowly, impossibly, he rose. His movements were stiff at first, but then steady — controlled. His shoulders rolled back, spine straight, head high. He stood tall, proud, dangerous — as if reborn into power itself.

His eyes opened. Cold. Unforgiving.

“Missed me?”

His voice rumbled low, dark and deep — the voice of a god who had crawled out of hell. He cracked his neck and rolled his shoulders, the sound sharp as thunder.

The monks backed away. Fear crept through them like poison.

“Grandmaster Bi Han,” one dared to say, voice trembling yet formal. “By order of Lord Liu Kang, you must return to your stasis. It is necessary to restore your former self.”

Bi Han’s laughter cut through the air — harsh, humorless, venomous.
“Hahaha... you order me?”

“Please,” another monk said softly, stepping forward. “Do as Lord Liu Kang commands, and you may yet—”

“You dare to threaten me?” Bi Han’s voice rose like a storm, his aura pulsing cold and fierce. “You expect me to obey Liu Kang? The Grandmaster of the Lin Kuei kneels to no one!”

The monks readied their stance, desperate but brave.
“With all respect, obey — or face the wrath of the Heavens,” the lead monk said, tightening his fists.

“Then so be it,” Bi Han whispered, his tone laced with malice.

Before any of them could react, he moved. Like a shadow, like lightning in the dark. In mere heartbeats, every monk lay lifeless on the ground, their bodies not moving anymore.

Bi Han exhaled slowly, his rage fading into a cruel calm.
“Never stand in the path of the Grandmaster of the Lin Kuei.”

He turned and walked toward the temple’s exit. The cold followed him like a loyal ghost. His purpose was clear. His vengeance had only begun.

…..

Far to the north, beyond glaciers and mountains, the Lin Kuei fortress stood — an empire of ice and silence. The torches burned pale blue, their flames flickering like spirits as the Grandmaster returned home.

But he was no longer the man they once knew. He was no longer Sub-Zero.
He was Noob Saibot, reborn from the abyss.

The moment he entered the temple gates, every warrior dropped to their knees. Reverence — and fear — filled their eyes. Yet beneath the respect, a shadow of worry lingered. They had kept secrets. And secrets were death when it came to Bi Han.

“Where is my wife?” he asked, his tone calm but deadly. “Where is my child?”

The hall fell silent. The warriors exchanged nervous glances. None dared to speak.

“Why the silence?” Bi Han’s voice darkened, his patience vanishing. “Why do you not answer me?! WHAT HAVE YOU DONE!?”

Finally, one warrior stepped forward, trembling.
“Grandmaster… while you were in your coma, Lady Chyou suffered another heart attack. Lord Liu Kang ordered she be placed in stasis, to save her life.”

Bi Han froze. Beneath his mask, his jaw tightened. His breathing slowed.
“And my child?”

The warrior hesitated. The silence stretched like the edge of a blade.

“Your child…” He swallowed. “Your child was taken away. Hidden. Madam Bo… aided Lord Liu Kang in this act. She betrayed us.”

Bi Han’s aura flared with raw, murderous rage. His eyes burned cold.
“Liu Kang! You dare touch what is mine? And you, Madam Bo — traitor — you will suffer for your deceit!”

He slammed his fist into the wall. The ice cracked, spiderwebbing across the stone like a mirror breaking under wrath. The warriors flinched.

“Where is she?” he demanded.

No answer.

“WHERE IS SHE!?”

A warrior finally spoke. “In Fengjian, Grandmaster. At her teahouse.”

Bi Han stepped closer, towering over him like a god of death.
“You will command the Lin Kuei in my absence. I will reclaim my blood — and my vengeance.”

The warrior bowed low. “Yes, Grandmaster.”

Without another word, Bi Han vanished into the night — a shadow streaking toward his prey.

…..

Fengjian was alive with sound. The scent of spiced tea and steamed dumplings filled the air. Inside, Madam Bo’s teahouse was at its busiest. Waitresses hurried from table to table, arms full of dishes, their laughter light but tired.

Madam Bo stood behind the counter, cigarette in hand, watching her workers with quiet pride. Even on the most chaotic day, her teahouse thrived.

“Li Hua, table five,” she said smoothly. “Yan, table seven.”

The girls nodded and hurried away. Madam Bo smiled faintly, taking a long drag from her cigarette — until her gaze drifted toward the door.

And her world froze.

Standing at the entrance was a figure wrapped in black. Broad-shouldered, tall, the very air around him seemed to wither in his presence. Shadows clung to his form like a living cloak. His eyes burned with fury, with betrayal.

Bi Han.

Her cigarette slipped from her lips, falling to the ground.
“Bi Han…” she whispered, her voice barely a breath.

He stepped forward.
“You betrayed the Lin Kuei, Madam Bo.” His voice was cold as the void. “You betrayed me.”

Each step he took shook the floorboards beneath him. She could feel the power radiating from him — raw, unstable, inhuman.

“You took everything from me,” he growled. “And you did it for Liu Kang!”

He hurled a table aside with a roar, sending plates and cups crashing into the walls. The guests screamed in terror.

“Bi Han, stop!” Madam Bo shouted. “We can talk about this!”

“I do not talk to betrayers!”

She turned to her staff.
“The teahouse is closed! Everyone — out, NOW!”

The guests rushed out in panic, pushing past one another.
“Li Hua, Yan — leave, now! Tell the others to go!”

“But Madam—”

“NOW!”

When the last of them fled, the two stood alone amidst the ruin. The air crackled between them.

“Bi Han,” she said softly, her voice shaking, “you must calm down for your good. This anger will—”

“For my good?” His voice thundered. “You call this good? You took everything from me!”

“I didn’t take anything,” she pleaded. “I protected your family! They’re safe!”

“LIAR!”

His fist struck her across the face. She fell, blood spilling from her lip. Shock and heartbreak filled her eyes.

“Bi Han,” she whispered. “Your fury blinds you. It will destroy you — and everything you love.”

“It already has,” he hissed, his shadow aura expanding. “And it satisfies me.”

He seized her by the throat, lifting her effortlessly from the ground.
“You helped Liu Kang steal my wife. My son.”

“Son?” she rasped.

“Don’t mock me!”

“Bi Han…” she choked, “you have no son.”

He froze. “What?”

“You heard me,” she said, tears welling in her eyes. “Your child is not a son. You have a daughter. Her name is Yue. Liu Kang hid her far away… to keep her safe from you.”

For a long moment, there was silence.

Then Bi Han’s breath began to quicken.
“No… no, you lie. YOU LIE!”

He threw her across the room. She crashed into a table, wood splintering beneath her. Then his rage consumed him.

He tore through the teahouse like a tempest — smashing tables, breaking walls, destroying everything in sight. His screams echoed through the night.

“LIARS! ALL OF YOU! BY THE ELDER GODS, WHY?! WHY WOULD YOU DO THIS TO ME?! I HATE YOU ALL!”

He slammed his fists into the columns, shattering them like glass. The building trembled under his wrath. Madam Bo cowered, tears in her eyes, realizing that Liu Kang had been right — this man was beyond redemption.

When the destruction ceased, Bi Han stood amid the ruins. His chest heaved. His eyes glowed like cold fire.

He turned to Madam Bo one last time, his gaze filled with hatred and despair. Then he vanished into the dark, leaving nothing but ruin behind.

 

Outside, the wind carried the faint sound of chaos.

 

Raiden and Kung Lao walked through the streets of Fengjian, laughter echoing between them after training.

“This time you’re paying,” Raiden teased.
Kung Lao smirked. “You said that last time, thunder boy.”

But Raiden’s expression shifted. He stopped walking.
“Wait… something’s wrong.”

They looked up at the teahouse — the front doors were shattered, smoke curling from the windows.

“Raiden, what happened here?” Kung Lao asked.

They rushed inside — and froze.

Madam Bo lay on the ground amid splintered wood and shattered dishes. She was bleeding, her breath shallow.

“Madam Bo!” Raiden shouted, kneeling beside her. “What happened?!”

She clutched at his robe, fear and pain in her eyes.
“He knows…” she whispered.

“Who knows what?” Kung Lao asked urgently.

Her gaze locked on Raiden. “Bi Han. He’s awake. He knows about her.”

Raiden’s eyes widened. Kung Lao’s expression hardened.

“You mean—?”

Madam Bo nodded weakly. “Yue… his daughter. He will come for her. You must tell Liu Kang — now!”

Raiden rose, his face grim.
“Then the storm has truly begun.”

 

Notes:

I hope you liked the second chapter. Now the madness had begun.
The next chapter will be, that Bi Han‘s daughter appears.

Stay tuned guys. The next chapter will appear as soon as possible :)

Chapter 3

Summary:

Once a warrior of ice, Bi-Han fell into darkness and became the wraith known as Noob Saibot. On Liu Kang’s orders, he was sent to the Temple of the Elements in a futile attempt to reclaim his lost humanity.
While he lingered in shadow, his wife, Chyou, carried their child—a child Bi-Han believed would be the son to continue his legacy. But fate had other plans.

Six years later, Bi-Han escapes the temple to find his wife in a coma and his child hidden from him. And when he learns that his firstborn is a daughter, his fury ignites.
Now, the fallen warrior hunts across realms to Los Angeles, where his daughter Yue lives in peace—unaware that her father, the shadow himself, is coming for her.
Now, father and daughter are destined to meet for the first time… and fate itself will tremble.

Los Angeles

The largest city in California offered countless places to visit — from cozy cafés and restaurants to the bright lights of Hollywood, the color of Chinatown, and the golden sands of Venice Beach. Los Angeles was alive, its heartbeat echoing through every street. Even at night, the city refused to sleep. Yet away from the noise and neon, quiet neighborhoods offered peace — a rare escape from the chaos.

One evening, in a small apartment bathroom, a young man stood before the mirror, fixing his hair and humming to himself.

“I love you so, I can never let you go, In the whole wide world, you’re the one for me. I love you so, I can never let you go…”

“Shut up, man. Your voice sounds awful,” came a voice from outside the door.

“You don’t know anything,” Jian replied, smirking at his reflection. “I’d make a perfect singer. I’ve got talent, believe me.”

“Don’t make me vomit on the mirror, Jian. You’ve been in there for two hours — like a girl before a date,” his friend said sarcastically.

“Who wants to be beautiful must suffer,” Jian teased, and both burst out laughing.

“By the way,” Jian asked while brushing his hair, “what’s my sister doing, Tom?”

“The usual,” Tom replied with a shrug. “Staring out the window.”

Jian sighed and turned toward him. “She does that every day at this time. Is she even ready?”

Tom shrugged again.

“Fine. I’ll go check on her.” Jian started toward the door, but Tom stopped him.

“Why bring her on your date with Lou? Leave her with me — I’ll watch her.”

Jian glared at him. “No. You smoke cannabis, you idiot. You’re addicted.”

“I promise I won’t this time.”

“My answer’s still no.” Jian brushed past him and left the bathroom.

In the living room, his little sister was kneeling on the sofa, staring out the window. Her long black hair spilled like silk down her back, glimmering faintly in the moonlight. She smiled — a warm, innocent smile that reached her brown eyes. Yet behind that sweetness lingered something else — a quiet sadness.

A small birthmark rested on her right cheek, making her even more distinct. She clutched her white ice-bear plush tightly, lost in thought.

“Looking outside again?” Jian asked softly. She turned, her face brightening at the sound of his voice.

“Yes. It’s beautiful.”

“You never tell me why you keep looking out there. There’s nothing special to see.”

Yue’s smile grew faint but gentle. “Do you see the full moon?”

“Yes,” Jian replied simply.

“It’s beautiful,” she whispered. “That means I can make a wish.”

“I see. And what are you wishing for?” Her little voice trembled.

“I wish my parents would come back. I wish my mother could sing to me before bed. I wish my father was here… to protect me from the monsters under my bed. I just… I wish I could hug them, even if I don’t know them.”

Her voice cracked. Tears shimmered in her eyes before falling, one after another.

Jian’s smile faded. He didn’t resent her for saying it — how could he? Yue wasn’t his real sister. She was his foster sister. He, too, had lost his parents in a car accident. But he was eighteen — old enough to carry the pain. Yue was only six. At her age, she still needed her parents.

He didn’t know what had happened to them. Her past was a mystery. She had once been in a children’s clinic, trapped in a coma for reasons no one could explain. Strangely, she had continued to age while unconscious. It was unsettling, but Jian never asked questions. He just brought her home. Adopted her. Gave her a family.

Still, moments like this reopened wounds they both tried to hide.

“Tomorrow is Father’s Day,” Yue whispered, her voice breaking. “I wish my father was here… so we could play together.” Tears rolled down her cheeks. “Everyone has a father. Takeda has one, Cassie has one, Jacqui has one… Why not me?”

“Yue…” Jian knelt beside her and wrapped his arms around her trembling shoulders. “Don’t cry.”

She buried her face in his chest, sobbing quietly. Jian stroked her hair, his voice calm and tender. “Your father thinks of you every day and every night. One day, he’ll come for you — and take you home.”

She looked up at him, eyes glistening with fragile hope. Jian smiled softly.

“Why don’t you pray for him?” he suggested. “Pray that he’s alright — and that he finds his way back to you. Your prayers will be heard.”

Yue nodded, her face lighting up through her tears. “Oh yes! I’ll do that. Thank you, brother.”

She hugged Jian tightly, and he hugged her back just as warmly.

“Now,” he said gently, “are you ready? We have to go, or Lou will make us both one head shorter.”

Yue giggled through her sniffles. “Okay!” She ran upstairs to her room.

Jian chuckled and shook his head, smiling. For a moment, his heart felt light again.

 

The Wu Shi Academy

Kung Lao and Raiden had been waiting what felt like an eternity for Liu Kang. The Fire God had been occupied with Madam Bo — ensuring her safety after the attack. She was no longer safe in Fengjian and had been brought to the Wu Shi Academy for protection from Bi-Han and the corrupted Lin Kuei.

At last, Liu Kang appeared. Raiden and Kung Lao straightened immediately, eager for answers.

“Madam Bo is safe,” Liu Kang said calmly. “She’ll be treated here and kept under guard.”

Both men sighed in relief.

“But the bad news…” Liu Kang’s voice grew grim. “A group of monks I assigned to watch over Bi-Han — they were killed. By his own hands.”

Kung Lao slammed his fist against the wall. “That’s insane! How did he escape?”

“I can’t say,” Liu Kang replied. “But that no longer matters. He knows about his daughter… and my greatest fear is that he may already know where she lives.”

Raiden frowned. “But Madam Bo didn’t tell him the location. Only that his child was a girl.”

“I hope you’re right,” Liu Kang said. “Still, I want others involved. We’ve seen what Bi-Han is capable of. We can’t take chances.”

“Who do you intend to involve?” Raiden asked.

“Kuai Liang and Tomas,” Liu Kang answered firmly. “They must be informed at once. They can track Bi-Han — and make sure he stays far from Yue.”

Kung Lao nodded. “That’s wise. Kuai Liang might be the only one strong enough to stop him.”

Raiden hesitated. “And Yue? Where is she now?”

Liu Kang’s expression softened. “She’s still in Earthrealm… far from China. She’s in Los Angeles — Johnny Cage’s city.”

Kung Lao and Raiden exchanged a startled look.

Raiden asked carefully, “Wouldn’t it make sense to inform Johnny as well?”

Liu Kang shook his head. “No. The more who know, the greater the danger. Bi-Han must never learn of her location. Besides…” — his voice darkened — “Johnny Cage cannot stand against Bi-Han. Not with the chaos magic he now wields. Bi-Han has lived his life in battle. Cage is strong, but he isn’t ready for that kind of war. Kuai Liang and Tomas will be enough.”

Both men nodded in agreement.

“And promise me one thing,” Liu Kang added quietly. “Not a single word about Yue — to anyone.”

“No worries, Liu Kang. We’ll keep silent,” Raiden said earnestly.

“You can count on us,” Kung Lao added.

Liu Kang smiled faintly. “Good.”

But what none of them realized… was that someone else had been listening. The very person they meant to keep the secret from.

Hidden in the shadows, he turned silently and left the temple.

 

The Lin Kuei

Back in the icy halls of the Lin Kuei, warriors lined up as their grandmaster returned. They bowed deeply as Bi-Han — still as Noob Saibot — passed among them, his presence colder than frost.

“Listen well,” he commanded, his voice sharp as steel. “I need three warriors, one scientist, and one engineer. Follow me. We have no time to waste.”

The chosen men obeyed immediately, following him into his office. Two stood guard outside while the others entered. Bi-Han took his seat behind the heavy desk and gestured for them to sit.

The scientist bowed respectfully. “We are honored, Grandmaster. Your new… form suits you. What can we do for you?”

Bi-Han inclined his head slightly. “We once spoke of the cryo-powered quantum gate — a device to reach any location instantly.”

“Yes, Grandmaster,” the scientist replied eagerly. “It was my concept. The gate allows instant travel across great distances — independent from any outside faction. It could even reach the Shirai Ryu in Japan without delay.”

Bi-Han nodded slowly. “How long will it take to build?”

“Normally two days,” the scientist explained. “But with six people — three scientists, three engineers — we can complete it in less than forty-eight hours.”

Bi-Han leaned forward. “Can you assemble them now? You’ll be well rewarded.”

The scientist smiled. “If you wish, Grandmaster, I can assign more than six. With additional manpower, the gate could be completed in under twenty-four hours.”

A dark smirk curved Bi-Han’s lips. “Perfect. Do it. We begin immediately.”

He rose from his chair, the shadows rippling faintly around him. “Prepare the materials. I have a mission to attend. In Los Angeles.“

 

Chapter 4

Summary:

Once a warrior of ice, Bi-Han fell into darkness and became the wraith known as Noob Saibot. On Liu Kang’s orders, he was sent to the Temple of the Elements in a futile attempt to reclaim his lost humanity.
While he lingered in shadow, his wife, Chyou, carried their child—a child Bi-Han believed would be the son to continue his legacy. But fate had other plans.

Six years later, Bi-Han escapes the temple to find his wife in a coma and his child hidden from him. And when he learns that his firstborn is a daughter, his fury ignites.
Now, the fallen warrior hunts across realms to Los Angeles, where his daughter Yue lives in peace—unaware that her father, the shadow himself, is coming for her.
Now, father and daughter are destined to meet for the first time… and fate itself will tremble.

We move to another home — a different story unfolding under the same Los Angeles moon.

A young woman stood in her bathroom, leaning close to the mirror. With practiced care, she added a touch of lipstick, then smiled at her reflection. Perfect. She looked perfect — perfect for her date.

When the doorbell rang downstairs, her heart skipped a beat. For a moment, she thought she might just jump out the window from sheer excitement.

“Lou! Your admirer’s waiting for you!” her mother called from below.

Lou rolled her eyes, cheeks burning. Mom, seriously? But she had no time to argue — her date was waiting.

“Coming!” she shouted, grabbing her bag and running down the stairs.

At the bottom, Jian stood waiting, clean-cut and smiling nervously.

“You look stunning, Lou. May I have your hand?” he asked, offering it gallantly.

Lou laughed. “Since when are you so cheesy, Jian?”

“For the princess, I’d do anything,” he said with a playful wink.

“Have fun, you two!” Lou’s mother called as they stepped outside.

Outside, Jian turned to her, a little more serious. “I had to bring Yue with me,” he explained. “Didn’t have anyone to watch her. Officer Chang’s on the late shift, and Tom’s… well, Tom’s a junkie. So I figured we could all go to Lady’s Diner together.”

Lou smiled warmly. “I don’t mind at all.” Her grin made Jian blush slightly.

They climbed into the car, and Lou leaned into the back seat. “Hi, you must be Yue! I’m Lou. Nice to meet you.”

“I’m Yue — Jian’s sister,” the little girl replied sweetly, hugging her ice bear plush and smiling shyly.

Jian started the car, and they drove through the glowing streets of Los Angeles.

 

The neon sign buzzed faintly as they walked in. Inside, the place smelled of coffee, pancakes, and nostalgia. The three slid into a booth by the window. A friendly waitress came to take their order, then disappeared toward the kitchen.

“So, how’s the college search going, Lou?” Jian asked.

Lou sighed, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “Still nothing from the Art Academy. I called two days ago — they said they’d get back to me soon.”

Jian frowned. “What a bunch of idiots.”

“It’s fine,” Lou said with a faint smile. “I’m looking at other options anyway. I’m not putting too much pressure on myself.”

She paused, then turned the question back to him. “And what about you two?”

“The usual,” Jian said. “I’m trying to get into the police force. College isn’t an option for me — not right now.”

“That’s rough,” Lou said softly. “I’m sorry.” She looked at him, seeing the quiet weight behind his calm eyes — taking care of a child while building his own future. That wasn’t easy for anyone.

“It’s okay,” Jian replied. “I’ll manage. This little lady here is my biggest motivation.” He smiled at Yue, gently ruffling her hair.

Yue giggled.

Lou leaned forward, curious. “Tell me about yourself, Yue. What do you like to do?”

“I’m in first grade,” Yue said proudly. “I love school — especially art. I love painting!”

“That’s wonderful! What do you like to paint?”

“My parents.”

The table fell quiet. Jian’s smile faded slightly, and Lou immediately sensed the change.

“I love painting my parents and hanging the pictures in my room so they’re always with me,” Yue continued softly. “And tomorrow’s Father’s Day… so I’ll paint a picture of me and Dad — even though I’ve never met him.”

Lou’s heart sank. She glanced at Jian, whose eyes were lowered, his expression unreadable. For a moment, the noise of the diner faded away, replaced by the heavy silence between them.

Lou quickly forced a smile. “You know what, Yue? How about I come over tomorrow night? We can paint together.”

Yue’s eyes lit up. “Really?”

“Of course.”

“Jian! Can Lou come? Please? I want to play with her!”

Jian chuckled, his mood lightening. “I wouldn’t mind. I’ll get everything ready.” He glanced at Lou. “But what will your parents say?”

Lou grinned mischievously. “I’ll tell them I’m helping you take care of your sister. They can’t argue with that.”

“If that works, jackpot!” Jian laughed.

The waitress returned with their food, and soon the laughter returned with it — the sound of ordinary joy under the hum of city lights.

 

Somewhere in Los Angeles, far from the sirens and traffic, the air shimmered blue.

A glowing circle appeared in the darkness, expanding, swirling — alive. The light brightened until it split the air open like a wound. And from that wound stepped a man.

Unwanted. Unforgiven. Bi-Han.

The Grandmaster of the Lin Kuei straightened slowly, his cloak stirring in the cold wind that followed him through the portal. The city lights flickered across his armor, but he felt no awe — only contempt.

So this was Earthrealm’s modern age: steel beasts roaring, light blazing without fire, mortals scurrying in their fragile peace.

None of it mattered.

He had one purpose. One name burned in his mind — Yue. His daughter.

He didn’t know her face. But he would know her soul when he saw it — a reflection of his own blood… or her mother’s. The thought of his wife twisted like a knife in his chest. She was Liu Kang’s prisoner, and when he found Yue, he would save her.

His brooding was interrupted by the screech of tires. A black car stopped nearby, headlights slicing through the dark. Four men stepped out — rough, armed, and looking for trouble.

One shouted, “What the hell are you staring at, freak? Get lost!”

Bi-Han’s eyes narrowed behind his mask. A mistake.

“You deaf?” another yelled. “You want us to teach you a lesson?”

Bi-Han turned slowly, voice low and dangerous. “Go ahead. Try.”

The leader swung his baton — but he never finished the motion. Bi-Han caught his wrist and snapped the bone like dry wood. The man’s scream shattered the night.

The others rushed him. It was futile.
Bi-Han moved like a storm — cold, silent, merciless. Bones cracked. Flesh tore. Within seconds, the alley was filled with broken bodies. The air reeked of blood and metal.

He crouched beside the leader, who was still breathing — barely. Their eyes met.

“Incompetent,” Bi-Han whispered, and drove the baton straight through the man’s mouth.

Silence.

Bi-Han rose, grabbed the car keys from the corpse, and glanced at the vehicle. A dark grin crept beneath his mask. A convenient tool.

He started the engine. The headlights flared to life as the car rolled out of the alley, leaving only bodies and cold behind.
His laughter — low, cruel, and echoing — trailed after him into the night.

 

After dinner, Jian paid the bill. The three returned to the car and drove home beneath the silver glow of streetlights.

When they reached Lou’s house, she smiled warmly. “It was a wonderful evening. See you tomorrow.”

“See you tomorrow, Lou,” Jian said, waving as she disappeared inside.

Back home, Yue headed for the stairs. Jian called after her, smiling. “Don’t stay up late, young lady. You’ve got school tomorrow.”

“Don’t worry,” Yue yawned, rubbing her eyes. “I’m tired already. Good night, Jian.”

“Good night, little one.”

She closed her bedroom door softly. The moonlight spilled through her window, silvering the floor. The lamp remained off — she didn’t need it.

Her drawings covered the walls — colorful, childlike, yet strangely emotional. Yue walked to two of them and traced them gently with her fingers.

The first showed her standing between her parents, all three smiling. Behind them, instead of a sun, she had drawn a great snowflake — her favorite part of the picture.

The second showed her holding hands with her father beneath the words Happy Father’s Day.

Her eyes filled with quiet longing.

“See you soon, Mama… Baba,” she whispered, changing into her sleepwear and went to bed.

 

Sometime after midnight, Yue stirred in her sleep.
She heard a voice — soft, melodic, a woman’s voice singing in Mandarin. A lullaby.

She saw a figure through her dreams — long black hair cascading to her waist, dressed in a pale pink hanfu that shimmered under moonlight.

Yuè ér míng, fēng ér jìng,
Shù yè guà chuāng líng.
Xiǎo bǎo bǎo, kuài shuì jiào,
Shuì zài nà gè mèng zhōng, xiǎo Yue.

        The moon is bright, the wind is quiet.
        The leaves hang over the window.
        My baby, fall asleep quickly.
        Sleep, dream sweet dreams, little Yue.

Yue gasped and woke up. Her heart was racing.

The room was quiet again — her drawings, her plush bear, the pale light of the moon through the window.

She sat up, clutching her blanket tightly, and looked around once more. Nothing. Just the stillness of night.

Then, staring out at the glowing moon, she whispered softly — her voice trembling and small:

“...Mama?”

Notes:

The Chinese lullaby song I found in google.
Here is the link: https://www.mamalisa.com/?t=es&p=4962

The next Chapter will be Bi Han meeting his daughter, stay tuned guys. Next chapter will be come out as soon as possible.

Chapter 5

Summary:

Once a warrior of ice, Bi-Han fell into darkness and became the wraith known as Noob Saibot. On Liu Kang’s orders, he was sent to the Temple of the Elements in a futile attempt to reclaim his lost humanity.
While he lingered in shadow, his wife, Chyou, carried their child—a child Bi-Han believed would be the son to continue his legacy. But fate had other plans.

Six years later, Bi-Han escapes the temple to find his wife in a coma and his child hidden from him. And when he learns that his firstborn is a daughter, his fury ignites.
Now, the fallen warrior hunts across realms to Los Angeles, where his daughter Yue lives in peace—unaware that her father, the shadow himself, is coming for her.
Now, father and daughter are destined to meet for the first time… and fate itself will tremble.

Los Angeles

Morning slowly broke over L.A., the sky bleeding from black to pale orange as the sun crawled up behind the buildings.

An older man, around fifty, walked irritably along the sidewalk, muttering curses under his breath. His steps were heavy, his expression sour, until he finally reached the building he was heading toward: an elementary school.

He checked his watch and sighed.
6:00 a.m.

He was a teacher here, and classes didn’t start until 7:30. Way too early, even for him. With no one around yet, he sat down on the concrete, placed his suitcase beside him, and looked around.

No cars.
No children.
No parents.

No one.

Boredom pressed down on him. He didn’t know what to do with himself.

“Shitty life,” he said loudly into the empty street. “You do everything for your woman and she can’t even give you a blowjob.”

He shook his head and stared at the ground—until a tempting idea crept into his mind.

He glanced around carefully again, just to be sure no one was there. The street was still deserted. Satisfied, he took out his smartphone and started browsing until he found what he wanted.

On the screen, a naked woman posed provocatively. A large star covered her crotch, her nipples hidden by her own hands. That didn’t stop him. Grinning with arousal, he pulled down his pants and began his disgusting act. His moans were soft at first, barely there, but he savored every second.

“Give it to me, baby… oh yes…” the shameless teacher moaned—in front of an elementary school.

He could only be thankful no one saw him.

Or so he thought.

A car rolled up in front of the school and stopped. Because he was so lost in his own pathetic pleasure, he didn’t even notice it until the horn blared.

He flinched, snapping his head up. A car stood right in front of him. Shame and panic flooded him at once.

He tried to get up, but with his pants and underwear still around his ankles, he slipped and fell back onto the concrete.

The driver’s door opened.

The man who stepped out was anything but ordinary. Even with his mask on, his displeasure was obvious. His white eyes narrowed with pure disgust.

Bi-Han.

He growled low in his throat and approached the teacher, who began to scoot backward along the ground, his bare legs scraping against the rough pavement.

Bi-Han grabbed him—pants still down—and lifted him easily, forcing the man to look into his eyes.

“You pervert,” Bi-Han said, voice cold as winter. “Are you not man enough to control your desires? You turn yourself into a coward… and right in front of me?”

The teacher shook uncontrollably. No sound came from his mouth except broken gasps.

“Do you know what I do to men like you?” Bi-Han asked.

“Please, spare me,” the teacher stammered. “I—I’m a teacher here. I teach the little children.”

Bi-Han’s eyes widened slightly.

“You teach children…” His voice dropped, dangerous. “…and then you behave like this?”

“I know it was wrong,” the man babbled. “I know it was immoral, but you have to understand—everyone has urges. Even you, right?”

Bi-Han did have urges.
But he controlled them. Always.

He had waited until marriage before sharing a bed with Chyou. Only then had he surrendered to desire. Only then had they created the daughter he had come to L.A. to find.

“You’re a coward,” he said. “Nothing more.”

Just as Bi-Han was about to end him, the man blurted out:

“Cassie, Takeda, Jacqui, Satoshi, Yue—”

At the sound of that last name, Bi-Han froze as if time itself stopped.

“…What?” he asked, voice low, stunned and furious at the same time. “What did you just say?”

The teacher trembled harder but forced himself to repeat:

“Cassie, Takeda, Jacqui, Satoshi, Yue… they’re my students. That’s why I remember them—they’re special. Especially Yue.”

He’d said her name.

Yue.

It sent a jolt through Bi-Han, straight to his core.

“Why is she special?” Bi-Han’s voice dropped to a deadly whisper.

“Because she’s… she’s a very beautiful child,” the teacher said, smiling nervously. “Her long black hair, her brown eyes, her smile, the birthmark on her right cheek… that little girl is something I’ve never seen before. I wonder who could have created something so beautiful. And she’s only six—”

The way he described her made Bi-Han’s skin crawl. It was nauseating, revolting.

But it was enough.

He had heard everything he needed.
He had her name.
Her age.
Her description.

It was her.
His Yue.

He had practically found his daughter.

His search was no longer a vague hunt across worlds—it was now a narrowed path. He knew the school. The city. The age. Soon, she'd be within reach.

And the teacher? He was now useless.

“I no longer need you,” Bi-Han said calmly. “Choke on your perversion in hell.”

“No—please—no, NO—!”

Bi-Han twisted the teacher’s head a full 360 degrees. The neck snapped with a sickening crack, and the corpse dropped bonelessly to the ground. The man died instantly, tongue hanging from his open mouth.

Bi-Han took the car keys from the body, turned, and got into the car. He drove away, putting distance between himself and the scene so no one would connect him to the corpse.

He would return.
Very soon.

For one reason only.
A reason that needed no explanation.

 

Wu Shi Academy

Far away, at the Wu Shi Academy, Liu Kang stumbled. His vision blurred as his body suddenly weakened. He nearly collapsed, but Raiden caught him just in time.

“Liu Kang, are you all right?” Raiden asked, alarmed.

With Raiden’s help, Liu Kang straightened up. His voice was tight, laced with unease—and fear.

“I can feel something…” he said quietly. “Something evil. Nothing good. I feel madness.”

“What does that mean?” Kung Lao asked, frowning.

“It means something dark is stirring,” Liu Kang replied grimly. “And I can’t shake the feeling that it has to do with Bi-Han. I only hope Kuai Liang and Tomas arrive in time…”

 

Los Angeles

After a long late shift, Officer James Lee wanted nothing more than to sleep. He lay in bed, dead to the world, until his phone buzzed relentlessly on the nightstand.

Annoyed, he grabbed it. “James Lee here. What is it?”

“Lee, shift change. Now. Get to Finney Street immediately.”

“Why? Wyler was supposed to cover for me.”

“Wyler’s on the other side of the crime scene. We don’t have many officers left—the night shift was wiped out.”

“What?” Lee shot upright in bed.

“You heard me. We’re dealing with a serial killer in L.A. Get to Finney Street. Now.”

“Understood.”

He hung up, dressed hurriedly, and rushed out the door.

When Lee arrived on Finney Street, his car slowed to a crawl. He could already see the flashing lights, the cordoned-off area, and officers moving around like shadows.

He stepped out—and almost threw up.

Body parts.
Everywhere.

“Dear God…” Lee muttered, hand clapped over his mouth. This wasn’t just a murder scene. It was a massacre. He’d never seen anything like it.

“That’s only the tip of the iceberg,” came a voice behind him.

Chief Donovan approached, his expression grim. “Four men were slaughtered across the street. Limbs everywhere. Wyler’s over there and sent me photos.”

He handed Lee a phone.

What Lee saw looked straight out of a horror film: blood splattered, limbs torn from torsos, bodies twisted in unnatural angles. No normal human could do this. Whoever did it was monstrously strong.

“Oh my God,” Lee whispered.

“That’s not all,” Donovan said. “We’ve also got footage. Wright managed to record what happened before he died.”

He showed Lee the video.

Lee’s eyes widened. He’d faced thieves, mobsters, even serial killers. But this… this thing on the screen moved like a shadow given form, like death wearing armor. The way it killed officers—with raw, overwhelming brutality—was beyond anything Lee had ever seen.

“Donovan… what the hell is that? Who is that?” he asked, shock and fear in his voice.

“We don’t know,” Donovan answered. “It doesn’t look human. We’re going to contact SWAT—”

“SWAT won’t be enough.”

Both men turned to the speaker. A man approached them, badge visible, gaze hard.

“Kurtis Stryker,” he said. “SWAT. Wright was my best friend. He moved from New York to L.A. When he sent me that video, I came straight here.”

“Nice to meet you,” Lee said, shaking his hand. Donovan did the same. “What do you mean SWAT isn’t enough?”

“Simple,” Stryker replied. “We need the military. SWAT alone can’t handle this guy.”

“That’s excessive,” Donovan snapped. “We’re not talking about an army. Just one… thing.”

“Officer Donovan, that ‘thing’ slaughtered armed officers like they were nothing,” Stryker countered. “Have you contacted Lt. Sonya Blade from the ESF yet?”

Donovan stared at him as if he were insane. “Why Sonya Blade? Are you out of your mind? That would cause city-wide panic. We’re dealing with a freak, not an invasion. And the journalists are already breathing down our necks.”

“Donovan, these won’t be the last victims,” Stryker warned. “There will be more. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.”

With that, he turned and walked off.

Another officer stepped up. “Sir, maybe it would be wise to listen to him. What if SWAT can’t—”

“We don’t need the military,” Donovan cut in. “That’s overkill. SWAT will manage.” He clapped Lee on the shoulder in forced confidence.

Lee wasn’t so sure.

 

Morning broke again, sunlight spilling into the children’s room and directly into Yue’s face. She scrunched her eyes shut, but that wasn’t enough—Jian barreled into her room as backup.

“Wake up, sleepyhead. We’ve got to get to school.”

“I don’t want to…” Yue complained, rolling over and pulling the blanket over her head.

Jian chuckled. He’d expected that. Which was exactly why he’d brought a bucket of water.

A second later, cold water splashed over her.

Yue screamed, jumping out of bed. “You’re so mean, Jian!”

Jian doubled over laughing. “Up you get. School’s calling!”

Despite her grumbling, they both ended up laughing as they got ready.

Soon, they were dressed and headed to the car—Yue in the passenger seat, Jian behind the wheel.

“Okay,” Jian said, buckling in. “Lou’s coming over tonight. Behave yourself.”

“I’m always good,” Yue protested, pouting. “But I want to play with Lou!”

Jian laughed and ruffled her hair as she stared out the window.

But when they pulled up to the elementary school, Yue frowned.

“Jian… what’s going on?” she asked.

Jian saw it too: a large crowd gathered near the entrance. Children her age, parents, teachers—everyone standing too close, whispers filled with fear.

“What the hell…?” Jian muttered.

He parked as close as he could, but the crowd blocked the rest, so they got out and walked the rest of the way. As they approached, people glanced at them, then quickly turned their eyes back to the ground in front of them.

“What’s going on?” Jian asked.

The people parted, and then he saw it.

So did Yue.

Her scream cut through the air.

“That’s Mr. Riddle—my teacher!” she cried, clinging to Jian’s arm, trembling.

Jian’s eyes widened. Mr. Riddle lay sprawled on the ground, neck twisted unnaturally, eyes empty.

“What the hell happened?” Jian demanded.

“We… we don’t know,” a father stammered. “Someone killed the teacher. The police were called.”

As if on cue, sirens wailed in the distance.

“Please step back!” Officer Lee shouted as he and Donovan arrived. The crowd obeyed.

“Jimmy!” Jian called, and Lee jogged over. “What’s going on?”

“We don’t know yet, but it’s big,” Lee said, kneeling beside the body.

“That’s Mr. Riddle—my teacher,” Yue whispered, voice hollow.

Lee and Donovan both looked at her.

“This makes no sense,” Donovan said angrily. “Why a teacher?”

Lee turned to him. “Donovan… I think we should call in the military.”

“The military?” Jian blurted out. “Jimmy, what’s going on?”

Lee looked at him seriously. “Listen, Jian. Promise me you won’t go anywhere tonight. Go home after school and stay there.”

“But Lou’s coming over tonight—I have to pick her up!” Jian protested.

“Then tell her to come earlier. Jian, I’m serious. This city isn’t safe anymore. There’s a madman out there killing people. Do me a favor and stay home.”

He looked down at Yue. “And watch your sister. Don’t let her go anywhere you can’t see her, understood? I can’t afford either of you getting hurt.”

Jian nodded. “All right, Jim.”

“Thank you.” Lee turned back to Donovan. “And you—whether you like it or not—call Stryker and involve the military. At the same time, we go public. We warn people. When it reaches an elementary school, Donovan—that’s where it ends.”

Donovan listened, jaw clenched, but said nothing.

“Donovan!” another officer ran up, panting. Jian, Yue, and everyone nearby turned their heads.

“More deaths in Chinatown!” the officer shouted. “An entire strip club and a bar—massacred. Same style, same brutality. Limbs torn off, heads impaled on antennae. The women escaped but are traumatized. They described the same creature from the footage!”

All eyes turned to Donovan.

His face finally showed what he hadn’t said out loud. Fear.
There was no more room for denial.

And in the crowd, Yue’s fear was written all over her small face.

 

Wu Shi Academy

Kuai Liang and Tomas had already arrived at the Wu Shi Academy and bowed to Liu Kang and the others.

“How is Madam Bo?” Kuai Liang asked, anxious. Liu Kang had already explained what had happened. Without hesitation, the former Lin Kuei brothers had rushed here as quickly as they could.

“She’s recovering,” Liu Kang answered. “You don’t have to worry about Madam Bo. What you should worry about… is what your brother is planning.”

“With all due respect, Liu Kang—he nearly killed Madam Bo,” Tomas said, his voice tight with anger.

“I don’t know what has come over Bi-Han,” Kuai Liang said, horrified. “He’s slipping deeper into darkness.”

“I’m fine, children,” Madam Bo’s voice cut in. She stepped forward, lighting a cigarette. “I am of the Lin Kuei, remember?” She took a drag, exhaled calmly. “Listen to Liu Kang. You need to be prepared.”

“Thank you, Madam Bo,” Liu Kang said, then turned back to Kuai Liang and Tomas. “Bi-Han isn’t just walking toward darkness. He’s already plunged into madness.”

“What do you mean?” Kuai Liang asked, alarmed.

“Bi-Han is obsessed with power,” Liu Kang said. “He wants to rule all of Earthrealm—and he wants an heir to inherit that power.”

Kuai Liang and Tomas exchanged a look. It didn’t surprise them completely—but it still hurt.

“That’s why we left,” Kuai Liang said quietly. “We chose the Shirai Ryu. He tried to sabotage my wedding, remember? And from what I know, he and his wife didn’t exactly get along. How would an heir even come from that if they… you know…”

“It already happened,” Liu Kang interrupted. “He fathered a child with his wife. A daughter. That child isn’t with him. She’s in Los Angeles. I brought her there.”

“You did the right thing,” Kuai Liang said. “But why not leave her with me? With the Shirai Ryu, she would have been safe.”

“The problem is far bigger than you think,” Liu Kang answered. “That’s why he attacked Madam Bo.”

Kuai Liang and Tomas turned to her, horrified.

“He threatened his wife,” Liu Kang continued. “If the baby wasn’t a son, he’d kill the child—and keep trying until he got the heir he wanted.”

Kuai Liang and Tomas stared at him, stunned. Their eyes widened in disbelief.

“What?” Kuai Liang whispered. “Tell me you’re joking. Bi-Han had dark tendencies—we knew that—but this? He couldn’t be that evil. That’s not the brother I knew…”

“I am Lord of Fire,” Liu Kang said quietly, “and I know what I’m saying. Madam Bo told him the child was a daughter, not a son. He attacked her and nearly killed her.”

Kuai Liang staggered back a few steps. “No… that can’t be true…”

“He has a daughter, Kuai Liang. And he wants to kill her. That’s why I took her to Los Angeles. There, she’s beyond his reach—for now.”

Kuai Liang shook his head, refusing the truth, while Tomas stood frozen, unable to process what he was hearing.

“Your task,” Liu Kang said, “is to find Bi-Han and make sure he never reaches her. He doesn’t know exactly where she is yet. But that could change. And when it does… he will stop at nothing.”

Kuai Liang drew a deep breath. “Leave it to us, Liu Kang. Nobody knows my brother better than we do.”

Liu Kang nodded. “Good.”

Suddenly, Kung Lao’s device rang—a glowing, rune-enhanced phone Johnny Cage had designed to work across realms. Raiden, Liu Kang, and the others turned toward him.

“Who is it?” Raiden asked.

Kung Lao checked the screen. “Johnny.”

Liu Kang’s expression tightened. “Why is Johnny calling you?” His voice carried a note of panic. There could only be one reason.

Kung Lao answered. “Johnny, what’s going on?”

“Chaos, my friend!” Johnny’s voice exploded from the speaker. “What’s up with Grandmaster Bossy Pants? He’s slaughtering his way through L.A.!”

Liu Kang’s eyes widened. So did everyone else’s.

“Say that again,” Kung Lao demanded.

“Can you get us a feed? I was gonna watch Netflix, but the news cut in. I recorded it. I’ll show you—there’s footage of Bi-Han.”

“I’ll open a gate,” Liu Kang said, summoning a glowing portal. “Johnny, can you see a gate?”

“Yeah, yeah—I’m coming!”

Johnny stepped through the portal moments later, still talking, phone in hand. “Look at this. It’s worse than any horror movie I’ve ever been in.”

He played the news clip.

“Evil has found its way to Los Angeles,” the reporter said. “And we are not talking about Michael Myers—a fictional character from horror films. This is a real evil. A real serial killer. In one night, many people were murdered in a brutal, bestial manner…”

“No…” Liu Kang whispered. He prayed Yue was not among them.

“Heads impaled in Chinatown. Dismembered bodies scattered across the streets of L.A. A teacher found with his neck twisted 360 degrees in front of an elementary school…”

Kuai Liang sank to his knees. Every word, every image, cut deeper into his heart. It was his brother. The brother he’d once admired. The man he’d trained beside. Now… this.

“Kuai Liang, are you all right?” Tomas asked, helping him up.

“No,” Kuai Liang said hoarsely. “Nothing is all right.”

“Wait,” Liu Kang suddenly said, eyes narrowing. “There. Pause it.”

Johnny froze the video. On the screen, among the panicked crowd outside the elementary school, stood a little girl with long black hair, brown eyes, and a birthmark on her cheek.

“There’s Yue,” Liu Kang breathed. “Bi-Han’s daughter.”

“Bi-Han’s daughter? You’re telling me that—” Johnny began.

“Yes,” Liu Kang said quietly. He didn’t need to finish. Johnny understood.

“How twisted do you have to be to want to kill your own kid?” Johnny snapped. “That’s beyond messed up. I’m officially done being impressed by this guy.”

“Liu Kang is right,” Raiden said. “We must act. Now.”

“Kuai Liang, Tomas, Johnny,” Liu Kang commanded, “you will go to Los Angeles. Watch over Yue. Watch for Bi-Han. They must not meet.”

“Yes, sir!” Johnny shouted. Kuai Liang and Tomas bowed.

“Raiden, Kung Lao—you come with me to Outworld and the Netherrealm,” Liu Kang continued. “We need allies. Bi-Han has become too powerful for me to handle alone.”

“Understood, Lord Liu Kang,” Raiden said.

“All right,” Liu Kang finished. “Get to work. A little girl’s life is in danger. We have no time to lose.”

 

Los Angeles

While a reporter interviewed a few teachers about Mr. Riddle’s death, Yue stood among the crowd, staring at the frightened faces around her. Parents, children, staff—everyone was on edge. Fear clung to the air like smoke.

She heard them mention that more people had died. That the military was being called in. That there was a black figure—something not quite human—responsible.

She didn’t know who they were talking about.
She only hoped she would never meet him.

Suddenly, she felt suffocated by the fear around her. Her legs began to move on their own. She slipped through the crowd, one small step at a time, until the voices faded behind her.

At the edge of the street, she stopped and looked around. She didn’t know why she’d walked there. She just… needed to.

She closed her eyes and felt the cool breeze on her face, her long hair swaying gently with it. For a moment, it calmed her.

She had no idea she was being watched.

Across the street, a figure stood in the shadows. Not quite human in appearance, dressed entirely in black, faint green accents across his chest. White eyes glowed behind a dark mask.

It was her father.
Bi-Han.

He stood only a few meters away, watching silently.

He studied her from head to toe: the little birthmark on her right cheek—his; the long black hair—hers and her mother’s; her eyes—his shape, her warmth; her lips—just like Chyou’s.

He had found his daughter.
She was right there.

So close he could almost reach out and touch her.

He felt something he hadn’t felt in a very long time: joy. Pride. A fierce, protective love.

Him.
The same man who had once threatened to kill his unborn child if she wasn’t a son.
The same man who had slaughtered countless enemies without remorse.
The same man who had killed his own father.

Now stood frozen, unable to move, staring at the little girl that shared his blood.

“Yue…” he whispered softly, in a tone no one had heard from him since his wife. “At last…”

“Yue!”

A boy’s voice cut through the air.

Bi-Han turned his head and saw Jian running toward her.

The moment Yue opened her eyes, Bi-Han vanished into the shadows.

“Yue!” Jian reached her, gasping. “Where were you? You can’t just walk off alone! You heard what’s going on here!”

“I know… but there were too many people, Jian,” Yue said quietly. He could see fear in her eyes—and something else. Sadness? Confusion?

“Oh, Yue…” Jian knelt beside her. “It’s okay. We’re going home now. School’s closed anyway. The police need to work. Lou’s coming over tonight, remember? Everything will be okay. I promise.”

Yue’s face brightened. “Oh yay!”

She grabbed his hand, and together they ran back toward the car.

They didn’t know someone was following them.

Noob Saibot himself.

 

When they arrived at Lou’s house, Jian and Yue waited in the car.

“Jian, I thought Lou was coming over tonight,” Yue said, puzzled.

“Because it’s not safe outside at night anymore, little one,” Jian replied, turning in his seat to look at her. “You remember Officer Lee, right?”

“Yeees,” Yue said slowly.

“He told me Lou should either come home with us now—or not at all. At least until they catch that guy.”

“Okay,” she said quietly and turned her gaze out the window.

Jian checked his phone. Fifteen minutes had passed. Finally, Lou came running with a big bag at her side. She jumped into the car, slightly out of breath.

“Jian, Yue—how are you? What’s going on? Why—?”

“I’ll explain on the way,” Jian said, giving her a quick kiss on the cheek before driving off.

On the ride back, he told her everything that had happened: Mr. Riddle’s body, the police, the fear.

“Oh my God,” Lou gasped. “I saw something about it on the news. They said some maniac impaled heads in Chinatown, and a cop recorded footage before he was killed. My mom barely let me leave the house, but when she heard you were picking me up, she agreed, especially since school’s closed too.”

“I know. Tom called me about it,” Jian said, anger creeping into his voice. “Whoever that son of a—”

“Jian!” Lou cut him off, glancing at Yue.

Jian sighed. “Sorry, Yue. I’m just… angry.”

“It’s okay,” Yue said softly, turning her face back to the window.

The car rolled to a stop at a red light.

That’s when she saw him.

The black figure.
Glowing white eyes.
Masked face.

He stood in the distance, unmoving, like a shadow that had decided to take shape. Yue’s eyes widened. She stared at him, studying every detail. He didn’t move. He didn’t look away.

He just stared back at her.

The light turned green.

Jian drove on.

Yue rubbed her eyes and stared back at where he’d been. The figure was gone.

Maybe she’d imagined it.
At least, that’s what she told herself.

 

When they finally arrived home, Yue jumped out and ran straight to the front door.

“Yue, wait! I have to unlock it first!” Jian laughed, hurrying after her. He opened the door, and she darted inside.

“Careful you don’t trip!” Jian called, dropping Lou’s bag in the hallway.

“So,” Lou asked with a playful smirk, “what do we do now?”

“I say we relax and watch a movie. You hungry? I can make something.”

“Maybe…” Lou slid her arms around Jian’s neck, smiling. “…we could cook together instead?”

He grinned. “Brilliant idea, Lou.” He leaned in and kissed her; she kissed him back.

Outside, in the shadows, Bi-Han watched the house.

Now he knew where his daughter had been all this time.

And tonight…
he planned to take her.

 

Evening settled over the neighborhood. Inside, Lou and Jian were completely focused on Yue. The three of them played together, building a Lego tower that looked almost like an ice castle. Laughter filled the room—brief pockets of warmth in an increasingly cold city.

Then the doorbell rang.

“Probably Officer Lee checking if we’re home,” Jian said, standing up.

He opened the door—and froze.

“Are you kidding me…” he muttered.

It was Tom. And with him, a young woman wearing little more than underwear.

“What in the actual fuck?” Jian hissed, immediately stepping outside and pulling the door closed behind him so Yue and Lou wouldn’t see.

“Are you out of your mind?” he snapped. “You brought her here? Lou is inside, you idiot!”

“Relax, man,” Tom said with a grin. “This is my new girl—Jessica. My parents wouldn’t let us stay at home because she’s a little… special.”

“You mean almost naked,” Jian said flatly.

Jessica scoffed. “Relax, psycho. I’m not interested in you anyway.”

“I couldn’t care less,” Jian shot back. “You’re not coming into my house dressed like that. I’ve got a six-year-old sister inside.”

“Dude, chill,” Tom said. “We’re not going in. We just want to set up a tent in your backyard.”

“What? No way. Have you seriously not heard what’s happening in L.A.?”

“Yeah, we heard,” Tom said, waving it off. “But why would that guy come after us? We’re nobodies. We just want to camp and have some fun. My parents kicked us out, so your place is, like, plan B.” He tried to sound charming.

“We’ll be on your property,” he added. “Safe, in a tent, minding our business. Nobody’s gonna bother us. Come on, man.”

Jian sighed. His friend looked desperate.

“Fine,” he said at last. “But stay out back, where my sister can’t see you. Got it?”

“I swear on Johnny Cage’s mother, I’ll owe you forever!” Tom grabbed him in a hug.

“Yeah, yeah—whatever. And why his mother?”

“Because she’s got huge—uh—watermelons,” Tom grinned. “He posted her on Insta.”

“Hey!” Jessica smacked his arm.

“Baby, yours are way better,” Tom said quickly, earning a long kiss.

“Ugh. Go,” Jian groaned. “Set up your tent. And keep your… activities… out of my sight.”

They giggled and headed around the house.

When Jian stepped back inside, Lou was waiting. “Who was that?” she asked.

“My buddy Tom and his girlfriend,” Jian said.

“Why didn’t you invite them in?” Lou asked, surprised.

“Because he’s a pervert, and she’s basically in underwear. I don’t need that in front of Yue…” He made a crude gesture, and Lou understood immediately.

“Aaah. Got it,” she laughed, and they went back to the living room, where Yue sat waiting impatiently with Lego bricks in hand.

Night deepened. Eventually, Yue yawned and rubbed her eyes.

“I’m going to bed. Good night,” she said, hugging them both before heading to her room.

Once inside, she didn’t lie down immediately. Instead, she sat at her desk and began to draw. She sketched the figure she had seen at the traffic light: tall, dark, with glowing white eyes. She shaded his eyes completely white.

While she was drawing, Bi-Han stood outside beneath her window.

He knew where she was now.

Before climbing up, he heard laughter coming from the backyard. Not from the house—from outside. Cheap, loud laughter.

He moved silently around the house, careful not to be seen. In the backyard, he saw a tent, lit from inside. Two human silhouettes moved against the fabric.

He narrowed his eyes.

Inside, Tom teased Jessica as they tangled together. It didn’t take long before drugs appeared, passed between them. Jessica hesitated, muttered something about Jian, but still joined in.

They became more… affectionate. Sloppier. Louder.

They never noticed the shadow approaching their tent.

Bi-Han stared at the shaking silhouette, disgust twisting in his chest. Not at the intimacy itself—but at the carelessness. The weakness. The stupidity.

His anger boiled over.

He tore the tent open.

“JESSICA!” Tom screamed as Bi-Han grabbed her. She barely had time to gasp. His hand closed around her throat. She struggled, fingers clawing at his grip.

“Help…” she choked—her last word—before her neck snapped and her body went limp. He let her drop.

Tom tried to get up, but Bi-Han stomped his leg. Bone shattered, and Tom collapsed, screaming.

“LET ME GO, YOU ASSHOLE!” Tom shouted, punching at him with his fists. It was pointless.

Bi-Han grabbed both of Tom’s arms in one hand—and ripped them from his body.

The scream that followed was raw, inhuman.

Inside the house, Lou frowned. “What was that?”

“Tom and his girlfriend,” Jian said, rolling his eyes. “They probably just reached their climax.”

Lou laughed, shaking her head, and they turned back to their movie.

Upstairs, Yue froze. She had heard the scream too. She put her pencil down and walked to the window. She opened it and looked out.

Silence. Backyard. Darkness. No one there.

She frowned, confused. It hadn’t sounded like Jian.

She slowly closed the window again.

Outside, Bi-Han stepped away from the ruined tent and finally turned his focus to what truly mattered.

His daughter.

 

He climbed up the side of the house with ease, reaching her window. It was slightly open.

A gift.

He slipped inside.

Yue wasn’t there yet, but the room told him everything he needed to know: toys on the floor, stuffed animals on the bed, soft colors and warmth.

His eyes landed on the desk. A small lamp glowed faintly, illuminating dozens of drawings. He approached.

One drawing showed Yue standing between her parents, smiling. Snowflakes behind them instead of a sun. He stared at it for a long moment.

Then he saw another drawing. This one made him pause.

It was him.

Yue had tried to draw the figure she’d seen: tall, armored, with white eyes. Him in his new form. He stared at the picture, secretly fascinated—and moved.

She had seen him. She had remembered him.

He pressed the drawing briefly against his chest.

Footsteps.

Someone was coming.

He moved quickly and disappeared into the closet, closing the doors just enough to stay hidden.

Yue entered the room and shut the door behind her. She froze when she noticed the window was ajar.

She swallowed and rushed to close it. But even with the window shut, she didn’t feel safe. Something felt wrong. Different.

She walked to her desk—and immediately noticed her drawing was gone.

Her heart skipped. “Where is it…?” she whispered.

She looked under the desk, on the floor, between papers—nothing. Panic crept in. That picture… she’d just had it.

Maybe the wind took it, she told herself.

Then, behind her, the closet door creaked open by itself.

She turned slowly, breath catching in her throat.

The door stood slightly ajar.

She walked toward it, legs trembling. With shaking fingers, she pushed it closed.

She turned to leave.

The door opened again.

Her heartbeat thundered in her ears. Why was it opening by itself?

She grabbed the handle and tried to slam it shut again. This time, it was harder. As if something inside was pushing back.

Confused and terrified, Yue used all her strength to close it. It wouldn’t budge properly.

Suddenly, something fell out—a sheet of paper, floating to the floor at her feet.

Her drawing.

She stared at it.
Why was it in the closet?

Her breathing quickened. She bent down, picked it up, and as she straightened—

The closet doors burst open.

He stepped out.

The figure from the intersection. The figure with the white eyes. The same one she had drawn.

He filled the room, tall, broad, wrapped in darkness.

Yue stumbled backward, crashing into the door. Fear took over. Her chest heaved, tears welling in her eyes.

He approached her slowly, step by step.

“I saw you…” she sobbed. “Who are you? What do you want?”

“Yue…” His voice was low, unlike anything she’d ever heard before—cold and yet strangely soft. He took another step toward her.

“How do you know my name?” she asked, terrified.

“I came a long way…” he said, eyes locked on hers. “To take you with me.”

 

Chapter 6

Summary:

Once a warrior of ice, Bi-Han fell into darkness and became the wraith known as Noob Saibot. On Liu Kang’s orders, he was sent to the Temple of the Elements in a futile attempt to reclaim his lost humanity.
While he lingered in shadow, his wife, Chyou, carried their child—a child Bi-Han believed would be the son to continue his legacy. But fate had other plans.

Six years later, Bi-Han escapes the temple to find his wife in a coma and his child hidden from him. And when he learns that his firstborn is a daughter, his fury ignites.
Now, the fallen warrior hunts across realms to Los Angeles, where his daughter Yue lives in peace—unaware that her father, the shadow himself, is coming for her.
Now, father and daughter are destined to meet for the first time… and fate itself will tremble.

“Please, no!” Yue cried. “Why me?!”

Before she could get an answer, Bi-Han reached out his arms to grab her.

Yue screamed and bolted for the door.

Bi-Han swore under his breath and went after her.

“HELP! JIAN! HELP!” she screamed as she ran for her life down the stairs.

Jian and Lou heard her and rushed toward the hallway.

“Yue! What’s wrong?!” Jian shouted, panic in his voice.

“There’s a monster in my room and he wants to take me!” Yue sobbed, clinging to him. “We have to get out of here!”

Jian looked up toward the top of the stairs, but saw nothing. If there really was a monster in Yue’s room, he should have been right behind her.

“It’s okay, Yue. You just had a bad dream,” Jian tried to calm her.

“No… no… he’s here. Jian, he’s here. You have to believe me…”

“JIAN, UP THERE!” Lou screamed, pointing.

Jian’s breath caught in his throat.

He saw him.

The monster stood at the top of the stairs — broad, towering, radiating danger. His white eyes glowed behind his mask. Everything else was shadow-black with sickly green highlights.

Yue screamed again, her whole body shaking.

“GET OUT. NOW!” Jian yelled.

They ran. Jian grabbed his car keys, pulled Yue and Lou toward the door, and they sprinted to the car.

Then he remembered.

“Wait—I have to get Tom! Stay in the car and lock the doors!”

“Jian, please don’t!” Lou begged.

“JIAN!” Yue sobbed, but he was already running around the side of the house.

He didn’t get far before the world dropped out from under him.

The tent was shredded.
Tom’s body lay in pieces.
Jessica lay beside him, lifeless, neck twisted unnaturally.

“Oh shit… shit… FUCK—TOOOOM!” Jian choked out. His knees almost gave out. There was no time to mourn. No time to think. He had to move.

He stumbled back toward the car.

Inside, Lou was frantically trying to unlock the doors.

“Lou, hurry!” Yue cried, her voice breaking.

“I—I can’t! It’s not working!” Lou panicked, jabbing uselessly at the handle.

Yue’s eyes went wide with terror. He was there again. Standing at the front door. Watching them.

“AAAAAAAH!” she screamed.

Jian spun around and saw him too — the same figure, now moving toward them with slow, deliberate steps.

“LOU, PLEASE, HURRY!” Jian shouted, rushing to the car. He tried to smash the window with his fist. “WHY IS THIS TAKING SO LONG?! USE THE KEY!”

“Oh—damn—sorry!” Lou gasped, finally remembering in her panic that she had the key. She pressed the button; the lock clicked.

Jian ripped the door open, scrambled into the driver’s seat, and Lou shoved the key into his hand.

As soon as the engine roared to life, Bi-Han reached Yue’s window and drove his palm into the glass.

It exploded inward.

Yue screamed as shards rained around her, but Jian floored the gas before Bi-Han could grab her. They shot down the street, leaving the shattered window — and the monster — behind.

“Tom and his girlfriend are dead,” Jian said, voice shaking. “He killed them. He ripped them apart.”

Lou clapped both hands over her mouth, horrified. Yue listened in stunned silence, trembling.

“Have you heard the news about the killer in L.A.?” Jian continued, barely able to control his voice. “The one going on a spree? He tears people apart—rips their limbs off before they die. Lou… that thing did the same to Tom.”

“You’re saying… he’s that killer?” Lou whispered.

“He is, Lou. There’s no doubt,” Jian said.

Yue had heard every word. Tears streamed down her cheeks. The creature that had stood in her room and tried to take her… was the same monster who killed Mr. Riddle. The same monster tearing through the city.

“FUCK!” Jian shouted, slamming his hand against the steering wheel. “What is this? What is he? And what does he want from us?!”

“It wants me,” Yue said quietly.

Lou turned to her in shock. Jian stared at her through the rearview mirror, stunned.

“What do you mean, Yue?” Lou asked gently.

“He spoke to me,” Yue whispered.

“He… spoke to you?” Jian repeated, horrified.

“Yes. He knew my name. He said he came here to take me…” Yue sobbed.

Lou reached back and took her hand. “Hey. Hey. Look at me,” she said softly. “None of this is your fault.”

“It is!” Yue cried. “Because of me, so many people are dead.”

“Yue, listen to me,” Lou said firmly. “You are not to blame. That monster chooses what he does. Not you. We won’t let him take you, do you hear me?”

“If he wants you,” Jian said, forcing strength into his voice, “he’ll have to get past me first. I won’t let anything happen to you, little one.”

Inside, though, his stomach twisted.
How did that thing know Yue’s name?
Why did it want her so badly?
Why had it killed everyone around them?

Something was connected to his adopted sister. Something dark. Something he didn’t understand.

But whatever it was, he would find out.

And he would protect Yue. No matter what.

“We have to go to Lee at the police station and tell him everything,” Jian said, patting his pockets with one hand. They were empty. “Shit. My phone’s at home. I forgot it.”

“Mine too,” Lou said. “Let’s just drive straight to the station. We can’t handle this alone.”

“We don’t have a choice,” Jian said, jaw tight, and turned toward the station, hoping Lee would be there.

 

When they pulled up at the station, Jian nearly ran over an officer walking toward the entrance. All three jumped out of the car.

“Is Lee here?” Jian asked, voice frantic.

“James Lee? Yeah, he is,” the officer said, frowning. “What’s wrong with you? You almost hit me!”

“Thanks!” Jian tossed over his shoulder before sprinting inside with Lou and Yue. The officer just stared after them.

“Jimmy! Jimmy!” Jian shouted.

“What in heaven’s name is going on?!” Chief Donovan barked, striding toward them as Yue clung to Jian’s side.

“Where is Jimmy?! Is he here?” Jian demanded.

“Yes, he is. Calm down!” Donovan insisted.

“Calm down?” Jian snapped. “That thing was in our house!”

“What thing?” Donovan asked, confused.

At that moment, Lee rushed over. “Jian, what’s wrong?”

“Jimmy—he… that murderer… he was in our house!” Jian said, words tumbling over each other. “He killed my buddy. He tore him apart and—”

“He was inside your house?!” Lee repeated, eyes widening. He shot a look at Donovan. Donovan finally understood who they were dealing with.

“In my sister’s room,” Jian added. “Please, Jimmy. Help us!”

“Okay. First, calm down. You’re safe here,” Lee said firmly. “Come with me.” He turned to Donovan. “Chief, we need a team at Jian’s house now. There’s a body there. And call SWAT. Get that bastard. I’ll take care of the kids.”

“Two bodies,” Jian added quietly. “His girlfriend Jessica is dead there too.”

Donovan nodded grimly. “I’ll send a team. You protect them.” He raised his voice. “Everyone, move! SWAT is rolling out. That monster is being stopped tonight!”

 

In Lee’s office, the kids sat with steaming cups of tea in their hands. Their fingers still shook.

Lee scribbled notes as they talked. When he was done, he turned carefully to Yue.

“And he knew your name?” Lee asked. “And he said he wanted to take you?”

“Yes,” Yue whispered.

Lee nodded and wrote it down.

“Jimmy, what happens now?” Jian asked. “I thought you wanted to involve the military. Why only SWAT?”

“We tried,” Lee said with a frustrated sigh. “Lt. Sonya Blade and Jax Briggs don’t see a reason to deploy the military over one man.”

“Are they serious?!” Jian exploded. “Do they have any idea what’s going on in this city?!”

“That’s the problem,” Lee said. “Because all of this is happening only in L.A., they don’t think they need to send in the army. ‘Not for one individual,’ they said.”

“Fuck,” Jian muttered. Lou and Yue glanced at him, then back at Lee.

“Listen,” Lee said calmly. “We’ll get him. I promise. For now, you stay here. You’re safe.”

All three nodded.

Lee’s radio crackled to life.

“Officer Lee, Unit 65, can you hear me? Over.”

Lee picked it up. “Officer Lee here. Over.”

A few seconds of static. Then:

“We confirm two bodies found behind the property on Kentwood Avenue. One male and one female, about eighteen. The male was dismembered. The female strangled. Please confirm identification. Over.”

Lee glanced at the kids and sighed. “Understood. Over.”

“Oh my God…” Lou whispered, trembling as she took a sip of tea. Yue stared at the floor, frozen. Jian ran a shaking hand through his hair.

“You said your friend’s name was…?”

“Thomas Watanabe,” Jian answered. “I don’t know Jessica’s last name. Tom just introduced her to me today.”

“Understood,” Lee said, lifting the radio again.

“Unit 65, Officer Lee here. Can you hear me? Over.”

No answer.

“Unit 65, this is Officer Lee. Do you read? Over.”

Still nothing.

The silence felt wrong.

“Hello, Unit 65—are you there? Over.”

This time, a voice replied.

“I hear you.”

Not the voice he expected.
Dark. Cold.

Yue flinched hard. Her whole body began to shake. She knew that voice.

“That’s him… that’s him…” she whispered, almost inaudible, then clung to Jian, sobbing.

Lee’s eyes widened. He knew exactly who he was speaking to.

“Who is this?” Lee asked, forcing calm into his voice. “Who am I speaking with?”

“The master himself,” the voice replied.

It was Bi-Han.

“You seem very eager to make our work harder,” Lee said, talking the way he would to any suspect, hoping to keep him talking.

“I’m making your work easier,” Bi-Han replied. “I’m just doing what’s right.”

“Aren’t we all trying to do what’s right, every day?” Lee asked.

Jian, Lou, and Yue stared at him. They could tell—Lee was probing, pushing, trying to get information.

“You don’t bother to get it right,” Bi-Han said. “Where I come from, mistakes are not allowed.”

“A perfectionist, then?” Lee replied. “Too bad. You’ve already given yourself away. We know who you are.”

Silence.

Had Lee hit a nerve?

“It doesn’t matter,” Bi-Han finally said. “I always get what I want…”

Lee’s heart skipped. “And what do you want?”

“The little girl,” Bi-Han said calmly. “I want her, Officer.”

Lee’s eyes flew to Yue. She trembled violently, clutching Jian like she might disappear if she let go. Jian’s jaw clenched; his breathing sped up. Lou wrapped her arms around Yue from behind, holding her as tightly as she could.

“What do you want from her?” Lee asked.

“I don’t reveal my plans so easily.”

“Then you’ll understand I can’t just hand her over,” Lee said.

“I don’t need your permission to take her,” Bi-Han replied. “No one keeps from me what belongs to me…”

“Belongs to you?” Jian whispered, stunned. Yue’s mind raced. Why would this monster claim she belonged to him?

Lee pressed on. “Explain that.”

“I don’t waste time,” Bi-Han said. “My temper doesn’t allow it. Hand. Her. Over.”

“I’m sorry to disappoint you,” Lee lied steadily. “The girl you’re looking for isn’t here.”

“You don’t need to lie, Officer,” Bi-Han said, voice darkening. “I’m watching the girl right now.”

Panic fell over the room like ice water.

All four of them looked around wildly. Lee rose from his chair, scanning the office. Nothing. No one. Just the four of them and the hum of the lights.

“Oh, Officer,” Bi-Han continued. “It was nice talking. Did you really think I was that naive?”

The window exploded inward.

Everyone ducked as glass rained down.

Bi-Han landed in the office in a blur of black and green, eyes fixed on Yue.

She screamed.

Lee drew his gun and fired repeatedly, but the bullets barely slowed Bi-Han. He laughed—a low, chilling sound—as if the whole thing amused him.

“JIAN! TAKE THE GIRLS AND GET OUT—NOW!” Lee shouted.

Jian didn’t hesitate. He grabbed Yue, pulled Lou by the arm, and the three of them sprinted out of the office as officers stormed in to help Lee.

It didn’t matter. Bi-Han tore through them one by one.

Jian, Lou, and Yue threw themselves into the car and sped away from the station.

Inside, Lee fired again and again until his gun clicked empty. He tried to reload, but Bi-Han was already upon him. He seized Lee’s arm, wrenched the gun away, and flung it aside.

Lee swung a desperate punch, but Bi-Han blocked it with ease and drove him to the ground. A sharp crack echoed as Bi-Han stomped down, breaking Lee’s leg.

Lee screamed, but still tried to crawl toward his fallen gun.

“Do you have children, Officer?” Bi-Han asked, looming over him. “Would you kill anyone who stood between you and your children?”

Lee heard the question but couldn’t yet process the meaning. He reached for the gun.

Bi-Han grabbed him by the collar, hauling him halfway off the ground. His free hand curled into a fist.

“And that,” Bi-Han said coldly, “is exactly what I do.”

Everything went black.

 

Upon arriving in Edenia, Liu Kang, Raiden, and Kung Lao bowed deeply before Empress Sindel and her daughters, Kitana and Mileena.

“Lord Liu Kang,” Sindel began, her voice regal but wary, “what is so urgent that you had to come here personally?”

“It’s about Bi-Han,” Liu Kang answered. His tone was grave. “He has lost control of himself. I can no longer reach him. He has already taken many lives in Earthrealm.”

Sindel, Kitana, and Mileena exchanged troubled looks.

Liu Kang exhaled slowly. “My powers are not strong enough against his Chaos Form. As Lord of Fire, I must admit—alone, I cannot stop him. That is why we are here.”

Sindel was silent for a moment. Raiden stepped forward.

“Empress Sindel,” Raiden said respectfully, “it would be an honor if Princess Kitana and Princess Mileena could accompany us to Earthrealm. Their aid could help us stop Bi-Han.”

Sindel rose from her throne and walked toward Liu Kang. Her eyes searched his.

“Tell me, Lord Liu Kang,” she said quietly. “Would it truly be worth it?”

“He intends to kill her,” Liu Kang replied. “His own daughter. A little girl.”

Sindel’s eyes widened.

That was enough.

“I will send Kitana with you,” she declared. “Mileena will remain here at my side. If the situation further escalates beyond your control, I will send her after you.”

“Thank you, Empress Sindel,” Liu Kang said, bowing deeply.

Raiden and Kung Lao bowed as well.

The war for one little girl’s life had officially begun.

Chapter 7

Summary:

Once a warrior of ice, Bi-Han fell into darkness and became the wraith known as Noob Saibot. On Liu Kang’s orders, he was sent to the Temple of the Elements in a futile attempt to reclaim his lost humanity.
While he lingered in shadow, his wife, Chyou, carried their child—a child Bi-Han believed would be the son to continue his legacy. But fate had other plans.

Six years later, Bi-Han escapes the temple to find his wife in a coma and his child hidden from him. And when he learns that his firstborn is a daughter, his fury ignites.
Now, the fallen warrior hunts across realms to Los Angeles, where his daughter Yue lives in peace—unaware that her father, the shadow himself, is coming for her.
Now, father and daughter are destined to meet for the first time… and fate itself will tremble.

After arriving in Los Angeles through Liu Kang’s portal, Johnny Cage, Tomas, and Kuai Liang appeared inside Johnny’s home.

“I imagined your place would look a little different,” Kuai Liang said in surprise, glancing around the somewhat messy living room, cluttered with movie posters and old memorabilia.

“The richer you get, the more expensive divorce becomes here in America,” Johnny sighed. “I had to sell my Malibu mansion.”

“I’m really sorry to hear that, honestly,” Kuai Liang said with sympathy.

“Same here,” Tomas added. “That must’ve been rough.”

“Ah, it’s all good,” Johnny waved it off, forcing a grin. “The worst part was the tabloids during the divorce. But thank God that’s all over. Besides, as the saying goes—when one door closes, another opens.”

With that, Johnny showed the former Lin Kuei brothers a framed picture of a small blonde girl with a radiant smile.

“This is my daughter, Cassandra—Cassie for short. She’s my happiness. Nothing else matters.”

“She’s got something of you in her, Johnny,” Tomas observed with a faint smile. “I hope you and your ex can make it work for her.”

“Oh, no. No, no—she’s not Chris’s kid.” Johnny leaned forward with a mischievous grin. “Six years ago, I had a thing with a hot soldier. She was breathtaking—and damn sexy.”

Kuai Liang raised an eyebrow. “I see.”

“She wanted nothing to do with me, but I didn’t give up. She kept kicking me where it hurts, but I was stubborn. One night, it finally happened—BOOM SHAKALAKA!” Johnny threw his hands up dramatically. “I’ve got balls of steel, baby! And I did it—I made her a mother. Woohoo!”

Tomas and Kuai Liang exchanged an awkward glance. Tomas finally cleared his throat.

“Johnny, maybe we should focus on what’s important.”

“You’re right,” Johnny said, snapping back into focus. “We need to stop your psycho brother. My bad, hehe.”

“L.A. is a huge city,” Kuai Liang said seriously. “My brother could be anywhere.”

“Hmm…” Johnny thought for a moment, then snapped his fingers. “We’re used to little sleep, right?”

“Sleep is a foreign concept to the Lin Kuei,” Tomas replied dryly.

“Then here’s my plan—we drive through all of L.A. in my car. It’ll take time, but it’s the only way to find Bi Han—or his daughter. Whoever we reach first.”

“That sounds like a solid plan. Let’s move,” Kuai Liang said.

Just as they were about to leave, the television switched on with a loud breaking news alert. The three men turned toward the screen.

“In Los Angeles, a young man and woman were found murdered on Kentwood Avenue. Several police officers were also massacred, including well-known Chief Alan Donovan. Some were gravely injured, and one officer remains in a coma.”

“What?!” Johnny Cage exclaimed, his voice filled with shock. The three of them stood frozen, their faces pale. Then the report continued:

“At the destroyed police station where the killer struck, a message was found written on the wall—not in Latin, but in Chinese Hanzi characters.”

Kuai Liang’s eyes widened in disbelief. “No… it can’t be.”

Johnny and Tomas turned to him immediately.
“Kuai bro, what’s wrong? What does it say?”

Before Kuai Liang could answer, the news anchor continued:

“A Chinese translator was contacted to interpret the message. It reads: ‘You can’t run from me forever. You belong to me, and I will come for you—no matter what.’
To whom this message was addressed, and what connection it has to the killer, remains under investigation.”

Johnny’s jaw dropped. “Oh, sh—” He covered his mouth. “That’s insane! What your brother’s doing is terrifying—I’m actually scared.”

“I still can’t believe this is Bi Han,” Kuai Liang said quietly, his voice breaking with sorrow. “I don’t recognize my own brother anymore. I’ve never feared anyone the way I fear him now.”

“Kuai bro, you can’t afford to be afraid,” Johnny said, stepping closer. “You’ve got to stay strong. We’ll get your brother—I promise. Let’s hit the road.”

“Johnny’s right,” Tomas agreed, resting a hand on Kuai Liang’s shoulder. “Sitting around won’t help. We have to protect the city by finding Bi Han first.”

Kuai Liang nodded, the cold determination of the Lin Kuei flickering in his eyes once more. “You’re both right. Let’s go—we’re running out of time.”

 

At the Los Angeles Police Department, the atmosphere was tense — buzzing with sirens, footsteps, and the cold hum of chaos. Officers hurried from desk to desk while files and photos of gruesome crime scenes littered every surface. The smell of coffee couldn’t mask the weight of fear that hung in the air.

Sonya Blade and Jax Briggs had just arrived, greeted by Kurtis Stryker — who did not look happy to see them.

“How long are you two planning to sit on your hands?!” Stryker barked, slamming his palm against a table. “Haven’t you seen enough? How many more have to die?!”

“Calm down!” Sonya snapped, irritation already flaring. “The government explicitly forbade us from getting involved. You think we want to sit back and watch that bastard kill more people?”

She stepped closer to him, her eyes sharp as steel.
“I’d love nothing more than to catch that guy myself — and end him personally.”

“Yo, Sonya, chill,” Jax said, raising his massive mechanical hands in peace. “We all want that — me included. But we’ve gotta be smart about it. The higher-ups can forbid the military all they want… but they can’t stop us.” He pointed between himself and Sonya with a determined nod.

Kurtis exhaled sharply through his nose, then nodded. “Alright. You’ve seen what’s going on here. You know the stakes.”

“The killer left a message on a wall — in Chinese,” Sonya said grimly. “It’s directed at someone, but we don’t know who. We’ll find out.”

“Creepy as hell,” Jax muttered, rubbing his chin.

“Stryker!” a nearby officer shouted, running over with a folder clutched in his hand.

“Yes?” Stryker turned sharply.

“We found something — Officer Lee’s notes. He made them before he was attacked.” The officer handed over the papers. Kurtis nodded and started reading through them. His expression darkened with every line.

He looked up. “You two should read this.”

He handed the notes to Sonya, who began reading aloud, her voice firm yet grim:

• Two dead behind the property on Kentwood Avenue.
• Victims: Thomas Watanabe and girlfriend Jessica (last name unknown), both eighteen years old.
• Witnesses described dismembered body parts on Thomas.

Sonya’s lips tightened. She and Jax exchanged a heavy look.

“Wait — witnesses?” Jax asked, confused. “You mean people saw what happened?”

“Not saw it,” Stryker corrected grimly. “They found it. The attack happened while they were inside the house. Keep reading.”

Sonya continued:

• Young witness, six-year-old girl, stated that the murderer was in her room.
• The killer hid inside her closet. He spoke to her and told her he would take her.
• He knew her name, though she didn’t know him.

Jax froze mid-breath. Sonya stopped reading. Both turned toward Stryker, their faces pale.

“Holy shit… what the hell is going on?” Jax whispered. “And why the hell is Officer Lee only in a coma? He must know more.”

“We’ll get the answers without him,” Sonya said, her voice turning sharp again. “Kurtis, is there a way to find out who owns the house — where the attack happened?”

“Of course.” Stryker turned to the same officer who’d brought the notes. “Do we have the homeowner’s name?”

“Not exactly. Only Officer Lee would know for sure, but we can pull up the property records here if you need them.”

“That would help a lot,” Stryker said. The officer nodded and began typing rapidly on the computer as the others gathered around.

“Why didn’t Lee write the names down in his report?” Jax asked.

“Privacy laws,” Stryker said bluntly. “He probably didn’t want to put a child’s identity in an official log.”

The officer’s eyes widened suddenly. “Got it — here’s the file.”

He pointed to the screen. “The homeowner’s name is Jian… pretty young guy, actually.”

Stryker squinted at the photo, frowning. “I know this kid. Officer Lee’s practically his godfather — ever since his parents died. At least, that’s what Lee told me.”

He scrolled further through Jian’s profile — until something caught his attention.

“Wait… Lee mentioned another person living with Jian.”

“I’ll check,” said the officer, scrolling again. Then he froze. “Here. He lives with his little foster sister — name’s Yue.”

Sonya leaned closer to the screen to get a better look at the girl’s photo. And when she did — she froze completely.

“Oh my god…” she whispered. “She’s in the same class as my daughter. She was there the day her teacher, Mr. Riddle, was killed. She must be around six years old…”

Jax turned toward her. “Sonya? You okay?”

Sonya started pacing, connecting the threads in her mind.
“Jax — the message on the wall. The killer who spoke to her. The murders — Mr. Riddle, the two teens. He’s after her.”

Kurtis and Jax exchanged horrified looks.

“Guys,” Sonya continued, her tone low but firm, “don’t you see it yet? The killer’s hunting that girl. The message — it’s meant for her.”

“You’re right,” Stryker said, realization dawning. “Oh my god…”

“Holy shit, Sonya,” Jax said, shaking his head. “You’re telling me this psycho’s hunting a child? Seriously?! I’m a dad — and that gives me chills.”

“Jax, Kurtis — we need to find her before he does,” Sonya ordered. “We’ll figure out why later. There’s more to this little girl than any of us understand.”

Before anyone could respond, a voice spoke from behind them.

“We know what’s going on — and who’s behind it.”

They turned toward the entrance — and saw Johnny Cage, Tomas, and Kuai Liang standing there.

“Johnny,” Sonya groaned, rolling her eyes, “we don’t have time for your usual acting routine.”

“This time, it’s for real, baby,” Johnny said, dead serious. “These are Tomas and Kuai Liang — former Lin Kuei. Their brother took a dark path.”

“Lin Kuei?” Jax asked, brow furrowed.

“The Lin Kuei are an ancient clan from China,” Kuai Liang explained solemnly. “They were meant to protect Earthrealm. But when my brother became Grandmaster, everything changed. He’s lost control — obsessed with power. He wants to rule Earthrealm… and kill his own daughter.”

He pointed to the screen, where Yue’s picture was still displayed.
Sonya, Jax, and Kurtis all froze. A chill ran through the room — every alarm bell going off in their minds.

Silence fell.
Every soul in the room understood one thing:
This wasn’t a serial killer.
This was a monster.
And he was coming for a child.

 

Little Yue sat silently in the back seat, her wide brown eyes reflecting the flashing lights of Los Angeles. The weight of what she had seen at the police station had hollowed her gaze. Jian and Lou sat in front, both shaken to the core. No one dared speak at first — only the hum of the car filled the silence.

Jian gripped the steering wheel so tightly his knuckles turned white. His voice trembled when he finally broke the silence.
“What do we do now? What the fuck do we do?”

“I don’t know, Jian!” Lou’s voice cracked. “Just keep driving — we’ll find help, somehow. Maybe head to another city… maybe even leave the country. I don’t have a plan!”

“Right, leave the country?” Jian barked, his tone caught between anger and despair. “And abandon your mom? Is that what you want?”

Lou’s eyes glistened. “What do you want me to say, Jian? You think I’m fine?! No cop can help us — everyone’s dying! My mom’s scared to death, your friend’s dead, Yue’s teacher’s dead, Jimmy’s probably dead — and that psycho wants your sister!” Her voice cracked completely. “This is hell!”

Jian slammed a fist against the dashboard. “You think I don’t know that?! I can’t just leave her, Lou! You get that?! I can’t—” His voice faltered, breaking into raw panic. “This is so fucked up!”

“I know…” Lou whispered, reaching across and laying a trembling hand on his thigh. “I’m scared too. But you’re not alone.”

“I wish I could take you home, Lou…” Jian muttered, his voice trembling.

“No.” Lou’s voice was firm now, determined. “I’m in this with you. We get through this together.”

From the back seat, Yue turned to look out the rear window — and froze. Her eyes widened. Her heart skipped a beat.

“He’s behind us, Jian!” she screamed.

“What?” Jian shot a glance at the rearview mirror — and nearly choked on his breath.
There he was.
Noob Saibot.
Running.

He was fast — impossibly fast — his dark form gliding across the pavement like a shadow given life. The glowing white of his eyes pierced the night.

“Holy shit!” Jian slammed his foot down on the gas. The car roared forward, but Bi Han was faster — closing the distance with inhuman speed.

“JIAN, PLEASE DRIVE FASTER!” Lou screamed, tears streaming down her cheeks.

“I’M GOING TWO HUNDRED KILOMETERS AN HOUR!” Jian yelled, voice breaking. “THIS GUY’S LIKE FREAKING USAIN BOLT ON DEMON JUICE!”

Lou glanced behind them. “He’s gone… Jian, I don’t see him!”

Then — a flicker of shadow.
Bi Han was suddenly running alongside the car, keeping pace with them, his glowing eyes locked directly on Yue through the window. His presence felt suffocating. His steps — silent.

“Jian…” Yue whimpered, voice small, trembling.

Then Bi Han slammed his palm against her window. Crack! The glass splintered but didn’t break. Yue screamed.

“JIAN!” Lou cried.

“YOU FUCKING SON OF A BITCH! WHAT DO YOU WANT?!” Jian shouted, his voice breaking between rage and terror. He swerved, trying to shake Bi Han off, but the figure barely flinched — pounding the glass again, his glowing eyes emotionless.

Yue ducked down, sobbing uncontrollably. Jian’s heart pounded so hard it felt like it would burst. Then he saw something — a road sign just ahead.
Night Club L.A. — 100 meters.

“Yue! Lou! Hold onto the handles!” Jian barked. “I’ve got a plan — but it’s risky.”

“What plan?!” Lou screamed, clutching the dashboard.

“You’ll see.” Jian gritted his teeth. As soon as the side road appeared, he slammed on the brakes and spun the steering wheel sharply left. The car screeched, skidding sideways — slamming directly into Bi Han.

The dark figure was thrown through the air like a rag doll, flipping and crashing across the asphalt before rolling to a stop.

For a second, silence.
Then Jian laughed — a short, hysterical, half-relieved laugh.
Lou’s chest heaved as she gasped for breath, and Yue clung to her seat, trembling.

“Ha! Take that, you freak!” Jian shouted through shaky breaths. He rolled down the window and yelled into the night. “YOU SON OF A BITCH! YOUR HARLOT MOTHER’S SUCKING DICKS IN HELL! HAHAHA!”

Lou’s jaw dropped. “Really unnecessary,” she said dryly. “Also… Yue’s right behind us.”

“I just wanted to show that bastard who he’s dealing with,” Jian said proudly, forcing a grin despite the tremor in his hands.

When they finally reached the nightclub, Jian noticed the fuel gauge — empty. “Damn it. Tank’s dry. Whatever. We’ll go in, find help, and hide.”

“How are we getting in with Yue?” Lou asked skeptically.

“I’ve got a plan. There’s a spare jacket in the trunk — from my kung fu practice. I’ll put it over her and keep her close.”

“You do kung fu?” Lou blinked. “Since when?”

“Since before my wallet went broke,” Jian muttered.

“Doesn’t matter. Come on.”

He quickly wrapped Yue under the jacket, whispering, “Remember — not a sound, okay sweetheart? We’ll get through this.”

“Okay,” Yue whispered back, her voice trembling.

At the club entrance, a muscular security guard stood by the door, arms crossed. The thumping bass of the music pulsed through the walls.

“Open your jacket,” the guard said sternly.

“What for?” Jian asked casually. “We just came to have a good time.”

“Open it, or you’re not getting in.”

Jian raised an eyebrow. “Come on, man. Do we look like troublemakers? You think we’re drug addicts? My godfather’s a cop — Officer James Lee. If he ever thought I was using, I’d be a dead man.”

The guard blinked. “Wait — James Lee? He’s your godfather?”

“Yeah. He’s been looking after me since my parents died. He’s like my second father. Swore to protect me.”

The guard’s expression softened. “He’s a good man. I know him — we went to college together. Nice to hear his name again. Go on in.”

“Thanks, man,” Jian said, giving him a grateful nod as he led Lou and Yue inside.

“Nice lie,” Lou whispered with a grin.

“Nice improv,” Jian winked back.

Inside, the club exploded with life — strobes flashing, people dancing wildly as Pitbull ft. T-Pain boomed through the speakers:

Ooh, drop it to the floor
Make me wanna say hey, baby (you can have whatever you want)
Yeah, you can shake some more
Make me wanna say hey baby (you can have whatever you like)
Ooh, you got it, 'cause you make me wanna say hey baby (you know what I want)
Yeah, don't stop it
(I want you tonight)

 

“There are too many people,” Jian muttered, scanning the crowded hall. “I don’t know where to go.”

“Just keep moving,” Lou urged, gripping his arm. “We’ll find somewhere to hide.”

At the far end of the club, Kenshi Takahashi sat alone, nursing a glass of whiskey. Though blind, he felt the rhythm of the music through vibration — every beat echoing through his senses. His wife had always told him to go out, to listen — to sharpen what sight had once offered. But tonight, he felt something else.
Something dark.
Something evil.
A presence that made the air itself heavy.

Meanwhile, Jian, Lou, and Yue pushed through the crowd. Jian kept an arm around Yue under the jacket, whispering reassurance every few steps. But Lou suddenly froze — her entire body locking up.

“JIAN…” she whispered. “Look.”

Jian turned. His stomach dropped.

At the entrance stood Bi Han — tall, silent, his glowing white eyes sweeping over the crowd like a predator.

“JIAN!” Lou screamed. “He’s here!”

Jian didn’t think — he grabbed Lou’s hand and pulled her, forcing their way through the crowd. “MOVE! MOVE!” he shouted. The crowd protested, but the urgency in his voice made some step aside.

Behind them, Bi Han moved — calmly at first, then faster. His towering form cut through the dancers like a blade through smoke. A drunk man stumbled into him — a fatal mistake. Bi Han lifted the man by his throat with one arm and hurled him into a wall. Screams erupted.

“Please! Let us through!” Jian begged, pushing between terrified faces. But panic was spreading — and it was already too late.

Bi Han was in front of them.
Blocking their escape.
Broad. Unyielding. Terrifying.

“It was a big mistake insulting my mother, little man,” he growled, his voice low and venomous.

Jian froze. Lou’s breath caught in her throat.

“Jian, I can’t breathe!” Yue whimpered from under the jacket.

That was the moment Bi Han’s head tilted slightly — and he heard her.

“No more games,” Bi Han said, stepping closer. “Give her to me. Now.”

He lunged forward and grabbed Jian by the throat, lifting him effortlessly off the ground. Lou screamed. Yue’s tiny arms clung to Jian’s chest, tears streaking her cheeks.

“JIAN!” Lou screamed, trying to pull Bi Han’s arm away, but it was like touching steel.

“Hand her over,” Bi Han hissed. Jian struggled, kicking, choking for air. The crowd stared — but the blaring music drowned their screams. No one understood what was happening.

Then Lou acted fast. She grabbed a glass bottle off a nearby table and smashed it over a random man’s shoulder. The bottle shattered with a crash.

“HEY! WHAT THE FUCK?!” the man yelled, spinning on her.

“HE DID IT!” Lou shouted, pointing straight at Bi Han.

The man turned, saw Bi Han holding Jian in the air, and charged.
“Got a problem, asshole?!”

Bi Han dropped Jian, who fell gasping to the ground, freeing Yue from under his jacket. Yue looked up — and froze as Bi Han’s shadow loomed over them.

“Hit me,” Bi Han said flatly.

The man swung a heavy punch.
Bi Han dodged with ease — then struck back with bone-breaking precision, sending the man crashing into a table. Bottles shattered, blood sprayed. Bi Han picked up another bottle, emptied it, and rammed it into the man’s mouth — through his neck.

The man fell limp.
The club erupted into chaos.

People screamed and ran in every direction, trampling each other in panic. Jian grabbed Yue, Lou at his side, and forced their way toward the back exit.

Kenshi stood now, his head turned toward the sound of Bi Han’s voice. His expression hardened. So… it’s you.

He rose to his feet, his hand resting on the hilt of Sento.

Outside, Jian, Lou, and Yue burst through the doors, gasping for air. Yue’s sobs echoed into the night. But at the entrance stood a glowing figure — calm, powerful, radiant.

“Finally… I’ve found you,” he said softly.

Jian froze. “Who are you?” he demanded, panting.

The man stepped forward — Liu Kang. His presence radiated warmth and strength, yet his eyes were full of sorrow. He looked at Yue and saw her trembling, terrified little face. It broke his heart.

“You’re safe now,” Liu Kang said gently. “Don’t be afraid. We’ll protect you. Trust me.”

He raised his voice slightly. “Raiden, Kung Lao — I found them. She’s alive. Yue’s alive.”

Moments later, Raiden and Kung Lao appeared beside him — followed by Ashrah, Sareena, and Syzoth.

“Thank the Elder Gods she’s safe!” Sareena said. “We need to move. Now!” Ashrah commanded.

“Wait—who are you people?!” Jian shouted. “And how do you even know my sister?!”

“I’ll explain everything soon,” Liu Kang promised. “But we must leave before Bi Han finds us.”

“The guy chasing us — his name’s Bi Han?” Jian asked, shocked.

“That’s right,” Liu Kang said grimly. “But there’s more you need to know.”

Before he could continue, Sonya, Johnny, Jax, Kurtis, Tomas, and Kuai Liang appeared.

“She’s alive,” Liu Kang said with relief. “We made it.”

“Thank the Elder Gods,” Kuai Liang breathed, visibly relieved.

“So… we did it,” Tomas murmured, smiling faintly.

Johnny glanced back toward the nightclub — and froze. “Guys… that’s Kenshi! He’s in there — and he’s fighting Bi Han!”

“Let’s go finish that bastard!” Sonya shouted, already moving — but Liu Kang grabbed her shoulder.

“That won’t work, Sonya. He’s too powerful. You can’t fight his chaos form. I have to get you all out — to Wu Shi.”

He raised his hands — but the portal flickered, then collapsed into sparks.

“No…” Liu Kang whispered, fear flickering in his eyes.

“Liu Kang, what’s happening?” Raiden asked.

“My powers…” Liu Kang said, voice heavy with dread. “They’re fading. I can’t open long-distance portals anymore. I can’t reach Geras.”

“What does that mean?” Kitana asked. “You can’t bring us home?”

“That’s right,” Liu Kang said grimly. “And not just that. In this timeline, only one being can wield supreme power across realms. No other can share that strength.” He looked toward the chaotic nightclub. “And Bi Han’s power is growing — darker by the hour. If this continues… he’ll gain control of all realms.”

Everyone fell silent.
Kuai Liang’s expression crumbled with sorrow — the reality of his brother’s fall crushing him.

“I can’t reach Geras,” Liu Kang continued quietly, “or Bi Han’s wife. She’s with him.”

“He… has a wife?” Lou whispered, stunned.

Jian just stared blankly, trying to process everything.

But hope wasn’t gone yet. Johnny Cage suddenly grinned.

“Liu Kang — you can’t send us far, right? But maybe somewhere close. My old mansion in Malibu — it’s empty now. My buddy Marvin owns it, but I’ve still got access. It’s safe. Bi Han won’t find us there.”

Liu Kang’s lips curved into a small, relieved smile. “Johnny… there’s more to you than just a clownish actor.”

“Hey!” Johnny protested. “I’m a serious clownish actor.”

“Your movies suck,” Jian muttered, smirking weakly. “And so do you.”

“Why, you little—!” Johnny started, but Liu Kang raised a hand — and with a brilliant flash of light, they all vanished.

 

They reappeared moments later inside Johnny’s former Malibu mansion. Kenshi was there too — bewildered but alive.

“Johnny?” Kenshi asked, disoriented.

Johnny grinned and threw his arms around him. “Kenshi, bro! Long time no see!”

“Johnny, please…” Kenshi sighed awkwardly — but smiled faintly.

Liu Kang turned to the children — Yue still trembling, clutching Jian’s arm.

“I know you all have questions,” Liu Kang said softly. “And I promise — I’ll answer them soon.”

 

Back at the nightclub, Bi Han stood alone amidst the flames. The music had long since stopped.

His white eyes burned with fury.
His chest rose and fell with ragged breaths.
And then, his voice — low and echoing — broke the silence.

“LIU KANG!”

The walls trembled. The night itself seemed to shudder.

The hunt had only just begun.

Notes:

It will be tense guys. I can‘t wait for chapter 8 to write and to publish. Me, who write this story, becomes uncomfortable of all this. HAHAHA. Anyway, I hope you like Chapter 7. Enjoy.

Oh and I like the song from Pitbull and T-Pain. OOOO DROP IT TO THE FLOOR! :D

Chapter 8

Summary:

Once a warrior of ice, Bi-Han fell into darkness and became the wraith known as Noob Saibot. On Liu Kang’s orders, he was sent to the Temple of the Elements in a futile attempt to reclaim his lost humanity.
While he lingered in shadow, his wife, Chyou, carried their child—a child Bi-Han believed would be the son to continue his legacy. But fate had other plans.

Six years later, Bi-Han escapes the temple to find his wife in a coma and his child hidden from him. And when he learns that his firstborn is a daughter, his fury ignites.
Now, the fallen warrior hunts across realms to Los Angeles, where his daughter Yue lives in peace—unaware that her father, the shadow himself, is coming for her.
Now, father and daughter are destined to meet for the first time… and fate itself will tremble.

Notes:

This chapter is very long, but I promise this chapter is not boring!

Enjoy reading 🥹🫶

Inside Johnny’s old mansion, the atmosphere was finally a bit calmer. Being farther away from Bi-Han gave everyone a chance to breathe — at least for now. But Liu Kang knew this peace wouldn’t last. He had to act quickly… and tell them the truth.

Before he could begin, Jian spoke up first.

“I’ve got a question,” Jian said, pointing at Johnny. “How exactly are you guys connected to this loser?”

“Hey! I’m not a loser,” Johnny protested, offended. “I’m a successful Hollywood star! I’ve won multiple Emmy Awards!”

Jian rolled his eyes and mimicked dramatic hand gestures, clearly mocking him.

“Oh yeah? The last movie you did — that awful Baywatch remake where you played Mitch Buchannon — had one of the worst IMDb ratings ever! And seriously, whose genius idea was it to wear pink heart-print swim trunks as a lifeguard?!” Jian shot back, grinning.

That was enough to make Kenshi and Jax burst out laughing — and soon they couldn’t hold it in anymore.

“Listen, kid,” Johnny snapped. “When the original Baywatch aired, you were still swimming around in your dad’s balls! You have no idea what real Baywatch was!”

“So what?” Jian smirked. “That’s why we have Netflix and Amazon Prime, right? My parents even collected all the old Baywatch DVDs — so yeah, I’ve seen it. And still, you weren’t fit to play Mitch Buchannon…” He paused, then added with a grin, “…because you’re a loser.”

“That’s it, you little—!” Johnny lunged forward, but before he could reach Jian, Liu Kang raised his hand and shouted:

“ENOUGH!”

A burst of fire flared from his palm — bright, hot, and commanding — silencing everyone in the room instantly. The warmth of the flames faded, and stillness settled like a heavy blanket.

Liu Kang watched little Yue begin to drift off. Her eyelids grew heavy, her body leaning against the sofa as exhaustion pulled at her small frame.

He smiled softly and walked toward her.

“Yue, you should rest while we’re here. You’re safe now.”

“I’m not sleepy…” she mumbled, fighting to keep her eyes open.

Liu Kang chuckled gently and turned to Sareena.

“Sareena, please take her to a room where she can rest.”

“Of course, Liu Kang,” Sareena said kindly, taking Yue’s small hand. “Come with me, my dear,” she whispered softly. Yue nodded and followed the demon woman down the hall.

When they disappeared, Lou spoke up.

“Mr. Liu Kang, shouldn’t Yue be here for this? You said you’d explain everything.”

“I’ll speak with her later — privately,” Liu Kang replied. “But for now, it’s important that you, as her protectors, understand what’s truly happening.”

Before he continued, Sareena quietly reappeared and stood beside Ashrah, giving Liu Kang a silent nod. Yue was asleep — or so they believed.

In truth, Yue was still awake, her small feet padding softly as she hid behind a nearby pillar. She peeked out curiously, watching the adults, listening to every word — too afraid to sleep now.

Liu Kang took a deep breath.

“As you already know, you’ve been hunted by someone who seeks to take Yue away. He has already claimed many innocent lives… just as I feared.” His voice broke slightly — the weight of failure pressing on him. His fading powers left him feeling helpless.

“The one pursuing you is named Bi-Han. You already know that much. But what you don’t know… is that he was — and still is — human.”

“What?” Jian and Lou gasped, their eyes wide in disbelief.

Liu Kang nodded solemnly.

“Behind you stands his younger brother — Kuai Liang.”

The teens turned. Kuai Liang stood silently, his expression grim, shoulders heavy with unspoken history.

“This has to be a joke,” Jian muttered, horrified. “You’re kidding, right?”

“It’s no joke,” Liu Kang said. “Bi-Han and Kuai Liang were both born into the Lin Kuei — an ancient clan in China sworn to protect the Earthrealm.”

“Earthrealm?” Jian asked, confused.

“You’ll learn what that means soon enough,” Liu Kang answered, continuing. “Their father was Grandmaster of the Lin Kuei — leader of the clan, guardian of its traditions, and protector of Earthrealm. As the firstborn, Bi-Han was chosen to inherit that title.”

Jian and Lou listened closely, leaning forward, as if the truth itself might slip away if they didn’t hold on tightly enough.

“But as you’ve already seen,” Liu Kang said darkly, “he abused that power.”

He traced a glowing circle in the air. Golden sparks spun into a magical projection — and everyone watched in silence as a shimmering image appeared before them.

What they didn’t notice was Yue’s small face peeking out from behind the column, eyes wide with awe. The magic lights reflected in them like stars. She couldn’t sleep — not when something this incredible, and terrifying, was happening.

The image formed into the figure of a man — strong, proud, unmasked.

“This,” Liu Kang said, “is Bi-Han — the Grandmaster of the Lin Kuei — before he became the wraith you now know as Noob Saibot.”

Jian’s jaw dropped.

“What the hell…? Look at those muscles! Is he on steroids or something?”

Kuai Liang gave a faint, tired smile.

“Years of training. The Lin Kuei is not for the weak.”

“What happened to him?” Lou asked quietly, almost afraid to hear the answer.

“He followed the darkness,” Liu Kang said. “And the darkness followed him. It started with disobedience — refusing orders, defying his father. But when his father refused to break tradition…” Liu Kang’s tone grew heavy. “…Bi-Han had him killed.”

Lou gasped. Jian’s mouth hung open. Kuai Liang closed his eyes in pain at the memory, guilt and grief flickering across his features.

“After that,” Liu Kang continued, “he sought control. He demanded obedience — from everyone. He wanted power. He wanted to rule Earthrealm. That desire led him deeper into the shadows… until this became of him.”

The image shifted — Bi-Han’s form twisting into black smoke and armor — Noob Saibot. The sight of him now was monstrous, inhuman — a living shadow with ice in his veins.

Liu Kang hesitated before speaking again.

“There’s… something else. Something I take no pleasure in saying.” He drew in a deep breath.

“As Grandmaster, he was required to marry — to ensure an heir would carry the Lin Kuei’s legacy. He accepted that duty. He took a wife.”

Another glowing image appeared — Bi-Han standing beside a woman in a wedding robe, their faces peaceful, captured in a rare moment of warmth.

Jian and Lou both froze.

But Yue — watching from behind the pillar — gasped softly, her tiny hands covering her mouth. She knew that face.

It was the woman who used to sing her lullabies at night, who she calls Mama.

The voice from her dreams.

“His wife,” Liu Kang explained, “was a healer from Hailin, a city in China. She possessed hydrokinesis — the power to control water. For a time, she melted his frozen heart. For a time… he was human again.”

He paused, his voice softening.

“Then, she became pregnant. We all believed this was his redemption — that he might finally find peace.” Liu Kang’s gaze dropped. “But he said if the baby was to be a girl, he swore he would kill the child.”

Lou’s eyes widened. “Oh my god.”

Jian was speechless, fists clenched at his sides.

“Where is the baby now?” Lou whispered.

“When I imprisoned Bi-Han in a temple to contain his darkness,” Liu Kang said, “his wife gave birth — to a daughter. But the loneliness and grief broke her heart. She collapsed, and I placed her in a healing coma, hoping to save her. The child… I brought to safety. Here, in Los Angeles.”

And six years later, he found her…”

Jian’s expression fell as the truth dawned on him. He didn’t need to hear the rest — but Liu Kang said it anyway, his voice firm.

“The man who hunts you… the one who has brought death and chaos to this city…”

He turned slowly, his eyes meeting those of every person in the room. Even Yue, hidden in the shadows, could feel his words pierce the air.

“…is Yue’s biological father.”

“NOOOO!”

 

The scream tore through the air like a blade. Everyone froze, then turned toward the sound.

It was Yue.

She had heard everything — every single word.

 

“Yue? Yue!” Jian shouted, sprinting toward his sister. Lou and Kuai Liang — her uncle — rushed after him.

“NO! NO! PLEASE, NO!” Yue sobbed as she stumbled up the stairs, tripping halfway. When she reached the top, she stopped dead. Her chest heaved, her breathing shallow and ragged. The shock was too much. Her mind couldn’t keep up with what she’d just learned.

That monster… was her father?

All this time, it had been him chasing her?

He wanted to… kill her?

The thought shattered her.

Yue’s small, fragile body couldn’t bear it. Her stomach twisted, and she doubled over, vomiting onto the floor before collapsing, still trembling and whimpering.

“No… no. That’s not my father… THAT’S NOT MY FATHER!” she screamed, her voice raw and breaking. Tears streamed down her face as if she were mourning someone dear to her. Her legs gave out, and she fell to the floor, sobbing uncontrollably.

“YUE!” Jian rushed to her side, scooping her into his arms. Lou knelt beside them, her own eyes wet. The others gathered around, silent and helpless, watching the little girl break apart before them.

“Jian, please… wake me up,” Yue cried into his chest. “Wake me up! This is just a dream, right? Please, Jian, I can’t do this. I’m so scared. I just want to go home. I don’t want any of this anymore!”

Jian held her tightly, stroking her hair.

“Everything’s going to be okay, Yue. We’re here. You’re not alone.”

He let her cry. Let her pain pour out. Lou reached over and rubbed Yue’s back gently, whispering soft words of comfort. Around them, the others stood in silence, feeling her grief as if it were their own. Even Liu Kang turned away, guilt shadowing his face. He hadn’t wanted any of this. And yet, a part of him knew — he bore some of the blame.

“Yue…”

Kuai Liang stepped forward and knelt beside her, extending his hands. Yue looked up at him through tear-blurred eyes.

“I’m your uncle,” he said softly. “Kuai Liang. And the man over there is your uncle Tomas. If I tell you we’ll protect you, Yue… then we will. You — and your friends.”

Yue hesitated, then placed her small, trembling hand in his. Kuai Liang took it gently and pressed it to his cheek, feeling the warmth of her touch as if it were the most fragile treasure in the world.

“Thank you… Uncle,” she whispered, managing a weak, tearful smile.

“Come,” Jian said softly. “Let’s go to your room and take a break, okay?”

Yue nodded faintly. Jian and Lou helped her up, and the three of them slowly disappeared down the hallway, Yue’s steps shaky but supported.

When they were gone, Liu Kang stepped closer to Kuai Liang, his voice low and heavy with meaning.

“Deep down, you know it too,” he said. “She’s the Lin Kuei’s last hope.”

Kuai Liang’s eyes narrowed. “Has she even inherited his power?”

“She has,” Liu Kang replied quietly. “But it hasn’t awakened yet.” He looked toward the stairs where Yue had vanished.

 

“It will.”

 

Bi-Han’s aura burned with rage. Liu Kang had returned — and once again, he was meddling in his affairs. That was the last straw. He had taken his daughter — and Bi-Han had no idea where.

The worst thing wasn’t the loss. It was the not knowing.

No plan. No location. No control.

Fury erupted from within him. With a roar that shook the forest, Bi-Han slammed his fist into a tree, and the massive trunk splintered and crashed to the ground.

He had never felt power like this before — raw, surging, intoxicating. And he liked it.

He was hungry for more.

“You’ll see, Liu Kang,” he growled, his voice echoing through the cold air. “You’ve interfered in my life — and in the Lin Kuei — for the last time. I should’ve killed you… just like I did the other gods!”

With another furious strike, he shattered a second tree. Bark and frost exploded in all directions. He drew in a deep breath, trying to focus — to channel his fury rather than drown in it.

Then he felt it.

Something within his power shifted. Energy coiled around his arms like living ice, swirling and pulsing.

Suddenly, pain shot through him — sharp and searing. His veins bulged beneath his skin, glowing faintly as his blood surged faster, heavier, more violently than ever before.

“What is this…?” he hissed, clutching his arm.

 

And then — he understood.

A bond.

A connection — between him and her.

More than that: his power revealed the truth.

A link of blood and spirit.

Father and daughter.

Not just in name — but bound in essence.

 

He could feel her now. Her fear. Her heartbeat. Her presence.

And he knew exactly where she was.

His lips curled into a dark smile.

“I’ve found you…” he whispered.

 

Yue, Jian, and Lou sat in silence. Not a single word passed between them.

The shock still hung heavy in the air — and for Yue, it felt as if her entire world had shattered.

Her tears hadn’t stopped once.

She lay on the bed, motionless, as pale and weak as if struck by illness. Her eyes stared blankly at the wall, her voice barely a whisper as she spoke through her grief.

“Every day… I pray to see Mama and Papa again. I draw pictures of us — all of us together. I prayed for Baba… I prayed he was okay…”

Her voice broke, and the tears came harder.

“Yue… hey…” Jian hurried to her side, wrapping his arms around her trembling body. “Yue, please don’t cry. It’s going to be okay. We’re here for you.”

But before he could say another word, Yue’s body went rigid. A violent tremor seized her.

“Yue? Yue! What’s happening?!” Jian shook her gently, panic rising in his voice. Lou rushed to help, but nothing worked. Yue screamed in agony, her body convulsing uncontrollably.

Then — her eyes turned white.

They glowed, blinding and unnatural — like twin moons burning with icy light.

“Shit!” Jian shouted, leaping to his feet and throwing open the door. “LIU KANG! KUAI LIANG! EVERYONE! SOMETHING’S WRONG WITH YUE!”

Within seconds, footsteps thundered through the halls. The Earthrealm warriors rushed upstairs. Liu Kang and Kuai Liang were the first to burst into the room — and both froze at the sight before them.

Yue writhed on the bed, her face twisted in pain, her eyes blazing white with otherworldly energy.

“HELP ME! IT HURTS!” she screamed.

“Liu Kang! Everyone — please, do something!” Jian cried, tears in his eyes.

Kuai Liang darted forward, kneeling beside the bed, trying to steady the girl as her body trembled violently.

“Uncle…” Yue gasped through her cries. “I can feel him… it hurts so much!”

Her voice broke on the last word, and Kuai Liang’s heart sank.

Liu Kang’s eyes widened — realization flashing across his face.

“Kuai Liang — it’s almost over!” he called out.

And he was right. Slowly, Yue’s shaking subsided. The light in her eyes dimmed, fading back to their natural color. Her breathing steadied, her small body relaxing as exhaustion claimed her.

Just before she drifted into unconsciousness, she whispered one final word:

“Baba…”

Everyone froze. The room fell silent — all eyes fixed on the girl.

Kuai Liang turned to Liu Kang, his voice tight with concern.

“Liu Kang… what was that just now?”

Liu Kang exhaled heavily.

“A connection,” he said quietly. “Between father and daughter.”

Every gaze in the room locked on him as he continued.

“This is a new kind of power. In Earthrealm, people might call it an upgrade. It means that the stronger Bi-Han becomes, the more influence he can exert. He can’t sense or control just anyone — it only works with those bound to him by blood… close family.”

Kuai Liang frowned. “So you’re saying…”

Liu Kang nodded grimly.

“Bi-Han used his power to forge a link with Yue. His abilities told him the truth — that she carries his blood. And now, through that bond…”

He paused, his expression darkening.

“…he can track her. Wherever she goes, he’ll always know where to find her.”

“FUUUCK!” Jian yelled, making everyone flinch. “We are so fucked up.” In the commotion he had woken Yue; she looked at him with worried eyes.

“Too right!” Johnny’s voice cut through, tense. “Look who’s on our tail.” He pointed at the window, and everyone followed his finger to peer out of the huge panes.

Speak of the devil.

There he was — Bi-Han, having traced his daughter all the way to Cage Mansion.

“No! No, oh my God, no.” Lou couldn’t believe it; she nearly collapsed.

“Liu Kang, he’s here!” Tomas called, alarmed. Yue’s breaths came quick and shallow, as if she could no longer draw full air into her lungs.

“Mr. Liu Kang… I’m scared!” Yue sobbed.

“Do not be afraid, my child,” Liu Kang said, placing a steady hand on her small shoulder.

“We will protect you.” Then he turned to the others. “Bi-Han will arrive in a few moments. Prepare yourselves for battle. Two of you must stay with Yue and the children — the rest will face Bi-Han.”

“I’ll stay with them, Liu Kang!” Sareena stepped forward and stood by Yue.

“Thank you, Sareena,” Liu Kang replied.

“Tomas…” Kuai Liang looked at his brother. “You should stay with Sareena and the children.”

“Understood, brother.” Tomas moved to take his place. As Liu Kang took up a defensive position and the others readied themselves, Kuai Liang patted him on the shoulder.

“I’ll handle this. He’s my brother — I know him better than anyone.”

“Good. Be careful — and give us a sign if you need help.”

“Will do.” Kuai Liang walked to the front and planted himself before the door. He did not bother opening it — he didn’t need to. He knew Bi-Han would smash it down with his bare hands.

And that’s exactly what happened.

The door exploded inward. Kuai Liang flinched; everyone heard the crash and braced. Yue, Jian, and Lou heard it too, hearts thudding.

When Bi-Han strode into the mansion, he halted abruptly at the sight of his younger brother. He inclined his head slightly, an odd, mocking courtesy on his cruel face.

“Greetings, brother,” Bi-Han said, his hands open in a mock gesture. “I see you missed me.”

“I miss the silence you bring,” Kuai Liang replied coldly. “I see you’re adjusting well to your new powers.”

“These powers are an advantage for the Lin Kuei,” Bi-Han said.

“Hah. An advantage to the Lin Kuei’s ruin,” Kuai Liang shot back, unamused.

“Pity you’re still too blind to see how magnificent the Lin Kuei have become,” Bi-Han sneered.

“You corrupted the Lin Kuei. Magnificent they are not — nor is their Grandmaster. You brought them to ruin, and Father had to die for it.”

Bi-Han sighed, tired of being lectured about their father.

“Are you starting this again, Kuai Liang?”

“History repeats itself — and this time it’s about her. But this time, I will protect her,” Kuai Liang said, voice steady with conviction.

“You’ve met my daughter already…”

“And you will not touch her. I will not let you.” Kuai Liang stepped forward.

“Are you sure?” Bi-Han asked, casual menace in his tone. “I would not let it go this far if I were you, brother. You know I’m the stronger of the two of us. There’s a reason I’m Grandmaster.”

“You should know I’ve grown beyond your horizon. You cannot hurt me — because I will stop you here and now.”

“Cut the nonsense, brother. I don’t have time for your speeches. I came to take my daughter. Clear the way.” Bi-Han moved to pass, but Kuai Liang planted himself in the doorway.

“Enough of this,” Bi-Han said.

“I… will not… let… you… pass,” Kuai Liang replied, every word sharp as a blade.

Rage flared in Bi-Han. His body trembled, barely contained fury coiling through him.

“I WARN YOU!” he bellowed. The shout made everyone jump. Yue shivered with fear at the sound of her furious father. She hid behind Jian, who was sweating with fear.

“Keep this up and you’ll terrify your own daughter,” Kuai Liang spat.

“I feel her fear, Kuai Liang. I’m connected to her.” Kuai Liang’s eyes widened in disgust at the confession. Liu Kang had warned him, but hearing it from Bi-Han enraged him.

“She trembles in uncontrolled terror,” Bi-Han said almost casually.

“Stop it — go away from here!” Kuai Liang barked.

“As soon as I have my daughter, I will leave.”

“You will not get her!” Kuai Liang roared, his fury pushing his eyes to their limits.

“Then, little brother, you shall face my wrath,” Bi-Han ground through clenched teeth — and with those words, the fight began.

Bi-Han and Kuai Liang fought against each other — a battle between two brothers who were once a team. Now, they were bitter enemies.

“You should be glad I haven’t killed you already, after you left the Lin Kuei,” said Bi-Han as they fought.

“As if you ever had a chance against me,” Kuai Liang shot back and landed a kick on him.

“Don’t underestimate me, brother. I’ve stood against gods… and against our father.”

That was too much for Kuai Liang. Enraged, he delivered a spinning kick that sent Bi-Han stumbling, but still standing on his feet.

“You won’t get them!” Kuai Liang shouted and went to strike, but Bi-Han blocked his attacks and kicked him in the face, knocking him to the ground.

“We’ll see about that, brother!” As Kuai Liang tried to get up, Bi-Han delivered one final spinning kick that sent him flying into the living room, crashing into a pillar.

Then Bi-Han appeared again, his tall, powerful figure casting a shadow across the room. He was ready to fight and carve his way through anyone who stood in his path — him against the remaining kombatants. They took their battle stances, ready to face him.

“Show me what you’ve got,” Bi-Han said, and the fight began.

Everyone attacked Bi-Han — everyone except Tomas and Sareena, who hid the children in another room to keep them safe from him.

“I can’t just sit here and do nothing,” Tomas complained helplessly.

“No, you have to stay here, Tomas. We need to protect the children in case Bi-Han comes!” Sareena said, trying to reason with him. The children watched silently, fear spreading among them. Yue’s terror was still clear in her eyes.

“I’ll check how the fight’s going. Stay here, understood? I’ll be right back.” With those words, Tomas left the room to see if the others had managed to subdue Bi-Han.

What was once hope turned into bitter disappointment. Tomas’s eyes widened in shock.

Bi-Han had defeated almost all of them. He grabbed the weakened Kitana by the throat and tried to strangle her.

“So, Empress Sindel sent you to stop me? Hmm… pathetic.”

But just then, Sonya appeared from behind and struck Bi-Han to distract him, managing to save Kitana. Bi-Han dropped Kitana to the floor and turned his attention to Sonya. He punched her hard in the face, knocking her unconscious, and threw her into the pool. He looked around to make sure everyone else was either unconscious or too weak to stop him. Then he moved toward his true goal.

Tomas ran back to the room to warn Sareena and the children.

“Bi-Han’s coming! He took them all down!”

“Not if I can help it…” Sareena said, transforming into her demonic form.

“Coooool,” Jian said, impressed, despite everything.

“Thanks,” Sareena winked at him — just as Bi-Han smashed through the door.

“Get out of my way, Tomas!” Bi-Han threatened.

“Sorry, Bi-Han, but I’m afraid I can’t do that.”

And so began the fight between Bi-Han and Tomas. Sareena joined in, trying to help, but Bi-Han was stronger. He slammed Tomas hard to the floor, the impact sending pain through his back. The children panicked — especially Yue, who cried in fear.

“Bi-Han, please… don’t do this. I can help you, just like you helped me once in the Netherrealm. Think of your wife!”

“I don’t need your help, Sareena. You betrayed me — just like my brother did. You know what Liu Kang did to my wife, and yet you help him.”

“He’s trying to save her — because she’s in that state because of you!”

As Sareena tried to attack, Bi-Han grabbed her arm and hurled her out of the room. She was injured and reverted back to her human form.

“Traitor,” Bi-Han hissed, then turned to the children. Panic and screams filled the room. Yue cried and hid behind Jian and Lou, desperate to avoid her father.

Jian stepped forward and tried to punch Bi-Han in the face, but it was useless — as if he’d struck steel. Bi-Han grabbed the boy and tossed him carelessly aside.

“JIAN!” the girls screamed, crying in terror. Lou stood protectively in front of Yue.

“Please… take me instead. I’m not afraid!”

Before Bi-Han could grab Lou, something unexpected happened.

Jian, still on the ground, launched himself upward with a bicycle kick — a technique he had learned back when he practiced Kung Fu. It worked. He shouted with effort as he kicked Bi-Han, managing to knock him down.

“Jian! Oh my God — you saved us!” Yue and the girls cried in relief, hugging him. Jian himself couldn’t believe what he’d done.

“Come on, we have to get out of here!” he said — but Bi-Han blocked the exit, cracking his neck as he stood up again.

“We’re so screwed!” Jian yelled, and the girls screamed in fear.

Just as Bi-Han moved toward the children, he suddenly felt a sharp pain in his arm — a Kunai spear had pierced through it.

It was Kuai Liang, arriving at the last second to save them.

“GET OVER HERE!” he shouted, pulling Bi-Han toward him and flinging him through the window. The glass shattered, and Bi-Han seemed to fall into the depths below.

“Uncle Kuai Liang!” Yue cried joyfully, hugging him in gratitude. Kuai Liang smiled warmly at his niece and looked around.

“Is everyone all right?” he asked.

“All good!” Jian assured him as the other fighters slowly regained consciousness, bruised but alive.

“Well done, Kuai Liang,” Liu Kang said approvingly. Kuai Liang nodded in thanks.

“I need to find a way to reach Geras as soon as possible. But for now — we need to get out of here before Bi-Han wakes up.”

“He’s… awake again,” Yue said softly, her face pale.

“What—” Jian began, but he couldn’t finish. He suddenly collapsed unconscious.

“JIAN!” Yue cried, kneeling beside him, trying to wake him up. As she looked around, she saw the others falling unconscious one by one — even Lou. She didn’t understand why.

Tomas did.

He saw Bi-Han casting a spell — something like a magical chloroform — that spread like mist throughout the building. He had to act fast. Yue was still unaffected.

He rushed to her, putting his mask on her face to protect her. He held it in place gently before collapsing himself, knowing his time had run out.

As he fell unconscious, he whispered one last word:

“Run…”

And so she did.

Little Yue was now all alone. Seeing her father, she ran toward the exit, clutching the mask tightly — desperate to escape. Bi-Han saw her and charged after her, determined to catch her.

And so, Yue ran for her life and managed to escape from the mansion. Unfortunately, her father was right on her heels. She cried as she ran — ran as fast as her little legs could carry her.

When she reached the dark streets of Malibu, she searched desperately for help. Strangely, there was no one around. Especially in Malibu, that was unusual. And at such a dangerous moment, it felt even worse. Yue looked around and cried out for help while Bi-Han pursued her.

“HELP! PLEASE, SOMEONE HELP ME! I’M SCARED AND BEING CHASED!” Yue sobbed uncontrollably but kept running. She reached a few houses and banged hard on the doors, hoping someone would open and help her. But in vain — some people quickly pulled down their blinds, others turned off their lights. Yue was completely on her own.

Then she changed direction and ran toward Malibu Beach. But even there, no one seemed to care. Only a few people were around — junkies passing through the night, minding their own business. Yue ran through the sand, ran and ran, but her father was still behind her, chasing her relentlessly.

“You cannot escape, Yue,” her father’s dark voice echoed. Yue looked back and saw he was almost upon her. She screamed and tried to run even faster, despite her exhaustion.

“HELP ME!” Yue cried again, desperately. Someone had to help her.

Then she saw the lifeguard towers by the beach. She ran toward one and hid inside. She locked the door behind her and pushed chairs and other items against it to slow Bi-Han down. Then she crawled under a table, glancing around to make sure her father wasn’t nearby.

Pulling her knees to her chest, she broke down in tears. She cried her heart out.

“Jian, Lou, Uncle Kuai Liang, Mr. Liu Kang… I’m scared!” she sobbed. The poor little girl was no longer safe — not even from her own father. She didn’t know that she was connected to him, that he could feel exactly where she was. She couldn’t take it anymore. It was all too much for her.

“I just want to go home. I don’t want this… I’m scared and alone… I just want to go home…” Yue cried and cried, her small body trembling. She was heartbroken and confused. Why was this happening to her? Why did her father hate her so much? At least, that’s what she thought.

“Why do you hate me, Baba?” she asked through her tears.

And those words struck him like lightning.

The feared Grandmaster felt a piercing pain in his heart when he heard Yue’s question. He clutched his chest, feeling the anguish his daughter carried — all because she was terrified of him. Her own father.

Instead of feeling sorrow, Bi-Han’s pain turned to rage. He hated feeling emotions. He hated feeling pain. He had always hated it — ever since he broke his wife’s heart, even though he truly loved her but never dared show it. He had to be cold, hard, the perfect Lin Kuei warrior. But now, that icy shell was beginning to crack.

“No… this can’t happen again,” Bi-Han hissed through gritted teeth. “I can’t!”

He clenched his fist and smashed the window. It shattered into a thousand pieces.

Yue screamed when she heard the noise — her father had found her. She quickly scrambled to her feet and fled from the tower. Bi-Han entered moments later and sighed when he saw she was gone once more. Then he began to chase her again.

“HEEELP!” Yue screamed across the beach, still running for her life. She looked back to see how close her father was.

But suddenly, he was gone. Nowhere to be seen. That was strange. Yue stopped and looked around, but there was no sign of Bi-Han. As she backed up instinctively, still searching for him, she bumped into someone. Yue turned quickly — and to her relief, it wasn’t her father, but two older teenage boys.

“Looks like a little baby got lost,” one of them mocked with fake sympathy.

“Guess your parents didn’t want you anymore, huh?” said the other as he grabbed Yue’s arm.

“Let me go!” Yue cried in panic, but then one of them pulled out a knife and threatened her.

“Say one word, and things will get very ugly,” the boy hissed. Then he began to drag her away.

“LET ME GO! HELP!”

“Shut up, you little brat!” the boy shouted angrily.

“HEEELP!” Yue screamed even louder, panicking completely.

Then something happened that no one — not even Yue — expected. Her arms suddenly turned to ice, and the frost spread, freezing the boy’s arms solid.

“What the—” the boy gasped, staring at his frozen limbs. “What did you do?!”

“I didn’t mean to!” Yue cried, terrified by what she had done. She couldn’t believe it herself.

“Shut up! What are you, some kind of witch?” the other boy growled.

“No, please, I didn’t mean to, I swear!” Yue sobbed, but they didn’t believe her. When the frozen boy tried to attack her again, Yue shoved him instinctively in self-defense. He fell backward onto a rock, and the impact shattered his frozen arms into pieces.

“AAAAAAH!” he screamed in agony. “My arms! My arms!”

“You little witch! You’re dead!” The other boy raised his hand to strike her — but before he could, Bi-Han appeared and stopped him.

“Let me go, you bastard!” the boy yelled.

“With pleasure,” Bi-Han said coldly — and tore the boy’s arms off, throwing them to the ground.

Both boys screamed in terror.

Bi-Han finished them both swiftly, killing them. When he was done, he turned to look at his daughter. Yue could no longer stand; exhaustion had overtaken her. She collapsed onto the sand and slowly drifted into unconsciousness. Bi-Han walked toward her — closer and closer. She barely opened her eyes before everything went black. But before she fell into deep sleep, she whispered one last word:

“Baba…”

“At last, we’re together, my daughter,” Bi-Han said softly.

He lifted his sleeping daughter into his arms and disappeared with her, carrying her as she slept against his shoulder.

He had seen everything. He had seen her power awaken.

Her cryomancy had activated. She had inherited his power.

 

Geras was watching over the Hourglass, but something felt wrong. He sensed that something was out of balance — he could no longer reach Liu Kang.

“Where are you, Liu Kang?” Geras muttered in confusion. This wasn’t like Liu Kang at all, and Geras knew it. Something big must have happened — something that prevented even him from being found.

Behind him, a glass crystal shattered. Geras turned immediately. From the shards, a woman emerged — it was Bi-Han’s wife, Chyou. She had been in a coma for six years to recover her strength. Now, she finally awoke, looking around in confusion.

Geras approached her with a gentle smile.

“Welcome back, Lady Chyou.”

 

 

 

 

 

Notes:

My first story, i had it always in my head. I hope you like the first chapter. I also had to write the romance first between Bi Han and his wife. That is important, because it shows the background of the past and the birth of their daughter.

I also thanking my best supporter sareena_x for the courage of writing this story.

The next chapter will come as soon as possible…