Note: I do not own Mortal Kombat, MK: Conquest or any of the characters related to the MK franchise. (Wish I did!) My original characters such as Althea, Lupena, and Kuravan are my creations; want to borrow them no problem, just ask first. Also, I'm sorry on pulling a ``Johnny Cage'' with Jola but reading over my stories I felt I was missing something. My plans for Jola will help solve that. (Insert evil laughter)
Chapter Twenty Two: Common Enemy
``Damn it, Rayden! I need to train, ``yelled Althea as she tried to get her arm freed from the thundergod's grasp.
''You have trained enough for today, its time for a break, ``replied Rayden as he pulled the woman to the hot spring, ``You are suppose to be resting, not drilling yourself into the ground.''
Althea's eyes flashed dangerously as she dug in her heals and said, ``You are so lucky you are my only ride out of here.''
''With that in mind,''he said as he picked her up and dumped her into the spring, clothes and all. ``Now I want you to soak for at least an hour, ``he ordered, ``I'll be back by then with something to eat.'' He then vanished with a flash.
''Rayden!'' Althea screamed into the empty air.
(Scene Change)
Quan Chi studied the artifact closely. So far his attempts to control the blasted thing have failed. The sorcerer angrily threw the medallion onto his work desk as he fumed.
``Lupena! Jola! ``he yelled as he sat on his throne. His anger increased when only Jola appeared at his summons. The would-be crime lord remained silent and bowed slightly to her master.
''Where is Lupena? ``Quan Chi demanded.
Jola replied with a slight smile, ``I don't know, would you have me find her?''
Growling slightly, Quan Chi wondered at the woman's apparent calm but decided to ignore it for now. ``Yes, I do want you to look for her, ``he said, ``but first I want you to deliver a small message to an old friend of yours.'' Seeing Jola's smile turn cruel, he added with a small laugh, ``Not that type of message, but perhaps next time.'' He then handed her a scroll.
(Scene Change)
A dark wolf loped through the woods with no destination in mind. The one it sought would find her, rather than the other way around. The wolf stopped and took a deep drink from a cold stream.
''Nice night for a walk, ``said Fuijin from the other side of the stream. The wolf's head went up with a start and a growl in surprise.
''Let's not start that again, ``Fuijin said with a smile, ``You're the one that wanted to see me, remember. Let me guess why; you can't stand you new partner.''
The wolf stopped growling and sat on it haunches. As if he heard the wolf talking to him Fuijin said, ``He what?!''
The wolf nodded and then whimpered slightly.
''Damn! ``said Fuijin, ``You're right to be worried. That thing is way too dangerous.'' He looked away briefly as he thought. As useful as she was, it was just too dangerous to ask her to keep spying on Quan Chi. ``Ok, I'll see what I can do, ``he said, ``Just don't go back there. Get yourself and your pack out of here or at least stay away from that pasty face idiot.'' With a gust of wind, Fuijin was gone.
The she-wolf turned to head back to her pack when a sudden blast of smoke darkened flame headed straight at her. She jumped and dodged just in time, but still felt the heat of the fire as it went past her.
''I knew you were a bitch, but a filthy spy as well, ``said Jola coming out from behind some trees, ``Quan Chi is going to love hearing about this.''
The wolf changed and shifted into a large, two-legged monster. With a roar, the werewolf ran to the dragon shadowed woman. Jola just grinned as she easily dodged the first swipe of the wolf's claws and then caught the second one. Tightening her grip with the strength of a dragon, she brought the werewolf to its knees
''You're lucky that he will want you back alive, ``then Jola smile grew larger and meaner, ``Or perhaps not. After all we know what he does to those who fail him, wonder what he'll do to one who betrays him?''
The sound of an arrow and then Jola fell forward, releasing her captive. Jola fell to the ground, with a crossbow bolt in her back. ``Run! ''came Drevane's voice. The creature didn't need to be told twice as it shifted back into a wolf and ran in the direction of the voice.
Seconds later, the shadow of the black dragon appeared and seemed more solid than before. The bolt that was imbedded in Jola's back flew out as if pulled and thrown. The dragon's shadow faded, but Jola's eyes flashed with fire as she got off the ground. With a roar she looked around, but saw that both her targets were long gone. Quan Chi was not going to be happy.
(Scene Change)
The wolf silently followed the trail of the man that saved her from the dragon woman's wraith. After a few minutes, the she-wolf caught up with the Red Dragon leader. She followed him for a ways as he quietly and quickly made his way through the woods. Where he was going, she had no idea but she had to know why he saved her.
Drevane hid the smile that threatened to crack his face. If his tail saw it, it would have been a dead give away. He couldn't believe his luck coming across Jola and Lupena at each other's throats. The werewolf and her pack would be powerful allies against the Black Dragon. If he could convince them to work with him.
Drevane eventually reached his hidden camp. A small enclosed area surrounded by the stone wall of a mountain on three sides and a thick brush of the fourth. After restarting the fire, he placed a kettle of water to boil.
Lupena, now in human form, watched from the brush. She knew she should be warning her pack but instead she was watching this human make tea! Mentally kicking herself, she turned to leave.
''Would you care to join me? ``asked Drevane not bothering to look up from the fire.
Lupena turned to glare at the man as her eyes glowed red.
''I wouldn't do that if I were you, ``said Drevane, ``After all we do have a common enemy.''
The woman took a calming breath and entered the clearing.
''Tell your pack that I wish to make a deal, ``said Drevane as he checked the water.
Lupena growled, ``You have nothing to bargain with.''
''Just tell your pack leader what I said, ``he said as he looked directly at her, ``You owe me that much.''
(Scene Change)
Rayden sighed, breaking the deafening silence. Althea glared at him briefly and then returned to reading some scrolls he got for her. The thundergod didn't need the link between them to know she was still mad at him for dumping her into the hot spring. He wisely kept the chuckle that threatened to break free under control until he left the room. `Damn it, `he thought, `She knows that her chi energy is connected to both her physical and spiritual well-being. The bleach job alone should be proof of that.'
Rayden left the house and headed to the hot spring. He sat down on the soft moss and leaned back onto a large boulder shaped just for that. Taking in the silence of the night, he closed his eyes to think. The memory of the first sign's of Althea's improving health flickered in his mind. She was sitting on the bed, brushing her drying hair. ``You know I'm right, ``Rayden remembered saying. Althea turned to tell him something, but he didn't hear it as he noticed that her eyes were no longer crystal blue. They had returned to their original blue-green. With shock, he cupped her chin and made her look up so to get a better look at her eyes.
''What the hell do you think you're doing? ``she demanded as she pulled back from his hand.
''Your eyes...''he said as he led her to a mirror. Althea gasped as she saw her old eyes staring back at her.
Rayden opened his own eyes as he felt a summons. Frowning he stood up and looked in the direction of the house. `She needs time to cool off anyway, `he thought as he vanished with a flash.
Althea sighed with relief as she saw Rayden leave. Through their link, she also felt the summons and that was part of the problem. She wasn't sure if it was their bond growing stronger or perhaps just this domain, but in spite of both of them having their shields up, she was still sensing some of what Rayden was feeling. She loved the son of a storm cloud, but it was getting irritating to constantly have his feelings overlapping hers. Sometimes she didn't know which emotions were hers. Even their dreams were starting to merge. It was only when she was concentrating on something, training or studies, that she didn't notice it. It didn't seem to affect Rayden the same, but perhaps he was use to it. After all, he did have that weak one-way link with Kung Lao to keep track of the Champion of Mortal Kombat. Althea tested her link and shields. Yes! With Rayden outside of this domain she could not sense him with her shields up. Now she could get some real sleep.
The End
Next time on Mortal Kombat: Konquest....
Jola smiled and said (to the tavern crowd), ``I recommend you all leave. `` She then looked directly at Kung Lao, ``Unless you want to play the hero and get in my way.''
Kung Lao stood up and said, ``What war you have with the Red Dragon is none of my concern unless you make it so. ``
Next Chapter....

Chapter Twenty Three: Light Musings
The Elder God of Light observed the meeting between his fellow Elder God, Kronos and two gods from Earthrealm. Aether frowned; he had felt that perhaps Kronos was getting too close to those two and too interested in that mortal descendent of his. Now after hearing what Rayden and Fujin had to report to the Elder God of Time, he began to understand. How long has this been going on? Constant breaches of the rules set down by the Elder Gods, a possible re-awaking of one of the dragons, and possibly another rogue deity. Was the Council that far out of touch with reality?
Aether wasn't sure if he should be pleased or concerned with Kronos's reaffirmation that he nor any of the other Elder Gods could do nothing until something actually occurs. Even the Elder God of Light knew that by then it would be most likely too late. He went to his private chambers to think. How had the Council of the Elder Gods lost its power and focus? When Shinnok betrayed the Council? Or was it when over half of the original seven were replaced by younger gods? Aether sat back in his chair with a sad sigh. Only three of the original seven Elder Gods were still on the Council. One other still lived but was stripped of his powers and exiled to the Neatherrealm. The others destroyed by that same traitor. Mortals and lesser immortals ended up in one of the realms of the afterlife when they died, but what of the gods? No trace of the gods' souls killed in that war, have ever been found. Nor of the few that were killed since then.
Aether looked up to look at his own personal reminder of that war; a pair of swords hanging on his wall. He never carried or used them; in fact they were nearly used on him. If it wasn't for the loyalty of a personal servant the Council would have lost another Elder God that day. Few knew he had them or even that they existed. Most if not all other weapons that were made of that same deadly metal were long destroyed in the heart of a distant sun.
''My aren't we thinking a lot today, ``came a female voice, ``Careful, its been so long since you done anything like that you might strain yourself.''
Startled, Aether turned to the source of the voice and saw the one often called Lady Tomorrow leaning against the wall next to him. Despite himself he couldn't help asking, ``How did you get in here?''
The white haired woman shrugged and walked across the room. Looking around she said, ``You know, I do believe this is the only time I'm ever going to get the chance to see this place.'' She took one of the swords down off the wall and mumbled aloud, ``I always wondered where they came from...''
The Elder God of Light quickly got up and took the sword from the woman's hands. ``What do you want?'' he demanded as he placed the blade back on the wall.
The woman laughed slightly behind her scarf and said, ``I thought you were supposed to be the nice one. Anyways, I'm here to basically do the same thing I always do. Say a few cryptic words in the hopes that the person I'm talking to will get the hint. So far I have a perfect score, although there was that one time Rayden had me worried for a moment.''
The Elder God rubbed his forehead, definitely starting to feel a headache. ``Fine,'' he sighed, ``Just tell me what you came to say and leave.''
''Already have, ``the woman answered and vanished.
''What?! `` Aether exclaimed but then he took another long look at the swords.
(Scene Change)
Kung Lao waited at the tavern for his order. Has much as he knew Taja would complain about spending the money for it, he knew none of them could stomach another meal of their own cooking. The monk sighed and thought, `Perhaps I should ask Althea for cooking lessons.'
Someone stumbled into the tavern and Kung Lao nearly stood up at the sight. It was Drevane, but this time alone and worse for wear. The Red Dragon leader approached the bar and whispered a few things to the barkeep. The barkeep's face paled at whatever Drevane said and then left for the backroom with Drevane right behind him.
Kung Lao was tempted to follow to see what was going on but he knew they had enough trouble without looking for more. If Drevane kept his end of the bargain, anything he was doing had nothing to do with him or his friends. His food arrived and he was just about to leave when someone he never expected to ever see again walked in.
Jola looked around with cold eyes that flickered slightly when they passed over Kung Lao, but continued on as if looking for someone in particular. During this, the noisy tavern crowd went silent. They knew who she was, Jola of the Black Dragon, and it seemed that she was looking for someone. Cold fear washed over them, they all heard the story that she was dead with the rest of the Black Dragons, killed by the Red Dragon. If she was alive, that means the ruthless Black Dragon was returning as well.
''Where is the one called Drevane?'' Jola demanded in a toneless voice.
One hearty soul pointed to the back room where Drevane and the barkeep just when into.
Jola smiled and said, ``I recommend you all leave. `` She then looked directly at Kung Lao, ``Unless you want to play the hero and get in my way.''
Kung Lao stood up and said, ``What war you have with the Red Dragon is none of my concern unless you make it so. ``
With a cold laugh Jola replied, ``Oh don't worry I'll get to you and you merry little group soon enough, but for now I have bigger prey.''
As the crowd rushed passed him, he lost sight of the woman and was pushed out the door by the number of people trying getting out. Once outside, the monk fought his way out of the crowd. By the time he got clear of the mob, Jola was also walking out of the doors. Even from a distance, Kung Lao could tell she wasn't happy. ``Drevane! Where the hell are you! ``she roared. A faint outline of the black dragon appeared around her. Kung Lao took this as a hint it was time to warn the others. With the food package miraculously still in hand, the monk head back to the trading post.
(Scene Change)
''You have got to be joking, ``said Taja dishing out the food, ``She's dead, there is no way Jola could be back.''
''There are ways around that little handicap, ``said Fuijin appearing sitting on the fourth chair, ``Hey, no plate for me?''
''What do you mean there are ways of getting around being dead?'' asked Kung Lao.
''Dead is dead, ``added Siro, ``Right?''
While Taja prepared a plate for the wind god, Fuijin said, ``Where do you think her soul ended up after she died?''
Kung Lao felt like slapping himself as he said, ``The Netherrealm....Quan Chi.''
''Damn, why does he keep bothering us? I can understand Shang Tsung, Shao Kahn and Kuravan, but why Quan Chi? ``asked Taja with a tired voice as she sat down.
Siro shrugged and said, ``What makes you think this has anything to do with us? So far, Jola has only gone after the Red Dragon. I say leave warring dragons be.''
Kung Lao turned towards the god of wind and asked, ``What do you think?''
Fuijin took a bite of the food set before him as an excuse not to answer. Even though a god, even he didn't know everything.
(Scene Change)
''Hmmmm, ``said Quan Chi as he looked over the medallion one last time before giving it up for the day. The blasted dragon spirit was proving more difficult than expected to control, but he had plenty of time to work on his new toy. The sorcerer placed the medallion on his work bench and then left the room in search of more pleasant diversion. As the candles flickered out from the breeze caused by the closing door, the medallion glowed slightly and then went dark. Then the room briefly lit up in a blinding bright red light and when it grew dark again the medallion was gone.
The End
Next Time on Mortal Kombat: Conquest
Quan Chi turned around at the sound of a roar only to be engulfed in flame.
Next Chapter....

Chapter Twenty Four: Dragon Fire

With a silent flash Rayden appeared in his darkened house. With a yawn, Rayden was surprise how tired he suddenly felt and walked towards the bedroom. There he found Althea sleeping deeper than she has since she came to this place. Rayden wondered why she had to wait for him to be gone to get the rest she so desperately needed. His concern grew as she mumbled in her sleep as if sensing his musings. Then it dawned on him, the sudden drowsiness wasn't his. Strengthening his mental shields, he noticed that his drowsiness faded and Althea settled back down in her sleep. `Why didn't she tell me she was still sensing my feelings in spite of the shields?' Rayden thought as he quietly left the room and headed towards his small library. `Guess it can wait, I have more pressing matters. If one is to bend the rules, one needs to know which rules can be bent.' He thought with sarcasm as he pulled out a thick book and sat at his desk. With a sigh he lit the lamp on that desk and then opened the book.
(Scene Change)

``So the godslayer hasn't returned yet, ``said Drevane to his new `partner.'
''Lupena hasn't seen her since she left with the thundergod almost a week ago, ``replied the shaolin priest, Ryant, ``She would be a powerful ally, but she is in need of time to recover from past injuries. If what Lupena has reported, this time with the God of Thunder can only strengthen her and when she does return she might be the only one able to face Jola.''
Drevane sighed, once again he almost regretted giving up the red dragon spirit but even if he had full control of it he wouldn't have been a match for this new Jola. Already dead, she no longer had the weakness inherent for all dragon spirit hosts; the possibility of being burned out by constant use of the dragon's flames. ``You believe that this woman's chi energy will have the same effect on a dragon spirit as it does on a god?''asked Drevane.
Ryant shook his head and replied, ``No, I seriously doubt it but Althea does have some defenses from the dragon's flames.''
''If she doesn't drain herself out in the process, ``Drevane commented, ``What about Kung Lao and the others. They fought Jola before and survived.''
Ryant smiled, ``Like a true pack, when one is drawn into a fight with an outsider the others will join in.''
Drevane snorted at that bit of wisdom as he looked around the priest's private chambers. ``You know, I never thought someone like you would end up a priest.''
Ryant's eyes glowed red briefly as he replied, ``We all have our callings.''
(Scene Change)
''Where is he?'' demanded Jola as she held a struggling Lupena by the throat, ``Tell me and I might let you live for a few more days.''
Lupena only fought harder, not bothering to change her form since the first time she tried Jola's grip only grew tighter. Lupena only cussed at the black dragon woman as she mentally kicked herself for being caught. She was so caught up with the on-goings at the trading post; she neglected to watch out for other dangers. Like a cub, Lupena was caught by surprise.

``That is not the answer I was looking for, ``Jola said as a dark shadow of a dragon began to form around her.
''Put her down, ``came the calm, cold voice of an angry Kung Lao.

Jola turned to see that all three of the idiots were standing there, prepared to fight. Smiling she replied, ``I thought you said that the business I have with Drevane was none of your concern. Guess you were wrong.'' With her free hand she sent a wave of smoke filled fire towards the trio.
All three tried to dodge the flames, but the flames followed Kung Lao as if guided. Seeing this, Kung Lao ran straight towards Jola and her prisoner in the hopes of somehow making Jola hit herself with the flames.
Jola saw what he was attempting and placed Lupena between herself and the flames. Kung Lao skidded to a stop and prepared to take the full blast of the flames to protect the hostage. Just when the flames were going to hit an extremely strong blast of wind forced the flames to the side and down into the ground.
''I believe he said to put the woman down, ``said angry Fujin from behind Jola.
''You can't interfere in mortal affairs, ``said Jola with an evil smile.
Fujin returned the smile and replied, ``In case you haven't noticed, you're not exactly mortal anymore. I will not say it again, put the woman down.''
Jola growled has she threw Lupena towards Siro and then walked off into the night.
''Thanks,'' Kung Lao said as Taja and Siro helped Lupena up.
``No problem....this time, ``said Fujin and then he sighed, ``You're just lucky I realized that little loophole when I did.'' The wind god then vanished.
A little later Kung Lao was placing a damp towel gently around Lupena's bruised neck as Taja and Siro made sure the trading post was secured. ``Why was Jola questioning you?'' asked Kung Lao once the towel was loosely in place.
''No idea, ``Lupena rasped holding the towel so it wouldn't fall, ``She just kept demanding I tell her where someone named Drevane was.''
Taja and Siro returned to the kitchen as Kung Lao said with a sad smile, ``We know you have been watching us. For who, we don't know but it's obvious that your no friend of Jola's.''
Lupena just looked away and remained silent. ``All we want is to be left alone, ``said Kung Lao giving his friends a meaningful look, ``If whoever you are working for needs to tell us something have them contact us directly.''
''We're getting tired of being watched all the time, ``Taja added.
(Scene Change)
Quan Chi fumed as he searched for the missing dragon medallion. No one but himself could enter his private laboratory unless he called for them. He distinctly remembers placing the blasted thing on the work bench hours ago, but it was now gone.
Searching, a strange puffing sound caught his attention. Quan Chi turned around at the sound of a roar only to be engulfed in flame. He barely had enough time to summon his own green flames to surround and protect him. As soon as the attacking flames died down, he tested his teleportation abilities. As he expected they were not working and he was unable to teleport.
``Well, well, ``he said in a haughty voice, ``Even while still in spirit form you have regain a small portion of your powers.'' The sorcerer's eyes started to glow a sickly green as he searched the room for the rogue spirit. ``You and I are alike in a way, ``he continued, ``We both answer to the same.....god you could say.''
A red mist in the shape of a dragon formed, filling up most of the room. ``You have a point, sorcerer, ``it hissed.
The End
Next time on Mortal Kombat: Conquest
Jola walked confidently into the throne room following the shadow priest.
Next Chapter.....
Note: I don't own Mortal Kombat, MK: Conquest, etc, etc....Some of what happens in this story makes more sense if you read Mortal Kombat: the Mythos of Rayden. In case you haven't there is another brief note at the end of this chapter to help explain a few things.
Chapter Twenty Five: Deadly Breed
Althea woke with a luxurious stretch. Bright sunlight filtered through the window as she got up, putting on a silk wrap. Not sensing Rayden, she frowned. `Did he make it back last night?' she wondered as she made her way to the kitchen. As she passed the open library door, Althea saw Rayden asleep at his desk. Quietly and with a grin, Althea walked up next to him. With a quill she found on the desk, she gently tickled his bare ear. A hand went up to brush the annoyance away, but the thundergod continued to sleep. Laughing silently, Althea placed the quill back where she found it and looked around. She briefly considered the old slamming-a-book-on-the-desk gag, but she wasn't sure how someone who played with lighting would react. Then it came to her...carefully she leaned over and blew gently in his ear. Once again the hand came up. She then gently pushed his hair out of her way and ran a finger up his neck. Again the hand went up, but this time capturing her hand as she tried to back away.
''Morning,'' Althea said as Rayden sat up.
Rayden pulled the smiling woman onto his lap as he replied, ``Morning yourself. Why didn't you tell me the link was getting through our shields?''
Wrapping an arm under his and around him she said, ``Didn't think there was anything that could be done about it and since it didn't seem to bother you....''
''Next time, let me know....agreed, ``interrupted Rayden as his free hand notice how little she was wearing underneath the wrap.
''Uh uh...''Althea agreed in a breathy voice as she felt Rayden's roaming hand. Dropping her mental shields, she nipped his neck and said against it, ``Let's not talk about that now.''
(Scene Change)
Quan Chi smiled at Jola's obvious anger and frustration. Her failure in destroying Drevane was driving her insane, but as much as he enjoyed this game it was time for some serious work. ``Enough!'' he commanded, ``You have spent enough time on this personal matter.''
Jola's eyes flared for a moment before she bowed her head to her master and said, ``What of the traitor?''
''Oh you'll get to deal with Lupena, but first I need for you to acquire a few items for me, ``the sorcerer said as he handed Jola a scroll.
The woman opened and read the list for a few moments. ``You are aware that some of these will take time?'' she said.
''Yes, ``said Quan Chi setting deeper in his chair, ``but we do have time to spare....for now. Just don't fail me.''
Jola bowed and then left the room.
''I don't like her, ``said a hissing voice, ``She and my brother have gotten too...friendly with each other.''
Quan Chi smiled and said, ``Once we have no further use of them, I'll send them back where I found them.''
Standing just outside the closed door, Jola seethed as she overheard the conversation. `Get rid of us, will he,' she thought as she left the sorcerer's lair, `We'll see about that.' The black dragon spirit growled with agreement in her mind.
(Scene Change)

``Master Ryant!'' Kung Lao said happily when he saw the priest at the trading post's door, ``Please come in and make yourself at home.''
Ryant sat down at the kitchen table as the monk poured him a drink. ``Lupena said you wanted to be contacted directly, ``the priest said bluntly.
Kung Lao's smile faded as he placed the mug in front of the priest. ``You don't seem surprised, ``Ryant commented.
''After what's happened to us since the tournament, ``Kung Lao returned as he sat down, ``I'm not really surprised by anything anymore. Would you mind telling me why you're having someone spy on us?''
Ryant took a long swallow from the mug before answering, ``Not spying per say, we're just keeping an eye out for your student's return. It is our belief that she is possibly one of the few people who can stand up to this Jola and possibly win.''
``Who is `we'? I doubt `we' includes the other temple priests,'' said Kung Lao in a chilly voice.
''Let's just say I represent a small group who is interested in ensuring the safety of the local area. Jola is a danger to everyone and everything, you know this.''
''We'll face her if it comes to it, ``said Kung Lao, ``Until then it is not our concern.''
Knowing a dismissal when he heard it, Ryant stood up to leave. As he walked out the door he said, ``By then it might be too late.''
(Scene Change)
Shao Kahn sat on his throne, brooding. Neither he nor Kuravan have been able to find a way around the watchful eyes of the Elder Gods. Damn them! Now would have been an excellent time to act. Rayden distracted by that woman and the inexperience of Fujin would have left Earthrealm as easy prey.
Jola walked confidently into the throne room following the shadow priest. She knew what she was planning was dangerous, but if she succeeded.... Jola bowed before the Emperor of Outworld and the shadow priest whispered what she offered to his master. Kahn leaned forward to take a good look at the woman before him and then said, ``Why should I agree to this....plan.''
''If I fail, it will be Quan Chi that takes the blame. Succeed and all the true obstacles to you taking over Earthrealm will be gone, ``Jola said with a smile, ``There is no way for you to lose. All I ask is the power to complete my...tasks and freedom from Quan Chi.''
''You are aware what you ask will entail?'' said the Emperor with a cold smile.
''Of course, ``said Jola, ``It's what WE want.''
The Emperor leaned back into his throne and chuckled. ``So be it,''he said as he signaled his priest to do as was requested. The priest's eyes started to glow a sickly green as he raised his arms towards Jola and spoke in a long forgotten language. Gray mists engulfed the woman who fell to the floor screaming in pain. A scream that became a dragon's roar.
(Scene Change)
''I don't believe this, ``said Taja sarcastically, ``A priest had us watched. What next?''
The sound of the front gate exploding caused the ground to shake. Kung Lao, Taja and Siro all ran outside to the yard. Where the gates once stood was a creature from a nightmare. Black scales covered a woman shaped form, blood red reptilian eyes was crowned with steely horns, large bat-like wings flexed on its back and a long sinuous tail swung in agitation.
''What the hell....''Siro said.
''Hell issss right, ``the creature hissed in Jola's voice and then it spat fire directly to the trio. They all dodged, but the explosion as fireball hit the ground caused them to loose their balance and fall to the ground. ``I told you, I would deal with your little group sssooner or later, ``Jola said with a fanged smile. She grabbed Siro by the neck and easily picked him up, ``I had planned to wait, but plansssss change.''
Kung Lao tried to rush the monster, but she swung her free hand and swatted him aside as if he was a fly. A crossbow bolt flew and slammed into Jola's chest. With her clawed fist she pulled it out and threw it to the ground. ``I believe this is yoursssss,'' the dragon-woman said and then threw Siro directly towards Taja as the former thief tried to reload her crossbow.
Fujin appeared out of thin air and caught Siro before he crashed into the red head. The god of wind seeing the new Jola said, ``Ooooh crap....''
(Scene Change)
Rayden suddenly stood up from his desk, sensing something was seriously wrong. Althea looked up from her own scrolls and asked, ``What's wrong?''
(Scene Change)
Blasts of flame time and again were deflected by gusts of wind, but that was all Fujin was able to do. The mere presence of the dragon-woman prevented him from teleporting himself and the other out of there. Fujin tried to capture the creature in his whirlwind but all it did was feed the flames, creating a wall of fire that protected her but endangered everyone else. Taja bravely kept firing her crossbow whenever she got a clear shot, but the bolts seem little more than pinpricks to the monster. Kung Lao was out cold and Siro was dragging him out of danger or at lease into the trading post. Jola slowly made her way to the wind god and Taja as the she kept blasting them with dragon fire. Once she got close enough, Jola swung her tail in a deadly arch and caught both of them just below the knees. As Jola prepared to send another deadly blast of fire to finish them off, a wolf like creature jumped her from behind. Grabbing the furred arm with her claws, Jola threw the werewolf over her should and into a wall. The distraction gave Fujin enough time to tackle the dragon woman. Both fell to the ground, but Jola once again spat fire from her mouth. Fujin rolled out of the way just in time, but he still felt the flames as they singed his hair. Jola jumped up and kicked Fujin in the gut as she said, ``I wonder if roasted god tastes like chicken?''
Another blast a flame roared towards the winded deity and hit what appeared to be an invisible wall. A blast of lighting knocked Jola to her knees.
''You guys alright?'' asked Althea as she helped Fujin to his feet.
''Rayden, she's has REAL dragonfire, ``said Fujin in warning. Althea had no idea what Fujin meant by that but it was apparent that the thundergod did and he didn't seem to like that bit of news one bit.
''What does that mean?''asked Taja as Siro.
''It means, ``said Jola with a laugh, ``That bleach job there is no longer the only one that can kill gods.''
The she-dragon the sent out a ring a fire from around her knocking down and singing all who surrounded her. Althea's eyes began to flash in anger. This bitch was a danger not only to her friends but to Rayden! As she tried to get up one of her hands fell on something. Looking down, Althea saw a pair of swords on the ground next to where she had fell. Where the hell did they come from? Althea then felt a burning pain across her arm as Jola was able to get a blast of fire to land on Rayden's upper arm.
(Scene Change)
''Good-bye, Thundergod, ``said Jola as she prepared to finish off the deity, ``It's been a ....'' Jola went silent and looked down to see the tip of a sword blade sticking out from her chest. As she was about to turn, its twin flew into and through her neck. The first sword slid out as the now headless body fell to the ground and burst into flame with the head falling on top of it. The swords fell from Althea's hands with a clang and she knelt down to hug the thundergod with tears in her eyes. Rayden returned the hug with a wince and said, ``I think we got this backwards, aren't I suppose to be rescuing you?''
Siro and Taja carried a now human looking Lupena into the trading post as Fujin went to pick up one of the dropped swords. There was no way ordinary steel could take down a dragon. He examined the metal closely and then tested it on his own thumb. Blood appeared from the small cut. ``Where did you get these?'' Fujin asked with a strange tone in his voice.
Althea released the thundergod and said, ``Nearly fell on top of them. Why?''
''You should take a look at this, ``said Fujin as he handed one of the swords to Rayden.
(Scene Change)
That night a bandaged Rayden waited at the Temple of the Elder Gods for his request of an audience to be answered. As he knelt the Elder Gods of Light and Shadow appeared. ``What brings you before Us this time, ``Shadow snarled.
Without flinching, Rayden slid the now singed black dragon medallion to the Elder God of Shadow's feet. ``I do believe this is yours, ``Rayden said no longer bother to hide his anger, ``This thing nearly killed Earthrealm's Champion of Mortal Kombat and two of Earth's deities, just thought I'd return it.''
''You dare!'' Shadow hissed but the Elder God of Light interrupted.
''Lord Rayden has a right to be angry, ``Aether said in a stern voice, ``For it was one of Our creations that caused this mess.''
The Elder God of Shadows sighed angrily and then asked, ``How was the creature defeated?''
''That really doesn't matter, ``Aether said before Rayden got a chance to answer.
The End
Next Time on Mortal Kombat: Conquest....
''Look we have no choice, ``said Althea, ``I need to go back to Calorna.....''
Another Note: In the prequel I create for this story, Mortal Kombat: the Mythos of Rayden, Shinnok had weapons that could be used kill immortals and mortals alike created to use in that war Raiden mentions in his opening speech in MK4. The Elder Gods in return created the dragons, whose main purpose was to kill/destroy anyone that went against the council. Demon, god or mortal it didn't matter. After this war, the dragons were imprisoned in their medallions and the weapons were believed to all be destroyed. Brief and not many spoilers if you haven't read the story yet.
Next Chapter....

Chapter Twenty-six: Trip Plans
Siro walked into the kitchen with a grumble. Since Jola's attack a week ago, the trading post's residents have had to set a watch every night. It would take time to complete all of the repairs, especially since funds were running thin. Putting a kettle on to boil, Siro prepared to make himself some strong tea in the hopes it would help keep him awake until sun-up. Althea walked down the stairs and into the kitchen and greeted Siro with a, "Morning."
Siro just grumbled something and continued glaring at the kettle. Althea smiled slightly, Siro never was a morning person. She dug through the pantry debating on what to fix for breakfast. Althea was tired of oatmeal so decided on breakfast rolls and sliced sausage. Pulling out the needed supplies, laying them on the table, and then pulling out the needed bowl, pans, etc she prepared to mix the batter for the rolls. Siro glared at her apparently because of the noise she was making. Althea just looked back at him and said, "If all you're going to do is glare, you can make yourself usefully and slice up this sausage."
With a 'humph' Siro grabbed a knife and sat at the table to do as he was asked. In minutes, rolls were in the oven and sliced sausage was frying in a skillet. Nursing his mug of tea, Siro asked, "You do this every morning?"
"No, "Althea answered, "Usually, its oatmeal. Easy and all you got to do is make sure it doesn't burn."
"I mean, "Siro said, "Fix breakfast this early?"
Althea shrugged and said, "Kinda use to it. Had to do it growing up with Granny. Going to the Academy and then the war sorta encouraged the habit. Believe me, if you ever tasted military cooking you know that cooking for yourself is a survival requirement."
Siro watched the woman as she took the sausage slices off the skittle and then place uncooked slices onto it. The former bodyguard wondered as to how little they knew of Althea. True they knew she was a magic user, godslayer and fought in some war....but who was this Granny and what was this academy she mentioned? Memories of how much trouble not knowing Taja too well caused a year ago came to mind.
"Foods ready," Althea announced as she placed two plates, one of rolls and the other of sausage on the table, "I'll be outside if anyone needs me."
"Aren't you going to eat?" asked Siro
"Just before training? Are you insane?" Althea returned, "I'll just eat with everyone else later, like always." She then went to set up the courtyard for morning practice.
A little later Kung Lao appeared in the kitchen and found Siro preparing himself a sausage and roll sandwich. The monk then went to fix himself a mug of morning tea and said, "I thought you be in bed already?"
"And miss this, "said Siro as he threw a roll at the monk. Who caught it with one hand as he sipped on his tea. "Besides, "Siro continued, "My shift doesn't end until sun-up. It's still dark out there if you haven't noticed."
"Not for long, "said Kung Lao as he sat down and took a bite out of the roll, "And with Althea up there's no point for you to be also."
"That reminds me, "said Siro, "We really don't know much about her still. She's a good friend and all but...."
"I know, "said Kung Lao, "However we won't push it. I have a feeling there is some stuff in her past she rather not talk about. "
"Is that wise?" Siro asked, "Remember what happened to Taja when we didn't bother to find more out about her and what could be worse than an insane grandfather that happens to be a god?"
"Do I hear someone describing Kuravan?" said Althea startling the pair.
"Damn it, Althea!" said Siro, "Did that week with Rayden give you his habit of sneaking up on people?"
"Not that I'm aware of, "Althea replied with a smile, "But taking about people behind their back could be considered just a bad or even worse."
"I was just saying that you don't talk much about yourself that's all, "Siro replied.
"And you do? Aside from you once being a bodyguard to this Gen and her father I don't know much about you either, "Althea said and then shrugged, "I just figured if there was anything dangerous in your past you would mentioned it and the rest was just that, the past."

"She got you there, "Kung Lao said, "We didn't even know about your brother until he and his wife showed up that one time. As for me my life is almost an open book."
Siro grumbled something about how everyone seems to ganging up on him lately. Althea nearly laughed and said, "If it'll make you feel better, you can come with me when I go back to Calorna for a few days and snoop around my old place."
"You're going where?" said Kung Lao with surprise.
Althea sighed and said, "I really don't have much of a choice. There are some things I need to take care of that has been put off for too long, especially if I plan to stay on Earthrealm."
"So you decided to take that the Elder God's offer?" Kung Lao surmised.
Althea nodded and said, "Yes, but I do need to take care of a few personal matters first."
"Hum..."Siro said, "So you are going back to a realm where one of the gods is seriously pissed off at you to take care of some personal matters?"
"Look we have no choice, "said Althea, "I need to go back to Calorna, before I take the offer of having Earthrealm declared as my official home"
"What's this 'we'?" asked Kung Lao.
"If I don't take care of these matters, "said Althea with a raised eyebrow, "They may decide to take care of themselves and show up here....believe me, we don't want that. It could get embarrassing."
(Scene Change)
That evening Althea sat at the kitchen table writing down a list of things she knew she needed to bring back. Poor Siro, once again he was going to play beast of burden. She smiled at the memory Siro's face when he finally figured out she wasn't joking about them going to Calorna for a day or two. Althea laid the pen down next to the paper and said, "You know it's rude to spy on people."
"No worse than not telling me of this little trip of yours, "said Rayden as he walked from the shadowed doorway. "Please tell me you not serious about this, "he said as he looked down at her with arms crossed.
Althea just looked up at him and said, "I'm serious, it need to go back for a few days. There are some things I need to get and matters that have to be dealt with."
Rayden shook his head slightly and said firmly, "It's too dangerous. You're not going."
Althea frown at Rayden's tone and asked, "What do you mean I'm not going?"
"Just what I said, "the thundergod replied, "You are not going."
"Is that an order?" said Althea as she stood up with flickering eyes, "Because if it is....."
"Thea, please...I don't want you to take unnecessary risks, "said Rayden making Althea even angrier.
"I am more than capable of taking care of myself, "she said coldly and eyes growing brighter.
Now Rayden was starting to get a little angry as well, "You could have fooled me. How many times have you needed my help?"
"Unless I'm mistaken I've done the same for you just as often, "Athea returned.
"Who got me into danger to begin with?" Rayden returned.
"You did, "said Althea with flashing eyes and a rising voice, "All you had to do was follow that little rule about not interfering in mortal affairs. I never asked...."
A sharp whistle caught both of them by surprise and broke the 'conversation.' "Ok you two, "said Fujin, "Back to your respective corners."
"Stay out of this Fujin!" Both Rayden and Althea yelled.
"Believe me, I would if I could, "the windgod replied, "But if you weren't so distracted, Bro, you would have noticed you are being summoned."
Rayden said a choice word in that long forgotten language and then vanished in a flash of light and a crash of thunder. Althea humphed and sat back down to finish her list. "He's only acting that way because he cares, "said Fujin quietly.
"I know, "said Althea with a sigh, "It's just I can't stand being ordered around as if I'm an idiot. I know the trip is dangerous, that's one of the reasons why I want Siro along...to cover my back. The moment we get there I'm going to try to contact Vatas and let him know what's up. Hopefully with him keeping an eye on things and getting this stuff done fast, we should be ok."
"And Rayden didn't give you a chance to tell him that, "said Fujin, "Sounds like him. I'll talk to him once he's free."
(Scene Change)

Lilith knelt down before her lord and master, Kuravan, waiting for orders after giving her report. "So my loving granddaughter is planning a small visit, "said Kuravan with a smile, "This could prove most useful turn of events. Go and gather your friends, I have a job for them."
Lilith stood and as she walked out of the room, Kuravan added, "I'll see to informing Shao Kahn of Kung Lao's friends being away. He might find this bit of information as pleasing as I do."
The End
Next time on Mortal Kombat: Conquest......
The sound of a woman's scream, made both Siro and Althea jump up from their chairs. They ran to the direction of the scream and into the study.

Author : Preferred Customer

Creation date: 2005-9-14-4-5

Modification date: 2005-9-14-4-5