Can you write about Bihan meets the reader as one of earthrealm's champions and immediately falls in love with her and is trying to find a way to be near her and ask her out on a date?
Melted Popsicle - Bi Han x fem!champion!reader (headcanons)
in which sunshine melts Bi Han
a/n: something something something bi han courts
ship[s]: bi han x fem!champion!reader
warning(s): none
Bi Han doesn't really do "love at first sight", but when Bi Han falls, he'll fall hard
And when he meets you, one of Liu Kang's champions, during a training session with the Lin Kuei, oh elder gods does he fall
- Bi Han, just like his brothers, is a loyal man. from the mission, to his clan, Bi Han will stay with you for a very long time
- Bi Han will stand around you like a guard dog, a quiet and protective presence
- it's unsettling, but you don't let it deter you as you talk to him, and boy does he enjoy it
- he wouldn't say it though, he'd just listen and hum in agreeance. the sounds of your voice softens his hardened features
- he'll spar with you. a lot. that's how you, the other champions, and his brothers realize he's taken a liking to you
- he'll give you grace during sparring, more that usual. he'll point out your flaws and show you how to improve them ten-fold
- Bi Han starts eating with you too. he'll either sit with you, or he'll take the time to ask you (usually goes like, "Come eat")
- it gets serious when Bi Han is asking his brothers how approachable he looks. he'll (reluctantly) ask Tomas how he gets along with the initiates, and he'll ask Kuai Liang how women always flock to him whenever they're out and about off-duty
- Bi Han starts paying attention to the little things about you when he realizes the advice from his brothers doesn't help him (honestly, it scared you with how quick he changed his personality). he listens whole-heartedly to anything you say you like or don't like about different things
- and you know what they say, to be loved is to be seen. Bi Han starts getting stuff for you, always having an extra towel for breaks in between spars, water, he'll always grab two sparring weapons whenever it's time to practice or learn new things
- Bi Han also gives you, and only you, the ability to use his powers for personal uses. i HC that Bi Han used to use his ice powers to play with his brothers when he was younger (around maybe 13 y/o, he stopped). only for you will he create little figures of ice and snow, only you will he emit a chill aura to soothe your bruises
- at this point too, Bi Han, definitely spends the entire day with you. at least, he tries to. he does have to cycle between the other champions to watch them spar, but any waking minute not used by the others, he'll always be right next to you
- i'd like to think Bi Han, when alone, paces around in circles to figure out what to do for you next. very methodical that man is, and intentional too
- after a couple more weeks, he's starting to push the boundaries he has on himself to ask you out. he tries to drop hints, but the way he does it basically gives it away
- things like "what is your favorite place to eat?" or "do you have a place to yourself to relax?" even a "do you like to [insert fun activity]?" he's not very good at asking things discreetly
- if Bi Han is good at anything, though, it's sincerity. he gifts you lovely courting gifts: flowers, hand-made gifts from the tradespeople of Arctika, scents- all the romantic jazz
- i think what really gets you is the practical gifts Bi Han gives you. once again, "to be loved is to be seen" dwells in his soul so fiercely it scares you how well he gives you things. from a pouch that holds all things and remains weightless, to a athletic wear that has pockets for your phone- he sees you
- when Bi Han eventually asks you out to become his girlfriend, he has a whole speech prepared for you. it's really cute, honestly, mainly because they sound like vows for a wedding (totally not pregaming yours and his wedding)
- and he speaks eloquently, softly, voice barely above a whisper as you zone in on his words. how he describes your beauty, what you make him feel, how madly in love he's been since he laid eyes on you
- "a pestering thought," he says. "though, one i do not mind, and one i would keep in my mind until my memory fails."
Bi Han doesn't do "love at first sight", but when he does, he falls hard...
and it's a hundred miles an hour at that point on
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hey guys! i'm not dead!
1. school sem is going good so far, 2. i went to a concert last weekend for NIKI! 3. long nails are hard to type in...
So I don't know if you seen this meme or trend where the girlfriend/fiance/wife would text their significant other about how much they miss him and get very flirty over the text messages and when the boyfriend/fiance/husband finally gets home, the girlfriend/wife decided they are too tired or were just teasing around but the boyfriend/husband are already worked up and excited to not let it pass.... I was wondering if you could write separate scenarios like that for Kuai Liang and Tomas? (I felt like Bihan wouldn't really care that much of it anyway 😁).
Bark, No Bite - Lin Kuei Trio x fem!wife!reader (headcanons)
in which you bark up the wrong tree, no matter which brother is yours
a/n: thank you 🐼, but i think you might be mistaken about bi han 😏 - also some of this is inspired by real life events (my bf)
ship[s]: tomas vrbada , kuai liang , bi han x fem!wife!reader (headcanons)
warning(s): modern au, fuck it, MDNI (various sexual positions, poor reader is used happily, puppy play??? light bdsm fasho)
Tomas Vrbada
- something something something, Tomas comes home quickly after you sent him a risqué picture of yourself in tight clothes and a suggestive pose
- something something something, Tomas finds you there, sitting in front of the TV, unaware of the beast that's lying in wait (and in his pants)
- he picks you up, and you're a giggle fit at first. when he makes way to the bedroom, you realize your joke from earlier has consequences
- of course: missionary on the bed, your back against the headboard, good ol' doggy- lil' ol' you is blissed and fucked out perfectly as Tomas is abusing your attention-seeking cunt :(
- he also makes you take his entire length. all. of. it. condescendingly, with mocking tone, "aw, darling can't fit it, can't she?" (he makes you choke on it 'til you cry)
- don't worry, he'll clean you up well and give you loving massages. as he's rolling your muscles in and out, he'll make sure you won't do this again ("what did we learn today?")
- you're going to do it again, and Tomas knows it (he's honestly waiting for it to happen again)
Kuai Liang
- something something something Kuai Liang pulls all stops and makes sure to remind you what you did
- something something something, you can feel the air become ten times heavier as Kuai's steps echo on the floor ("do you think you're getting away with what you did?")
- sigh, poor reader, edged to infinity and beyond as Kuai Liang ties and bounds your arms back with his neck tie (he is so the type to wear a neck tie). his fingers press on your gspot perfectly, and you're whining for releasd
- you're bucking and humping your hips shamelessly, trying for any feeling of friction as you chase the high Kuai Liang's dangling from a string. pathetic whimpers, sad "please please please" echoing from your mouth- seriously, you should have seen this coming
- it isn't until you start crying, weeping "sorry sorry sorry" before Kuai Liang unbuckles his belt, slips a condom on, and fucks you. you cum immediately, but you don't care as he keeps pistoning in and out of you
- perfectly fucked out, Kuai Liang takes his precious time cleaning you up, cleaning the bed up, and grabbing the necessary healing items for your post-bedroom activities (he prides himself on taking care of you)
- you won't do it again (immediately)
Bi Han
- something something something Bi Han leaves mid-meeting, a meeting with important clients and shareholders, to go home and discipline you
- something something something Bi Han slamming the door and beelining for your ass (you're a victim, and the lovely sandwich you were eating lay cold as he swoops you up and out of your chair)
- it's honestly over for you and your cunt on this one. Bi Han ties you up with his necktie, then he unbuckles his belt and ties it around your neck. it's not too tight, but it's enough where it acts as a makeshift leash
- dragging you by your "leash" all the way to the arm chair in the corner of the room, he sits down and takes his pants off to reveal his throbbing head. without warning from him, and no protest from you, you suck his fat length as Bi Han smiles evilly.
- the degradation, the name-calling, the fact he has zero care for you in this moment in time (mainly because you didn't care about him when you sent that raunchy pic) put your pussy into overdrive. your slick, dripping, wet, all over your legs. Bi Han uses his foot to spread your legs wider too ("my beautiful angel.... nothing but a little play thing in my hands)
- and boy are you a play thing. you're brought up from your knees, roughly sinking onto his cock as he wraps the end of the belt over his fist a couple of times. your skin smashing against his, the delicious sound of your soaking cunt against his balls, and the disgusting (joyful) moans from yours and his mouths are delightful. over, and over, and over again will he hit that perfect spot as you keep scratching his back- a clear sign you enjoy it. you guys end in cowgirl, and he's nipping at your ear as you beg him to cum inside of you (he has a condom, but he's tempted to slip it off). much to your dismay, he denies your requests, saying that your punishment is something you shouldn't be enjoying
- just like his brothers, he'll reassure you he didn't mean any of those things- that they were part of the mood. he'll scoop you out of the bed and run a warm bath, and he'll join you as you sleep peacefully against his chest as he shampoos your hair
- of course you'll be doing this again, and Bi Han will always be ready for a challenge
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i won't tell you guys which brother represents my bf, but just know my intimate life is wonderful
the final couple of requests are coming to a close, and i'm so excited to write my own stuff for both COD and MK
Can you write about Syzoth trying to kiss the reader but he's so nervous because he hasn't kissed someone in a long time? ☺️
Kiss the Girl - Syzoth x fem!reader (4+1)
in which Syzoth tries to kiss his dragonfly four times, and the one time he gets it right
a/n: shalalalalala my oh my
ship[s]: syzoth x fem!reader
warning(s): silly lizard boy learning how to kiss again, various moments within the mk1 2023 kanon
You and Syzoth had been dating for a year now, but due to the trauma of the loss of his first family, intimacy was hard for Syzoth. Thank the elder gods you were so patient with him.
And thanks to your patience, Syzoth feels he's ready to make it official with a kiss!
Except... he's a tad bit nervous.
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1 - Sunbathing
You and Syzoth lay atop a boulder together, the warmth from the rock and the sun filling your bodies up and relaxing you.
With nothing to do, no chores or training, you and Syzoth wanted some private time together. Why not sunbathe?
As you lay there quietly, occasional sighs and breaths of relaxation heard, Syzoth stares at you longingly and worriedly.
He wants to kiss you, really badly too.
You patience with him was what he needed to build courage to overcome his trauma of love and intimacy, but now that he feels ready, his mind plagues him with thoughts of failure and fear.
What if he misses? What if you don't like it? What if, what if, what if. It was exhausting for him, and the only way to get rid of it right now was him squirming and shifting in his spot.
He's also thinking of Johnny's advice- Just go for it! (no, Johnny, it's not that simple)
You rise a bit, adjusting yourself on your belly and arms crossed over one another as your head rests on your forearms. Syzoth tries to make it look like he wasn't moving, but you chuckle.
"You're not very good at lying, Sy," you mumble with a lazy smile.
Syzoth holds your face with his right arm, thumb rubbing over your cheek as you lean into his touch.
Alright, go for it! Syzoth hypes himself up, lips moving closer to his beloved dragonfly's very own.
You also close your eyes, smiling faintly because the moment has finally arrive for you- Syzoth's kiss with you.
Just as he's about to go for it, a faint buzzing noise is heard around him. To your human ears, it's extremely quiet, but to him it's like a gnat buzzing around his head.
Syzoth's eyes are shifting like lightning, and he's fighting for his life that his primal instincts don't take over.
Sigh, poor Syzoth lost still. The little thing landed on your other cheek, and his inner lizard won as his reflexes took over. His wet tongue slapped over the fly, and you open your eyes in shock.
Syzoth ate the fly quickly, but that doesn't erase the fact he messed up. Thank goodness you were such a good sport about it.
You bursted out laughing, no longer drowsy as you wipe the faintest bit of saliva off your cheek. You slide off the rock in a fit of hysterics, wiping your tears as Syzoth is helplessly trying to wipe your face.
"Oh darling, you kill me," you say after calming down.
You walk away and Syzoth stands there, shoulders down with hunched posture as he conjures up a new plan.
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2 - Post-Training Clean Up
You, Syzoth, and Raiden were in charge of cleaning up the dummies as part of evening chores before dinner.
The tournament may be over, and the timeline convergence was over, but that didn't mean the danger has passed. All of Liu Kang's champions needed to stay sharp.
"Sharpness also lies in discipline," Liu Kang told you all before ending training for the day. "Those on chore duty are tasked with fulfilling them with diligence and tenacity."
AKA, finish your chores or else.
Chores are usually hell if Johnny or Kung Lao was partnered with you, but thank goodness it was Raiden and Syzoth this time. And speaking of Syzoth, he seemed to be following you around lately.
Perhaps it's because he loves you, or perhaps it has something to do with the rock incident. Most likely the latter, but you didn't press because Syzoth is really trying hard to make you happy.
You were carrying bamboo bo staffs by the dozen, while Syzoth carried dummies. He was in lizard form, so a huge green lizard was just following you while swishing his tail happily.
Every piece of training equipment was to be put back in a huge storage shed in the corner of the courtyard. As you and Syzoth carried your stuff, Raiden came out from the room. His hat was off as he wiped sweat off his forehead.
"Be careful in there," Raiden warns with a smile. "The door is hard to open if it shuts completely. If you close it gently, it will not lock."
Syzoth nods, a huff coming out of his nose. You smile in reciprocation as well, "Thanks for the tip, Raiden!"
You set the bo staffs down and open the door. Syzoth gets in first, and you carry the bo staffs again to put them back inside. The shed was massive inside, and there were spaces to hold everything in its place. To make sure you two weren't locked in, you held the door open with a loose rock at the corner.
As you walked in, you lost grip on one of the staffs you were balancing. It slipped, and it knocked on the rock you used to hold the door open. The door shut, and you two drop everything to try and open it.
"Oh dang it," you curse yourself. "I'm sorry, love. I got us locked in here..." While Syzoth was externally sad, he was jumping in his soul.
Ever since the rock incident, Syzoth has been trying to find out how to kiss you again. He had gotten advice from Raiden this time around, the thunder-wielding lad telling him to seize a moment of vulnerability (with consent, of course).
Syzoth gently puts the dummies away, then grabs the staffs you dropped and puts them back carefully as you continue to bang on the door to signal for help.
Unknown to you, Raiden had already left the courtyard since the staffs and dummies were the last of the items to be put away. So all that ruckus you were causing was futile.
"Ugh, no one can hear us! Damn it!" you curse, kicking your foot into the old, yet oddly strong, door. Syzoth just grabs your shoulder, rubbing them up and down as he pulls you into a hug.
You can't help but relax in them, and you breathe a sigh of comfort and relaxation as you inhale the natural scent of your lover. He smells like the outside, but in a dewy grass type of way. Combined with the lingering scent of maple wood, he smells heavenly.
"Do you feel better?" he asks, tilting your head up to face his eyes. You nod and smile happily, and he kisses your cheek gently. When he pulls away though, his eyes become a little hooded, and his face is closing in on yours.
Ah, again, you think as your eyes close. You wait patiently for his lips to contact yours, to feel the warmth of him on you as he finally gives you a kiss.
However, you both stop and pull away, looking at the door as you see two metal curvatures on each hinge, pulling on the door as the creaking gets progressively louder and louder. Syzoth pulls you behind him, transforming into his lizard form to protect you.
"There you two are!" Kung Lao says excitedly, kicking away the pieces of wood that fell and broke from impact. "We have been looking for you everywhere!"
Johnny's behind him, wiggling his brows as he throws an arm around Kenshi, who stands next to him.
"Seems they were perfectly content in here though," he says suggestively, and Kenshi knocks the back of his head.
Syzoth groans, shifting back into his human form and taking your hand, leading you away from their stares and Johnny's inappropriate whooping and cheering.
So much for the second try...
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3 - Private Dinner
You lay on Syzoth's shoulder as you two sat together on a picnic blanket over the grass.
Syzoth asked you out on a date, and by date it was a private dinner away from the canteen hall. With training occupying most of your guys' time, dates with total intimacy were hard to come by.
With exceptional planning though, Syzoth managed to step up and pull this gig off. Now, he has his favorite food in front of him while his favorite dragonfly sits next to him.
What more could a shifter want? Oh yeah, to get his fucking kiss right.
According to human terms, third time is a charm. Syzoth made all of this effort to take you away from the bustle and cacophony of men's antics of the canteen, and now the opportunity of a lifetime sits in front of him.
You take a big bite out of your rice bowl, gnawing on the beef that is so rarely served. You moan at the way it melts in your mouth, savoring the fatty flavor of the meat.
You got some sauce on the side of your lip, and Syzoth lifts his thumb to wipe it off quickly. You look at him with a quirked brow.
"Swuave, darling," you say cooly. Syzoth rolls his eyes playfully, cupping your cheeks as he pulls you closer to him. You carefully put your bowl down, not wanting to waste the food you had.
There's a glimmer of confidence in his eyes as you push his hood back and on the nape of his neck. His eyes relax just a tad, and you can feel the air around you two shift once more.
He's doing it for real this time! You squeal internally, closing your eyes as you can feel the warm breath of Syzoth fan gently over your lips.
Though, Syzoth's eyes still remain partially open. Thank goodness your eyes were closed, because Syzoth did not want you to look at the obvious tweak-out he was having. You were right here, lips puckered out and awaiting his. He did everything right, and yet, he did not push through.
Sighing, Syzoth melts into your shoulder and rests his head there, nuzzling into the little crevice he so perfectly fit in. You open your eyes, and you look down with a gentle smile and an even more genteel look.
"My apologies, dragonfly..." he whimpers. "I just.. I-" You shush him, quieting him with soothing pats on his head.
"There there, dear. It takes time," you assure him, and he nuzzles in deeper (if possible).
Though Syzoth might have been fine momentarily, he realizes that this third time did not work.
Now, he's wondering if luck exists outside the common (human) rule of threes.
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4 - Infirmary
You lay on the linen sheets quietly, staring at the ceiling as the wooden fan on the ceiling spun annoyingly slow.
You had gotten injured during this month's mini tournament. No, it wasn't to prepare for another cross-realm kombat tournament, it was just a new ritual Liu Kang implemented.
Just to keep his champions sharp, nothing too high stakes.
If it wasn't high stakes, why the hell was your forehead bandaged and wrapped up like a mummy? Seriously, Kung Lao needs to learn how to chill out.
As you lay on the bed, staring at the ceiling waiting for the hours to drone by, stomping could be heard outside. You could also hear the soft gasps and scurried steps of other people- like they were moving out of the way.
Through the door, Syzoth came through in his reptilian form. His pupils were skinny, dilated in anger as he huffs and finds his beloved. When he makes contact with you, his face softens and relaxes.
In the blink of an eye, he switches into his human form and is on his knees in front of you. You don't wanna laugh, nor smile, but the way he's hold your cheeks and squishing them like a stress ball.
"Oh dear... dragonfly what," he's breathing a bit hard, gently rubbing the bandaged area with his thumb. "Dragonfly, are you alright?"
You nod, kissing his forehead, "I'm alright Sy. It's no big deal, just a scratch." But Syzoth doesn't look convinced.
"You are hurt. You dod not look good, tired," he says softly. You give him a playful smile.
"Maybe a kiss will help," you probe him, and you can see him visibly stiffen. "O-only if you want! No rush..."
Still, Syzoth does his best. He sits on your bed, hands holding your face as he begins with a kiss on your head. Then, he gently kisses the bandaged spot.
A feathery kiss on your nose, gentle taps on your cheeks. The lightest touch over your eyelids. He's pouring love all over you, yet the one spot he hasn't makes him nervous.
You look at him after his parade of love, eyes creased gently as Syzoth's are still closed. He leans in slowly, and you close your eyes again to wait for impact. Except it doesn't come.
Opening your eyes again (what a guy, huh?), you see Syzoth just staring at you. His brows are furrowed and confused, and you can feel his hands shaking as he still holds your face.
"I... uh... I do not believe I have your cure..." Syzoth says sadly, letting go of your face as he prepares to leave the room. You stop him though, gently tugging him back with his wrist.
"I have the cure just enough," you play along. "Perhaps a stronger dosage next time."
Syzoth smiles again, scooting close to you as he takes you in his arms, and you two cuddle and talk quietly about the things that happened during your day.
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+1 - Trip to Outworld
Because of Syzoth's double duties to the imperial crown and to Liu Kang, he often travels between the realms to do his jobs. You're not usually free, but for once you had some time.
Syzoth had to return back to Outworld because Empress Mileena had something important for Syzoth to deliver to one of the provinces up north. It had lined up with a planned break you had, and you told Syzoth you had time.
For four days, you explored Outworld- well, the capital. You weren't allowed to travel with him to wherever he was going, but you were promised a tour with protection.
The first day you had Syzoth to yourself as he showed you around the city. From the expensive homes in the upper-sides of the capital, to the busy streets of the main area where the tourist traps and street food are.
When Syzoth was gone for the next two days, the palace guard's leader, Tanya, personally showed you around. Something about the Empress saying 'his friend is our friend'- yeah, along the lines of that.
And now, your last day in Outworld. It was late at night, and you were tossing and turning to find the perfect spot to knock out and sleep. Unfortunately, you came up empty-handed. Even worse, Syzoth woke up.
"Oh, Sy? I'm so sorry, love, I didn't mean to wake you," you apologize and kiss his forehead. He rubs his eyes, shaking his head tiredly as he scoot closer to you.
"'M not..." a yawn, "I'm not tired, dragonfly..." he gets up completely this time, stretching his arms as a few grunts and little stretch noises were made.
"Would you like to walk with me?" he asks, and you grab his hand to stop him from leaving the bed. Syzoth insists, however.
"It will wear you down, tire you more," he convinces, and you get up and throw on an extra shirt over your sleeping dress.
Leaving the hotel room, the streets of Sun Do look like a new world when there isn't a river of people trying to fit in with the flow of getting place to place. When they aren't fighting for your attention with fake wares and dinky souvenirs.
And above you, the stars shone brightly against the blackness of the sky. The perfect backdrop for a midnight stroll.
"Sun Do, the palace, and everywhere else... Outworld is magnificent," you compliment Syzoth's home world.
"It is indeed a beautiful place," Syzoth agrees. "Though, I find home much better when you are present."
You look at him with a playful gasp, "Was that a pick-up line?" Syzoth looks away quickly, humming a tune as you lightly smack his arm. He stares at you blankly first, before smiling and tickling your sides as he chases you down the empty streets.
Finally, he catches you, wrapping his arms around your waist as he pulls you close.
"Are you feeling sleepier?" Syzoth asks quietly, forehead resting on yours. You yawn a bit, but shake your head softly in defiance.
"Not yet..." he smirks a bit at that. "Not tired yet..."
He cups your cheek, his thumb gently sliding up and down that side of your face, and you feel your body grow a bit sleepier. Syzoth presses a kiss on your forehead before asking again.
"Are you sure?" he asks, and you shake no again. "Then, perhaps this could help."
Gently, yet with passion, Syzoth leans in and kisses you. Normally, your eyes would be open and wide, but they're closed as you pull him in closer. His lips are warm, and his lizard-like tongue is not extended fully so you do not get skeeved or weirded out.
But by the elder gods, was he tender. He was soft, like blowing a dandelion into the wind. Like a gentle breeze during a summer day- you were delicate in his hands, and he was afraid of breaking you.
Letting go, Syzoth is panting as he looks at you with determination and pride. You kiss his cheek, and you cuddle his chest as he rests his head on yours. He strokes your hair, patting your head gently in between to really get you to nod to sleep. He also draws circles on your back, and it practically seals the deal.
"Thank you, Sy," you say quietly, yawning rather widely before you can feel your body get hoisted into the air.
"Thanks to you, dragonfly... all thanks to you."
Finally, after weeks of failure, he got it right.
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in the middle of revamping my MLs again, this time including hella links (the parasites)
the last set of requests are more HC than actual fics, once they're over with i'll be writing on my own terms
so no, requests wont be open for a while
thank you all so much btw for getting me to 120+ followers! im surprised this acc actually took me somewhere
hopefully when i start my Cod fics, you all show them the same love too
Hello! I was thinking about what would happen if the female reader was first to say "I love you" to the Lin Kuei trio (different scenarios) and since their whole lives involved with training and counseling emotions that they freeze upon those words and trying to process but it causes the reader to think they don't reciprocate their feelings and walks away depressed and now the boys have to figure out how to tell the reader "I love you" back.
Up In the Air - Lin Kuei x fem!reader (scenario fic)
in which your brazen love confession leaves Tomas, Bi Han, and Kuai Liang speechless
[why the fuck does kuai liang sit like that, straight back and arms tucked in his lap, ON A WOODEN BENCH]
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Tomas
"I love you," you tell Tomas softly, your eyes closed as you slipped your hands in his.
You two were walking around the compound, the Summer air and winds treating you two with a warm evening. Despite the warmth of both confession and evening, Tomas was at a cold still.
You and Tomas may have started as initiate and teacher, but as you climbed the ranks in the Shirai Ryu, you proved to be indispensable, unique, and talented. Grandmaster Kuai Liang appointed you as Tomas's second in command, and you two had begun spending more and more time together.
Tomas, despite being the ruthless and calculated ninja he is, was kind and soft with you. He spent nights with you when he couldn't sleep, spoke to you about his frustrations and fears, and even confided in you when he gets into arguments with his older brother.
He's your best friend, no doubt about it, but your heart yearned for more than what was available. You craved him to hold you longer than his hugs, do more than just pat your head, and even more than just walk side by side on an evening like this. In fact, you really hoped the confession you had planned would signify he felt the same way with you.
When you opened your eyes to see his expression, he simply stared back at you with emptiness. You were shocked at this response, since he was the most expressive one in his family- why was this any different? You were so sure of yourself, even talking to Harumi to see if she saw it as you did, and she assured his affections for you were mutual.
Your hopeful smile deflated faster than a clown's balloon, and you masked your broken heart with an awkward smile.
"I- I meant to say I love you... for the mission you sent me on!" you recovered badly, "Toughie, but definitely..."
You frantically let go of his hands and shuffle away from him, "Definitely worth... it... yeah."
Tears welled in your eyes as you realize your mistake. So stupid, for you to think he would love you the way you loved him. He was busy with his family drama, his new clan, and dealing with his newfound trauma- of course he wouldn't have room in his heart for you.
"Goodnight then, Tomas," you abruptly say, running away and retreating to your room.
Tomas watches as you leave him alone in the summer evening, your words hanging in the air and ringing in his ears.
When was the last time he heard those words? Perhaps before his sister and mother died back in Europe, or when Kuai Liang opened up his heart to him and accepted his brotherhood. Those words had lost meaning to him when Bi Han betrayed him and Kuai Liang that fateful mission at Ying Fortress.
However, when you said it, it was like all the color that had faded over the years came back. Sure, Tomas stared at you like he died inside (I mean, he kind of is), but it wasn't unwelcome.
As you rounded the corner of the compound, your stifled sobs echoing in his ears. Tomas leans back on a wooden pillar, hand clutching the patch of fabric that covered his heart. He grips his uniform tightly with that hand and runs his other through his hair. Tears burn Tomas's eyes as well and his breathing becomes labored, chest rising up and down as he puts his head in between his legs.
Kuai Liang and Harumi are chatting happily, but their conversations stop at the sight of the poor man on the verge of a panic attack. Kuai rushes to his brother's front while his wife is at his side, trying to bring the young man back.
"Hey, Tomas!" Kuai Liang yells frantically, "Tomas, look here brother. Stay with us, you can do it."
Tomas's head rises, chest still heaving as he makes eye contact with his sister-in-law and brother. Kuai Liang puts his hands gently on his shoulder as he coaxes him back to reality. Tomas matches his breaths while Harumi rubs his back gently and softly, like a feather duster on china.
"We are in Japan," he begins to list, "You are in Harumi's compound, it is Wednesday evening, and you finished a debrief with (y/n)."
At the mention of your name, Tomas looks at his family with worry, words sputtering like a struggling car, "Is she alright? She left crying after... after I..."
Kuai Liang looks at Harumi worriedly, "Tomas? What happened? Why is she of concern?"
Tomas is finally back to his usual self, ish. He sits up against the pole as he explains his dilemma to his family.
"So... you froze after she confessed to you?" Kuai deadpans, which earns a smack on the back of his head from Harumi.
"Tomas," she begins, "You must've been reminded of something, or perhaps letting her words register?"
"It's... It's been too long since I heard something like that," Tomas explains, "She said it with heart, brother and sister. So much I thought my own would explode."
Kuai offers his hand to Tomas, to which he accepts and gets put back on his feet. Kuai places a hand on his shoulder while Harumi holds onto her husband's bicep.
"And did you answer her? Give her your answer that you feel the same way?"
Tomas has loved you before he even knew it was called "love". He loved being able to talk to you, confide in you during his darkest moments, and just be around you. Normally, he'd say that his fire was his brother, but now it's you. You ignite something inside his heart, and it pushes him to put one hundred percent in everything he does.
Smoke follows your burning passion and dedication, and it's not just his magic. He wants to be with you more than command head and second, and more than people working to defeat evil, and definitely more than friends.
Tomas just stares at his brother before he shakes his head side to side. Kuai sighs and his head is down in disappointment, and Harumi nudges Tomas's shoulder.
"Well? What are you waiting for? Go on!" Harumi urges, "Come on, Tomas, before it's completely ruined forever!"
Tomas rushes to your room quickly, heavy steps padding on the wood in thumps. He finally makes it to your room, and unfortunately, he can hear your sobs past the thin material of the door. Tomas wants to slide the door to the side, but he simply announces himself with a knock.
"(y/n)?" he said softly, hand on the door, "By the gods, I am so sorry."
You stop crying, head turning to the door to see Tomas's silhouette past the door. You didn't want to come to the door, but you didn't want to sound like you were crying for a whole fifteen minutes. You wipe your tears and blow your nose into a dirty shirt before clearing your throat and speaking.
"Tomas? W-what are you doing? It's quite late, and you should be asleep."
You can hear him take a deep breath before speaking again, "(y/n), I..."
Your breath stops, your eyes watching Tomas's shadow fidget. Quietly, you walk closer to the door and press your hand and forehead on the door to hear him better.
"(Y/n)," he begins again, "I haven't heard those words in a long time- and I mean a long time. I lost my first family, my faith, my second family... I was so sure I could never feel this love again despite being surrounded by it.
More tears form in your eyes as he continues, "But spending time here, watching brother marry, taking Hanzo in, and meeting you... I realize that maybe things are turning up for me."
You carefully slide your door open, eyes meeting a tear-stained Tomas. He smiles weakly, wiping the tears away, but they keep replacing themselves as he continues speaking.
"(Y/n), you said you loved me. I hope I'm not too late in saying that I love you too."
You smile softly, taking his hands in yours and squeezing it. He's shocked, but he this time his eyes aren't empty. They're full of love, life, and hope- and there is no slowing down with the overwhelming emotions he was feeling.
The moon shines brightly over both of you, almost like the gods blessing you two with eternal happiness. There was also Kuai Liang and Harumi quietly stalking you two in the distance, but you two didn't care. Not when the confession isn't left hanging in the air.
=====================
Kuai Liang
"Oh my goodness," you say happily, "Thank you, Kuai Liang, I love you so much!"
It's the middle of the night, and you two were in Kuai Liang's room discussing battle plans and information over matters regarding the Lin Kuei. However, as you two were planning, you had lost a very special pen from your family. He stopped everything to help you find it since you were on the brink of tears. Your outburst, though, might make the dam burst.
"You... I beg your pardon?" Kuai Liang says with a bewildered look. Your face burns hot and grows pinky-red, you wave your hands around like a maniac, flailing as you try to explain yourself.
"I mean, I love you for finding my pen! I mean, I love how you found- Ah! Uh, agh..." you groan, sucking up your divine punishment and confessing, "I can't lie to you, Kuai Liang, not about how I really feel."
You knew them through Harumi, since they were childhood friends. And, like Harumi, you were the inheritor to your own clan, which specialized in tactical brilliance, weaponry, and manpower. You offered your support and frequented their compound, where your relationship with him grew from colleagues, to partners, to very close friends. You remember after a few months, you spoke to Harumi about your feelings towards him, and ever since that she's been doing her best to give you more chances to meet and talk.
This was no different. Harumi actually set this whole thing up, shoving papers into the already busy Kuai Liang's hands and telling him to work with you on it. Dutiful to his work and clan, of course he'd work on it, and Harumi made sure you could jump on this opportunity.
Now, here you were, spilling your heart out to your friend about the feelings you had been harboring.
"From the minute we began working together, you made me feel like I wasn't my clan's inheritor. You made me feel normal, like a person, and like a woman. Being a leader is tough, but being a female leader is harder- you grounded me. You made me feel... seen. And for that, I love you- very much."
He doesn't move, still like a marble statue. You look and search his eyes for any sign of reciprocation, any hint that perhaps that Harumi was right about the things she told you about your crush. But he remains unmoving, and your heart completely shatters. The dam in your eyes crumbles and you begin to let go. Finally, Kuai Liang reacts and robotically gets you tissues, trying to calm you down.
You look at him with a ridiculous "what the f#ck" face as he hands you a tissue, to which you knock the box out of his hands and storm out. All he can do, though, is begin to clean up quietly, leaving your sudden outburst in his head.
Kuai Liang kept his heart locked in a bulletproof, titanium metal, fire-proof, and multi-padded safe. He was loyal to his duty, family, and clan, emotions were good, yes, but they were unreliable to his mission. Yes, he cared for his friends and little brother, and yes he cared for the defense of Earthrealm, but that was duty- there's no heart in it. Hence, his robotic motions, however being with you slowly unlocked the layers that buried his heart.
He felt the same with you, truly, but with how tightly he locked his heart up, he was afraid. What if things don't work out? What if his heart overtook his mind? What if...
His thoughts were interrupted with Harumi stepping in his room, watching him clean up with a slacked jaw. She pieces everything together and puts two fingers on the bridge of her nose, sighing at the way her plan unfolded.
"How in the gods names did you mess it up?" Harumi seethes out to her friend, "What even happened?"
He sighs and sits down in front of the tissues and messy papers, "She, uh, (y/n), confided in me her feelings."
Harumi egged him further, "And? Did you respond? Did you say anything to her at all? You know, I see how you look at her and-."
Kuai Liang disassociates from her rant, processing your words even harder. By the gods, he does love you. He loves how you laugh when he tells you stories about Tomas, he loves your confidence, your leadership, and your very being. He, too, feels grounded, and being with you makes him forget the war he was fighting against his own blood brother. He would hate to see you drawn into this feud, but you already involved yourself by supporting him.
Funny, since love works exactly like that. You can deny it, bury it, lock it up as best as you can, but it always wins. Love is fun, fleeting, and scary, but when is anything in life not? Getting up, he towers over Harumi and asks for your location.
"Perhaps check the roof? I know she frequents the roofs when things become too much," she ponders, a finger on her chin.
Kuai Liang storms out and leaps on the walls that surrounded the compound. It's a huge plot of land that stretches far, right before a pine tree forest. However, he finds you atop the peak of a tower to the left of the main home. He sprints over to you, jumping, leaping, and climbing up to reach you. When he reaches you, you're eyes are wide and you try to scoot away from him.
"Go away, Kuai Liang," you hissed, "Just ignore what I said- it was a mistake." He doesn't listen, though, and walks closer to you while talking about his newly processed feelings.
"(Y/n)," he starts, "You are more than your clan's leader. You are the pride of your parents, the future of your people, and person that took my heart by storm."
You gasp, and he keeps talking as he squats to your level, "You cannot fathom how much your very being has helped me, but how I repaid your help, and love, was inexcusable. My heart has been locked up since... well, forever, and duty had really guided me for the rest of my life, for fear of losing everyone I know and love- including you."
Tears spill over your eyes, blurring your vision of Kuai Liang's face. However, unbeknownst to you, he too was holding tears back as he finished his confession.
"I love you, (y/n)," he whispers, "I love you more than anything. If you have me, my heart and duty is yours to command, yours to control, and for once I am okay with someone else taking control."
You nod happily, tears still streaming down as you bring him into a deep hug. The warmth of the evening and Kuai Liang's magic filled you with pure joy.
No, his fire did not waver. In fact, it burned brighter than any light in the entire universe.
=====================
Bi Han
"Thank you, Bi Han," you wince as wraps your bloody shoulder, "You did not have to do this." Bi Han grunts, but he does not halt any operations he has on you.
You had come back from a mission with Sektor across the world, in Japan to be specific. Sent to scope the possible locations of the Shirai Ryu base, you two were ambushed by a group of Shirai Ryu ninja and wounded pretty badly against the battle. There were losses, but you and Sektor came out victorious. Bi Han, though, was not pleased to see his second-in-command and familiar injured.
A cooling sensation came over your shoulder, and you sigh in relief when you realize it's Bi Han using his powers to relieve some of your pain. You lean backwards just a bit, your head hitting his lower abdomen area as you preen in the comfort. Bi Han flinches a bit, but it isn't unwelcome.
Bi Han was fascinated by you ever since you waited for him to wake up in the infirmary. In fact, you found him first while on watch duty, Bi Han's body sluggishly walking through the snow before passing out by the grand entrance. You were moved, the mighty grandmaster betrayed by his family and left alone. It angered you so much so that you began to train even harder than you already did, waking up early to get more reps in, more spars in, and more time to hone your deadly skills.
Bi Han saw your efforts, even offered to train with you (which was a big deal to your little heart). It was rare for him to spar with someone outside of his circle, even rarer for him to train with a simple soldier. He had you in his sights, though, ever since you waited for him in the infirmary. After his first spar with you, he concluded that maybe having you around would be nice.
Sometimes, you had breakfast with him after your spars. He would tell you all the places you needed to work n or improve in a scarily gentle tone. He would also send you on missions with people in his inner circle, your skills exceeding the expectation he held for his star pupil, Frost. But your favorite moments were when you two sat in comfortable silence, doing nothing but palace-temple chores, stretching, or walking around your home. This was something that solidified that he liked you too (although, delusions might have been taking over at this point).
As Bi Han kept alleviating your shoulder, your true feelings slipped out like buttery bread in a pan, "I love you, Bi Han."
The constant chill Bi Han's magic provided ceased immediately, and you don't realize the weight of your words until you feel the air grow chilly. You look at your crush's face and see a truly awful scowl on his face, his brows facing downward and the amount of lines that formed on his pale face.
You notice ice beginning to line his arms and growing around his feet as he grunts a command, "Explain. Now."
"I-It-It's, ah, uh," you stutter, his fear-mongering getting to you, "It was a mistake! I misspoke, Grandmaster, I was-," Bi Han wasn't buying it, though.
He barks the same order at you, so you give up and muster your courage to face your Grandmaster with a situation beyond his control.
"It wasn't a mistake, I apologize for trying to deceive you," you begin, "But what I am about to say is not a trick. I do love you, Bi Han, more than anything in the world, realms and universe combined. Your mentorship over me, and the little "friendship" we developed over the past couple of months has bubbled into this- I am in love with your firm leadership, quiet attentiveness to everyone within the palace..."
You looked in his eyes with unwavering confidence, finishing your last statement, "And I am especially in love with your comforting silence. The way your eyes spoke to me, the way we had mutual understanding while alone together, everything. I love it- I am in love with you."
You search his eyes for any sign of your feelings being reciprocated, but his pupils were small and his deep brown irises took over- there was no hope for any reciprocation. Your confidence shattered, and any pain you felt was gone as adrenaline forced you out of that room, sprinting away from the infirmary and somewhere else in the palace-compound. Bi Han, though, stood still and finally grasped the situation he was in.
Though Bi Han was no longer with his brothers, he recalled the memories of how he kept his heart so buried in ice and snow while he was living with them. Emotions were a liability, a weapon that could be used against him, and now that they were gone he thought he was safe- until you. You were his new liability, yet he wanted that risk, he wanted to have you because for the first time in a very, very, very long time, he was willing to put himself on the line for something, you.
The chilled air began to recede, and the ice that formed on and around him did the same. As he brought himself back to the real world, Sektor walked in on the scene. His cyborg-like helmet was off, revealing his aged face and hair wrapped in a tight bun in the back of his head. He carried tea, rice balls, and a content face, but it drops when he sees his leader.
"Grandmaster?" He asked carefully, "What in the realms happened here?"
Bi Han shakes off any remaining ice on his body, stretching his body in the process as he explains, "Nothing of your concern, Sektor. Leave."
He shrugs, not wanting to egg him on, but he departs with some useful information, "In case you were worried, (y/n) is in the training room. For what reason, I do not know, but she's been at it for roughly fifteen minutes now."
He immediately leaves the room, careful not to bump into his friend(?) and the treats he was holding. Quickly, he heads to the training room and finds you sparring with another assassin, completely obliterating them and sending them tumbling towards the wall. He huffs and jumps in the ring, watching your face morph into a foreign emotion he's never seen before- fury.
You taunt him, "I mean no disrespect, Grandmaster, but I am sparring. I never asked you to join."
He tuts his mouth, simply walking towards you to try and close the distance, "You are a strong-willed woman, that is certain."
Tears begin to well in your eyes, so you throw a punch at him to distract yourself, "Is that all, Grandmaster?"
The punch is easily caught by Bi Han's calloused hand, "Not yet, but let us see you work."
You grit your teeth, quickly letting go from his hand and throwing a roundhouse kick, which was caught again. He taunts you a bit more, "Closer, but you're close. One more, and I will speak."
Angered beyond compare, You unleash a fury of kicks, punches, and jabs to the grandmaster, all dodged by his years of experience. One of your punches was stopped, and he took you down on your back and pinned you to the floor. You wriggle and writhe under him, trying to get away.
"Will you allow me to speak? Or do you wish to cause more trouble?" Bi Han asks with a quizzical look and upturned brow.
You stay silent and turn away, the tears not stopping. He sighs, and beings to talk.
"You are strong, resilient in any task given. Kind, to everyone and not just me. But most importantly, you are a risk, and one I am willing to take," Bi Han says very softly, which differs from his usual demeanor, "One final risk, if you will take it with me, is that I do, truly, love you as well, (y/n)."
Your eyes widen and turn your head to him. The tears keep flowing as he gently pulls your head into his chest, raising you up with him as he cradled you in his arms. You hug him tightly, feeling his chill breath on your skin where it was exposed. He breathed softly, taking in this experience with all five senses.
The training room went eerily silent, the only sound being the footsteps in the distance and the gentle howl of the the winter wind. Yet, Bi Han kept you warm and safe with his embrace, perhaps another risk he didn't realize he was already taking.
=====================
if Bi Han didn't become an opp, maybe Harumi would help him bag a baddie too. also, when i described sektor, i used the mk9 version of him (best version of MK btw) to fill the gap. i discovered the power of the <s> button, and i will be using that to type my longer fics
i also understand the importance of tags and the specificity of them, so big ups and thanks to the accounts that told me!
thank you for reading, and i will see you in the next fic!
hiiiii can you write something about Sektor with a fem reader? Maybe Sektor in a secret relationship with a concubine
Breaking Tradition - Sektor (MK2023) x fem!reader
in which Sektor is in love with a dream
a/n: school sucks
ship[s]: sektor x fem!concubine!reader
warning(s): shorter fic than usual, uhhh bi han has many wives???, LESBIANS, semi-angst??, idek anymore...
- concubine!reader, who's but a lowly concubine for the Lin Kuei and the grandmaster. who doesn't get much recognition because she is the fifth wife already
- concubine!reader, who often spends her days alone, only with her few servants. who reads to pass the time, who embroiders and does anything to make her busy and forget how lonely she is
- concubine!reader, who meets Sektor during an off-chance you came out of your room to speak with the grandmaster, who sees the red-armored ninja assassin's mask up and smiling, and you fell in love
- Sektor, who sees the rare, fifth wife of her grandmaster out and about, not cooped up in her room. Sektor, who wonders why you hide yourself away when you shine radiantly like gold in the sun
- Sektor, who is out everyday to try and see you, concubine!reader, and speak with you. Sektor, who's infatuated with you, yet you hadn't spoken a word to her
- concubine!reader, who asks Grandmaster Bi Han the schedule of all the assassins training. when asked why, concubine!reader says its to be more involved (Bi Han is skeptical, but gives it to you anyways)
- concubine!reader, who comes out of her room at the scheduled times to watch Sektor train. And Sektor, who now sees you during her training hours in the corner of her peripheral vision as she spars and practices her moves
- Sektor, who flies up to the second floor of the palace to talk to you when done sparring. Sektor, who introduces herself to you with her confident smile and confident attitude
- Sektor, who talks to you during her breaks so she can get to know you. Sektor, who walks with you when you are about to retire for the night
- concubine!reader, who writes Sektor anonymous poems about her using the color red as a synonym to her. concubine!reader, who carefully slips these notes to her carrier bird to deliver to the window of her room
- concubine!reader, who receives notes from Sektor as well, poems that talk of stars and their eternal radiance. concubine!reader, who realizes it's about her
- Sektor, who eats with you now that you've begun to wake up earlier to catch her even before training. Sektor, who begins to touch you during these quiet moments where no one is around
- Sektor, who is spoken to by Bi Han about personal space within the clan, and knowing one's place. Sektor, who begins to put a distance on you just when she began to close it
- concubine!reader, who is confused when Sektor does not talk to you as much. concubine!reader, who only gets short and cordial answers from the iron-clad ninja
- concubine!reader, who still receives love poems from Sektor, though they are more daring and a bit raunchy. concubine!reader, who reads more poems about Sektor wanting to do more than talk and hug you
- Sektor, who's dying inside due to the wall she's put up to protect you and herself. Sektor, who dreams of a world where you and her can live freely and as yourselves and together
- Sektor, who realizes she needs to extinguish this fire before it burns her completely. Sektor, who also wants the flames of your love to eat her alive
- Sektor, who sticks to reality and puts out this fleeting love of hers. Sektor, who ceases all forms of contact with you and lets you return to your wealthy, yet solitary life within the Lin Kuei palace
- concubine!reader, who's devastated that the only love and happiness you ever got had left you like autumn leaves blown in the wind
- concubine!reader, who moves on with life and returns to her solitary ways of self-confinement and loneliness
- concubine!reader, who occasionally reads the poems and declarations of love that she once received
- concubine!reader and Sektor, who realize they were in love with a dream
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
something something something sektor is a closeted lez
something something something have some sad lesbians
Karaoke Pick-Me-Up - Earthrealm players x GN!reader
in which a date you went on went horribly, and the Earthrealm boys design a karaoke night for you
ships: raiden, kung lao, kenshi & johnny x gn!reader
warnings: incredible amounts of fluff, harem(?), you're as dense as a rock to the feelings of these men, NOT POLY
based on the "Oh fuck, it's in Korean!" meme
You were completely lost- your mind in a different plane of existence as you felt Kung Lao's elbow connect with your cheek, a dirty left-hook sending you tumbling and grounded.
Groaning, you get up slower than usual and hold onto your cheek, a bruise already forming and turning yellow-green.
"By the gods, are you alright?!" Kung Lao calls to you, rushing to your side to help you up.
You strain, leaning into his shoulder as you continue to hold onto your cheek. Kung Lao's exclamation alerts the attention of the other boys, Kenshi, Johnny, and Raiden, who disregard their sparring partners and head over to you and Kung Lao. At the sight, Johnny, Raiden, and Kenshi quickly piece the story together, looking at the prideful farmer with eyes ablaze.
The Fengjian-native is begging for his life with his eyes, while his friends are already planning creative ways to dispose of him. The commotion is enough to get Liu Kang involved, a couple of monks behind him as he rushes to the growing crowd.
"Is everything alright?" Liu Kang asks, authority emanating from his tone.
Kung Lao steps up immediately, "I am so sorry, Lord Liu Kang. We were sparring under the direction of one of the monks. I went too hard and hurt them in the process, but they didn't even bother to block! When the hit landed, it was too late for them, and me..."
Liu Kang looks at you, softness in his eyes, "Is this true?"
You nod and smile weakly, "Yes, Lord Liu Kang. I'm just a bit out of it today. With your permission, I'd like my wounds tended to."
Liu Kang thinks for a bit, but ultimately lets you go, "One of the monks will accompany you to the infirmary. Please, rest well." His voice calls your name, kindness and a bit of pity in his voice.
He turns to the rest of the boys as soon as you walk away, "Everyone else, back to training. The tournament may be months away, but we cannot afford to linger and waste our efforts."
Everyone bows, Kenshi, Johnny, Raiden, and Kung Lao heading off back to their posts. However, Liu Kang grabs onto Kung Lao's shoulder, to which he audibly gulps.
"You, on the other hand, will remain by my side," he says with some harshness.
Kung Lao turns around and sees Liu Kang point to the space next to him. He sighs and gets on his knees, the gravel mildly uncomfortable for him. His arms are raised and in the air, this punishment eerily similar to the ones he used to get when he was in grade-school.
A couple of hours later, plus Kung Lao getting an earful from each of the boys, they decide to check on you in the infirmary. Weirdly, you never came back to training for the rest of the day, and it bothered them because: 1. Liu Kang doesn't breaks nilly-willy, and 2. It isn't the designated break day of the week.
As the boys walk together, they still pick at Kung Lao and his poor string of choices.
"How many times must I apologize before I am accepted again?" He pleas behind them.
Raiden sighs, turning to his best friend, "When we feel like it, Kung Lao. After all, a left-hook like that was definitely meant for more than a spar."
He groans and looks to Johnny, the (usually) happy-go-lucky man of the people. However, Johnny's filled with reason, a rare occurrence.
"Sorry, farm boy, but Raiden's right. That move was uber uncalled for."
He sighs, not bothering to ask for Kenshi's point of view, a gnawing feeling telling him that he'll parrot what they'd already said.
Nearing the infirmary, they notice the slide-window is open, allowing full view of your face and... Lord Liu Kang? The boys look among each other and decide to close in on your conversation with the fire god. After all, is it stalking when they're worried for a friend? Staying out of sight, all four of them can hear the entire conversation you're having with him.
"It's nothing, Lord Liu Kang, my mind was just occupied with something else. Tomorrow, I will be at my best."
"Worry often takes energy from the task at hand. I would like all of my champion-candidates in the best shape possible; that includes mentally."
The men look amongst one another. What did he mean by that? And what exactly happened during last week's designated break day? You groan and lay down, explaining your dilemma to the god without looking at him.
"I, uh, went on a date during last week's break day. This person I'd really been eyeing agreed to bowl with me, and I thought we hit it off pretty well. I mean, I thought we hit it off well..."
Outside, the four boys pitied your situation, Johnny and Kenshi relating a little harder than the younger men. Kung Lao sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck, whispering to his friends.
"Do you all think I knocked them deep into their thoughts?"
Raiden smacks the back of his head, a quick thwack throwing Kung Lao's head forward making his hat fall off as well.
You continue, "At the end of our night together, this person told me that they weren't interested. Worse, they said that they went along with it as part of a bet."
Liu Kang's face morphed into something between disgust and sadness, and your friends outside were planning the murder of this person. Why would anyone do that, especially to you? You're kind, hilarious, and hot- the perfect combo! Their hearts broke for you even more, staying silent to hear the rest of your story. They can hear your rustling in bed, turning and shifting in some sort of position.
You sighed loudly, "I had planned to go to a karaoke bar after bowling, trying to end the night on a positive note. Instead, I just sat in that room alone, crying quietly."
They hear Liu Kang speak, "I am sorry for such an experience, my friend. That person does not deserve your kindness or heart."
You nod, "Silly of me to cry over something like that, huh? I'm over here, learning how to fight to protect our home, yet I dwell on such matters."
Liu Kang disagrees, "Demigod or not, I understand this feeling very well. This is a matter that means much to you, so do not disregard your own pain for the benefit of something else."
The boys agree, nodding and whispering how to go and cheer you up. If Liu Kang wanted you at your best, the boys would be part of helping you get back to where you were. They quickly left their hiding spots, figuring out what you needed in order to be yourself again.
"You think they'd like dinner at Madame Bo's? Madame Bo wouldn't mind, and we all know how much they like to eat," Kung Lao offers.
While a great idea, Kenshi disagrees, "They must be feeling like a burden right now. We need something that erases that feeling. Sure, having someone cook for you is great, but what about the idea that 'Oh, they must be cooking for me because they have to?'"
Motion carries among the men, Kung Lao also accepting defeat as they keep brainstorming ways to help you. Raiden offers an attempt too, a much softer idea.
"What about a day in the hot springs? There's a great local spot near mine and Kung Lao's place, and nothing beats a hot bath to take your mind off from bad memories."
This time, Johnny speaks some sense about this idea.
"As much as that's a great idea, they might feel forced to relax instead of doing it themselves. We need something that screams 'burden begone!'" Johnny finishes his wisdom with some funky jazz hands.
Raiden accepts his loss, heading back to the mental drawing board of ideas to help you feel better. All that thinking must've felt like an eternity, because they've all made it only to the courtyard. Dummies all cleaned up and in order, training weapons put away, and the torches lighting up the paths in the night, Kung Lao exclaims with an idea.
"I got it! Everyone, listen up..."
=====================
A couple of days later, it was this week's designated day off. You had been beating yourself up over the last couple of days, subjecting your body to more stress and strain to make up for your inadequacies and actions. Once the monks and Liu Kang dismiss you and the rest of the champion-candidates for your break, you immediately head into your room and pack up.
Briskly walking away, you were stopped by the illustrious actor himself. A dramatic hand outstretched, his chin up and proud. You smile playfully and ask what's up.
"My friend," he begins with a dramatic British accent, "I request your presence at my manor this evening. Seven p.m., on the dot, for a celebration in your honor is in order."
You hear a set of feet pitter-patter behind you, Kung Lao's figure in front of you with a rolled up piece of paper. You chuckle and take it, playing along with the skit.
"Thank you, servant. I shall be upon you when the time comes. However, good sir, it is not my day of birth. So, pray tell, what this occasion could possibly be for?"
Behind some bushes, Kenshi and Raiden watch the scene in front of them unfold, the former smacking his hand onto his forehead. Raiden laughs quietly, still watching your movements. They sit there, guarding the stuff they had packed early, waiting for them to return.
Kenshi scoffs, "I can't believe we agreed to this..." Raiden, agreeing with his feelings, points out to him the undeniable truth.
"We cannot be mad at Johnny and Kung Lao, though. Look at them, they're making them smile already."
Kenshi watches in behind the shrubbery and notices the radiant smile on your face. His face reddens just a smidge before turning away, rubbing his face to rid the natural warmth to floods it. Raiden, on the other hand, wears his feelings with pride as his blush is more apparent.
After bidding farewell, Kung Lao and Johnny get to where the other two are, stating the success of the invitation. At this, the boys gathered their belongings and dashed into the open portal, being quick and trying to remain unseen.
After all, they had a party to plan.
=====================
You arrive at the front of Johhny's mansion, well, "large house". Since the divorce from his wife, he had down-sized to something "smaller", yet the house still remained rather roomy- it had a movie room and a large patio overlooking the shore of the west coast. You put a brave face on, trying to forget what happened last week. After all, you would be with your friends, and that alone would make you feel a lot better.
The door swings open and Johnny's bright smile is on, holding a microphone in one hand, and taking your arm with his other. You're taken aback by this, but you can't think about it as you're dragged into his house. You can hear the bumping of a stereo system, and a voice singing quite loudly with a faint echo.
The media room's door is cracked ajar just a bit, but in the crack you can see Kung Lao belting a Chinese song, a song that sounds like something the aunties in Chinatown would sing during Chinese New Year. Raiden and Kenshi are laughing, the former playing the tambourine and the latter filming on his phone.
"Guys, guys! Our honored guest is here!" Johnny announces.
You sheepishly wave your hand, "Hey guys... what's all this?"
Kung Lao stops singing for a bit, the instrumental continuing, "It's, uh, our rest day hang out day!"
You sigh and roll your eyes, "Great cover, but I don't buy it. Seriously, what is it?"
Johnny can feel the mood depress, and Kenshi spills the beans.
"We, uh, overheard your conversation with Lord Liu Kang in the infirmary. We wanted to cheer you up, make you feel better before the tournament. You mentioned karaoke, so, uh, well..."
Raiden comes up to you and takes your hand into his, rubbing it lightly with his thumbs, "You don't deserve what that person did to you. Your very being lights up the room, ignites our hearts. We want to keep your flame alight."
The boys nod in agreement, Kung Lao sending a finger heart your way. You smile fully, pearly whites in view as you accept their kindness. These four boys, all from different backgrounds and stages of life, befriended you, trained with you, and learned to love every part of you.
While you thought it simply being platonic, the others have been eagerly waiting to give you their heart, and were burning holes into the back of Raiden's head with the stunt he pulled.
"Well then," you announced, unclasping your hands from his, "Let's get tonight rolling!"
The evening commenced as the boys had hoped, you jumping into every opportunity to sing, dance, and enjoy yourself with your friends. You sang duets with Kung Lao, wept at Raiden and Kenshi's solo songs, and became an accompaniment with the provided tambourine to Johnny's songs. It played out like a coming-of-age movie; and you didn't want this to end.
Many songs, duets, and hours later, you decide to switch it up and play a K-pop song, a girl group for you, Johnny, and Kung Lao to sing. Raiden was taking a bit of a break, and Kenshi had gone to the bathroom, making you three the only available singers for the moment. As the song plays, though, you see Kung Lao having second thoughts.
"Oh fuck, it's in Korean!" he exclaimed. Johnny, however, makes no mistake as he sang the intro.
You, Kung Lao, Raiden, and Kenshi (who opened the door after relieving himself) were in shock at the actor's talent. Fluent Korean passed his lips as he clutched his t-shirt, pouring his soul into the song. You couldn't take it anymore and fell to your knees, wheezing and gasping for air as you laughed/cried at the scene in front of you.
Johnny doesn't care though. He peaks from the corner of his eye and watched you clutch onto your stomach, the sound of your laughter filling his heart up with butterflies.
Kung Lao steals Kenshi's phone, swiping to begin recording this, "Lord Liu Kang is going to love this!"
You don't really remember the rest of the night, knocking out cold and sleeping first. However, as you slept, you could hear hushed voices, movement of equipment and bodies, and the adjustment of fabrics before you were scooped up and put onto a bed. Instead of a blanket, however, the four men cuddled against you, providing the necessary warmth needed to keep you softly asleep.
Snuggling into the warmth and protection of the four men, you sleep peacefully, grateful for the Elder Gods to have blessed you with amazing friends.
=====================
bonus scene - the Lin Kuei
Liu Kang was a bit worried when you five didn't come through the portal for training. A little peeved, he sent Bi Han, Kuai Liang, and Tomas to fetch you five from Johnny's home and bring you back to the Academy. While Tomas and Kuai Liang were okay with it, Bi Han was (understandably) pissed off.
"Those doddering fools, making us do petty chores-"
"Easy brother," Kuai Liang coaxed, "Let us finish the task, then we can hear your rambles."
Bi Han grabs the handle, but it's unlocked, which sends all three of them into fight mode. Slowly entering the door, they quietly creep through the dimmed house, making their way upstairs. Bi Han splits his brothers up to search the rooms to his left and right, while he walks slowly towards the door in front of him. It's cracked just a smidge, to which he slams it open in order to prevent an ambush.
The only thing he got ambushed with, though, was incredible amounts of fluff radiating from the "missing" champion-candidates, sleeping soundly. Light snores, breathing, and huffs can be heard from the pile as Bi Han sighs behind his mask.
Tomas chuckles behind him, "Well, looks like Lord Liu Kang doesn't have to worry anymore." Kuai Liang also agrees with him.
"This reminds me of our youth, brother. Do you remember?" Kuai Liang asks, "You and I used to sleep around Tomas when-"
He huffs, turning away and walking back downstairs. Tomas and Kuai Liang shrug, used to his antics. Bi Han, however, remembers his childhood memories fondly. While his mask hides it, a small smile sits behind it.
=====================
guys, you don't understand, i have so many ideas, headcanons, and storylines for all my fave MK1 characters.
I'm thinking of a ship-fic between kitana and raiden, or ashrah and syzoth- i don't know!
in which you go back go bi han after his reflection and redemption
a/n: i think i'll make this an optional pt.2 for the people who liked how the first story ended. this will be fun to write for though- thanks for the request @livingdeadgirly !!!
a/n: I'm in pain thinking of hurting my pookie... but if i must....
ship[s]: tomas x reader, bi han x reader (mk1)
warnings: angst for sure, reader is incapable of conceiving, fluffy end, no (y/n) bs, AND ITS LONG
Ever since Bi Han's appearance at the Shirai Ryu compound, his confession, and his promise, you couldn't help but think about the years that passed, and everything that's changed between you, Bi Han, and Tomas.
As Bi Han had been reaching his absolution, you, Tomas, and Kuai Liang would pay visits to the temple-compound of the Lin Kuei. At first, you stayed away from him, not wanting to let your heart be broken again. But with every visit to his home, every little conversation, gift offering, or some other version of an olive branch, you found yourself opening up to him again.
You'd like to think this started after the sixth visit of Bi Han to the compound. Kuai Liang and Tomas were out on a mission, and Harumi was busy teaching the initiates about katana-wielding. It left you and Bi Han alone in a weird silence. In the entertainment room, green tea steams from intricate ceramic cups in front of you, and the rice cakes you offered remain untouched.
"You look well," Bi Han states, "How are you and my brother? I hear from Madame Bo you are hoping for heirs."
You sigh, playing with your fingers as you open up in rare vulnerability.
"If I am being honest, it hasn't been going well. We had gotten news from the doctor that my body is not capable of conceiving..."
It's quiet, but you feel good being able to talk about your problems. You felt bad for not being able to give Tomas a family of his own, even though he said it was alright. Regardless, it didn't stop the dark thoughts and depressive feelings that rose from your heart and mind. Beating and bogging you down for not being able to provide, not being able to do your part.
Tomas didn't blame you, not one bit. He knows that creating a child is a two person job, and it's the man who determines almost everything about the child. He even asked the doctors to have his sperm counted to see if it was enough to have a child. Surprisingly, Tomas was just fine, it was simply your body not bodying.
"You know Tomas does not blame you," Bi Han stated. "A man who blames his wife for something like this is no man, and Tomas would never do such a thing."
You nodded, agreeing and wiping a single tear that fell from your eye.
"I'm not sure why I'm crying," you laugh weakly, "You're the fourth person to tell me it's not my fault, yet I cannot believe it."
This was out of Bi Han's control. Motherhood, pre-conception, pregnancy, and post-pregnancy, was something he did not know in full depth. He wouldn't dare give you false hope, nor say the wrong thing, especially with a topic as heavy as this.
You rest your hands on the table, finally calming down from the sadness that gripped you for a bit. Bi Han takes this opportunity to hold your hand, resting it over yours and squeezing it tightly.
"Whatever you need darl- uh, my friend. I will listen, offer my presence, anything you need. You can lean on me."
======================
Another memory arose from the depths of your mind. This time, it was when you realized Tomas no longer had your heart.
A couple of months after you and Bi Han were left alone in the compound, you and Tomas decided to pay a visit to the Lin Kuei's temple-compound, which you could now travel freely to. In this particular visit, though, you saw Bi Han in a new light- and there was no way in stopping how brightly it shone in your heart.
You and Tomas were greeted warmly by the assassins, as well as some of the medics and healers. A couple of familiar faces also show up, Madame Bo and Lord Liu Kang, who show you around the new and improved temple.
Various technological advances were achieves with Bi Han's ambition. A mixture of tradition and modernity grace yours and Tomas's gaze, watching how the Lin Kuei train in traditional weapons and firearms. You look up and see Bi Han, overlooking the courtyard where the initiates train.
His air felt... different when you saw him commanding his clan. He looked confident, happy-ish, and proud, the semblance of the man you married before back. At the same time, though, you felt sick. You, who had confidently stated he would never be able to win you back, felt your resolve crumble. It hurt you even more when you realized that, as much as Tomas loved you, you did not love him the same way.
You loved his comfort, not his character. You loved his help, not his heart.
Heartbreakingly, you loved his presence- not his whole self.
You remember the fight you and Tomas had the night after your visit.
"So, after all these years, I never really had you, did I?"
"Dear, please," you beg, "I didn't expect myself to be like this either!"
He sighed and sat at the corner of your shared beds, "I gave you my comfort, offered you my support, held you when you allowed it! Did it mean nothing to you?! Did any of this mean anything o you?!"
You shook your head, "Tomas, listen! You misunderstand me, my dear. Your love has given me a revival I never thought I could achieve. Your love and support made me whole again... but..."
He looked at you, finally understanding what you were about to say, "You never loved me, only my presence."
You sighed, "I didn't want to be alone, and selfishly took you as my own in fear of it. I only realize now of my feelings and actions."
You watched Tomas sit down with his hands burying his face, and his shoulders begin to shake. You couldn't blame him, though, because the woman he loved so much would be leaving.
"Will I truly be alone? Just like how mother and sister left... now you... will I ever be able to have someone by my side?"
You rushed to his side and hugged him, "I believe you will find someone who loves you for you. Someone who will value your entire self, and the love that you embody."
He took you in his arms and you both hugged for the last time, inhaling his scent, tracing your fingers over his hands, muscles, and everything else on him. Your foreheads touch and Tomas cups your cheek, you nuzzling into it and stare into his eyes.
"Please, dear, do not forget me," he pleaded, "Do not forget what I gave to you..."
"How could I?" you told him, "You lifted me up, and I only wish you find someone who will do the same."
You planted a kiss on his forehead, and slip the ring off your finger to hand to him. He accepted it and watched you leave in the night.
=====================
When you appeared at the gates of the Lin Kuei base, an assassin on guard alerted Bi Han on your presence and state of being. You were shivering, one hand gripping onto a light fur pelt and the other holding onto a duffle bag. You stood by the fire post that was at the entrance, falling sleep due to the warmth.
You woke up in a bed, surrounded by warm comforters and heavy furs. Your clothes were all laid out, folded neatly, and you heard the door open, revealing Madame Bo. You smiled softly and waved to her, to which she reciprocated and came closer, food and water on a tray. You accepted it graciously, eating it as she watches you.
"You know, darling," she began, "There wasn't a day that went by without Bi Han thinking about you. He truly wanted you by his side when he got through his promises."
So he, too, didn't forget about me... you thought.
Bi Han entered your room in a rush, having slammed the door open. Madame Bo smirked playfully and walked out, waving her hand at you and passing Bi Han, patting his back on the way out.
"Are you, feeling alright?" he asks wearily, "You were out cold by the fire at the entrance. I took you in myself. I hope you didn't find it disturbing."
You shook your head, "I'm fine, dea- er, uh, Bi Han."
He took a deep breath, catching your slip up and poor recovery. He took the opportunity to come close, way past your personal bubble, and sit right next to you on the bed.
"You came back," he said exasperated, "I thought you said you-."
You remember putting a finger over his mouth, shushing him and using your other hand to hold his face. It's slightly cold, but you find it rather warm.
"Time healed my wounds a little quicker than predicted."
As you got comfortable with Bi Han again, you were afraid Tomas, Kuai Liang, Harumi, and the Shirai Ryu would paint a target over your back, but you were wrong to think so low of them. Tomas's heart was (and still is) bigger than that, more mature, and it was in the form of a letter he sent stating how he would always love you, even after all of this.
You remember the closing line of the letter as well- You taught me to love, and I'll never forget it.
=====================
At this point, many years had passed since the betrayal, even more since you left Tomas and the Shirai Ryu. Amazingly, the relationship between the clans and brothers improved greatly. The clans worked together to protect Earthrealm, traded information and goods to each other frequently, and even fought in joint missions together.
Bi Han and his brother's healing also went swimmingly. Bi Han remained a little aloof with his brothers, unsure of how they still loved and trusted him after the pain he caused, but over time grew accustomed to their warmth. He was still stubborn, and a bit prideful, but he accepted his brother's criticisms, comments, and most importantly, love. Of course, Bi Han still being Bi Han, it would take eons for him to say "I love you" back to his brothers, but he would say other stuff in its place.
"I cherish you both", or "I understand", even a "thank you, brothers," was said with such softness and tenderness, it still shook the other boys. Even so, they took it with open arms.
Currently, you lay with Bi Han in your shared master room, sleeping peacefully in his arms. Wrapped in his embrace, the slight chill his body had felt warmer than any fire could provide. Your peaceful dreaming was interrupted by the wails of a child, crying in a wooden cradle directly across from the feet of the bed.
You get up to tend to the child, but Bi Han beats you to it, planting a kiss on your head and lulling you back to sleep.
You still couldn't believe you were able to conceive, finally having a child and starting a family you dreamed of since, well, forever. Nonetheless, a healthy baby girl. Seems the doctor back in Japan gave you poor results.
You hear Bi Han humming a children's song, rocking your daughter back and forth in order for you to be able to get more sleep. You watch with tired eyes as Bi Han lightly kisses her head, gently putting her back down in the crib.
You remember telling the news to Tomas and Kuai Liang, and them being so happy for you and Bi Han in creating a family. They visited you with gifts ranging from diapers, to swaddles, even unisex jammies for your baby girl. They respected your distance when you asked for a month before visitation, and as soon as it was up, they were at the door of the Lin Kuei's home, bringing even more gifts.
Tomas had also moved on, dating one of Harumi's friends. From both the letters and visitations, you saw how she loved him, and how he loved her- this time, with the full intention of giving everything to each other. Sometimes, you'd get letters from Kuai Liang with a couple of picture of Tomas and his new lover. The same smile he gave you was back in full force, beaming with pride in all of the pictures his lover was present.
Honestly, sleep was out the window for you, so you get up and join your husband's side and watch over your daughter together. He feels you, wrapping his arms around your shoulder as you wrap your arm around his side.
"Please rest, darling," he pleas, "I have this covered."
You yawn, "It's too late now. Besides, your family is coming over today and I want to get ready a little bit earlier."
Kuai Liang, Harumi, Tomas, and his lover would be coming over to see their niece and discuss clan-related issues. You both take the opportunity of your child's slumber to bathe and get dressed, getting ahead of the game before your daughter woke up.
Just as you finished putting your dress on, your daughter woke again with cries, to which you head back to the crib and take your daughter out, rocking and cooing at her to calm down. As you calm her down, you grab a baby toy and walk to the dining area, shaking the little toy to keep her distracted.
You're lost in the laughs of your baby to not see that Bi Han's entire family is at the table too, way earlier than scheduled. They're talking amongst themselves before turning to you, and Harumi immediately screeches for her niece.
"Oh, look at my darling little baby! Oh, how I've missed you," she praises and coos, gently touching your daughter's puffy cheeks. You laugh and hand Harumi your daughter, joining your husband's side. It seems Bi Han and Kuai Liang were a little too enraptured in their conversation, and you lock eyes with Tomas's, his gaze leaving his sister-in-law's.
He mouths to you, You look happy, my friend. Peaceful even.
You nod and smile, As do you, Tomas. As do you.
=====================
guys i literally love Tomas, i can't believe i had to write him in pain.
thank you once again for the request @livingdeadgirly !!! i def took some creative liberties on this, but the initial request is there.
should i write about kuai liang next? or perhaps someone from the earthrealm players team (as johnny puts it)? i have a fic idea using either a laufey or zeph song, i just can't figure out which character
comment to give me some ideas, and i'll see yall in the next fic!
Seeking Peace - Tomas (+ slight Bi Han) x fem!reader
in which fate turns out a bit differently, and Bi Han seeks peace with you and his family
a/n: YOUR HONOR, TOMAS DESERVES THE WORLD, SO LET MY IMAGINATION ALLOW THEM PEACE PLEASE. I LOVE HIM VERY MUCH, YOUR HONOR, AND HE IS VERY GORGEOUS TO ME
ship[s]: tomas x reader, bi han x reader (past)
warnings: mayhaps a bit of angst, no "y/n" bullsh!t
This will be a long-ish one, so be prepared
You happily walk around the compound, humming a light tune as you stroll through the large home. The wind brushes against the trees softly, the leaves rustling quietly. You can hear the grunts and and shouts of Shirai Ryu initiates in the distance, training hard under the tutelage of either Harumi, Kuai Liang, or Tomas.
Ever since the issue of Shang Tsung, Titan and current timeline, the soul stealers, Armageddon, and the betrayal of Bi Han, things have changed greatly. Splitting from centuries of history, of family, was hard for Tomas and especially Kuai Liang. While Kuai Liang and Bi Han were related, Tomas wasn't, yet he still missed his eldest brother, yearning for his redemption.
However, family still prevailed with the creation of the Shirai Ryu, named after Kuai Liang's wife, Harumi Shirai. She proved a valuable teacher, a wonderful wife, and great friend to you and Tomas. Yet, it could not replace the missing piece of your former beloved.
In the past, when the mission to try and take Shang Tsung into questioning took place, you waited patiently at the Wu Shi academy with Geras, Liu Kang, and the rest the champions of Earthrealm. While they did not know of you, you knew of them due to Bi Han's story of Liu Kang's test. With worry, you paced around the room and your pace quickens, the only calm being Geras's warm hand on your shoulder.
Suddenly, the sound of the portal at the entrance of the academy captured your attention, and all of you rushed to meet the three assassins, but your eyes only saw two.
"Kuai Liang, what is the meaning of this?!" You screeched, your daggers drawn at him, "Why are you two only here? Where is Bi Han?!"
You remember the memory well. Tomas and Kuai Liang took their masks off, and you saw Kuai Liang's scar over his left eye. Tomas's eyes were filled with sadness, and he walks to you weakly before engulfing you in a warm, solemn bear-hug. That was all you needed before you dropped your weapons, accepted his hug, and sobbed into his arms.
You shake your head at the memory, a bit confused over the sudden resurfacing of a memory you thought you had buried and gotten over. You sigh and continue walking, only to be surprised with Tomas's magic. He manifested right in front of you, a bright smile on his face. You're shocked, but you welcome it with an equal action, your eyes crinkle with delight.
"To what do I owe the pleasure, darling husband?" You ask playfully, poking his chest.
He chuckles lightly, "My duties of teaching have been overtaken by sister-in-law, so I decided to find my own darling."
You blush at his flattery. After the events of the old fortress, the betrayal of your ex, Tomas's presence was a great help to you. He kept his distance while you grieved the loss of your former husband, but as you began to heal, his intentions for your heart came bursting forth like fireworks. Wary, you accepted them slowly, and him respecting your boundaries. Overtime, though, your heart warmed again and you began to love him wholeheartedly.
You wrap your arm around his, and walk with him around the compound. You talk about the mundane topics of your new lives: the mention of the initiate Hanzo Hasashi, plans against the Lin Kuei's plots, and what you, Tomas, and the other couple will enjoy for dinner.
Unfortunately, your conversation was cut short as a scout ran up to you and Tomas. He comes with urgency, bowing before he speaks.
"Do not be alarmed, Tomas, sir, but we've received an unprecedented report that...."
You look at him with a tilted head, "Well? What did you have to tell us?"
The ninja looks sheepishly to the side, "Well... your brother, Bi Han, is presently at the front of the compound. No one is by his side, and our scouts surveyed the area that no other Lin Kuei have been spotted within five kilometers of the compound."
You both look at each other and immediately rush to the front, not forgetting your salutations to the ninja. You can feel Tomas's gaze at you, worried and a bit jealous. You don't bother to look at him, though, as emotions you had buried, forgotten, and locked away now bubbled and brewed.
=================
You were spared the sight of Bi Han's capture, the ninjas of the Shirai Ryu bringing him into the courtyard. At Kuai Liang's order, all initiates and staff left the area, retreating to their rooms and private quarters, leaving Bi Han at the mercy of his younger brother, Harumi, Tomas, and you.
Bi Han kneels at the sight of all four of you, his hands bound behind him, his head down, and mask gone. Your heart breaks at the sight, but he had brought this upon himself when he made his choice all those years ago. You feel Tomas's warm, calloused hands intertwine with yours as you face your former lover.
You hiss at him, drawing your daggers towards him "What brings you here, Bi Han? And unarmed? Do you have a death wish?!"
You notice how his eyes are tired, bags dragging them down. There are signs of his stress and aging, the lines over his forehead and mouth area. He looks up at you, and you can see how his eyes change every so slightly, his guard down for once.
"Cyrax and Sektor had betrayed me- I killed them and the Lin Kuei's forces have dwindled to less than half."
You're all shocked, turning to each other to try and understand what you all will do next. You turn back to Bi Han, his eyes remaining on yours.
Kuai Liang speaks this time, "Why tell us then? You made your choice many years ago... why seek us out for such a confession?"
"I come to tell you this because... of reflection," he admitted, his gaze turning away and facing his brothers.
You scoff, frustration transforming into pure anger as you lunged towards him, your daggers at each side of his neck. The cold metal presses into Bi Han's neck lightly, nicks of blood slowly spilling out.
"Have you gone mad?! Reflection?! After what you had done?! To your late father, your brothers... to me! I should have your blood spilled with this nonsense!"
Tears form in your eyes, and through your blurry vision, you see Bi Han's face morph into the rare emotion of sadness and regret.
"What you had done to me," you begin, voice shaky, "What you had done to all of us! You betrayed your family, broke my heart... and you think 'reflection' will help you seek peace?!"
Tomas runs up to you and quickly takes your arms to hold you back, picking you up and taking you away from Bi Han. You're taken aback by Tomas's actions, kicking and writhing in his strong grip, trying to get your vengeance.
"Darling please! We must hear brother out! Look at him- he comes to us without ill-intent! You heard the ninja before, a five kilometer radius and no sign of Lin Kuei."
Kuai Liang sits him up, which Bi Han takes this time to continue, "I had long wished for our clan to do more: more power, ambition, leadership. Our manpower could be used more than just defense, but in offense, in bringing Earthrealm to heights it had not seen in ages, eons even."
He turns to Kuai Liang, "Brother, I should have heeded your words, listened to your warnings. After Cyrax and Sektor stabbed my back, I thought about the both of you. A fool I have become, only realizing the gravity of my actions when I was in your place."
With you still in Tomas's grasp, the men look amongst themselves and communicate through silence and hopeful understanding. You couldn't help but look at Bi Han, who looks helpless as he pleads with his kin.
He took this opportunity to speak again, "I took a gamble coming here, plotting my own path to meet you. Now that I have, I offer my own olive branch- a beginning to peace amongst one another, amongst our clans."
You became still in Tomas's arms, listening to the shocking revelation of a real, heartfelt apology. Was this the same man that scarred Kuai Liang, that insulted Tomas's birthright, that broke your heart those years ago?
You yield to Tomas, tapping his arm to let you go. He does so, warily, and watches as you come around Bi Han's back, past Kuai Liang, and untie his arms. You do not help him up, though, and watch him as he comforts the ache in his wrists. He turns to you and offers a slight nod, his eyes glimmering with hope and the slightest hint of change.
In front of Bi Han, you watch as Tomas and Kuai Liang approach their traitor brother carefully. Tomas is the first to bear his true feelings, throwing his mask away to the pebbled ground and tackling his brother into his famous bear hug. You don't hear a sound come from him, but you see his shoulders racking violently as he digs his head into Bi Han's shoulder. Awkwardly, he holds onto Tomas and pats his back softly.
Kuai Liang sighs, joining his brothers in the hug. The warmth his pyro magic provides creates a wave of comfort of all three of them, a peaceful mood amongst them. You visibly see Bi Han relax, feeling peace for the first time in years.
===============
Bi Han slept separate from everyone, having slumbered away in the prison that stood in the depths of the forest near the compound.
You were the first to wake, sneaking out of yours and Tomas's shared room to see Bi Han in the holding cell. Arriving, you were taken to him and saw him meditating.
He never did that during your marriage. It seems he finally listened to your advice after all these years.
You sat in a chair in front of him, and his eyes open from his mediating trance. He takes in the sight of you fully, not knowing if this will be the first or last time he'll see you. Your beautiful hair fell over your face, framing it like a Renaissance piece. Your figure, despite covered in your kimono, looked healthy and full, proof that your marriage to Tomas was treating you better than Bi Han's ever did.
And, oh, your eyes. The color that seemed so dull during your time with him looks so much more colorful now. They seem to burst forth with a vibrancy that lacked with him. Tomas truly brought you back from the pits of the Netherealm.
"You look well," Bi Han mentioned softly, "The years apart from one another truly show."
You scoff, "It seems time did not treat as well."
He shrugs, a soft laugh leaving his lips, "As they say, it is not too late to learn."
He looks down just a bit to see a glimmer of metal on your ring finger, the symbol of unity once again on yourself. He subconsciously touches his ring finger, fiddling with the empty space that should have housed his promise to you.
"Is Tomas treating you well?" He asks, pointing to the ring on your finger.
You smile softly, also playing with your finger, "More than you can imagine. I never thought I could achieve such bliss once again."
He nods, "I am glad."
Silence engulfs you two once more, and Bi Han speaks (which is starting to freak you out).
"I know you may not forgive me, nor take me back, but believe me when I say I want peace. I want nothing more than to see us not at each other's necks, plotting death or downfall of one another."
You sharply inhale, closing your eyes to meditate on his words. While they pull your strings just a bit, you think about them, lingering on every word. You sensed no malice, a drop of anger, nor bloodlust from him, which puts you at ease.
"Bi Han," you began, "You must know I am a married woman once again."
He nods.
"While I will not take you back, nor forget the pain you've caused me and your brothers.... I will accept your offering of peace."
He lets a breath out, glad your choice was more positive than negative.
"It will take a long time for me to trust you again, an even longer time to forgive you, I believe you will achieve the absolution you desire..."
"Our paths may be separate," you continue, "but it does not mean we cannot traverse it together."
==================
The entirety of the Shirai Ryu is behind you, Tomas, Kuai Liang and Harumi as you see Bi Han out of the compound the day after your prison visit. It's bright and early, the sun peaking over the hills that shroud the compound. He stands with Liu Kang, Earthrealm's protector, who was brought to Japan after Kuai Liang sent an alert to him.
Under Liu Kang's guidance and patience, he has agreed to help rebuild the honor and reputation of the Lin Kuei. Under the watchful eye of him, Geras, and Madame Bo, Bi Han will be relieved of his duties and retrain as an initiate, the first step of his redemption as a man, Lin Kuei, and grandmaster.
He utters not a word as he leaves the compound, only turning back to you and his family one last time before leaving. You can hear the gravel under his feet shift and move, his steps moving farther and farther away.
Tomas yells, "Brother~! I hope to see you again~!"
You turn to him and see him smile, and if you squint, you can see a ghost of a smile on Bi Han's face as he waves to his youngest brother.
"You look like a little kid waving to him," you point out playfully.
He turns beet red, his hand scratching the back of his neck, "Do I look that childish?"
You wrap your arm around his beefy one, leaning onto him. For some reason, you felt calm looking at the distant figure of Bi Han, no longer feeling anguish or pain at his sight. You sigh and lean into Tomas's arm.
"Are you alright, my darling?" he asks, "Do you need anything?"
You shake your head, "No, I am quite alright. In fact, I feel quite at peace right now."
He nods.
"Do you believe that Bi Han will achieve what he plans to do?" You ask gently, looking into the ashen man's eyes, "Do you believe in him?"
He nods confidently, "Brother is a stubborn man, but he is resilient. He will stop at nothing to achieve his goals."
Tomas's words confirm the feelings you harbored for Bi Han. While you two were no longer together, you hoped with great heart that he will honor his words. You smile happily, locking hands with Tomas and bringing it up to your mouth to kiss it briefly.
You meant every word you said to him that morning of the prison visit. While traveling this rocky road of change and forgiveness will be difficult, seeking this peace would be one hundred percent worth the toil.
==================
guys I have never been so happy writing anything ever. MK1 and the entire cast is just so much fun to write for.
if yall can't tell, i love tomas vrbada with all my heart- he's just a pookie, cutie patootie. don't worry though, i'll write for more characters besides tomas and the lin kuei brothers
if you want to request something, please do! i'd love to test the limits of my writing and creativity
