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Justice Heroes Elite
CHP 25: Battle of Material artists
Being awoken by the rising of the sun Liu sits up in bed yawning; well the day has finally come for him to either retain or fall to the dark warrior/knight. Whatever may happen it's going to make for a great final battle no matter who wins. Getting out of the bed Liu walks over to his closet getting dressed. After doing so he egresses out of the room and ultimately the premises. Jogging up the mountain side he enjoys the gleaming ventilation, which also helps him to think a little bit more clearly.
"I'm sure he'll do just find, if anything we don't have to question his focus." Kung Lao says.
Both he and Raiden stand by a nearby window looking out on Liu who works on his vascular endurance.
"Yes I believe you're right Kung Lao, but he will be facing a formidable opponent later this evening; either of them could be the victor. But I have faith Liu will be able to get the job done."
Still standing in place looking the two watch as Liu disappears out of sight. Traveling further up the mountain slope the champion of MK comes to a stop in front of a tree having a seat crossed legged. Awakening opening his eyes Kal looks over into the other bed but there is no Batman in sight. Far out within the vicinity of the Lin Kuei temple the dark knight stands in front of the place known as home to Subzero; alongside the grand master himself. Another individual accompanies them as well.
"The tournament will be ending today, and with that myself and the others who traveled here alongside me, will be returning back to our world. I know this may sound crazy, but I need you to stay here for a while; no more than a few month's."
A lot of what goes on right now doesn't make sense, but later it will all come together. Neither Subzero nor the other person are sure about this plan, but with the device Batman holds; he'll be able to return back to this world at any time thanks to this certain person. It's really quiet remarkable how this certain situation has played out involving this person; and in time it must be explained to the rest of the team. But for now this will stay a secret between them; the only other two in on this are Spidy and Supes. Making the meeting as short as possible Batman breaks away from the two returning back to the shrine where the rest of his team hang. Out East within the area of a towering city walks both Johnny and Sonya, reflecting over the events of the tournament.
"What I find funny is you and I both were taken out by the same guy, talk about strange. But he was a tricky one, not to mention his splendid reflexes and speed."
"Yeah I noticed that, but what stood out to me most was how converse he was. What I mean is it seems as though he was trying to befriend me."
The movie star/material artist also experienced that when fighting against Spiderman. But both can't help but think about the conclusion of the tourney. With Shang Tsung being one of the hosts you just have to assume there's going to be some sort of dark closing.
"I'm sure Liu will retain, he's going up against that guy who calls himself Batman. But I guess we'll just have to wait and see; when you make it this far that says something."
She agree's one hundred percent with his words, but that is another matter they'll have to stand by and watch play out on it's own. Whatever the case they will attend the event later, to watch as Liu Kang and Batman face off for the championship. Over back in the area of the Lin Kuei temple a certain person appears out of nowhere through flames standing in front of Subzero.
"Scorpion! What are you doing here?"
The sudden appearance of the ninja Spectre is random and has endless possibilities. Him being here on Lin Kuei grounds without permission is prohibited, so this had better be good.
"You mind telling me why those outsiders were here? And don't try and cover it up, I especially recognized the one who eliminated me from the tournament."
Is it possible the ninja spectre was spying on him, how else would he know any of this. Come to think of it why would he have any business being in this area, but answering his question with a question is going to get them nowhere fast.
"Well if you haven't already figured it out yourself, Pythena and Shang Tsung had a plan which could of destroyed us all; but it was stopped. But now there is this B plan she spoke of, in which none of us have a clue of. Not to mention Shao Kahn is also in on this."
Receiving this information causes the eyes of Scorpion to broaden; Shang Tsung and Kahn working together again!
"Does Liu Kang have any idea of this?" Scorpion asks
"No he does not, and for now it can stay that way. As of right now we don't have a clue what they have planned now."
Moving over closer to the ninja Subzero begins explaining in depth what information was given to him. With the passing of several hours brings up the final match! The area in which the final will take place has been relocated to another area. The ring stands about the same size as the one which was located in the dome. The bleachers hold the same amount of people, but there is no top to cover the area. Sitting within a front row seat Peter Parker looks up at the stars wishing he had been one of the contestants in the final.
"So are you excited this thing is finally coming to an end; gee I know I am" Carol asks tapping him over his shoulder.
"Yeah I guess so, but I don't know...something feels empty inside of me for some reason."
Sitting back within her seat she puts some thought into what he said, feeling the same way. Honestly he tries to be truthful with his teammates, but that was a lie! Bats, Superman and himself have with them satisfying information; the question is when will Pythena strike? For now they'll be sitting geese. Excluding the three of them, emptiness should be what everyone else feels; or could see this as a massive waste of time. Yup somewhere down the line they must be included. Around the four corners of the ring torches have been lit.
"I'm glad you could all make it here tonight, and I'm glad to be able to say welcomeeeeee toooo the finaaalll!" The announcer says with much energy!
This gets the crowd into it yelling out in thrill, just to think this thing started off with four hundred fighters and now has come down to the final two.
"Could both Batman and Liu Kang come to the ring at this time!"
The audiences now become turbulent hearing the two of them being called to the arena! This should make for one superb match; it's not what a lot of people would have predicted from the beginning of this thing but it should be a witty one regardless. Both fighters enter into the ring from different sides getting an immediate crowd response!
"One thing I won't miss about this place is the screaming; talk about disturbing the peace." Tony says putting his hands to his ears.
Inspecting from her seat Diana smiles at his annoyance; honestly the loud noise doesn't bother her one bit. Even if they're unsuccessful on finding out who was behind the missile attacks this was still a nice way of getting away from it all. With the announcer stepping out of the battleground, everything grows silent. Looking over at a firery torch the wind blows Batman's cape back and forth while Liu looks out into the audiences.
"Lets be sure to give them all a show." Liu tells.
Looking each other in the eyes they both get into their fighting stances, both running forward to begin their attack on the other. Batman blocks the left hook of Liu while the Shalion fighter does the same to a kick by the capped crusader.
"Wow it'll be great to see who wins this, It's tough but this one could go either way." Hal says.
Punching bats in the stomach Liu backhands him across the face knocking him to the ground; but Batman flips up from it smoothly getting back up blocking a kick of Liu Kang upper cutting him. Landing on his feet Liu shoots one of his fire blasts at Batman who blocks it using his cape. Pulling out a batarang he throws it forward watching it explode near the chest of Liu Kang sending him back a few ft. But maintaining his balance the champ does not go down.
"I have to give it to that bat guy, he's got some nice toys." Jax says leaning forward in his seat.
Both throwing out a punch their fists collide, with Liu quickly adding in a knife hand to the neck of Bats using his free hand. With the Dark Knight flipping back he kicks Liu with on his chin. Just as Liu runs at the capped crusader he stops in place seeing as Batman puts a hand out in front of himself.
"As much as I would have liked to see where this match could have gone, it must end now."
Narrowing his eyes Liu Kang is stunned, what is Batman talking about. Of course the match will eventually end, once one of them is KO'd by the other! He had better stay on guard, something just doesn't seem right.
"What exactly are you talking about? What do you mean you wish you could have saw how this match could have ended?" Liu asks crossing his arms.
"I need you to defeat me in the next two moves; but it needs to look believable. I'd say a flying kick followed by an uppercut would be good."
What in the name of all that is good? Both Liu Kang and Kal-El's eyes widen at the words of Batman; yes with his super hearing Superman is able to hear every single word said! The real question is why would Batman do this? If there is one thing Superman knows among all his teammates, it's that Batman is the one out of them all that displays the greatest resilience. Quiting and or giving up is never an option in his book; he must have some rational reason for this.
"Wait huh...are you sure everything is ok? Is there something I'm missing?"
At this point Liu is becoming more and more confused, is this some sort of trick?
"Now is not the time to question me! Just do it!" Batman demands.
Sitting within his seat Clark now becomes very uncomfortable, man he sure does hope there is a really good reason for this. This action is completely out of character for Batman. Tightening his fist Liu steps back a bit putting a good amount of room between them both. Taking a deep breath Liu steps forward running at Batman performing a flying kick, and before Bats is able to fall back the other way with much strength he uppercuts him. Falling back first to the ground there is no movement by Batman!
"What in the? Wait did Batman just get beat?" Wally's eyes widen looking down into the ring.
Everything grows silent within the dome; how could the final match end that quickly, after all the hype and build up...this is it? Talk about disappointing and under whelming, no one could have seen this coming. After a few more moments of the capped crusader not moving the announcer steps into the ring. Crossing her arms and raising her shoulders, Diana knows something is up; not in a million years would Batman fall that easily.
"Well everyone it looks like we have a winner...GIVE it up FOR LIU KANG! Defeating all odds he's still your MORTAL KOMBAT CHAMPION!" The announcer yells out.
Everyone is surprised to see Batman stand up raising the arm of Liu declaring him victor. But the audiences can't help but cheer, even in defeat this dark fighter still shows great sportsmanship.
"Ah ok, who else here feels like Bats totally dropped the match. Heck it's obvious he wasn't even knocked out; I swear this guy gets weirder the longer I'm around him." Peter says, feeling positive about his assumption.
Hal Jordan rubs at his chin completely on the same boat as Spidy, hell he's fought alongside the guy on un countable missions; but whatever the reason it's probably a good one if he would embarrass himself in front of all these people. Just as Batman heads for the exit Liu runs up next to him grabbing him by the cape.
"Hold on just a second there, you aren't getting off that easy. Now you're going to tell me why you forfeited the match. You at least owe me an explanation, I'm not understanding this at all?"
Looking into the champ's eyes he can see that this is something he so desperately wants. But who could blame him, no true competitor likes to be handed things; especially not a victory of this caliber. Throughout the entire area many chant the name Liu Kang!
"Just listen to them, you're the peoples champ; and I have no right to take that away from you. I completed my mission in stopping the evil threat; I forgot to mention I don't fight for sport." Batman says turning from Liu continuing for the exit again.
Not satisfied with the answer he runs out in front of Batman.
"You aren't making sense, what evil threat are you talking about?"
But then something comes back to Liu's mind; yes Raiden did speak of some sort of deception which was being plotted, but they were unable to verify who it was? This has to be what the Dark Knight refers to.
"I understand, so who is the one you refer to! I need to know what you know?"
Staying quite for a few moments he just stares at the Shalion member; as he said before the smaller the circle the better.
"Maybe another time champ...something tells me we will be seeing each other again in the near future."
Again he moves past the champion of MK but this time Liu doesn't follow him. Diana watches the face of Kal and knows he can hear everything what is being said thanks to his different expressions. Standing from her seat she walks over having a seat on the left side of Kal.
"So you wanna tell me what was said down there?"
Glancing over at the princess he gives her the look as if he has no idea what she speaks of. Just like Batman said, the less people know the better. Plus it's better if they don't have to much on their mind.
"I guess I must have been day dreaming; well it's good we'll be returning home soon." Kal replies with a forged smile.
Diana almost rolls her eyes at his reply, it's obvious he doesn't want to share what he heard for whatever reason. Has he lost his marbles, they can't go home until they locate the missile launchers. The people who did this can't just get away with what they did.
"How about I rephrase my question a bit, who are the one's responsible? You and Batman know don't you; I believe the rest of us should be updated so we can go after them."
In most scenarios his eyes would widen but he realizes that would all but prove he was hiding something, so he just tries his best to stay cool. Clearing his throat he turns to her leaning forward a bit.
"Since when do I withhold information princess, that type of strategy is not down my lane." Supes replies.
"Yeah maybe so but you and I both know who does."
The two of them just stare at the other for some moments not sure of what to say. It's hard to keep secrets from Wonder Woman, in time she will probably figure it all out. But telling her is not in his interest; what stands before them is a stack of dominos. If he tells her, she'll tell someone else and before you know it somehow the information could get back to Pythena. Truthfully he does not agree with Batman's method to not attack, it just doesn't make sense. Why should they sit around and wait for her to follow up with this Backup of her's. Unless...is it possible Batman didn't tell he or Spiderman everything? His strategy does raise a few red flags, but he doesn't question bats much and he won't now.
"Well if he is hiding something, I have no clue. What makes you think he's got something?"
Now it is becoming pretty clear to her by Superman's speech pattern that he isn't telling the whole truth; if she had to guess, there's a chance he could be in on this. But than again she's probably just being paranoid, Superman has always been a trustworthy teammate. Down outside the ring Batman approaches that of Pythena which causes Peter to gulp.
"What is it that I can help you with?" She asks, speaking over the still roaring crowd.
"I'll say this once and only once; I need you to send my teammates and I back to our world within the next hour."
Looking him over she moves a strand of hair from her eye. It's interesting why they'd want to leave so soon, most people in their shoes would at least rest up for the remainder of the night and travel out in the morning.
"Why so rude, don't you want to stay for awhile and enjoy the festivities? Or has your latest defeat made you want to completely forget about this place?" Pythena reaches out pulling a cherry out of a nearby plate eating it.
Licking her lips she smiles at Batman who frowns.
"We'll be returning back to our shrine to pack up, and I expect to see you there shortly after. Do yourself and favor and try not to be late."
Turning his back he walks away from her looking for the quickest way he can exit the entire area. He must be extremely disappointed with the loss to Liu Kang, but than who could blame him. No one wants to get this far to just loose. Whatever, she'll let them have it their way; in fact this will make it that much easier for her. Walking past the bleachers where almost all his teammates sit he signals them to follow.
"What is he doing, none of us want to leave that quick; I mean come on we should at least try and enjoy ourselves." Wally says.
Getting up from her seat Diana grabs Wally by his arm.
"Lets go everyone."
Everyone else also stands from their seats getting up and following Wonder Woman down the stairs. Liu catches as the last of them exit out of the tournament vicinity. Who are these people, how is it they were invited to the tournament. Many questions are beginning to rise evolving around these individuals; and what did the man in the cape and cowl mean by they would see each other again. Whatever the case he must speak with Raiden as soon as possible. Returning back to the shrine Batman informs everyone to pack up and get ready to go. Hal, Diana as well as Carol try and question him but Supes steps in front of them shaking his head informing them to stand down. When inside their room Kal speeds back into his uniform in seconds.
"I heard every word you said Bruce; why did you throw the fight?"
Recovering his bag from a corner in the room bats lifts it up setting it on top of the bed. Any and all clothing which lays around including his extra utility belts are put in as well.
"It wasn't my place to become champ, besides we have bigger matters on our hands. The less distractions the better."
Finishing packing up the two of them exit out of the room together walking down the hall and stepping into the elevator. Making it down to the first floor both are surprised to see Pythena standing out in the lobby with the opening of the door. He told her to be here ASAP but he had no idea she'd get here this fast.
"I hope you two enjoyed the tournament, it was a pleasure to have you both take part." Pythena informs looking over at the two who approach her.
Both of them maintain their postures as not to give her the slightest chance to figure they know all about her plan.
"Yeah it was a great pleasure and we enjoyed the experience." Superman tells.
Awaiting the rest of the group they all come into sight all in their uniforms as well. Having them all gather around her she creates a portal in which they all step through. Once they're all out of sight she takes a deep breath. Oh if only her first set of plans were a success, it would have made this all a whole lot easier. Stepping out of the portal onto a building top, the group quickly realizes they're in the city of New York.
"Man that's funny, I wonder how she was able to get us to this particular spot. I mean who's to say she couldn't have accidentally transported us into the ocean or something?"
Everyone just looks at Spiderman but have nothing to say.
"Talk about a waste of precious time; thanks a lot Mr. Stark."
Walking toward the buildings ledge she turns looking back at the group.
"Maybe I'll see you around some time." She says grinning at a particular person.
Turning away from them she fly's out into the night sky. Everyone else looks over at Batman except for Supes.
"Uhm ok so I guess I'll ask, what is Ms Marvel talking about Bats?" Spiderman asks.
"Honestly...I have no clue."
The group talks amongst themselves, some even raising their voices because of them leaving empty handed without finding the criminals. Spiderman is tempted to say something but Superman shoots him a look to keep his mouth shut. The wall crawler does wonder how he did that; especially since he wears a mask, now that is strange. It isn't long before everyone says their good bye's departing going their separate ways. Supes and Wonder Woman use the JLA teleporter to get themselves to the watch tower. The only two left standing are Spiderman and Batman; the two of them just look down onto the city.
"You don't have to answer this if you don't want to. Am I right that you let yourself be defeated back there?" Spiderman asks.
It's funny that this city never sleeps, someone is always doing something. I guess over time the people of New York have made it a tradition, and many have become accustomed to it. This city may have it's problems, but nothing compares to Gotham in the mind of the Dark Knight.
"Like I told Superman, I'm not apart of that world; and he is their champion. All that aside, if I were trying to win it would have been a tough task which could have went either way. Liu Kang is a great well disciplined champion, and he deserves to still remain Mortal Kombat's finest." Bats replies.
The web slinger isn't one bit surprised, he was absolutely point on.
"So do you have some special plans on how we can prepare? How soon do you think it will be before Pythena and Shao Kahn will spring their attack on us?"
Spidy turns to look over at Batman but he's already gone! Wait how did he do that, isn't he supposed to be human? I guess all he can do for now is watch his back; he wonders how he could contact Superman or Batman if he is to see a sign of some sort that could relate to that of Pythena. With the passing of some hours Batman arrives back in Gotham standing over a building top, looking up to see the bat signal come up into sight. Just as he pulls out his grapple gun a familiar face hovers down in front of him.
"Superman what are you doing here?"
Seeing the tears fall from his best friend's eyes tells him something is very wrong! It must be something that probably occurred while they were on their mission.
"Clark what's wrong?" He finally asks.
The Kryptonian takes a few moments to collect himself before speaking.
"Bruce it's Lois...she's missing. It's all over the news."
If that's possible a question mark is what appears in his head right now. First off why would Superman come to him for something like this; and 2nd shouldn't he be able to find her easily?
"I know what you're thinking Bruce, but this is different," Supes stops in mid sentence to catch his breath, "I can't hear Lois's heart beat."
Listening to the info in which Supes tells him leaves him at lost for words completely stunned. This doesn't sound good at all, is it possible Lois Lane/Kent is dead?
Worlds away
A great deal of time passes with Liu Kang returning to the Shalion Temple. Most people in his shoes would be excited beyond words, but the way in which he won was not satisfying whatsoever. Raiden alongside Kung Lao enter into the main room where Liu stands with his arms crossed.
"What is bothering you Liu Kang? You've made us all proud with your accomplishments." Raiden asks.
Walking over Liu has a seat with on the sofa.
"It's nothing Raiden...nothing at all."
9 Month's later
A lot has changed through this span of time, with the events of the tournament now a distant memory. So much has happened that most have forgot or let go of the attack Pythena was plotting. There's a good chance she herself has dropped her plans of attack against them. Out in that of a public park is that of a robotic android who blasts out fire beams from it's arms! It is barely past midnight, but the civilians who're around depart from the area as quick as they can. Aiming over at a tree, an object comes out of the shadow hitting the cyborg across it's head. Looking within that direction a masked capped man holding a staff runs at it. Using a purple laser it scans the individual.
"Attacker identified as Red Robin."
Stretching it's arm out 10 ft it knocks this masked hero in the other direction into a park bench. Getting up Red Robin is quick enough to dodge the laser eyes. But before he is able to do another thing someone or something comes out of nowhere ripping the cyborg in half smashing it's head in!
"Superboy what brings you in this part of town?" Red Robin asks confused.
Rubbing his hands together Conner Kent smiles walking over to Red Robin. Yes some time ago Conner was indeed dead, but he has since returned.
"I just happened to be looking for you, it's actually titans related. So if you have some time I'd like to discuss it with you." Superboy tells.
Looking around Red Robin makes sure there are no civilians around. After doing so he gives Conner the ok to begin speaking. Superboy quickly goes through the details making it short and sweet; it is then that both individuals turn their attention to the robot.
"You have any clue who's responsible for this thing?" Superboy asks.
"Not yet, but it shouldn't be hard to find out."
Going their separate ways Conner recovers the destroyed parts of the robot taking them with him as he fly's off. Exiting out of the park Red Robin makes his way to the city grappling himself up to the rooftops. Before he's really able to relax the sound of a voice startles him; and as a reaction he jumps a bit.
"Were you able to find Lance Ricco in crime alley?"
Turning Tim's nerves settle to see that it is just Batman, you'd think after all this time he'd be use to Bruce sneaking around. This time it was a little more sudden than usual.
"Yeah it's all taken care of, I'm sure he'll be behind bars in the next hour or so."
Moving up Closer Batman stands next to Red Robin with them both looking down on the city as it begins to rain lightly. One thing is for sure the night is still young, and there is much work that needs to be done.
To Be Continued
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