Work Text:
Liu Kang finds Fujin meditating within the abyss of Kitana's hourglass. The wind god is more sombre than he remembers—no longer do the tattoos on his arms glow. The cords of muscle beneath them have withered somewhat. Evidently, he has not seen battle for quite some time, a testament to how gentle Kitana's reign over this hourglass has been.
But one thing is certain: this Fujin is of his own original timeline. Liu Kang recognises the wind god’s garb and the Grass Cutter, safe in its scabbard by his side. He is older now—by many millennia. Far older than Liu Kang.
“It is good to see you, Fujin.”
Fujin’s eyes open. They are... dull. The spark, the glow that once fueled the wind god’s calm resolve, now holds an ancient fatigue. “I did not believe it true…”
He rises, and Liu Kang pauses at Fujin’s fragility. Concern stirs in his chest, the same feeling he had long ago while witnessing Raiden’s aging. It seems time has finally caught the wind god.
“True it is. The battle for the hourglass shattered our timeline into many,” Liu Kang explains gently. He clasps the arm Fujin offers. “I was surprised when Kitana told me you had found refuge with her.”
“I dare not insult her by suggesting she needed my help,” Fujin grins, “but Raiden had not reached the hourglass by the time Nightwolf and I escaped Kronika’s void.”
Ah. So, in this timeline, Fujin had taken Raiden’s place as Kitana’s advisor. “I am glad you were there.”
“It proved prudent for someone from Earthrealm to remain by her side while her focus was on Outworld. In truth, there were few other options for me. By the time we engaged Kronika, she had already reset time.”
“Yes,” Liu Kang mutters. “The same occurred for me.”
“Then you understand what Kitana had to do,” Fujin says.
“I do,” Liu Kang replies with a soft bow of his head.
A hesitation crosses Fujin’s face, his brows creasing. “I must ask, Liu Kang. My brother… is he…?”
“When he bestowed his power upon me, he also gave his immortality. He stayed by my side for as long as he could. He passed peacefully.”
Relief washes over Fujin’s features, his shoulders relaxing. “I had feared the worst. But I am glad he lived a full life.”
Liu Kang smiles. “He was a wise advisor.”
Fujin chuckles, straightening. He beckons Liu Kang to join him in a slow walk. “You must be wondering why Kitana asked you to meet with me.”
Now that they could traverse timelines, Liu Kang cherished quiet moments with Kitana. Until recently, these were moments for them alone. But today, she had approached him with serious concern, explaining Fujin wished for a meeting. “It has indeed been a long time…”
“You may also have noticed—I am not as spry as you may remember.”
Given Fujin is still older than Liu Kang by several thousand years, it was to be expected to seem his skin worn, hair thinner. Liu Kang merely tilts his head, curious at this line of questioning. Fujin continues.
“The force of my life... it is fading.”
“Fading? But Raiden inferred that demigods were immortal.”
“It seems even demigods have their limits. I have lived many eons thanks to Kitana’s reign of time. But the power you and Kitana wield as Titans will extend your existence far beyond mine.” He pauses, then speaks with gravity. “This is why I wished to speak with you. My brother’s power—I imagine you have ensured it survives?”
“Yes, Fujin. It is safe, in the hands of my Raiden.”
“Ah. You ensured the existence of a a Raiden in your timeline?”
“Of course. With Raiden’s talisman, he is Earthrealm’s champion. He fought and won his first tournament recently.”
Fujin smiles faintly. “An interesting image.”
“He is a worthy champion and a talented fighter. He and his sister, though not demigods, are known for their skill.”
They pause, Fujin turning to Liu Kang with a quizzical look. “A sister?”
“Fu Jing," Liu Kang responds affirmatively. "She is Raiden’s younger sister."
Fujin softens further. “What can you tell me of her?”
Liu Kang smiles thoughtfully. “Fu Jing is… extraordinary. She has honed her skills to uplift and prepare others for battle. She is known for her mastery of combat, her patience, and her wisdom. Her philosophy is one of balance—finding harmony within oneself and the world. She sees potential where others do not and brings it to light with quiet determination.”
He clasps his hands together, his smile widening. “In many ways, she is you, reflected in this new timeline. A protector, a mentor, and a source of calm amidst chaos. She embodies Earthrealm’s enduring spirit, just as you always have. She serves as a trainer at the Wu Shi Academy whilst she is with child.”
Fujin's lips part. "She is pregnant?"
"Indeed."
Fujin glances away. He is silent, contemplating Liu Kang's words. "For so long, I had..." He stops himself. Fujin unhooks the Kusanagi no Tsurugi from his belt, cradling it across both hands. The weapon seems to hum, even sheathed. His gaze is fond. “Like Raiden’s talisman, this blade is a conduit of my power. It is time for it to pass to Earthrealm’s next protector. And from what you've told me, there is no other worthy of it.”
Liu Kang blinks. “But Fujin, surely Kitana’s timeline-”
“Kitana ensured her Earthrealm is well-protected. And the sun is setting on my life,” Fujin says with a serene smile. “Your Fu Jing—she is not a demigod. Neither is her brother. Lord Liu Kang, with your permission, and your blessing... perhaps it is time to balance the scales of their power.”
He extends the blade to Liu Kang, who hesitates. “If you provide this…”
“I will pass. Yes.”
The fire god frowns. “Fujin…”
“It is time,” Fujin says earnestly. “I am ready, Liu Kang.”
“And you are sure you wish to bestow your blade to Fu Jing?”
“You entrusted Raiden with my brother’s power,” Fujin replies. “I trust your judgment most, Liu Kang.”
With a bow of his head, Liu Kang takes the Grass Cutter. A breeze stirs in the windless void, brushing through his hair. The hum of the blade quietens.
When he looks up, Fujin is gone.