"Throughout my years as the protector of Earthrealm, I never imagined that there could be a seventh realm. This particular realm resembles Edenia, but is infused with potent magic and inhabited by intelligent creatures. Unfortunately, one of these creatures has joined forces with Shao Kahn in Outworld, leaving the fates of both realms in a precarious state of imbalance."

Shao Kahn's Throne Room: Outworld

As the portal to Shao Kahn's grand throne room opened, Mileena entered, flanked by three fierce Tarkatans and three sleek Cyber Lin Kueis. With her, she bore the lifeless body of the fallen warrior Motaro. Shao Kahn sat upon his throne in the vast chamber, surveying the scene before him with a regal air. His brainwashed queen Sindel, the enigmatic sorcerer Quan Chi, the skilled Grandmaster's son Sektor, and the treacherous shapeshifter Shang Tsung were in attendance. The atmosphere was tense with anticipation as Mileena stepped forward to present a gruesome body. Upon seeing Motaro's death, Shao Kahn rose from his throne and questioned his daughter.

"What is this?!" The Kahn question.

"Raiden has killed Motaro," Mileena said with a calm voice. Despite the potentially intimidating presence of her father, the young woman exhibited no signs of fear or apprehension. Unbeknownst to everyone, however, two individuals were concealed behind a nearby pillar to their left. These men happened to be a mercenary by the name of Kano, who was presently being held captive by a former black dragon who had since transitioned into a law enforcement role under the moniker of Kabal. The latter individual had a dagger held firmly to Kano's person, ensuring that he remained compliant and posed no threat to their operation.

"That's him? On the throne?" Kabal questioned Kano quietly.

"You're a right genius, you are." Kano chuckled quietly, but his amusement was short-lived as Kabal brought the dagger closer to his back.

Glaring at Motaro's dead corp, Shao Kahn's fists clenched tightly in anger. "Raiden will pay for this." Shao Kahn growled while Sindel approached his side and addressed him. "It's no great matter," Sindel said with no pity for Motaro. "I will go to Earthrealm. To finish Motaro's work." Sindel suggested going to Earthrealm to complete what her minion could have done better. Meanwhile, Shao Kahn contemplated sending his wife to eliminate the last remaining heroes of Earthrealm.

As the weight of the decision rested heavily on Sindel's shoulders, a sudden interruption caught her, Shao Kahn, and everyone in the room off guard. "If I were in your position, Sindel, I would reconsider doing that," Shrouded in mystery, a voice cautioned her against taking a certain course of action. Shao Kahn bristled at the audacity of someone daring to defy his wife's will, and his eyes darted around the room in search of the source of the voice. Suddenly, a cloaked figure materialized before them, their face obscured by the hood of the black cloak. This figure bore two massive horns, reminiscent of Motaro's, but with a curlier shape. The stranger spoke with an air of authority, warning Sindel of the dire consequences that awaited her if she proceeded with her plan. "It's important to avoid doing that, as it could lead to negative consequences such as failure and even death."

Upon the conclusion of his speech, the Cyber Lin Kueis and Tarkatans encircled the enigmatic figure, effectively blocking any potential escape routes. With her characteristic gait, Mileena approached the figure with a purpose. The shadowy ninja, Noob Saibot, also made his presence known in the throne room, standing guard and ready to act at any moment. "Who do you think you are to interject my mother's request? Your interruption will not be tolerated, and you will face the consequences!"

Mileena swiftly drew out her sais, ready to strike down the unknown figure. However, to her surprise, the intruder's horns began to glow a deep shade of red. This caused Mileena's arm to freeze mid-air, preventing her weapon from reaching the intruder. As she struggled to regain control of her own body, Kabal questioned Kano, hoping to uncover the identity of this mysterious intruder. "Who is that?" he asked, his voice laced with urgency.

"Don't know? Don't care." Kano said Who secretly cared.

"Such confidence. I can see a resemblance to your mother." The figure released Mileena. "Please proceed with what you were planning to do. Alternatively, I can offer my input if you want to hear it." Mileena faced a crucial decision as the figure before her requested to meet his end by her hands. She glanced over at her father, seeking his approval in this matter. Much to her astonishment, Shao Kahn signaled for her to stand down, indicating that the fate of this individual was not in her hands. Mileena complied with her father's wishes and allowed the figure to move towards Outworld's Conqueror.

As the figure approached with everyone on high alert, Shao Kahn demanded to know his identity. "Who are you?" he asked, eyeing the stranger suspiciously.

"In the realm where I exist, many have addressed me as "Father of Monsters," while others refer to me as the "First Conqueror" or the "Dark Lord." However, there is one name by which I am commonly known - a name that strikes fear into the hearts of many." Before revealing his name, he summoned his magic to remove his hood from his face, revealing a blue, red-eyed ram with sharp fangs and a collar resembling a goat. The sudden appearance of this stranger's true form left Shao Kahn in shock as he spoke his name with pride and authority - "Grogar."

Nobody in the room appeared familiar with the mysterious individual known as Grogar. However, Shao Kahn was an exception and addressed the extraterrestrial conqueror. "The legends are true? There is a 7th realm in existence?" Grogar confirmed with a nod toward the conqueror of Outworld.

Quan Chi stepped forward to Shao Kahn with questions. "Forgive me, Emperor, but I am not quite sure I understand what the 7th realm is. I have heard whispers about it, but nothing...factual." Quan Chi spoke to his lord, and Shao Kahn met his gaze before responding.

"In the 7th realm, known as Equusrealm, the inhabitants possess formidable magical abilities. Interestingly, they share similarities with Motaro's race, except they have the body and head of a horse." Shao Kahn declared. "The inhabitants of this realm are often referred to as "ponies," as they hold power and authority." As soon as Grogar finished that sentence, Kano was silently laughing.

"Are you serious? Are they actually discussing ponies right-." Kano was unable to finish as Kabal used the blade's handle to knock him out.

"Perhaps you may not have a personal interest, but I certainly am," Kabal changed his plans to take on the Outworld Conqueror because there were now two conquerors.

"Shao Kahn, I humbly seek your assistance as I have been stripped of my title as ruler of Equestria and subsequently banished from the realm in which I once resided. I would appreciate any aid you may offer in this matter." Grogar spoke to the Kahn of Outworld. "Although I am not physically present in the realm I once called home, I can observe the happenings taking place. From my observations, the current Rulers prepare to pass on their reign and bestow the crown upon a young but formidable Alicorn. It is clear that this is a significant event that will impact the future of my realm."

Sindel chuckled at Grogar's words. "How can one Alicorn be so formidable?" she taunted.

"It may sound humorous, but others have attempted to achieve what I couldn't. I wouldn't underestimate them Sindel, as she and her friends possess enough might to potentially overpower the Elder gods." Grogar emphasized the strength of these creatures, causing Sindel to lose her sense of humor.

"And what shall I receive in return for aiding in your conquest of this realm? Perhaps I could allow my daughter to take the lead in finishing you off while I continue my battle against Earthrealm." Mileena smiled behind her mask at Shao Kahn's words.

"If you kindly assist me, I can provide you with valuable insight into the potential future outcomes that may arise should you attempt to merge Earthrealm with Outrealm. Additionally, I am willing to offer my aid in your conquest of Earthrealm if you can assist me in conquering Equusrealm. Lastly, once the takeover of Equestria has been successfully executed, I am open to merging Equusrealm with Outworld."

Upon hearing Grogar's statement, Shao Kahn was taken aback and inquired. "You would actually let me merge your realm with Outworld?"

Grogar nodded. "Certainly, Shao Kahn. It will take some time for me to gather my troops. However, the important question is...will you assist me?"

Shao Kahn briefly responded. "They shall."

"But my lord-." Shao Kahn interrupted Shang Tsung as he was about to speak. "Quiet Shang Tsung, you have not succeeded in helping me conquer Earthrealm through the Mortal Kombat tournaments. As a result, I no longer require your services." He said as he was now stealing Shang Tsung's soul. Shang Tsung was screaming to death until his entire body disappeared.

"Quan Chi, seal the portal." Shao Kahn ordered the sorcerer, and Quan Chi closed the portal as commanded. Kabal now realized that his chance to escape was quickly running out. "And to enhance your power, Grogar, I give the soul of Shang Tsung and his acquired souls to you."

Grogar kneeled. "I welcome this, Shao Kahn." The Conqueror of Outworld then proceeded to enhance Grogar's magical abilities beyond what they were previously.

"I'm done sticking around," Kabal kept a close eye on the portal as it began to close. "Time to go." As Kabal ran towards his exit, he arrived at it faster than anticipated. Instead of pondering over his remarkable speed, Kabal entered the portal discreetly, almost undetected. Kabal left unnoticed by everyone except Sektor. He proceeds to notify someone in Outworld.

The Street: Earthrealm

Kabal falls face first on the ground in Earthrealm and grunts as he gets back up. As he sits up, he is amazed by his abilities. "This speed's incredible! Guess it's a side-effect of the Outworld magic." Kabal said to himself. "You are not authorized for portal use." As someone spoke from behind, Kabal turned around and inquired about the talker's identity. "Yeah? Says who?"

Kabal realized that a blue machine had called out his name. "Sub-Zero. Unit L-K-5-2-O." Kabal was not scared because he had already encountered robots in Outworld. In fact, he had seen even scarier monsters that didn't affect him at all. Kabal chuckled and said confidently.

"You say that like it means something," Kabal drew his hook swords and readied himself to battle the Cyber Lin Kuei. Cyber Sub-Zero activated Kombat mode and shared one last message with Kabal before the fight ensued. "As you will soon discover." Kabal and Cyber Sub-Zero engaged in a sword fight with the ice sword drawn by the machine. They clashed their swords multiple times.

Kabal quickly dodged the attack as the cyborg launched a fierce blue energy blast toward him, feeling the heat radiating from the explosion. He noticed the blast had hit a nearby fire hydrant, causing water to gush and freeze on the ground. The ice was a warning, telling Kabal to be cautious of future ice blasts.

With the cyborg slightly disoriented, Kabal seized the opportunity to use his signature move, the 'Raging Flash.' The action caused the machine to become unsteady, and Kabal quickly followed up with a series of precise strikes from his hook swords. The metal body of the Cyber Lin Kuei was no match for Kabal's skilled attacks.

However, as Kabal attempted to finish off his opponent, the machine was covered in a thick layer of ice, and when Kabal's blades made contact with the ice, it caused him to become frozen in place. It was a costly mistake, and Kabal could only wonder if he had underestimated the power of the cyborg's ice-based attacks.

Kabal had suffered a devastating blow from Unit LK52O's sword, causing him immense pain and leaving him on the brink of freezing to death. As if that wasn't enough, the Cyber Lin Kuei tripped Kabal using his 'Ice Slide' ability, causing him to fall face-first onto the ground. Despite the odds being stacked against him, Kabal refused to give up. Summoning all his strength, he unleashed a powerful 'Plasma Blast' from his mask, causing the robot to malfunction and ultimately leading to Kabal emerging victorious.

"Ha! Not as cool as you thought." Mocked Kabal.

After ridiculing the cyborg ninja, Kabal was approached by Sheeva, a four-armed Shokan female who questioned him. "Why do you turn on your brother, Lin Kuei?" Sheeva asked in confusion.

"That is not my brother. He's a machine. I'm human." Kabal recognized that this four-arms woman was an adversary.

"You do not appear human," Sheeva told Kabal. Making him furious, for Sheeva assumed he was a machine.

"Don't let the mask fool ya," Kabal exclaimed.

Following a heated exchange with the female Shokan, Kabal found himself locked in fierce Kombat with her. Despite her impressive advantage of possessing four powerful arms, Kabal's exceptional super speed and agility allowed him to expertly dodge each and every one of her punches with ease. Kabal utilized his impressive speed during their fight to launch a series of swift punches and kicks at Sheeva.

However, Sheeva quickly caught on to his tactics and began anticipating his every move. As Kabal readied himself to strike with his deadly hook blades, Sheeva took advantage of his predictability and leaped into the air, delivering a crushing stomp that left Kabal reeling. Kabal could not fully recover from Sheeva's devastating blow despite his best efforts and ultimately fell to her superior strength and skill.

To prevent Kabal from speeding around her again, Sheeva grabbed his arms with two pairs of her arms and began jabbing Kabal in the chest. Kabal startled Sheeva by swiftly releasing smoke from his mask directly at her face, causing her to immediately let go of him. Upon Kabal's approach and strike, Sheeva's blindness was lifted.

She witnessed herself get struck by his hook swords. He continued attacking her while twirling his blades as they hit Sheeva's stomach and impaled her with both swords. She was kneed in the face by Kabal while flying one foot above the ground. Kabal then pulled Sheeva down by the blades still impaled on her. Then, he ripped them out by slashing her stomach in two different directions. And finally, Kabal jammed his right hook blade into Sheeva's chin. The tip reappeared in her mouth, and Kabal threw her onto the ground, knocking her out.

"Starting to feel like the old days. Only faster." Kabal reminisced about his past as a previous member of the Black Dragon. "Sub-Zero!" As Kabal shifted his gaze to his left, he caught sight of a stealthy gray ninja with flowing gray locks, known as Smoke, swiftly charging towards the menacing Cyber Lin Kuei. Meanwhile, a man sporting a traditional bamboo hat approached Kabal. This man was none other than Raiden, the mighty god of thunder.

"You have great power indeed, Kabal," Raiden advised the speedster in a masked form.

Upon careful observation, Kabal realized that the same individual who had previously rescued him from danger was present again. "Wait. You're the lightning guy. You helped Stryker." Kabal then realized he had forgotten entirely about his friend. "Stryker! Is he-." Raiden interrupted Kabal mid-sentence.

"He is safe," he informs him. "He has joined us in the fight against Shao Kahn. We would welcome your aid also." Raiden invited Kabal, hoping he would choose to align himself with the forces of good.

"Sub-Zero!" Raiden and Kabal approach Smoke, who is holding the unconscious Cyber Sub-Zero's head. Raiden speaks to Smoke in a sympathetic tone.

"That which made him Sub-Zero no longer exists." Smoke was hesitant to accept the news, so he responded to Raiden.

"He's my friend," Smoke kept speaking as he turned his head towards Sub-Zero. "What they did to him. It is... hideous." Empathizing with Smoke about his friend's unfortunate transformation against his will. He relates to the gray ninja of the Lin Kuei, who shares this experience.

"You're right." Kabal agreed. "We gotta help him if we can." Kabal assisted Smoke in carrying Sub-Zero back to HQ. As they departed, Kabal directed his attention towards Raiden. "I have some important information to share with you and the others once we reach safety," Kabal said. Raiden nodded and used his teleportation powers to bring himself and the others back to join Earth's defenders.

School of Friendship: Equusrealm

Starlight Glimmer was on her way to speak with Twilight about her recent meltdown when she heard a familiar voice call out to her in the hallway outside of the principal's office. "Hello, Starlight," the voice said. She immediately recognized it and knew who it belonged to.

Starlight sighed as she spoke to the person in front of her. "What do you want, Discord?" She was not amused by the lord of chaos, hovering above her and playing with human dolls, making them fight each other. Starlight recognized that they were human, having visited the human world before. To her left was a man with red hair, wooden sandals, and a black karate outfit. To her right was a schoolgirl with red karate gloves and a white karate headband.

"To be honest, I was curious about Twilight's well-being following Celestia's announcement that she would soon be ruling Equestria," Discord commented while playing with his dolls, noting that the black one appeared to be winning. "Doesn't Twilight realize that the school is still closed for the summer?"

"Honestly, I was thinking about asking Twilight that very same question," Starlight admitted. "I assumed Twilight would freak out when I heard she was going to be the next ruler of Equestria. And when I spoke with our friends, it turned out I was right."

Discord's gaze remained averted from Starlight, his attention fixated on the ongoing battle between the schoolgirl doll and its adversary. With a single-minded focus, he reveled in the doll's perceived suffering as it struggled against its opponent.

Starlight gave Discord a skeptical look before smiling and using her magic to manipulate the schoolgirl doll. With a burst of energy originating from Starlight, the doll launched an attack that caused a small explosion, destroying the karate guy. However, Starlight purposely left half of his body intact.

With a frown on his face, Discord locked eyes with Starlight and uttered the following words. "That was unnecessary."

"Well, I win. Fatality!" Starlight teased while playing with the schoolgirl doll. "Once I have finished speaking with Twilight, I will provide you with an update on her current situation," As Starlight approached the door, Discord attempted to continue their conversation.

"I don't know, it just seems like if Celestia had made me the new ruler of Equestria, maybe Twilight wouldn't be in this state," Discord claimed. "While Twilight was certainly a contender, it appeared that her youth may hinder her ability to rule a kingdom." Starlight didn't quite agree with him about him being the king of Equestria. Twilight, being too young to take over Celestia and Luna's place as ruler, seemed overwhelming for any pony to take on, though.

"Twilight may be young, but there's no denying her potential." Starlight directed her attention back to Discord and proceeded with her conversation. "She and her amazing group of friends repeatedly went above and beyond to save Equestria."

As she kept on talking, the lilac unicorn used her magic to create miniature magic ponies to display for Discord. "Twilight is truly one of a kind. She even gave me a second chance after I tried to ruin her friend's life. And in the end, she saved the world by befriending me. It's incredible how much the magic of friendship can hold. From Nightmare Moon to Cozy Glow, she's always been there to lend a helping hand...I mean, hoof." Starlight smiled sheepishly.

"And what about us? Haven't we saved the world that one time?" Discord questioned.

"Like you said, one time," Starlight smirked at Discord. "It's hard to top how many times they came to the rescue of Equestria before we turned over a new leaf." Referring to the Mane 6, she said.

"Alright, fine," As Starlight made her way to the door, Discord spoke with a tone of defeat. He uttered some final words before she left. "Give my regards to Twi-." As he was speaking, Discord's body began to convulse, causing him to accidentally drop the doll.

"What now?!?" Starlight expressed her current irritation towards Discord.

"Oh, It was nothing," Discord replied encouragingly. "Feel free to go and speak with the chosen one."

Starlight knocked on the Principal's Office door and spoke to her friend, questioning why Discord had made that sound. She quickly forgot about it and focused on the conversation. "Twi? You in here?" She stated the obvious as she entered her office and continued talking to Twilight. Meanwhile, Discord teleported from the hallway to the outside of the School.

"Observation. That was something." He told himself. "It seems like the only other time I remember something similar happening was when Twilight's magic merged with that of the three princesses. However, this occurrence was not initiated by Twilight herself, as she is in the midst of a meltdown now." As he observed Twilight conversing with Starlight, he resolved to uncover the message his body was attempting to convey. With a singular focus, he left the School of Friendship and pondered the impending threat that could affect Equestria.

He thought to himself, "What could be coming to Equestria?'

Mortal Kombat: Voyage into Equusrealm

Author's Note

While Discord tries to figure out what is coming to Equusrealm, Kabal tells Earthrealm Protectors that he has discovered a new realm unknown to Raiden and is about to be invaded. Raiden warps himself and several of Earth's Protectors to Equusrealm. In contrast, the others stayed in Earthrealm to protect it. Which Champion will be the first to start this story?

(I edited this chapter to make it better through "GrammarlyGO." Man, was it helpful.)

(A). Liu Kang
(B). Johnny Cage (Winner)
(C). Cyber Sub-Zero