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The Darkness I Have

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Quan Chi is dead.It has only been a few days since it happened, but Liu Kang still cannot make himself understand it.Part of him had thought, or hoped is perhaps the better word, that once the sorceror was gone, he would be himself again. Not human, no he gave up that dream long ago, but himself.He used to be gentle, and patient, used to speak softly and give everyone the benefit of the doubt, even when they clearly did not deserve it.Now he is cruel, and quick to anger, now he takes joy in the suffering of others whether he causes it or is merely a witness. He punishes harshly any perceived slight and forgives nothing even when he is begged to do so.He has no mercy left in him.And he doesn't even care.These things should bother him, the fact that he is changed into something he does not recognize should horrify him. But they don't, not even when he wants to feel horrified. All he feels is emptiness and hate."Emperor," Kung Lao's voice cuts through the dark reverie, "An urgent matter requires your attention.""What is it, Kung Lao?" Liu Kang sighs, rubbing at his forehead with an ashen hand.He used to feel something when the other monk was near, something light and warm and good in a way that cannot survive in a place like the Netherrealm. But he can't feel it anymore, not even a part of it.He used to feel for Kitana too, but that is also changed, the soft reverence now turned into a sharp edged obsession mirrored in her own eyes."There is a dispute between the demon lords," The other revenant informs him in a blank monotone, "They will not leave until it is settled.""I see," Liu Kang chuckles mirthlessly, joy bubbling up under his skin at the opportunity to let his rage loose, "Well then, let us teach them not to make such demands in the future."He should not be so eager.He wouldn't have been before he died.But he did die, and now he is different.Now he is this.And he doesn't even care.

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